Akumal: Sea Turtles and Marine Conservation

Akumal means “place of the turtle” in Maya—and sea turtles are a defining part of the area. For six months of the year, loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) and green turtles (Chelonia mydas) nest on the beaches. In the bays around Akumal, by contrast, there is an opportunity to observe sea turtles all year round. This means two nature experiences with different time frames: the seasonal nesting period on the beach and the year-round opportunity to observe turtles in the bays.

Sea Turtle Conservation in Akumal

Since 1993, the Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA) has worked with government authorization to protect, conserve, and study sea turtles. During nesting season, CEA staff and volunteers patrol Akumal’s beaches in search of nesting turtles and hatchlings. Through awareness-raising, education, and outreach, the CEA directs its work toward the local community, schools, hotel guests, and visitors to Akumal. In addition to protecting the animals, sharing knowledge about them is one of its main priorities.

Volunteer work also has different areas of focus. In the reef restoration project, volunteers tend coral gardens, replant coral fragments on the reef, or monitor the condition of corals that have already been transplanted. At the CEA turtle camp, volunteers first learn methods for monitoring sea turtles and identifying species through classroom and field instruction. In the following weeks, they work alongside the team on the beach under supervision and support the turtle team. If you are considering taking part, check availability and requirements with the CEA in advance.

Snorkeling with Local Guidance

A CEA page updated on February 9, 2021, says that a guide is not required when snorkeling, but recommends one for people unfamiliar with the area. According to the same page, an independent snorkeler is not required to wear a life jacket either, but one is recommended for safety: it should help you stay afloat and keep your fins away from the reef. Check the local rules before entering the water.

Snorkelers can ask lifeguards or visit the CEA building at the beach entrance for information about guidelines, beach warning flags, currents, and weather conditions. According to the CEA’s guidance, you may cautiously venture beyond the buoys, but you must stay in the bay and watch out for boat channels. A distance of at least 30 meters from the reef edge is recommended. Local guidance and conditions may change, so get up-to-date information before snorkeling.

Another Water Activity Nearby

Near Akumal is Caleta Yal-Kú, a place to sunbathe and snorkel. This adds another consideration to your vacation planning: while turtles and their conservation define Akumal, these two recreational activities are the main draw at Yal-Kú. When looking for a holiday rental, consider whether Akumal’s focus on turtles and marine conservation is most important for your stay, or whether you would also like to include sunbathing and snorkeling at nearby Caleta Yal-Kú.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Chacalal, Palmul, Holbox Island, Calderita, Xul-Ha, Punta Allen, Leona Vicario, Tepich.

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