The place of the turtles
Akumal means "place of the turtles" in Mayan, and that's no coincidence. This protected bay in the Riviera Maya is one of the few places in the world where you can put on a mask, wade into the sea from the shore, and find yourself, just a few meters away, with sea turtles calmly feeding among the sea grass. You don't need to be a diver or an expert—just curiosity, respect, and a willingness to experience one of the most beautiful encounters with nature the Mexican Caribbean has to offer.
In this guide we'll walk you through everything you need to know to do it right: when to go, what time of day, which rules to follow, and how to make the most of the experience by staying right on the bay.
Why are there so many turtles in Akumal?
The bay has a perfect ecosystem for them: shallow, calm waters protected by a coral reef, with large meadows of sea grass for them to feed on. Green turtles are the main residents here, and with a bit of luck, you might spot a hawksbill too.
The beach is also a nesting site: every season, females come ashore to lay their eggs. Thanks to conservation programs, this sanctuary stays alive year after year. At Las Villas Akumal we're part of that commitment through our conservation program.
What's the best time to swim with turtles?
The good news is that turtles live in the bay year-round, so you'll almost always have a chance to see them. That said, there is a season when the experience is even better:
- May to October/November: the best season. It coincides with nesting and peak activity: warmer water, plenty of sea grass, and turtles actively feeding.
- July and August: the peak of nesting activity, giving you the best odds of seeing turtles swimming in the bay.
- November to April: nesting activity slows down, but there are fewer crowds and plenty of days with calm seas and excellent visibility.
The best time of day
Arrive early in the morning, right when the bay opens (around 8:00 a.m.). At that hour the sea is calmer, visibility is at its best, there are fewer people around, and the turtles tend to be more active feeding.
Rules for swimming with turtles (and why they matter)
Akumal is a protected area. Following these rules isn't just mandatory—it's what keeps the bay alive so future generations can enjoy it too.
- Life vest required in the turtle zone. It helps you float effortlessly and keeps you from stepping on the coral or the seafloor.
- Keep a minimum distance of 3 meters. Never touch, chase, or try to feed the turtles.
- Swim slowly and quietly. Slow movements increase your chances of a close, relaxed encounter.
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen (oxybenzone-free). Conventional sunscreens damage the coral and the water.
- Stick to authorized areas. In certain protected zones, you may only swim accompanied by a certified guide.
Guided tour or on your own?
You can enter the bay on your own and rent snorkel gear, but a certified guide makes a real difference: they know the best spots depending on the day, help keep you safe, and enrich the experience with their knowledge of the ecosystem.
If you'd rather leave the planning to us, our Concierge service arranges a responsible tour on your behalf, along with other experiences like cenotes and excursions around the Riviera Maya.
What to bring
Mask and snorkel
You can bring your own or rent one in the area. A life vest is mandatory in the bay.
Biodegradable sunscreen
Oxybenzone-free, or better yet, a long-sleeve rash guard. Bring a towel and water too.
Underwater camera
Photos, yes—touching, no. Keep your distance while you capture the moment.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim with turtles in Akumal all year round?
Yes. Turtles live in the bay year-round, though the best season runs from May to October/November.
Is a life vest mandatory?
Yes, a life vest is required in the turtle zone, both for your safety and to protect the ecosystem.
What's the best time to see turtles?
Early in the morning, when the bay opens around 8:00 a.m.: calm seas, better visibility, and fewer crowds.
Can I touch the turtles?
No. Touching, chasing, or feeding them is prohibited. You must keep a distance of at least 3 meters.
Where's the best place to stay for swimming with turtles?
The best option is to stay right on the bay. At Las Villas Akumal you're just steps from the water, letting you get in early and make the most of the day's best conditions.
