Discover the Magic of Akumal Bay
Akumal Bay is one of the most iconic spots for snorkeling in the Riviera Maya — and for good reason. The calm, shallow waters of this beautiful bay are home to colorful reef fish, rays, and most famously, sea turtles.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned snorkeler, Akumal Bay snorkeling offers a unique opportunity to swim alongside these gentle marine creatures in their natural habitat.
But before you dive in, there are a few important things you need to know.
Akumal Bay Snorkeling
Understanding the Akumal Bay Regulations
- Swimming and sighting of sea turtles is only permitted from 8am to 5 pm.
- Snorkeling session cannot exceed 55 minutes.
- Both the entrance and exit of the sighting area should be done slowly and quietly walking along the beach.
- Tourists should use exclusively the routes and timetable established by CONANP.*
- Mandatory Guide: It will be carried out in groups of up to 6 people plus a guide authorized by CONANP.
- Life jackets are mandatory (to avoid total immersion).
- The minimum distance between groups that do the activity will be 10 meters (33 ft).
- Tourists must maintain a minimum distance of 3 meters (10 ft) from the back of each turtle, without exceeding the observation time of five minutes.
- Camera flash are forbidden. Only use of recreational underwater camera/video allowed. Camera sticks must not be put too close from the turtles.
- During the course of snorkeling it is prohibited to touch, feed, disturb, retain, remove, hold, and / or damage any specimen of wildlife.
- If the turtle shows signs of rapid movement, evasion, or sudden changes of direction, or longer dives, observation activities will be immediately suspended
- Only the use of biodegradable sunscreens is allowed.
*CONANP: COnsejo National de Areas Naturales Protegidas. The last review of the regulation was published in April of 2017.Â
These regulations aim to preserve Akumal Bay’s rich biodiversity, which includes green turtles (Chelonia mydas), loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), and hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata).
These rules make the experience more respectful and sustainable — allowing future generations to enjoy Akumal Bay snorkeling just as much as we do today
What You’ll See While Snorkeling in Akumal
The highlight of any Akumal Bay snorkeling trip is, of course, the green sea turtles grazing on sea grass.
However, the bay offers much more:
- Colorful tropical fish like sergeant majors and parrotfish
- Stingrays gliding across the sand
- Occasional barracudas or squid
- Patches of coral reef that support a diverse marine ecosystem
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The calm, protected nature of the bay makes it ideal for beginners and children, while still fascinating for more experienced snorkelers.
How to Snorkel Akumal Bay the Right Way
Option 1: Visit Akumal Bay on Your Own
You can reach Akumal Bay independently by rental car, colectivo, or taxi from nearby towns like Tulum or Playa del Carmen.
Once you arrive, here’s what you need to know:
- Entrance Fee & Parking: There’s a small fee to access the beach and additional charges for parking.
- Find a Guide Onsite: To snorkel legally in Akumal Bay, you’ll need a licensed guide from one of the local cooperatives. You can choose a private or group tour on arrival.
- Possible Wait Times: Group tours often won’t start until enough people join, so you may need to wait.
- Snorkeling Gear: Bring your own equipment if possible. Otherwise, you’ll need to rent gear onsite, which may vary in quality and fit.
While going on your own gives you flexibility, it does involve some extra effort and coordination.
Option 2: Book a Guided Snorkeling Tour (Group or Private)
The easiest and most convenient way to snorkel in Akumal Bay is to book a guided Akumal snorkeling tour in advance.
This option takes care of all the logistics for you:
- Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off: No need to worry about transportation — your guide will pick you up directly.
- Certified Guides: You’ll snorkel with licensed professionals who ensure your safety and follow all environmental regulations.
- Gear Included: High-quality snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided.
- No Waiting Around: Tours begin on time and are designed around your schedule, especially if you choose a private option.
Many visitors prefer this hassle-free approach, especially for families or first-timers.
When Is the Best Time for Akumal Bay Snorkeling?
Snorkeling is possible year-round in Akumal, but for the best conditions:
- Dry season (November to May) offers clearer water and calmer seas
- Early mornings are quieter and often provide better wildlife encounters
- Avoid holidays and weekends if you prefer a more peaceful experience
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The water is warm throughout the year, ranging from 78°F to 84°F (25–29°C).
Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming with Turtles
Are there turtles all year round?
Yes! Sea turtles live in Akumal Bay year-round, although sightings can vary.
Is it guaranteed I’ll see turtles?
Almost! While it’s never 100% in the wild, sightings are extremely common. Numbers may vary daily based on weather and sea conditions.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, basic swimming skills are required. Life jackets are mandatory and provided for all snorkelers.
Can I swim on my own?
No—guides from certified cooperatives are required to ensure turtle safety and proper conduct.
Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?
Yes, but it’s best to use gear provided by your guide to ensure it meets local safety and hygiene standards.
How long does the snorkeling tour last?
Most tours last about 45 minutes to 1 hour in the water, depending on conditions and group pace.
What type of boat is used for the snorkeling tour?
None. Snorkeling in Akumal Bay is done directly from the beach. The bay’s calm, shallow waters make it ideal for shore access, and no boat is needed.
Plan Your Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Experience
Snorkeling in Akumal Bay is more than just a beach activity — it’s a rare chance to encounter marine life in a truly stunning setting. With local regulations in place to protect the ecosystem, guided tours offer a safe and respectful way to explore the underwater world.
Ready to swim with turtles in Akumal Bay? Choose your perfect Akumal Bay snorkeling adventure with Absolute Adventure Mexico!
We offer three Akumal Bay Snorkeling tours designed to fit your travel style. All tours are private, fully guided, and include transportation, equipment, and refreshments. Book your private snorkeling tour today and make memories that will last a lifetime:
- Swim with Turtles + Cenote Private Tour – Snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal Bay and explore a stunning underground cenote.
- Swim with Turtles + Tulum Ruins Private Tour – Combine your turtle encounter with a guided visit to the ancient cliffside ruins of Tulum.
- Tulum Ruins + Cenote + Turtles Private Tour – The ultimate Riviera Maya experience: culture, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable day.
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