Akumal Bay
Akumal Bay: A protected sanctuary in the Riviera Maya, famous for swimming with sea turtles and pristine beaches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Akumal Bay
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Akumal Bay: A protected sanctuary in the Riviera Maya, famous for swimming with sea turtles and pristine beaches.
"The staff here will treat you well. Anything you need or want this resort will go above and beyond to get it."
Respect the Turtles! :turtle:
Never touch or feed the sea turtles. Maintain a safe distance to protect them.
Snorkel Gear :mask:
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it. Many tours include it.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Sea Turtles
Akumal Bay
Encounter majestic green sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable snorkeling experience.
Yalku Lagoon
North of Akumal Bay
A serene lagoon where freshwater meets the sea, offering calm waters and diverse marine life for snorkeling.
Akumal Bay Beach
Akumal Bay
Relax on soft white sands and swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters. Perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Etiquette is Key
Resort vs. Independent Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect the Turtles! :turtle:
Never touch or feed the sea turtles. Maintain a safe distance to protect them.
Snorkel Gear :mask:
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it. Many tours include it.
Sun Protection :sun_with_face:
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and your skin.
Book Tours in Advance :calendar:
Especially during peak season, booking tours for turtle encounters is recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Turtles! :turtle:
Never touch or feed the sea turtles. Maintain a safe distance to protect them.
Snorkel Gear :mask:
Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it. Many tours include it.
Sun Protection :sun_with_face:
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and your skin.
Book Tours in Advance :calendar:
Especially during peak season, booking tours for turtle encounters is recommended.
Stay Hydrated :water_wave:
The Mexican sun can be intense; carry plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Akumal Bay for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. The friendly and helpful staff at resorts, along with the clean and well-maintained facilities, are frequently highlighted as major positives. While some guests mention minor issues like room updates or food variety, the overall experience is overwhelmingly described as unforgettable and highly recommended.
"I just got home from my vacation in the resort and I had the best time of my life. I traveled by myself and I met so many people there that really changed my life. The stuff was very friendly, respectful and helpful. The food was good and the room was clean and nice as well! you can have unlimited drinks and food so for me it was absolutely worth it. I loved the location amazing beach a lot of pools all over the resort. Also there are nice people inside where you can book excursions that are also safe when you travel by yourself. i loved it and I will definitely come back!!"
Clara Herdics
"The staff here will treat you well. Anything you need or want this resort will go above and beyond to get it. First time to Mexico, and we will return again sometime in the near future. White sand and blue waters were amazing. Sea turtles, electrict rays, coral, and many different colors of fish can be seen while snorkeling. Shout out to Victor and his staff along Akumal Bay and resort next to secrets resort. Many memories were made here. Thanks to Akumal Bay and Resort."
Nathan Stevenson
"Our 10 day-stay at Akumal Bay Resort is simply UNFORGETTABLE ! We booked a penthouse (#4315) that was absolutely perfect. We were impressed by the kindness and politeness of every employee. This resort is also impeccably well maintained, sparkling clean, elegant as well as comfortable. The few requests we had were always addressed in a promptly manner and with great courtesy.
Also, we mainly appreciated this wonderful resort because of its human size – easy, beautiful and short access all around. People are nice and helpful everywhere and high quality is found wherever you choose to have a meal or a snack (buffet, specialty restaurants (a must experience !), beach bars …). Snorkeling is exceptional directly from the hotel beach. Thanks to German and Angel who helped us find sunbeds « illegally reserved at 6am or so ! ». By the way, it really is a pity that people still behave like that despite all signs posted under each and every beach umbrella !
Thank you ALL at Akumal Resort ! We felt welcomed and really enjoyed sharing beautiful days in Akumal with our Mexican friends …
Happy Canadians who will be back !!"
M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akumal Bay is conveniently located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum on the Riviera Maya. You can reach it by car, taxi, or colectivo (shared van). Many visitors opt for a tour that includes transportation. +1
Yes, colectivos run frequently along the main highway and can drop you off near the bay. Taxis are also readily available, and booking a private tour can simplify logistics.
Driving is an option, and there are parking areas available near the beach. Be aware that parking fees may apply.
From Cancun, you can take a direct ADO bus to Playa del Carmen or Tulum and then catch a colectivo to Akumal. Alternatively, a private transfer or rental car offers more flexibility.
Yes, colectivos are a popular and affordable way to reach Akumal Bay from nearby towns like Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the beach itself is generally free to access, there are often fees for parking and for guided tours to swim with the turtles. These tours are mandatory to ensure turtle protection.
The cost can vary. Guided snorkel tours typically range from $30-$40 USD per person, sometimes less if you join a group.
Yes, strict rules are in place to protect the sea turtles. This includes maintaining distance, not touching them, and using only reef-safe sunscreen.
No, swimming with turtles in Akumal Bay requires a certified guide to ensure the safety and protection of the marine life.
Akumal Bay is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific tour operator hours may vary.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is snorkeling with sea turtles. You can also relax on the beach, swim, and explore nearby Yalku Lagoon. +2
Absolutely! Akumal Bay is renowned for its seagrass beds, which attract sea turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish.
You can expect to see green sea turtles, stingrays, coral formations, and numerous colorful fish species.
Yes, Akumal Bay is home to several resorts, including all-inclusive options like Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort and Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya. +4
Akumal Bay can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting in the morning or opting for a guided tour can help manage crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and beach bars in and around Akumal Bay, offering local and international cuisine. Many resorts also have diverse dining options.
You'll find fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and international fare. Many resorts offer all-inclusive dining with a variety of choices. +1
Most restaurants in Akumal are family-friendly. Resorts often have buffets and specialty restaurants catering to various tastes.
While not always explicitly advertised, many restaurants can accommodate dietary requests. It's best to inquire directly with the establishment.
Resorts like Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort offer multiple dining venues, including buffets and specialty restaurants, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The bay itself offers stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches. The best shots are often underwater while snorkeling with turtles or from elevated viewpoints overlooking the bay.
Yes, but be mindful of your surroundings and the turtles. Waterproof cameras or phone cases are highly recommended.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Golden hour before sunset can also yield beautiful shots.
A waterproof camera or a smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing underwater moments. For scenic shots, a standard digital camera or smartphone will suffice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a guided tour for a more structured and educational experience with the turtles. Ensure you use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your children's skin and the delicate marine ecosystem. Exploring Yalku Lagoon can also be a gentler snorkeling option for younger children due to its calmer waters.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of an all-inclusive resort, consider purchasing your own snorkel gear and paying the entrance fee for guided turtle tours. Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money. Exploring Yalku Lagoon also has a modest entrance fee, making it an affordable addition to your itinerary.
💖 Couples & Honeymooners
Enjoy sunset strolls on the beach, intimate dinners at resort restaurants, and unforgettable snorkeling excursions together. The serene atmosphere of Akumal Bay provides a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Akumal's Sea Turtles
+1When visiting, it's crucial to adhere to strict guidelines. Guides are mandatory to ensure visitors maintain a respectful distance and do not disturb the turtles. Using only reef-safe sunscreen is also paramount to prevent harm to the marine ecosystem. The experience of swimming with these ancient creatures is profoundly moving and a testament to successful conservation.
Beyond the turtles, Akumal Bay's clear waters teem with other marine life, including various fish species and stingrays, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. The bay's calm nature, protected by a barrier reef, makes it accessible for swimmers of all levels.
Akumal Bay Resorts: All-Inclusive Experiences
Travelers often praise the exceptional service at these resorts, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. Penthouse suites with rooftop decks have been noted as particularly desirable. The resorts are generally well-maintained and offer a high standard of cleanliness. [^T11, ^T9, ^Review Summary]
While many reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some guests have noted areas for improvement, such as room updates or a desire for more food variety. However, the overall sentiment points to a high level of satisfaction, with many guests expressing a strong desire to return. [^Review Summary]
Exploring Beyond the Bay: Yalku Lagoon
The lagoon is known for its vibrant fish populations and the interesting interplay of fresh and saltwater. It's a protected area, contributing to its pristine condition. Visitors often describe it as a peaceful escape, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploration.
Access to Yalku Lagoon typically involves a small entrance fee, which helps in its preservation. It's a worthwhile addition to an Akumal itinerary for anyone looking to experience more of the Riviera Maya's natural beauty beyond the main attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit