A Thriving Port Destination set for Expansion
There’s a malecón (a seaside boardwalk) that runs the length of the city. On one side are Mahahual’s shops and restaurants; on the other is a broad stretch of beach where many restaurants set up tables. The cruise ship pier is at one end of town and everywhere you look—for two and three rows back from the malecón—you see construction under way.
There are lots of questions and chatter regarding the new Costa Maya water park, so now that all the delays on the project have been resolved, it is time for an update.
First and foremost, the project is still in the works and ready to start construction, but too late to meet the original opening planned for high season 2014-15, and is instead, now set a year later for 2015-16. The reason for the delay, was after final evaluation of the finished and approved plans, consultants from other large water parks recommended changes to improve traffic flow, water consumption and increase capacity. The developers made the call to delay the project’s start, feeling the changes were in fact worth it in the long run.
Plans were re-drawn which required a change to the environmental impact statement that the original plan was approved under. This alone took several months because all the variables that make up the equation had changed. Water consumption rates for example were changed for different water propulsion systems, and even more land had to be purchased to make the final equation work. Finally, at the first of May, all the final approvals were complete. New construction contracts had to be drawn to reflect the changes, again causing more delay but it looks like construction should begin in late summer, finally. The revised plan is about 20% larger, with plans for lazy rivers, water slides, zip lines, aquarium and Mayan cultural awareness activities.
The result is that the port has already seen an increase of about 20% over the last two years for the upcoming season and port officials are confident this is just the beginning of what will prove to be a huge increase in cruise ship volume or the next two to three years, as new contracts become available. Other changes at the port, specifically a new more ship friendly arrangement on how ship excursions are done, they feel will be the difference. The new park will be a much needed attraction for bringing more cruise ships to Puerto Costa Maya, a ground destination for both regional and national visitors, and all the while provide jobs and a great economic stimulus for the area.
Hotels
Mahahual has approximately 300 rooms in about 27 accommodation centers that meet the quality and service necessary to receive national and international visitors. Rooms range from the most indispensable, to bedrooms with ocean views, balconies, refrigerator included, access to pool, or stay in the comfort of total privacy in rustic rooms located in the coastal zone.
Restaurants
Many nice restaurants and shops line the Malecon. There are approximately 45 restaurants in Mahahual. Culture and traditions of Mexico and Costa Maya are reflected in the food. You'll find a few options for regional food, Mexican food, sea food, even barbecue and international food. Seafood and Mexican food are a must in the port. Lobster, shrimp and fish are abundant and incredible!
Local Attractions
The barrier reef, just off shore offers opportunities for snorkeling or scuba diving, and keeps the waters of the Caribbean safe for kayaking. Explore the Mayan ruins or venture to the offshore bird sanctuary on Ibis Island via ocean kayak. Take a leisurely horseback ride through the jungle or go for a breezy trot along the beach. Also available are bone, tarpon, and permit fishing trips.
