Akumal Beach

Half Moon Bay featuring a beach, a coastal town and tropical scenes
Half Moon Bay featuring a bay or harbour and boating
Half Moon Bay showing a beach and tropical scenes
Half Moon Bay showing a coastal town, a sandy beach and tropical scenes
Akumal Beach


Drift away on the gentle currents with turtles and rays at one of the Riviera Maya’s most relaxing beaches.

Located in the Riviera Maya, Akumal Beach is 75 miles (120 kilometers) south of Cancún on Mexico's Caribbean Coast. Relax on the beach’s powdery white sand and swim in the clear, tranquil water protected by an offshore reef. In the Mayan language, Akumal means “The Place of the Turtle,” called so for the turtles that lay their eggs on the beaches here once a year. The warm, shallow waters and palm tree-lined bay make the beach an ideal destination for human families too!In this quiet swimming bay far from the partying crowds, relaxation comes easy. Find a deck chair under one of the many cabanas and unwind with a good book and an ice cold cerveza (beer) or freshly made fruit juice. Sail, fish, kite surf, visit the ruins and swim in the nearby cenotes (sinkholes). Pull on some flippers and swim with barracuda, stingrays, manta rays, and green and loggerhead turtles. The waters are usually crystal clear, making the area ideal for exploring with an underwater camera.The turtles are a special feature at Akumal Beach. Less than a mile (1.6 kilometers) to the north is the Centro Ecologico de Akumal (CEA) where researchers work to protect the marine environment and the turtle population. Many of the local hotels, diving organizations and independent marine tour operators are working with the CEA to ensure the protection of these magnificent sea creatures that come to the shores once a year to lay their eggs.Akumal Beach is a great base to explore the Riviera Maya but, with its laid-back resorts, restaurants, bars and dive shops, there’s little need to venture away. If you do decide to explore the nearby ruins, cenotes or nightlife of Playa del Carmen, simply hail a taxi or colectivo, or rent a car.

Plan a trip to see Akumal Beach

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Grand Residences Riviera Cancún All Inclusive
Temptation at The Tower Cancún All Inclusive - Adults Only
Family 3 Bedroom Ocean Villa By Wyndham Grand Cancun

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Wildlife & nature

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Top Hotel Deals

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya - Adults Only - All Inclusive

Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya - Adults Only - All Inclusive

5 out of 5
Carretera Federal 307, km 254 600, Pueblo de Akumal, Akumal, QROO
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya - Adults Only - All Inclusive
Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort - All Inclusive

Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort - All Inclusive

4 out of 5
Km 104 Carr. Cancun-Chetumal, Akumal, QROO
Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort - All Inclusive
Modern Villa - Bahia Principe, Riviera Maya Akumal

Modern Villa - Bahia Principe, Riviera Maya Akumal

Akumal, QROO
Modern Villa - Bahia Principe, Riviera Maya Akumal
3 Bdrm. townhouse in gorgeous Akumal with WiFi & AC. Beach Club steps away!

3 Bdrm. townhouse in gorgeous Akumal with WiFi & AC. Beach Club steps away!

Akumal, QROO
3 Bdrm. townhouse in gorgeous Akumal with WiFi & AC. Beach Club steps away!
Ak Villa-Akumal Bay, the ONLY villa on the prettiest beach in Paradise!

Ak Villa-Akumal Bay, the ONLY villa on the prettiest beach in Paradise!

2 out of 5
Akumal, QROO
Ak Villa-Akumal Bay, the ONLY villa on the prettiest beach in Paradise!
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum - All Inclusive

Bahia Principe Grand Tulum - All Inclusive

4 out of 5
Crta Chetumal - Cancun Km 250, Akumal, QROO
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum - All Inclusive
Villa Luxury Cissne

Villa Luxury Cissne

CHEMUY, QROO
Villa Luxury Cissne
The only and most charming luxury beachfront cottage on the Riviera Maya

The only and most charming luxury beachfront cottage on the Riviera Maya

Akumal, ROO
The only and most charming luxury beachfront cottage on the Riviera Maya
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Akumal Beach

Akumal Beach offers a plethora of recreational activities, with snorkelling being a highlight for visitors eager to explore its vibrant marine life. In addition to snorkelling, tourists can enjoy sunbathing on the pristine sands, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and discovering local wildlife. This idyllic destination also provides opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, making it perfect for those seeking adventure in a stunning natural setting.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit the nearby Hunab Lifestyle Center, which offers a variety of local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Centro Maya Shopping Center and Plaza Paraiso, both offering family-friendly shopping experiences with a mix of entertainment and local goods.

Recreation

Xel-Há Park, located 3.7km from Akumal Beach, offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and wellness activities amidst stunning natural beauty. Riviera Maya Golf Club, 1.2km away, provides outdoor sports vibes for golf enthusiasts. Chikinha Cenote, 5.0km from the beach, is an idyllic spot for rejuvenation and connection with nature.

Adventure

Dolphinaris Tulum offers an exhilarating underwater experience, allowing you to swim with dolphins in a vibrant marine environment, located 1.2km from Akumal Beach. For family fun, Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park, 11.8km away, features thrilling water slides and attractions. Enjoy cycling at Piste Cyclable sur Paseo Xaman-Ha, situated 13.0km away amidst stunning natural scenery.

Nightlife

In Akumal Beach, Calle 12 offers vibrant nightlife with lively music and a cheerful atmosphere, perfect for socialising. Meanwhile, the Cha'an Ka'an Observatory of Cozumel provides a unique experience with its family-friendly entertainment and awe-inspiring stargazing, just 14.3km away.

Find the best attractions near Akumal Beach

Akumal Beach is a stunning destination offering a variety of attractions such as caves, lagoons, and bays, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery. Visitors can explore the vibrant Akumal Bay, indulge in water activities, or simply relax by the beach. Whether you're curious about the best spots at Akumal Bay Beach or looking for nearby attractions, this area promises a memorable experience filled with natural beauty and adventure.

  • Xcacel Beach: A stunning protected area, Xcacel Beach is known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. This tranquil spot is ideal for relaxation and offers a unique opportunity to witness turtle nesting during the season, making it a perfect blend of beauty and conservation.
  • Cenotes Sac Actun: This remarkable cave system invites adventure seekers to explore its underground rivers and stunning rock formations. With an outdoor, adventurous vibe, Cenotes Sac Actun offers a unique opportunity for snorkelling and swimming in its refreshing waters, surrounded by nature.
  • Gran Cenote: Another captivating cave, Gran Cenote is famous for its breathtaking underwater scenery, including stalactites and crystal-clear pools. The adventurous atmosphere is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply soaking in the beauty of this natural wonder.

Best time to go to Akumal Beach

The best time to visit Akumal Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Akumal Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Akumal Beach falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February75.7°F (24.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
March77.0°F (25.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April79.3°F (26.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June81.7°F (27.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August82.8°F (28.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.9°F (27.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December75.9°F (24.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Akumal Beach

To save money on your trip to Akumal Beach, plan your visit between September and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for discounts. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter options by budget and sustainability. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for potential savings. Walking is also a great way to explore the area without spending on transport.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Akumal Beach are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Akumal Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Akumal Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Akumal Beach is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your options, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay at Akumal Beach with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.