Though Akumal is technically part of the municipality of Tulum, it sits nearly 30 minutes south of Tulum proper and has always held its own identity. Visitors have been coming since the 1960s—long before the Riviera Maya became what it is today. Its history, community, and protected marine environment make Akumal one of the most distinctive coastal towns in Mexico.

1. “Akumal” means “Place of the Turtles” in Maya—a name that still fits perfectly.
2. Travelers began visiting in the 1960s, when early divers first settled along the bay.
3. The Matanceros was a real Spanish shipwreck, discovered by pioneering divers exploring Akumal’s waters.
4. Akumal is one of the region’s earliest beach communities, predating much of the Riviera Maya’s development.
5. Though technically part of Tulum, Akumal has its own pace, culture, and footprint.
6. Its location along the reef makes it a year-round sea turtle habitat.
7. Akumal is a federally protected marine zone, and beach access follows national conservation rules.
8. Half Moon Bay is ideal for novice divers, thanks to minimal currents and the absence of apex predators.
9. Yal Ku Lagoon is a brackish ecosystem, where freshwater springs blend with Caribbean seawater.
10. Akumal includes several bays, each with its own character—Akumal Bay, Half Moon Bay, Jade Bay, South Akumal, and Aventuras Akumal.
11. Local fishermen were the area’s first guides, taking visitors to snorkel long before tourism arrived.
12. High-volume beach clubs are restricted, preserving Akumal’s calm, understated vibe.
13. The reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world.
14. Many local families have lived here for generations, shaping the community’s identity.
15. Night snorkeling is restricted to protect nocturnal marine life.
16. Turtles nest from May to October, but can be seen year-round.
17. Akumal Pueblo is a quiet, sleepy town, offering a peaceful local side away from the beach.
18. Most villas use septic systems, which is why many request not to flush toilet paper.
19. Federal conservation guidelines regulate beach access, protecting seagrass and coral habitats.
20. Akumal is centrally located—about 30 minutes to Tulum’s ruins, 45 minutes to Coba, and under two hours to both Chichén Itzá and Valladolid.
21. The region is surrounded by cenotes, caves, and nature parks.
22. Akumal is a favorite among celebrities, who value destinations where privacy is respected.
23. International reality TV shows and productions film here, drawn to Akumal’s remote beauty and low-profile setting.
24. The sand rarely gets hot, because it’s made mostly of coral and seashells rather than silica.
25. Sunrises over the bay are especially striking, lighting up the reef each morning.
26. Despite regional growth, Akumal remains a true small beach town, shaped by nature, community, and conservation.

If you’d like to know what’s new in Akumal, feel free to reach out anytime at hola@akumalmx.com.