Costa Maya is a lesser-known region of the Yucatan, beginning where the Mayan Riviera of Mexico ends. Stretching from Sian Kaan all the way to Belize, this coastline paradise is slowly but steadily growing in popularity with visitors from around the globe.

While it has been known as a sleepy fishing village for decades, visitors have discovered that its proximity to the tropical jungle and the white sand beaches make it a dynamic place to vacation. Boasting a rich history, diverse culture, and unbeatable natural beauty, it’s easy to see why the number of visitors is growing each year.

There are some incredible hotels in Costa Maya, Mexico, that will ensure you have the most comfortable and enjoyable time possible in Costa Maya. Today, we’re sharing the best hotels in the area for a range of tastes and budgets.

Where to Visit in Costa Maya

There are many choices for great resorts all around the Yucatan Peninusla. Costa Maya is one of the most diverse areas to stay in the mystical and ancient part of Mexico, located in the coastal state of Quintana Roo.

Each village, town, and the city offers something unique to its visitors. With that in mind, it’s worth researching before you head off to ensure that you pick the right spot for your vacation.

Thankfully the region is fairly compact, and it’s easy to travel between different spots by public transport or affordable private taxis. Here are some of the most popular spots in the region and why you might consider visiting them.

Xcalak

Xcalak is a small village in the state of Quintana Roo that is home to less than 400 people. This quaint spot is at the southern end of Costa Maya and is said to be one of the last unspoiled stretches of the Mexican Caribbean coastline. Being one of the quieter spots on the Costa Maya, Xcalak is a top pick if you’re looking for somewhere to unplug and unwind.

This remote spot is a favorite for fishing, and keen bird spotters will love the rich avian life that can be found among the village’s mangrove waterways. Scuba diving is a popular activity in Xcalak and Chinchorro Banks, a coral atoll and underwater ship graveyard, making for a superb spot to explore.

Xcalak is also conveniently located to other luxury vacation destinations. Located just seven miles from Belize by water, it makes for a great jumping-off point if you plan to go there after visiting Mexico.

Bacalar

Bacalar is close to the Belize border and is perhaps the most famous destination in Costa Maya, thanks to its incredible lagoon. Known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors, the clear blue waters must be seen to be believed.

Bacalar is best known as a home to several of Mexico’s top cenotes (natural watering holes), including Cenote la Bruja (Witches Cenote) and Cenote Esmeralda (Emerald Cenote). If you’re interested in Mexico’s rich history, check out Fuerte de San Felipe Fort in downtown Bacalar or discover spectacular Mayan ruins at sites including Chacchoben or Kohunlich.

Visitors to Bacalar typically spend most of their time on the water, either sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddle boarding, all of which can be accommodated through rentals. However, the town itself is also a great place to spend time, and there are plenty of fantastic bars and restaurants to enjoy.

Chetumal

If you’re looking for a city center vibe, Chetumal is a good choice for your Costa Maya vacation. This coastal city is the state’s capital of Quintana Roo and has its own international airport, so it is easy to access.

There’s plenty to see and do in Chetumal, including the fascinating Museum of Maya Culture and the Paya Obispo Zoo. Chetumal is also a good base for visiting the village of Calderitas for incredibly fresh seafood or venturing into the jungle to discover the ancient ruins of Oxtankah.

Being a larger city, some superb accommodation options are available, often with sea views and plenty of tasty food and drink. The food stands that pop up in the evening along Boulevard Bahia are great spots to sample the region’s most popular dishes.

There’s nothing like chowing down on a taco while watching local families enjoy the games and carnival rides as the sun goes down.

Mahahual

Once an unknown fishing village, Mahahual is now a popular beach resort thanks to its beautiful white sand, clear blue waters, and chilled Caribbean atmosphere. This beach destination has the pristine white sand beaches of Riviera Maya hotspots like Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun, but with a quieter vibe and more affordable prices.

Mahahual is a great place to do nothing but swim in the warm ocean waters, get lost in a good book under a palm tree, or enjoy the colorful restaurants, bars, and beach clubs along the Malecon (boardwalk).

Scuba diving is a popular activity here because the second-largest barrier reef is located just off the coast. Visitors can also dive at Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve, or snorkeling equipment can be bought or hired in town if you’re looking for a more relaxing day on the water.

When to Visit Costa Maya

Costa Maya is known for its beautifully sunny weather, but some months are better than others. November to May is generally accepted as the best time to visit, thanks to comfortable and warm daily temperatures of around 80 degrees. Late summer and early fall are best avoided if possible because it’s the rainy season and hurricanes are possible.

How to Get to Costa Maya

The closest airport is Chetumal International Airport, with regular services from international and domestic destinations. Cancun International Airport is also an option, especially if you plan to visit other parts of the Riviera Maya on your trip. There are also plenty of great options for hotel stays near the Cancun International Airport if you arrive late and want to get a good night’s sleep before you kick off your vacation.

Mexico is well-served by the ADO bus network, and smaller collectives (minibusses) are a safe and cheap option for reaching more remote areas of Costa Maya. Hiring a car is also a popular place to get around. Although roads in coastal villages may not be the best quality, they generally have friendly hotels and are safe and easy to navigate.

Costa Maya port is a popular cruise ship destination, so the region can also be visited as part of a cruise. This region is also close to Belize so it can be visited as part of a larger Central American adventure.

Now, without further ado, here are the most incredible hotels in Costa Maya, Mexico.

Costa de Cocos

Nestled among picturesque coconut palms on the shore of Xcalak Beach is the beautiful Costa de Cocos hotel. Positioned perfectly between the Caribbean Sea and the Yucatan jungle and with easy access to Xcalak Lagoon, this is a dream spot for fans of snorkeling, diving, and fishing.

The traditional Mayan-style bungalows have authentic wooden walls, thatched roofs, and stunning Mexican-style tile floors. The cabanas also have a safe, a ceiling fan, a private bathroom, access to free Wi-Fi, and free on-site parking. A daily maid service is also provided, and guests can use the laundry service for an additional fee.

Costa de Cocos has an on-site restaurant with a terrace that serves fresh seafood and tasty Caribbean cuisine. Breakfast is also on offer each morning. The beachfront bar is perfect for hanging out with a beer and watching the beautiful sunsets each evening.

Costa de Cocos also offers all-inclusive packages that cater to a family-friendly vibe.

Top amenities include:

• Central location
• Mayan-style cabanas
• Free Wi-Fi
• Restaurant serving breakfast

Check availability for this Xcalak hideaway here.

Khaban Bacalar Hotel Boutique

Next, we’re heading to Bacalar and the stunning four-star Khaban Bacalar Hotel Boutique. This little slice of paradise is perched on the edge of Bacalar Lagoon and is the perfect spot for those who want to spend time out on the clear blue water that Bacalar is famous for.

Khaban has its own private swimming pool, which is perfect for lounging with a margarita, and direct access to the lagoon, so guests can swim, sunbathe, and sail to their heart’s content.

The luxuriously cozy guest suites are comfortable and well-equipped for a relaxing stay. All rooms have a balcony with a tranquil garden view, a coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Some also have a hammock and a kitchen with a fridge, oven, and microwave.

The property also offers free private parking, a garden, a terrace, and a restaurant and bar. Guests are offered a fresh and tasty American breakfast each morning.

Top amenities include:

• Swimming pool
• Direct access to the lagoon
• American breakfast
• Air-conditioned rooms

Check availability for this four-star boutique hotel here.

Blue Palm Bacalar

Another great option for Bacalar is the Blue Palm hotel. This modern-looking four-star property is spacious and comfortable and provides easy access to the lagoon.

The large outdoor swimming pool provides guests with plenty of room to swim or sit out and enjoy Mexico’s famously sunny weather. There are also lush gardens to enjoy and a pretty terrace where guests can relax with a cold beer after a long day of adventuring.

There are only a handful of rooms at this hotel, ensuring guests enjoy a peaceful stay with plenty of privacy. The suites at Blue Palm have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and seating area, and a safety deposit box. The private bathrooms have a shower, complimentary toiletries, and a hair dryer for added convenience. Each room also has a private terrace or balcony with seating or a hammock.

Blue Palm also offers a 24-hour front desk for flexible check-in, a concierge service for help planning trips, and free Wi-Fi. Furthermore, guests can enjoy an à la carte or continental breakfast each morning of their stay.

Top amenities include:

• Large swimming pool
• 24-hour front desk
• Concierge service
• Rooms with balconies or terraces

Check availability for this modern, tranquil property here.

Habitas Bacalar

For five-star luxury in Bacalar, check out Habitas. The lakeside location of this property is remote and secluded, guaranteeing guests a chance to chill out and completely unwind.

The guest suites at Habitas are designed to look like tents, giving guests a luxurious glamping experience without losing the comfort and amenities of a traditional hotel. The beds are big and comfortable, and additional seating is included.

All rooms have air conditioning and complimentary toiletries, and some have semi-outdoor bathrooms for refreshing mornings or romantic evening showers under the open air. Rooms have terraces overlooking lush green gardens for privacy, and some rooms have idyllic lake views, too.

The communal areas of this lavish property include a garden and a restaurant that serves a fresh à la carte breakfast each morning. Private parking is available, and there is a 24-hour front desk for flexible check-in and help with arranging onward travel and activities.

Top amenities include:

• Tent-like guest suites
• Rooms with semi-outdoor bathrooms
• Daily à la carte breakfast
• 24-hour front desk

Check availability for this five-star luxury hotel here.

Fiesta Inn Chetumal

Next, we’re heading to the bustling city of Chetumal and Fiesta Inn. This mid-size four-star hotel is close to the bay and has all of the city’s best food and drink options, making it an excellent base for your Chetumal getaway.

The air-conditioned guest suites boast modern styling with wooden floors and are impeccably clean and airy. Each room has a desk, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom, and the Junior Suite has a separate bedroom and dining area, which is perfect for larger groups or more extended stays.

The on-site gym is spacious and well-equipped for a workout, and there’s also a rooftop swimming pool with sweeping city views and plenty of space to lie out and catch some rays.

The sky bar serves an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and the on-site restaurant has a great menu of traditional Caribe Mexican dishes. Free Wi-Fi is also offered to guests, and there are meeting and banquet facilities on-site.

Top amenities include:

• Air-conditioned suites
• Well-equipped gym
• Rooftop swimming pool
• Bar and restaurant

Check availability for this central four-star hotel here.

Hotel Lagoon

For a pet-friendly option in Chetumal, Hotel Lagoon is our pick. This sustainable three-star property is set in a tranquil setting outside of the city, making it a great alternative option for fans of a slower pace of life.

Hotel Lagoon is also extremely close to the Belize border, making it a great spot for a comfortable night’s sleep before a big travel day. Bacalar Lagoon is also easy to reach from this property.

This hotel has a beautifully lush setting, and the gardens give a real sense of peace and quiet to its guests. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and there’s a beautiful outdoor pool in its center. Rooms at Hotel Lagoon have air conditioning, cable TV, and plenty of storage. The clean private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries, and some suites also have a private terrace.

Coffee and sweet baked goods are offered to guests for breakfast each morning, and there are several other food options a short drive away towards Chetumal’s town center.

Top amenities include:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Free Wi-Fi
• Air-conditioned rooms
• Complimentary coffee and baked goods

Check availability for this lush, suburban hotel here.

Hotel Jaiba Mahahual

If you’re interested in visiting Mahahual, Hotel Haiba Mahahual is a tropical hideaway with plenty of great amenities. This adults-only property doesn’t allow children to stay, making this a tranquil spot for a kid-free trip.

The hotel is less than a mile from Mahahual’s beautiful white sand beach and a large outdoor swimming pool. The gardens and terrace are a lush place to enjoy a good book with your morning coffee.

Guest rooms are bright, airy, and beautifully decorated with natural fabrics and neutral colors. They are all air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, a desk, and a coffee machine. Some rooms also have a patio, and some have beautiful pool views.

There’s a currency exchange on-site for exchanging your money for pesos, plus a dry cleaning service. Free parking is available for guests, and the hotel’s friendly staff can arrange transport.

Top amenities include:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Currency exchange
• Dry cleaning service
• Free Wi-Fi

Check availability for this adults-only hotel here.

40 Cañones

Also in Mahahual is the aesthetically-pleasing 40 Cañones. This beachside property has a well-kept private beach area with comfortable loungers and plenty of shaded areas. From here, you can swim, snorkel, or hang out with a refreshing beer or soft drink.

The hotel has a gorgeous al fresco restaurant and bar and is close to plenty of other delicious dining options. Guests can enjoy a picture-perfect terrace and well-designed walkways that wind through lush gardens. An à la carte breakfast is served every morning at 40 Cañones.

The rooms at this three-star hotel have a modern, minimalist design with tiled floors, wooden finishings, and neutral walls. Amenities include air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, and a bathroom with a hairdryer. Some rooms have balconies with hammocks, and there are also family rooms for groups traveling together.

There is free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and the tour desk is handy for booking trips and planning onward travel. Free parking is also available on-site.

Top amenities include:

• Private beach area
• Bar and restaurant

• Free Wi-Fi
• Free parking

Check availability for this beachside property here.

Costa Maya Should Be The Next Vacation You Book

These are our most incredible hotels picks in Costa Maya, Mexico. No matter your budget, requirements, or itinerary, booking one of these beautiful properties will ensure that you have the perfect base for your Costa Maya adventure.

Look for more information about your Costa Maya dream vacation on Travel Yucatan.