Akumal means “place of the turtles” in Maya, and that’s no coincidence. This sheltered bay on the Riviera Maya is one of the few places in the world where you can put on a snorkel mask, walk into the sea from the shore, and, just a few meters out, come face-to-face with sea turtles feeding peacefully among the seagrass. You don’t need to be a diver or an expert—just curiosity, respect, and a desire to experience one of the most beautiful encounters with nature in the Mexican Caribbean.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to make the most of it: when to go, what time, what rules to follow, and how to get the most out of the experience by staying right across from the bay.
Why are there so many turtles in Akumal?
Akumal Bay has an ecosystem that is perfect for sea turtles: shallow, calm waters protected by a coral reef, with large seagrass beds that they feed on. Green sea turtles are the most common species found here, and with a little luck, you might spot hawksbill sea turtles as well. In addition, the beach is a nesting site where, every season, female sea turtles come to lay their eggs.
Thanks to conservation programs in the area, this sanctuary remains vibrant year after year. At Las Villas Akumal, we are part of that commitment: our beach is part of the nesting cycle, and we actively care for the environment so that these species will continue to return.
When is the best time to swim with turtles in Akumal?
The good news is that the turtles live in the bay year-round, so you’ll almost always have a chance to see them. That said, there’s one season when the experience is even better:
- May through October/November: This is the best time of year. It coincides with the nesting season and the period of greatest activity: the water is warmer, seagrass is abundant, and the turtles feed and move around more.
- From July to August: This is usually the peak of nesting activity, and you’re most likely to see turtles swimming in the bay.
- From November to April: Although nesting activity slows down, there are fewer people and many 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 time, the sea is calmer, visibility is optimal, there are fewer people, and the turtles tend to be more active as they feed. As a guest at Las Villas Akumal, you have a huge advantage: you’re just steps from the water, so you can be among the first to get in before the crowds arrive.
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 that future generations can enjoy it, too.
- Life jackets are required in the turtle area. They help you float effortlessly and prevent you from stepping on the coral or the seabed.
- 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 and relaxed encounter.
- Use only biodegradable sunscreen (without oxybenzone). Traditional sunscreens harm coral and the water.
- Stay within the designated areas. In certain protected areas, you may only swim if accompanied by a certified guide.
Guided tour or on your own?
You can explore the bay on your own and rent snorkeling gear, but a certified guide makes all the difference: they know the best spots depending on the day, help ensure your safety, and enrich the experience with their knowledge of the ecosystem. If you’d like to arrange this hassle-free, our Concierge service can coordinate a sustainable tour for you, as well as other experiences such as cenote visits and excursions along the Riviera Maya.
What to Bring
- Diving mask and snorkel (you can rent them in the area)
- Biodegradable sunscreen and/or long-sleeved rash guard
- Towel and water
- Underwater camera (remember: take photos, but don’t touch it)
Experience it from the front row
The difference between “visiting Akumal” and “living in Akumal” is waking up to a view of the bay. At Las Villas Akumal, you’ll find 26 private beachfront villas, a protected nesting beach, a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Caribbean, and a team that helps you organize every experience. You wake up, walk to the water’s edge, and swim with the turtles before breakfast.
Ready to experience it? Book your beachfront villa here and subscribe to our newsletter to get 10% off your first reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim with turtles in Akumal all year round? Yes. The turtles live in the bay year-round, although the best season is from May through October/November.
Is a life jacket required? Yes, life jackets are required in the turtle area, 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 waters, better visibility, and fewer people.
Can I touch the turtles? No. You are not allowed to touch, chase, or feed them. You must stay at least 3 meters away.
Where’s the best place to stay if you want to swim with turtles? Ideally, you should stay right on the bay. At Las Villas Akumal, you’re just a few steps from the water, which lets you get in early and take advantage of the best conditions of the day.