Question 1

Where Is Akumal Located?

Accepted Answer

A beach resort town south of Cancun, Akumal lies between Playa del Carmen and Tulum in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo on the Caribbean Sea. The whole area including all the previously listed towns is known as the Riviera Maya. Cancun International Airport is the closest airpirt to Akumal, roughly 60 miles north. A rental car is necessary to fully experience the region, though taxis are also available.

Question 2

What Is Akumal Known For?

Accepted Answer

Akumal has been known as a scuba diving and snorkeling haven since its founding by a scuba diving enthusiast and archaeologist in 1958. The name means “land of turtles” for its protected green turtle population, all of which live in the clear waters of the shallow bay.  A recent addition to the attractions is the Akumal Arts Festival, dedicated to mural art and occuring every early November.

Question 3

A Quick Guide to Akumal

Accepted Answer

Akumal Beach: Snorkeling is the most popular activity around Akumal Beach, aside from sunbathing. There are three dive shops in town offering equipment and local tips. It is not necessary to go with a tour or permit, although a tour will likely allow you to see more of what you came for. The relaxed white sand beach is lined with palm trees, as well as a few bars and restaurants.
Aktun Chen: Aktun Chen is a freshwater cenote park where you can swim, snorkel, and explore the cave and its rock formations. The park also includes friendly and infomrative guides, as well as a zipline, small zoo, and restaurant.
Akumal Monkey Sanctuary: At Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, you’ll witness an interactive zoo sanctuary where all the animals are either rescued or donated, and live in spacious and clean enclosures. The sanctuary is home to spider monkeys and capuchins, as well as macaws, snakes, and deer. Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is often packaged with ATV and cenote tours, but can be done separately.

Question 4

Popular Destinations Near Akumal

Accepted Answer

Tulum: Twenty minutes south of Akumal is the town of Tulum, known as much for its beautiful beaches as its ancient Mayan ruins. The ruins, called Archaeological Zone of Tulum, are located right on the bright blue water and an ancient port city which adds a different twist to the average ruin site. In addition to great restaurants, shops, and accommodations, Tulum is known for its adventure tours including cenotes, ziplines, nature reserves, beaches, and cultural sites such as museums and galleries.
Playa del Carmen: Once a fishing village and now a trendy dive spot and resort town, Playa del Carmen is 20 minutes north of Akumal and offers a range of entertainment aside from its beaches. Rio Secreto is an otherworldly underground river, Xcaret is a cultural and ecological park attraction, and Quinta Avenida is where you can shop ‘til you drop. The local ferry also offers a quick ride to the neighboring island of Cozumel.

Question 5

Best Neighborhoods in Akumal

Accepted Answer

The town is small and includes just a handful of restaurants, shops, and accommodations — some of which are directly next to the water. There are many large resorts outside of town, just a few minutes heading north or south.

Question 6

What is the price range for rentals in Akumal?

Accepted Answer

Vacation rentals in Akumal have a price range between $111-$3,706. The average price for rentals in Akumal is $279 per night.

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