Costa Maya Shore Excursions: Your Perfect Day Mexico—Chacchoben Ruins, Bacalar Lagoon & Reef Snorkel

If your cruise calls at Costa Maya (Mahahual), Mexico, you have the perfect setup for an unforgettable port day. This stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coast blends living Maya culture, shimmering freshwater lagoons, and a protected reef that’s tailor-made for first-time and seasoned snorkelers alike. With major lines sailing here—and with Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Perfect Day Mexico destination on the horizon—demand for the best Costa Maya shore excursions is surging. Here’s how to plan a Perfect Day in Mexico built around the three experiences cruisers love most: Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, the Bacalar “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” and Costa Maya reef snorkeling.

Why Costa Maya is a top port for excursions

Unlike ports where “staying in the terminal” is the default, Costa Maya rewards guests who venture a little farther. Within easy reach you’ll find a headline archaeological site (Chacchoben), a one-of-a-kind lagoon (Bacalar), and calm reef waters ideal for snorkel boats out of Mahahual. Travel publishers and tour marketplaces consistently spotlight these three pillars as the best things to do in Costa Maya, which means you’ll be choosing from proven, cruiser-friendly options with thousands of reviews.

Perfect Day Mexico – Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Best for: Culture lovers, families, and anyone who wants a classic “Only in Mexico” experience in a half-day format.

What to expect: After meeting near the port, you’ll travel inland to Chacchoben, a compact but striking Maya site dotted with temple pyramids and jungle shade. Guided walks bring the history alive—alignments with celestial events, everyday life, and how the site evolved across centuries. Chacchoben is widely recognized as the most popular day-trip from Costa Maya, which keeps departures frequent and logistics smooth for cruise schedules. Count on a typical drive of around one hour each way and about 90 minutes on site (timings vary by tour). 

Why cruisers love it

  • High ROI on limited time: In just a few hours you can stand beside temple pyramids, climb approved viewpoints, and photograph wildlife.

  • Kid-friendly learning: Guides simplify complex Maya history with stories and hands-on examples.

  • Pairs well with the beach: Many operators offer a Ruins + Beach Club combo so you can cool off after the ruins before returning to the ship. 

Pro tips

  • Footwear: Paths are mostly packed earth with some steps—closed-toe shoes help.

  • Heat plan: Bring water and a hat; shade is decent but tropical sun is strong.

  • Add-ons: If you prefer a deeper dive, look for itineraries that add a village visit or a tasting stop to sample local flavors.

Perfect Day Mexico – Bacalar Lagoon of Seven Colors

Best for: Scenic seekers, photographers, and laid-back travelers who want a unique water day beyond the beach.

What to expect: About an hour or a bit more south of the port lies Bacalar, the famous “Lagoon of the Seven Colors.” You’ll board a pontoon or sailboat to drift across unbelievable shades of blue while guides point out the Black and Esmeralda cenotes and the Pirate Channel, a shallow, sandy corridor perfect for wading and photos. Many tours include time for swimming, a light lunch at a local restaurant, and a chilled pace that’s hard to beat. 

Why cruisers love it

  • Signature visuals: The lagoon’s shifting blues are unlike any beach day—think glassy water and sand-bar stops.

  • Gentle for all ages: Freshwater means no waves or salt spray; easy in/out ladders on pontoon boats.

  • Culture + nature: Many guides blend ecology (stromatolites, cenote geology) with pirate history and modern Bacalar life.

Pro tips

  • Time management: Because of the drive, choose operators that are cruise-savvy and schedule buffer time to guarantee a timely return.

  • Eco-awareness: Follow guide instructions to protect the lagoon’s fragile ecosystems—no sunscreen in the water unless it’s certified reef-safe and approved by your operator.

Perfect Day Mexico – Costa Maya Reef Snorkel

Best for: Active travelers, families, and anyone who wants a short, high-impact outing close to the ship.

What to expect: Snorkeling trips depart from Mahahual, minutes from the cruise area. You’ll ride a small boat to the nearby Mesoamerican Barrier Reef for guided reef stops—often with turtle sightings and schools of tropical fish. Experiences range from 90 minutes to half-day with options to bundle beach club access (loungers, shade, Wi-Fi, lunch). It’s the smartest pick when you want “max time in the water” without long transfers. 

Why cruisers love it

  • Close-to-port convenience: Minimal transit, more snorkel time.

  • Beginner-friendly: Shallow, calm sites are common; life vests and guidance included.

  • Customizable: Choose quick hits or extended trips with beach time.

Pro tips

  • Morning light wins: Earlier trips often have the best visibility and calmer seas.

  • Go small-group: Fewer snorkelers means better guide attention and wildlife encounters.

Ready for your Perfect Day in Mexico?

A top-tier Costa Maya shore excursion turns your port call into an authentic Mexico travel story. Whether you’re climbing ancient steps at Chacchoben, gliding over seven shades of blue in Bacalar, or floating above coral gardens off Mahahual, you can design a Perfect Day in Mexico that feels personal, well-paced and absolutely unforgettable. Start with one of the three proven classics above, book early for your sail date, and we’ll handle the rest.