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The best place to go in Costa Maya port, hands down

I first went to Maya Chan in 2018. I had read about it in a popular cruise blog, whose founder raved about the place. I figured I had to check it out for myself. It couldn’t be that good, could it?

Reader, it was.

In the years since, I’ve been to Maya Chan at least a dozen times; I’ve brought loads of friends and family to share the experience with me. More importantly, the staff of this lovely beach resort have become like friends and family to me, and it’s always wonderful to see their smiling faces and hear what they’ve been up to.

But enough gushing. Why should you go to Maya Chan?

Maya Chan is a great place to relax. The public beach area in Mahahual (the closest town to Costa Maya port) is a great place where you can eat fantastic food, shop for souvenirs, or get low-price massages. But it’s busy and crowded, and not exactly what I would call peaceful — which is exactly what Maya Chan is. (You can do all of those things at Maya Chan, too!)

Depending on the size of your group and the availability on the day you visit, you’ll be assigned to beach loungers and an umbrella, or possible a larger shaded structure with adirondack chairs. Maya Chan is all-inclusive, and you’ll be welcomed with fresh chips and salsa/guacamole. The friendly staff will stop by frequently to bring you whatever drinks you want, alcoholic or non-alcoholic.

I mentioned the food. I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that this is some of the best food I’ve ever eaten. I say that every time I bring new people to Maya Chan, and no one is ever disappointed. They do a make-your-own taco bar with fresh tortillas and chicken, beef, pork, and fish. I mean, this food is really good.

In addition to food and drinks, your $89 excursion fee includes your transportation to and from the port. (Reservations are required; you can make them here.) You’ll be given detailed instructions about how to walk through the port to reach the meeting point, where a taxi will take you to Maya Chan in the morning. In the afternoon, they’ll arrange for you to return to your ship in plenty of time for your departure.

Some people caution against third-party excursions because of the risk of missing your ship’s departure. I can honestly say that I’ve never once worried about that with Maya Chan. These folks are consummate professionals and they’ll always make sure you get back to your ship in time.

Going to Maya Chan is great, but going back to Maya Chan is even better. They do a wonderful job of welcoming guests back and making them feel special.

Before they can welcome you back, though, you have to go for your first time. What are you waiting for? 😊