Overview
Akumal is a small, peaceful town on the Mayan Riviera, 37 km south of Playa del Carmen and about one hour south of Cancun. The name means "Land of turtles" in the Mayan language, and the protected shallow bay with clear blue-green waters remains a favorite spawning ground for sea turtles.
Beach · Day Trips · Nature
Before you go
Nature
Akumal means "Land of turtles" in Mayan. The bay is a protected spawning ground for sea turtles, with nesting season May through September.
Packing
Bring bug repellent as the tropical climate means mosquitoes are common.
Safety
Beware of parking lot harassment from people forcing tours. Beach is free; guides not required for independent snorkeling.
Transport
colectivos (shared vans) on Highway 307 cost about M$35 pesos between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Taxis available for shorter trips.
