5 Reasons Akumal Is the Best Vacation Spot in the Riviera Maya

Below I’ll cover the things that make Akumal the best vacation spot in the Riviera Maya. Including what to do there to have the perfect weekend getaway in Mexico.

Akumal is probably the most underrated vacation spot in the Riviera Maya. Only twenty minutes from Tulum, and thirty minutes from Playa Del Carmen, there’s a reason this town is often overlooked. While I rarely write about touristy, vacation destinations- Akumal is worth writing about.

This small beach town is known as the “land of the turtles.” It is one of the oldest resort areas in Quintana Roo. Make no mistake: Akumal is touristy. It doesn’t however, draw the same crowds, and over developed beaches that most of the neighboring resort areas do. That’s what makes it so charming and tranquil.

Below you’ll find the top five reasons why Akumal Beach is the best vacation spot in the Riviera Maya:

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1.Snorkel With Sea Turtles At Akumal Beach

There’s a reason people call Akumal beach Turtle bay. For $450 pesos ($22 USD), you can spend 1.5 hours snorkeling with sea turtles. You may even see sting-rays or a shark. While the latter isn’t as common, I guarantee you will see sea turtles. I saw at least eight on my adventure, and it was magnificent. We also saw one sting-ray.

To snorkel with turtles, simply go to Akumal Beach and, book a guide on the spot. They do require you to snorkel with a tour guide to control the amount of people swimming with sea turtles. This is wonderful because it protects the sea turtles. Please do not touch the turtles if you do get the chance.

2. Walk to Some of the Best Cenotes in the Riviera Maya

One of the best things about Yucatan are the cenotes. The Riviera Maya boasts hundreds of them, and they vary in price, size and beauty. Akumal provides easy access to many of the most beautiful and more private cenotes.

One of the best is Cenote Y Laguna Yalku, which can be found inside of Akumal. This nature preserve is probably walking distance to your accommodation. You can spend hours swimming here, exploring the preserve, and looking at the fossils and the marine life below. I’d recommend working up an appetite at the cenote first. Then walking down the street over to La Buena Vida for a beach side lunch. You can jump in the ocean while you’re waiting for your food.

3. Bike Throughout the Tranquil Town of Akumal, Mexico

Akumal feels like you’re stepping foot into a resort, but it’s actually the entire town. With makeshift coral streets, matching white decor, and a private guard, Akumal is peaceful, safe and easy to get around.

While everywhere is pretty walkable, I’d recommend renting a bike and biking throughout the town on the main Akumal Trail. You can see the whole coastline, scope the best beach bars and enjoy the atmosphere.

4. One of the Most Picturesque and Romantic Coastlines in the Riviera Maya

Unlike Cancun or Tulum, where the beach is crowded and owned by resorts, the coastline in Akumal is mostly untouched. It boasts incredible marine life with opportunities for diving and snorkeling. It also has a lot of coral, in between the main white sand sections. The result is a moody, romantic coastline with stark contrasts and stunning views.

At least half of the accommodation options here provide ocean views if not beach access. There are plenty of open beach restaurants to enjoy as well. You’re in for a treat at sunrise and sunset.

5. Luxe, Quiet Accommodation Options

Any vacation spot in the Riviera Maya will cost you, as this is a desirable area. The accommodations in Akumal range from $40 USD to $300 USD a night- depending on what you want. This is one of the best places however, to get the most bang for your buck. It’s also an incredibly quiet vacation spot in the Riviera Maya

The hotels, condos and airbnbs here are all very nice, and very private. Each property is pretty secluded and close to the beaches. If you’re traveling with a big group, this is even more ideal because their are numerous villas available for rent. If you’re going to come with your partner, fear not, Akumal is perfect for couples.

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