Families staying in North Akumal or near Yal Ku Lagoon often discover that some of the most fascinating ocean life is not found far offshore but right along the rocky shoreline. When the tide pulls back, the coast reveals shallow pools filled with tiny marine creatures waiting to be discovered.

Low Tide Akumal offers a fun and educational class designed especially for curious kids who want to explore this hidden world. Led by local resident Janna Alcaraz, the experience turns the tide pools of North Akumal into a natural classroom where children learn about marine life through hands-on discovery. (Low Tide Akumal)

A Marine Adventure Hidden in the Tide Pools

When the ocean recedes during low tide, small pockets of seawater remain trapped among the rocks along the coast. These tide pools become miniature ecosystems where crabs, starfish, chitons, juvenile fish, and other marine creatures can be observed up close.

During the two-hour class, children become “marine detectives,” searching the tide pools and identifying animals they encounter along the shoreline. Each child receives an animal chart to mark the species they find, turning the experience into a fun and interactive learning activity. (LowTide Akumal)

By the end of the class, young explorers take home their completed chart along with a Junior Marine Biologist certificate and stickers to remember their discoveries.

Designed for Curious Kids

Low Tide classes are intentionally small and personal. Groups are limited to six children at a time, creating a relaxed and engaging environment where kids can ask questions and spend time observing marine life without feeling rushed.

The class is bilingual in English and Spanish and is suitable for a wide range of ages. Parents are welcome to join the adventure at no additional cost and often find themselves just as fascinated as their kids.

Classes take place in the tide pools of North Akumal, just a short walk from many vacation homes and condos in the Yal Ku and Half Moon Bay area.

A Local Perspective

Instructor Janna Alcaraz brings a unique connection to the shoreline where the classes take place. She grew up in Akumal and has spent much of her life exploring the same rocky coastline where the classes now happen.

While she is transparent about not holding a formal marine biology degree, her experience includes numerous workshops, coral restoration projects, and volunteer programs focused on ocean conservation. Growing up in Akumal gave her a deep familiarity with the area’s intertidal ecosystem, and she shares that knowledge in a way that is accessible and engaging for children.

The idea for Low Tide Akumal actually grew out of daily tide pool explorations with her own young son. Over time, other children and families started joining the discoveries, which inspired the creation of the class.

Why the Schedule Changes Every Day

Low Tide classes follow the rhythm of the ocean. Because tide pools are easiest to explore when the water level is low, the class schedule changes daily based on the tide cycle.

Most coastal locations experience two low tides each day, which means there are typically two potential windows for the class depending on the conditions. (Low Tide Akumal)

This flexible schedule allows children to experience the tide pools at the best moment, when the marine life is most visible.

Class Details

Location: North Akumal tide pools
Duration: 2 hours
Price: 750 pesos per child
Group size: Maximum of 6 children
Languages: English and Spanish

Waterproof or non-slip shoes are recommended for exploring the rocky shoreline safely.

How to Reserve

Families can reserve a class directly with Janna through Instagram or WhatsApp.

Instagram: @lowtideakumal
WhatsApp: +52 1 554 926 1713

A Unique Experience for Kids Visiting Akumal

Children visiting Akumal often remember the wildlife encounters long after their vacation ends. Low Tide Akumal gives kids the chance to experience the coastline the way local children do, exploring tide pools, searching for tiny sea creatures, and learning how the ocean changes with the rhythm of the tides.

For families staying in Yal Ku, Half Moon Bay, or North Akumal, it is an easy and memorable activity that combines nature, science, and a little bit of adventure.