Akumal, the place of the turtles
In Mayan, Akumal means "place of the turtles," and the name is no coincidence. Every year, sea turtles return to its white-sand beaches to lay their eggs, and weeks later the hatchlings leave the nest and race toward the sea.
Sea turtle nesting in Akumal is one of the most special natural events in the Riviera Maya, and also one of the most delicate. Seeing it up close is a privilege that comes with responsibility: light, noise, or a well-meaning hand can put hatchlings at risk.
In this guide, we explain when the season takes place, which species arrive, how to watch them respectfully, and how to support their conservation during your trip.
When is turtle nesting season in Akumal?
Nesting season runs from May to November. Females come ashore at night, dig a nest in the sand, lay their eggs, and return to the sea. The eggs incubate in the warm sand for about two months, so most hatchings happen in the second half of the season.
| Months | What happens on the beach |
|---|---|
| May and June | The first females arrive to nest. |
| July and August | Peak nesting and the first hatchings. |
| September and October | Many nests hatch and the hatchlings head to the sea. |
| November | The last hatchings and the end of the season. |
Which turtles nest in Akumal
Two main species nest on Akumal's beaches, and both are protected by law in Mexico:
Green turtle
The most common in the bay. It feeds on seagrass and is the one snorkelers usually see.
Loggerhead turtle
With a large head and reddish shell, it also returns to these beaches to lay eggs every year.
Protected nests
Nests are marked and monitored to reduce risks during incubation.
Hatchlings
They hatch at night and follow the natural glow of the horizon to reach the sea.
How to watch sea turtles responsibly
Watching a turtle nest or seeing hatchlings reach the sea is unforgettable, but it should always be done without interfering. The best approach is to follow the guidance of local conservation programs, which know where the nests are and when it is appropriate to watch.
- Keep your distance and stay behind the turtle, never in front of it.
- Walk quietly on the beach at night.
- Do not use flashlights, camera flash, or your phone light.
- Watch the hatchlings without touching them: the walk to the sea makes them stronger.
Rules to protect the nests
Small actions by visitors make a big difference in hatchling survival:
- Lights off: turn off terrace and window lights facing the beach at night.
- Hands off: do not touch turtles or hatchlings, and do not try to help them reach the sea.
- Respect marked areas: do not walk or sit on marked nests.
- Keep the beach clear: fill in any holes you dig and do not leave loungers or toys out at night.
- No trash: take your waste with you; plastic is a serious threat to turtles.
The conservation program in Akumal
Las Villas Akumal is part of the Turtle Program of the Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA), which works to protect green and loggerhead turtles and their nests.
As a guest, supporting it is simple: keep terrace lights off and noise to a minimum at night, follow the staff's guidance, and, if you wish, make a donation to the program. Learn more on our turtle program page.
Nesting vs. swimming with turtles: two different experiences
Nesting happens at night on the beach and only during the season. Swimming with turtles, on the other hand, is possible almost all year in the bay, where green turtles feed on seagrass.
If you want to enjoy both, read our guide to swimming with turtles in Akumal.
Experience turtle season right outside your villa
Stay on the beach where turtles nest and learn how we support their conservation.
Frequently asked questions about turtle nesting
When is turtle nesting season in Akumal?
From May to November. Hatchings mostly happen between July and November.
Can I watch turtles lay their eggs?
It is possible during the season, always at night and without lights. It is best to follow the guidance of conservation programs.
Can I touch or pick up the hatchlings?
No. Touching them or carrying them to the sea weakens them and can disorient them. Watch from a distance.
Why should I turn off my terrace lights?
Hatchlings follow the natural glow of the horizon. Artificial light can make them crawl away from the sea.
How can I support conservation?
By following the rules on the beach and, if you wish, donating to the Centro Ecológico Akumal turtle program.
Conclusion
Turtle nesting is one more reason to visit Akumal between May and November. Watching hatchlings emerge stays with you forever, as long as you experience it respectfully.
Turn off the lights, keep your distance, and let nature take its course: that is how you help the turtles keep returning to the place that bears their name.