Costa Maya has become a popular stop for cruise ships sailing the Western Caribbean. A terminal re-opened in late 2008 (after being ravaged by Hurricane Dean) at the sleepy town of Mahahual, a quaint fishing village with powdery-sand, palm-lined beaches. A boardwalk is lined by beach houses, small hotels and restaurants.
The privately run port is clean and attractive with a lot to do: There is a beach, bars and restaurants, jewelry stores and duty-free galore. Just outside the gates cruisers ...