Akumal Beach | Cancun

Akumal Beach is a beautiful and serene beach located in the Riviera Maya on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, approximately 37 miles (60 km) south of Cancún and just north of Tulum. Akumal, which means "Place of the Turtles" in the Mayan language, is known for its clear, turquoise waters, soft white sand, and the opportunity to swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat. The beach is a popular destination for nature lovers, snorkelers, and anyone seeking a peaceful beach experience with abundant marine life.

Key Features of Akumal Beach

1. Swimming with Sea Turtles

One of the most popular reasons to visit Akumal Beach is the chance to swim and snorkel with sea turtles. The beach is home to a large population of green sea turtles, and the shallow waters make it easy to see these majestic creatures in their natural environment.

The turtles are not only plentiful but also relatively tame, allowing visitors to get a close look as they graze on the seagrass beds in the area. The experience is magical, making Akumal a prime destination for snorkelers and divers.

2. Clear, Calm Waters

The waters at Akumal Beach are crystal-clear and calm, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and swimming. The shallow waters near the shore are perfect for beginners or families with children.

The vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, and stingrays, is easily visible from the surface, making it a fantastic place for underwater exploration.

3. Snorkeling and Diving

Akumal is a prime location for both snorkeling and scuba diving. The coral reefs and seagrass beds just offshore are home to a wide variety of marine species, and the clear waters provide excellent visibility.

For those interested in diving, the area is known for guided diving tours that take visitors deeper into the reef system, where they can see even more marine life.

Akumal Bay has several snorkeling spots along the shore, and local companies offer equipment rentals, guided tours, and safety instructions for those who want to explore.

4. Beautiful Beach Setting

Akumal Beach features soft, white sand that stretches for miles, offering ample space to lay out and relax. The beach is less crowded than some of the more tourist-heavy beaches in Cancún or Playa del Carmen, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.

The beach is lined with palm trees, offering some shade for those looking to escape the sun, and there are small beachfront bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.

5. Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Beyond sea turtles, Akumal Beach is teeming with marine life, including snapping shrimps, octopuses, and colorful schools of fish. If you’re lucky, you might also spot manta rays or dolphins.

The surrounding area is lush with mangroves and coastal vegetation, which provide a rich ecosystem for wildlife and make the beach even more scenic.

6. Protected Area

Akumal Beach is a protected area managed by local organizations that work to preserve the natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to follow eco-friendly practices to help protect the marine life and the sea turtles.

For instance, life jackets are required for all snorkelers, and visitors are asked not to touch or disturb the turtles. Additionally, sunscreen that is harmful to marine life is discouraged, and reef-safe sunscreen is recommended.

Things to Know Before Visiting

How to Get There: Akumal Beach is located about 20 minutes from Tulum and an hour from Cancún. It’s easily accessible by car, and there’s ample parking available near the beach. If you’re staying in Tulum or the surrounding area, you can take a taxi or tour bus to the beach.

Entrance Fees: There is a small entrance fee to access the beach (usually around 50 to 100 pesos or $3 to $6 USD) that helps support conservation efforts and maintain the area. If you’re planning to snorkel, you may need to pay a fee to rent equipment, or if you book a guided tour, that will usually include the fee.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Akumal Beach is in the morning, when the waters are calm, and the beach is less crowded. If you want to see sea turtles, it’s best to visit during the summer months (May to October), as sea turtles come to the area to feed and nest.

The beach can get busier in the afternoon, especially on weekends, so visiting early will give you a more peaceful experience.

What to Bring: You’ll want to bring swimwear, a snorkel mask, and reef-safe sunscreen. Water shoes are a good idea, as the sea floor can be rocky in some areas. If you plan to snorkel, you can rent equipment from local vendors or bring your own gear. Don’t forget a towel, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Safety: Akumal is generally a safe beach, but it’s always wise to follow the guidelines provided by local operators to protect the sea turtles and marine life. Life jackets are required for snorkeling, and respectful behavior towards the animals is encouraged.

Facilities: Akumal Beach has restaurants, bars, and shops nearby for your convenience. You can find food and drinks, as well as souvenirs to take home. There are also public restrooms and showers available to rinse off after swimming.

Nearby Attractions

Akumal Cenote: Located just inland from the beach, Cenote Akumal is a beautiful freshwater cenote where you can swim or snorkel. It’s part of the same natural area, offering a unique contrast to the saltwater of the beach.

Tulum: Just a short drive south of Akumal, Tulum is famous for its Mayan ruins, which sit on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Tulum also has beautiful beaches, eco-friendly hotels, and great dining options.

Coba Ruins: A bit further inland, the Coba Ruins is an ancient Mayan archaeological site where you can climb one of the tallest pyramids in the region and enjoy panoramic views of the jungle.

Cenote Dos Ojos: A world-famous cenote located about 30 minutes north of Akumal, Cenote Dos Ojos offers spectacular underwater caves and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving.

Conclusion

Akumal Beach is a natural paradise that offers the chance to experience some of the best snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles in the Riviera Maya. Whether you’re interested in underwater exploration, relaxing on the beach, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Akumal provides an unforgettable experience. Its peaceful atmosphere, combined with its rich marine life, makes it a perfect destination for families, solo travelers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim with sea turtles and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this coastal gem.