Akumal Beach
Akumal village Mexico undeniably stands as the crown jewel of the coastline. Once a hidden gem, Akumal has evolved into a coveted beach destination within the Riviera Maya. Nestled 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Cancún, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, this charming beachfront town showcases some of the most exquisite white sand beaches in the entire Riviera Maya, adorned with abundant natural palm tree shade.
Akumal, “The Place of Turtles”
Well before the city of Akumal saw human settlement, magnificent sea turtles selected its welcoming shores as their sanctuary and nesting haven. These wise creatures recognized from the outset that this tropical haven, adorned with its powdery white sands and picturesque bays, was nothing short of paradise.
Renowned writer, archaeologist, and entrepreneur Pablo Bush Romero wholeheartedly endorsed the heavenly nature of Akumal’s beaches, fueling the growth of this coastal town. Today, Akumal’s beaches remain a cherished gem for both local residents and visitors alike. While the population has evolved, the beaches have retained their timeless allure, much like the vision seen by the turtles and Romero many moons ago.
Stretching far and wide, Akumal village Mexico boasts a captivating shoreline known as ‘Las Bahias de Akumal.’ These five bays begin just south of Yal-Ku Lagoon, starting with North Akumal Beach and concluding at Aventuras Akumal to the south. Each of these bays offers a splendid setting for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, beachcombing, and forging connections with fellow beachgoers.
What makes Playa Akumal so special?
Playa Akumal offers a distinctive opportunity for tourists to immerse themselves in Mexico’s natural wonders by swimming alongside majestic sea turtles, though it’s important to avoid physical contact with these gentle creatures. This aquatic paradise also grants you the privilege of exploring vibrant coral reefs and encountering various marine species.
The crystalline turquoise waters here provide an immensely pleasurable swimming experience, but there’s a catch – this gem demands early rising. As of Sep 5, 2023 only a limited quota of 200 people are permitted to venture into the protected turtle zone each day. If you aspire to be among those fortunate individuals, arriving at the crack of dawn and enlisting the services of a knowledgeable guide to unveil the prime turtle-spotting locations is highly recommended.
It’s worth noting that swimming solo with the turtles, as was possible a couple of years ago, is no longer permitted. Now, hiring a guide is essential to access the areas where turtle sightings are virtually guaranteed.
However, if you’re feeling adventurous and wish to bypass the guided tour, you can venture a bit further east from the designated area, where you might still have a chance to encounter these magnificent creatures. While this approach is less certain, it remains a possibility because the turtles are free to roam as they please. The guide’s presence is only mandatory within a well-marked, limited section outlined by buoys.
These turtles have grown accustomed to sharing their aquatic realm with humans, encountering thousands of us each year. This encounter promises a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience. Just be sure to maintain a respectful distance and refrain from touching them, as your well-intentioned actions can inadvertently harm them.
Playa Akumal isn’t just about the turtles; it’s also a haven for a diverse array of marine life, including barracudas, stingrays, and manta rays, making it a haven for snorkelers and underwater enthusiasts.
While the beach itself is undeniably a highlight of Akumal, the surrounding area is equally breathtaking. After all, a journey to this destination should encompass more than just beach time. To the north, you’ll discover Laguna Yal Ku, a natural wonder that closes its gates at 5 PM, and the renowned Half-moon Bay. To the south, Jade Bay beckons with its residential communities, tourist resorts, and a plethora of attractions. The town and its environs are ensconced in lush greenery, offering a rich tapestry of wildlife to complement your Akumal experience.
Getting to Akumal
Akumal is situated approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) to the south of Cancún, nestled between the charming towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This picturesque locale graces the shores of Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay, occupying the grounds of a former coconut plantation within the Tulum Municipality in Quintana Roo, seamlessly blending into the captivating landscape of the Riviera Maya region.
If you’re currently in Playa Del Carmen, you’ll head south on highway 307. The drive should take you about 30-40 minutes. If you’re in Tulum, you’ll head north on highway 307. It’ll take you about 30 minutes.
Highway 307 is well maintained and there are no tolls to pay
The Optimal Time to Visit Akumal Beach
To fully savor the magic of Akumal Beach, plan your visit between June and November, the prime turtle nesting season when your chances of encountering these graceful creatures are at their peak. Specifically, September stands out as the month when turtle sightings are most promising.
When you embark on your beach adventure, ensure you’re well-equipped with ample sunscreen to shield yourself from the potent tropical sun, which can lead to sunburn even on cloudy days and in shaded areas. If your plan involves staying until sunset or beyond, having mosquito repellent on hand is advisable for a comfortable experience.
As previously mentioned, the protected turtle zone permits only 200 visitors per day, underscoring the importance of arriving early to secure your spot. Additionally, enlisting the services of a knowledgeable guide is highly recommended to lead you to the most coveted turtle-swimming spots.
For those contemplating an extended stay in the vicinity, the period from September to November is a prime choice. During this time, the area experiences fewer tourists, resulting in more attractive accommodation rates and a serene, peaceful ambiance at the beach, allowing you to relish every moment to the fullest.
Exploring Akumal Beach: Conclusion
With all the essential details at your disposal, you’re well-prepared to orchestrate your visit to Akumal Beach. The possibilities for experiencing this coastal gem are numerous, and I’m confident that regardless of your choice, you’re in for an extraordinary adventure. Always keep in mind the importance of treading lightly on the environment as you enjoy your journey.
Safe and joyful travels!
