Akumal ticks many boxes for backpackers: easily accessible from the main highway, free beach (as long as you're willing to walk a bit), snorkeling without paying for an excursion, and a relaxed vibe. Here, you don't need a complicated itinerary: you arrive by colectivo, drop your bag, and head out to swim with turtles that same afternoon. Located just 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen and 120 kilometers from Cancún, it's a straightforward stop to add to your Riviera Maya route.

History

Akumal was founded in 1958 by Pablo Bush Romero, a passionate diver, history enthusiast, and archaeology lover. His family remains active in the region to this day. In 2016, Akumal Bay was officially designated a marine refuge to preserve the local sea turtle population.

Akumal means "land of the turtles" in the Maya language.

Discovering Akumal

Situated between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, approximately 120 km south of Cancún, Akumal is a small seaside resort perfect for a peaceful break along the Riviera Maya. Nestled in Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay, this former coconut plantation has transformed into a serene village of just over a thousand residents.

If you love snorkeling, this is your chance to swim alongside green sea turtles that come to feed in the seagrass beds.

What to Do?

Swim Alongside Sea Turtles

Make the most of your time in Akumal by swimming alongside sea turtles. This site is home to three species: green sea turtles, loggerheads, and hawksbills. Every year, from May to October, they come to feed and lay their eggs in the bay. Access to the observation zone is now regulated to preserve this fragile habitat.

Keep your distance, don't touch the animals, and follow local recommendations to protect this precious ecosystem.

Snorkeling

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Riviera Maya and explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the largest in the western hemisphere. Discover a spectacular reef where more than 65 coral species and hundreds of tropical fish thrive in a colorful setting.

Choose your spot: swim in Akumal Bay, drift through the tranquility of Half Moon Bay, or mask and fin at Yal-Ku Lagoon.

A Quiet Getaway at Half Moon Bay

Head north from Akumal and discover Half Moon Bay, a lovely crescent-shaped cove. The atmosphere here is even more laid-back.

Spread your towel on the fine sand, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the peace and quiet, far from the bustling beaches further south. When hunger or thirst strikes, settle into a small bar or restaurant and relax in a hammock.

Swimming in Yal-Ku Lagoon

Venture north of Half Moon Bay and discover Yal-Ku Lagoon. This peaceful spot is where fresh water gently mingles with the Caribbean Sea. Put on your mask and snorkel, wade into its shallow waters, and observe colorful fish in this natural setting.

Explore Aktun Chen Ecological Park

Visit Aktun Chen ecological park and discover a natural wonderland. Walk through a cave formed millions of years ago, observe its rock formations and cenotes, then strap into a harness for a thrilling zip-line crossing above the jungle. Follow an underground river and take time to watch local wildlife. Toucans, monkeys, coatis, and kinkajous are among the species you may encounter along the way.

Stop by the Ecological Center

Make a detour to Akumal's Ecological Center and learn about local efforts to preserve marine ecosystems. Visit the small museum dedicated to sea turtles and coral reefs, discover the actions being taken to protect marine life, and attend awareness events held on-site. If you want to go deeper, inquire about volunteer programs available.

When to Visit?

The region's climate remains pleasant year-round. Come between November and April to avoid excessive heat and enjoy drier weather.

From Playa del Carmen

By Public Transportation

To reach Akumal on a budget, take a colectivo—a shared minibus departing from Calle 2 Norte, near Avenida 20, just a stone's throw from 5th Avenue. Simply tell the driver you're getting off at Akumal. Once there, it's just a short walk to the bay.

ADO buses are more comfortable and direct, but they don't stop in between.

By Car

Take Federal Highway 307 heading south, then exit at the bridge marked "Akumal" on your left. You'll reach the bay entrance quickly.

From Tulum

By Public Transportation

From Tulum's town center, board a colectivo heading to Playa del Carmen and ask to be dropped off at Akumal. Once there, walk the rest of the way to the beach to enjoy the site.

Note that ADO buses do not stop at Akumal.

By Car

Follow Highway 307 heading north, then turn right when you spot the "Akumal" sign. The village entrance is just after.

From Cancún

By Public Transportation

First, travel to Playa del Carmen from Cancún, then continue on to Akumal following the signs.

By Car

Follow Highway 307 heading south, then turn left at the "Akumal" sign to reach the bay.