We spent a fantastic day at Maya Chan Beach during our cruise port day in Costa Maya. I had heard that Maya Chan was owned by American’s who loved cruising and had recently written a book about their experience developing Maya Chan Beach!
It sounded perfect for me!
So, I ordered the book on Amazon “It Helps to Be Crazy: The Story of Maya Chan Beach” and planned to visit during our next cruise which included Costa Maya, Mexico.
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I booked our reservation online. A confirmation email from the owner came quickly with some initial information. Later I received a secure link to pay via PayPal and a cruise port instruction pdf. The instruction sheet detailed where we were supposed to meet for transportation (included in the day price) and more specifics about the beach.
The owner’s note gave full disclosure about their rustic facilities and the ongoing struggle with seagrass in the area. The seagrass problem is an environmental issue and believed to be caused by pollution. ERR!
I wasn’t at all worried about the rustic nature. As long as they had clean restrooms, I was sure to have a great time.
How to get to Maya Chan Beach
Following the provided port instructions, we exited the port area and walked about a block into “town”. We were met by a representative outside a little store in Mahuhaul and waited a very short time for our taxi transportation.
The drive is a short distance but takes 15 minutes or so because the road conditions are VERY rough. You could get lost in the potholes but it’s all part of the adventure!
Upon arrival, we were greeted at the taxi and escorted inside where we were then greeted by one of the owner’s, David. (Read the book, he is their son) He introduced himself and gave us the “lay of the land” pointing out facilities and features. We were then escorted to our own reserved area where we could relax for the day. We were tucked in just below the new pool area with a beautiful view of the open beach and ocean.
As we walked to our area, I noticed little signs near other groupings that read, “Welcome Back Johnson Family” or Happy Birthday Barbara. I thought to myself, wow this really is a place people return to time and time again. That’s a good sign! No pun intended.
Clearly, Maya Chan Beach is a special place.
We were promptly served chips, guacamole and salsa and our first round of beverages. Yes, we were drinking at 10 a.m. but somehow that seems quite normal when you are on vacation and at the beach!
The service was amazing! 
As more people arrived, several ventured out passed the seagrass to float in the ocean or try out the kayaks ( included). The service team even took a kayak out to take drink orders and check on guests.
We enjoyed time at the small pool, walked around and explored, and relaxed in our loungers under our palapa. We didn’t need to worry about our belongings or “saving” our chairs. Brian and I even met another family and enjoyed a game of bag toss on the beach.
Our day at Maya Chan Beach was the most completely relaxing beach day we’ve ever had.
Lunch was ready around 12:30 and it was fantastic! David introduced their chef and everything was so fresh and delicious.
Unfortunately, we needed to leave around 2:30. Rule #1 of cruising, Don’t miss the ship! Other than the fact that we didn’t want to leave Maya Chan Beach, the departure was completely stress-free.
The staff keeps track of ship times, schedules taxis and gives you a heads up about 15 minutes prior to your departure time. A staff member also stands outside of the resort waiting for the taxi so you can order that last drink or say your goodbyes.
I’ve had the great pleasure of experiencing many beach days, but this particular one will always stand out. I almost felt like I was in an episode of Gilligan’s Island. The beach, the pool, the palapas…everything just seemed so real and authentic.
As the owner mentioned in his initial email, this is definitely NOT a Disneyland style resort beach. There isn’t any loud music, a swim-up bar or vendors selling their trinkets. But, it’s impressively clean, has everything you could need or want and the service was just perfection. We never wanted for anything, yet the servers didn’t hound you like on some other beaches.
Worrier’s Guide:
- Easy to book online and transportation is arranged and included in the day pass fee.
- YES! You can drink the water and the ice is purified as well.
- VERY clean. It’s natural and rustic but extremely well maintained.
- Incredible service!
- Beach activities included – kayaks, floaties, beach games. Massages available for an extra fee but extremely reasonable.
- No beach vendors!
- Private, unspoiled and not crowded!
- Yes, they have WIFI and it’s included.
- Plenty of shade available
The Natural Beauty and Sustainability of Maya Chan Beach
In addition to the amazing service what I loved most about our day was the very organic and natural vibe. There were postings about toilet paper and waste systems that were clever and made us smile.
There were little signs about their use of solar energy and rainwater, encouraging you to take as much as you needed but to not be wasteful.
I love to see examples of people who put our environment in the spotlight and engage with people, reminding us all to respect our planet and our natural resources. We all want to enjoy the beach so we also all need to protect it.
We had such a great day at Maya Chan Beach and we cannot wait to visit again.
Does Maya Chan Beach sound like the perfect place for you to spend your cruise port day in Costa Maya?
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Happy Travels!
Jillian
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I just finished reading your post on Maya Chan Beach which brings back fond memories. We’ve been there 2x. The last time was for our 40th wedding Anniversary in which David renewed our vows.
Maya Chan Beach holds a special place in my heart.
Susan, thank you for sharing, and for reading the post. Maya Chan is very special. Congratulations on 40 years. That is quite an accomplishment and I bet your vow renewal was beautiful. Have a great day! – Jill