History

 

Akumal was once a sprawling coconut plantation owned by Don Argimiro Arguelles until 1958 when it was discovered by CEDAM (Club de Exploracion y Deporte Acuaticos de Mexico), an exclusive dive club. Akumal became the headquarters for this group of divers who were in search of underwater treasures.

Pablo Bush, one of the founders of CEDAM, bought thousands of acres of land around Akumal. This tropical coastline was only accessible by boat until the mid 1960’s. Cancun was founded in the late 1960’s, which brought more attention to this isolated and exotic Mexican coastline. Yet Akumal still maintains its tranquil way of life, with beautiful beaches and world renowned coral reefs.

 

Akumal - The Natural Beauty

 

Akumal is situated between the beaches of the Caribbean and the inland jungle, creating an opportunity to see a wide array of tropical flora and fauna. The jungle is full of palm trees, bromeliads, and orchids, supporting animal life and providing the local population with many resources. The Mayans have long utilized these plants for food, medicine, and building materials. Examples of local architecture can be seen in the "palapa" style thatched roofs that are still used today.

 

The weather

Akumal has excellent weather year round. The most popular and drier months are from November through April. July, August, and September are the hottest months, but still have pleasant breezes off the Caribbean. A great time to vacation in Akumal is November and early December when the weather is less humid and low season rates are in effect.

Things to do:

VISIT YALKU LAGOON
Great place for swimming and snorkeling. Yal Kú Lagoon is in North Akumal, 2 km from Akumal Bay. You can walk or bike from the main entrance. Taxis are also available. Bring your mask and fins, but leave the sun screen behind, as it pollutes the lagoon.
Please buy your pass before you visit the lagoon.
Mani area businesses have passes for sale.
Open 8:00 to 5:00 all week.

SNORKELING
Akumal Bay, Half Moon Bay or Yalkú lagoon. You can to rent masks and fins at both of Akumal's dive facilities.

For the well-being of the reef and lagoon, please follow these recommendations:
Kicking the sand with your fins smothers the coral and it will soffocate.
Using sun block while snorkeling or scuba diving kills the coral. Wear shorts and T-shirt instead.
Touching, kicking, or standing on the coral will damage and kill the coral.

GO FOR A BIKE RIDE
Bicycles are available for rent at TSA and Costa Turquesa.

JUNGLE WALK
Learn more about our marvelous flora and fauna.
We recommended taking a guide.
Ask at the Ecological Center or the TSA office.


FOR KIDS
If you want to relax but your kids want to play and learn more about this area, akumal has several options for them.

KIDS CLUB
Located next to Akumal Bazar, enclosed area with toys, play area and classroom. Reasonable prices.

SATURDAY MORNINGS
With the CEA's Environmental Education Program.
10:00 to 12:00.
Diffrent activities each Saturday; also your children have the opportunity to meet new
friends ( local kids ), and learn more about the area.

HEKAB BE A.C. Library and Learning Center
Please come visit us across the road from the ball field and parking lot at the entrance. Our hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sun to Fri. Mission Statement: Hekab Be is a permanent institution which manages resources efficiently and transparently to meet educational challenges in our community.

WINDSURFING
Windsurfing lessons and rentals are available at the Akumal Windsurfing School.
Located on Akumal Bay, next to the Hotel Club Akumal Caribe.

DIVING
Want to spend some time underwater? Akumal is the place.

NIGHT EVENTS
LA GALERIA - Akumal Performing Arts Center
Live music often on Fridays and Saturdays on La Galleria's stage.
Cocktails in La Esquina, La Galleria's bar.

LOL- HA Restaurant
Offers a folkloric dance presentation every Tuesday and Thursday with your dinner. The shows start at 7:15 p.m.

CEA - Akumal's Ecological Center
Different Presentations all year. Information available at CEA.