Akumal, a charming beach town on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, about 60 miles south of Cancun. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning white sand beaches, and incredible marine life, Akumal is a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing yet adventurous getaway. One of the biggest draws to Akumal is its clear, calm waters, home to vibrant coral reefs and the famous sea turtles that frequent the bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach escape or an exciting snorkeling adventure, Akumal is a must-visit destination on the Yucatán Peninsula.
How to Get to Akumal
Akumal is easily accessible from major travel hubs in Mexico, and there are multiple transportation options to get here:
- By Air: The closest airport is Cancún International Airport (CUN), approximately 75 minutes away by car.
- By Car: Rent a car at the airport and take Highway 307 south toward Tulum; Akumal is well-marked along the way and easy to navigate to.
- By Shuttle: Many companies offer shared or private shuttle services from the airport or nearby cities.
- Private Transfer: A more comfortable and direct option, ideal for groups or those looking for a hassle-free ride. Our concierge team would be happy to assist in arranging a private transfer
- By Taxi: Taxis are available but can be expensive for long-distance travel, so agree on the fare in advance.
- By Bus: The ADO bus travels from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, where you can transfer to a colectivo or taxi to Akumal.
Once in Akumal, getting around is easy by walking, renting a bike or golf cart, or taking short taxi rides between areas.
What Akumal is Known For
Akumal (“Place of the Turtle” in Maya) is best known for its sea turtles, which frequent the area’s warm, shallow waters, making it one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Riviera Maya. The town also boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear cenotes, and diverse marine life in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Visitors also love Akumal’s relaxed vibe, with its small but charming selection of beachfront restaurants and beautiful beachfront vacation rentals. We like to call the vibe here”barefoot luxury.”
Things to Do in Akumal
There’s plenty to explore and experience in Akumal. Here are some of the top activities:
Snorkel with Sea Turtles – Akumal Bay is famous for its friendly turtles, and snorkeling tours provide an up-close experience.
Visit Yal-Ku Lagoon – A beautiful snorkeling spot with a mix of freshwater and seawater, teeming with tropical fish.
Relax on Akumal Beach – Enjoy the soft white sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Many of our vacation rentals offer direct beach access, and some even come with kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear.
Explore Aktun Chen Cenote – A hidden gem offering guided cave tours, underground rivers, and zip-lining.
Take a Day Trip to Tulum – Just 20 minutes away, visit the famous Tulum ruins or the stunning beaches.
Dine at La Buena Vida – A must-visit beachside restaurant offering fresh seafood, great cocktails, and a fun treehouse setting. Akumal has many other charming cafes and restaurants that visitors love.
When to Visit Akumal
Akumal is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowds:
High Season (December – April) – The most popular time to visit, with warm, dry weather and bustling beaches. We recommend booking your accommodations early as demand is high during this time of year.
Shoulder Season (May – June, October – November) – Fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and still great weather, though there may be occasional rain showers in the afternoons.
Low Season (July – September) – The hottest and most humid months of the year in Akumal, with higher chances of rain and hurricanes, but fewer tourists and the best deals on accommodations.
No matter when you visit, Akumal offers an unforgettable mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a top spot on the Riviera Maya.
