Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7 Day Costa Maya Beach and Culture Itinerary May 2026

Day 1 · Fri, May 1
Mahahual, Costa Maya

Arrival and Beachfront Serenity

Morning:

Upon arriving in the sun-drenched fishing village of Mahahual, you will settle into the laid-back rhythm of the coast with a check-in at the [Hotel Nacional Beach Club & Bungalows](https://nacionalbeachclub.com/). Start your vacation with a peaceful walk along the Mahahual Malecon, a scenic pedestrian boardwalk where you can admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef stretching toward the horizon.

Afternoon:

Spend your first afternoon lounging under a shaded palapa at [Yaya Beach Club](https://www.google.com/search?q=Yaya+Beach+Club+costa+maya+for+a+week+in+may+right+on+the+beach+with+nice+dinners+and+excursions+where+it%E2%80%99s+mostly+relaxing+but+still+fun++official+site), where the gentle waves provide a soothing soundtrack to your relaxation. After cooling off in the water, head over to [The Krazy Lobster](https://thekrazylobster.com/) to enjoy a refreshing margarita and fresh local ceviche while taking in the vibrant beachside atmosphere.

Evening:

As the sun sets, head to Nohoch Kay for an exquisite dinner of grilled lobster tail served right on the sand under the stars. Conclude your first evening with a tranquil walk toward the southern end of the village to witness the iconic Mahahual Lighthouse illuminated against the dark Caribbean sky.

Day 2 · Sat, May 2
Mahahual, Costa Maya

Marine Exploration and Sunset Dining

Morning:

Start your morning with a flavorful tropical breakfast at Gypsea Valley before heading to the water's edge for an aquatic adventure. You will board a private boat with Dreamtime Dive Resort to explore the vibrant coral formations of the Costa Maya Reef, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear visibility among schools of parrotfish and graceful sea turtles.

Afternoon:

After your underwater adventure, unwind on a plush daybed at Pez Quadro Beach Club, savoring a fresh coconut water while the tropical breeze cools the shore. Later, take a short stroll to Maya Jade to browse their collection of unique, handcrafted Mexican jewelry and souvenirs to commemorate your coastal escape.

Evening:

As twilight settles over the coast, indulge in an elegant beachfront dinner at [Malecón 21](https://malecon21.com/), where you can savor fresh seafood pasta and chilled wine with a front-row view of the darkening Caribbean. Follow your meal with a visit to Nativo, a chic open-air lounge, to enjoy artisanal mezcal cocktails and the rhythmic sounds of live local music under the sway of illuminated palm trees.

Day 3 · Sun, May 3
Chacchoben

Mayan Heritage at Chacchoben Ruins

Morning:

Trade the sound of the waves for the whispers of the jungle as you journey inland to the ancient Chacchoben Archaeological Zone. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will traverse lush pathways to marvel at the towering Temple One and climb the sacred steps of the Gran Basamento to witness breathtaking views of the emerald canopy stretching toward the horizon.

Afternoon:

After immersing yourself in ancient history, retreat to the nearby village to enjoy a traditional Yucatecan lunch at El Pollo Maya, where the specialty is slow-roasted chicken served with local spices and handmade tortillas. Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing by the tranquil waters of Laguna Mariposa, a secluded natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of the surrounding jungle.

Evening:

After returning from the ruins, enjoy an authentic Mexican dinner at Restaurante Las de Guanajuato, where the savory flavors of local enchiladas provide the perfect comfort after a day of exploration. Cap off your evening with a tropical drink at The Drunken Parrot, a lively spot to enjoy the coastal night air and recount your favorite moments from the ancient Mayan city.

Day 4 · Mon, May 4
Bacalar

The Seven Shades of Bacalar Lagoon

Morning:

Start your day with a scenic journey to the shores of the "Lagoon of Seven Colors" to witness the mesmerizing morning light over the tranquil waters of Bacalar. Your exploration begins at Cocalitos, where you can marvel at the ancient Stromatolites-rare, living fossils-while wading through the shallow, crystal-clear shallows. Afterward, step back in history with a visit to the Fuerte de San Felipe, a colonial stone fortress that offers a commanding panoramic view of the entire lagoon's legendary gradients of blue.

Afternoon:

Board a private boat to navigate the shimmering turquoise channels of the Canal de los Piratas, where you can swim in the shallow, crystalline waters and admire the surrounding mangroves. Afterward, retreat to the lush, garden-like setting of La Playita for a relaxed lunch, enjoying artisanal cocktails and fresh fusion dishes as the lagoon's famous seven colors glow brightly under the afternoon sun.

Evening:

As the sun sets over the lagoon, treat yourself to a sophisticated seafood dinner at Kai Pez, where the outdoor seating offers one last breathtaking view of the water's shifting hues. Cap off your stay in Bacalar with a chilled glass of wine at Banyan Tree, reflecting on the day's beauty while the moonlight illuminates the mysterious Laguna de Bacalar.

Day 5 · Tue, May 5
Mahahual, Costa Maya

Cinco de Mayo Beach Club Relaxation

Morning:

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo by starting your morning with a flavorful Mexican breakfast at Tropicante, where you can enjoy traditional chilaquiles with a view of the turquoise coast. Afterward, take a taxi south to the secluded Hayhu Beach, an eco-luxury beach club where you can claim a private daybed and enjoy the pristine, quiet sands near the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve border before any festive crowds arrive.

Afternoon:

Return to the heart of the village for a festive Cinco de Mayo lunch at No Name Beach Club, where you can feast on gourmet shrimp tacos while local musicians provide a lively soundtrack. Afterward, embrace the holiday spirit with a specialized tequila and mezcal tasting at Pitufo's, where you can sip premium spirits from a shaded hammock while watching the colorful kites fly over the Mahahual shoreline.

Evening:

As the Cinco de Mayo festivities continue, enjoy a refined evening meal at La Chilangaloense, where the fresh seafood and lively coastal decor provide a vibrant setting for your holiday dinner. Afterward, head to the elegant patio of 40 Cañones to sip a crisp margarita under the stars, listening to the gentle lapping of the Caribbean waves as the moon rises over the Mahahual Malecon.

Day 6 · Wed, May 6
Xcalak

Coastal Adventure to Xcalak Village

Morning:

Wake up and journey south to the serene, off-the-grid village of Xcalak to enjoy a hearty traditional breakfast at Costa de Cocos amidst swaying palms. Afterward, head to the boat launch with Xcalak Adventures to explore the untouched coral gardens of the Xcalak National Reef Park, where you can snorkel through the famous "La Poza" to see massive tarpon and majestic eagle rays in their natural habitat.

Afternoon:

Following your morning on the water, enjoy a rustic lunch of fresh-caught fish at Restaurante Silvia, where the authentic flavors of the southern coast are served in a friendly, shaded setting. Afterward, take a leisurely boat ride to the nearby Isla de Pájaros to observe nesting frigatebirds and roseate spoonbills in their pristine mangrove habitat before finding a quiet spot to lounge on the remote sands of Xcalak Beach.

Evening:

As night falls over the remote peninsula, enjoy a gourmet fusion dinner at [The Leaky Palapa](https://leakypalaparestaurant.com/), where you can savor unique dishes like coconut curry lobster in an intimate, open-air garden. Conclude your evening with a quiet drink on the dock at Tierra Maya, looking up at the vast, unpolluted night sky to admire the brilliant Milky Way as it stretches over the silent Caribbean coast.

Day 7 · Thu, May 7
Mahahual, Costa Maya

Farewell Leisure and Seafood Celebration

Morning:

Savor your final morning with a tranquil breakfast of fresh smoothie bowls and organic coffee at Mar y Sol, where the tables are set directly in the soft sand. Following your meal, take a relaxing stroll to the northern end of the village to enjoy a final dip in the shallow, crystalline tide pools of Playa Maya, soaking in the serene Caribbean atmosphere one last time.

Afternoon:

Spend your final afternoon reclining in a swinging chair at Jamie's at the Blue Reef, enjoying a signature pineapple cocktail and the rhythmic sounds of the sea. Later, visit the Mahahual Artisan Market to browse hand-painted ceramics and woven textiles, finding the perfect keepsakes to remember your week in paradise.

Evening:

Conclude your getaway with a magnificent seafood feast at Sulumar, where you can dine on freshly caught lobster and garlic shrimp while the moon reflects off the water. Afterward, enjoy a final artisanal cocktail at Ibiza Sunset and take one last moonlight walk along the Mahahual North Pier to bid a peaceful farewell to the Caribbean Sea.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version