Akumal sea turtles and cenote
Well reviewedPrivate snorkel tour
A calm bay between Playa del Carmen and Tulum where green sea turtles feed on sea grass close to shore. This private, guided half day pairs the turtle snorkel with a cenote swim and lunch.
- Time needed
- 5 to 7 hours including transport.
- Price
- From about USD 129 per adult. Prices change.
- Getting there
- The easiest way is the private tour with hotel pickup. On your own, Akumal is on Highway 307 south of Playa, about 40 minutes by car.
- Best time
- Go between 8 and 10 am, before organized tour groups arrive.
- Pickup
- Hotel pickup is offered, including the Grand Hyatt next door, according to the operator's booking page.
RatingsAbsolute Adventure Mexico 4.99 (138)as of Oct 2026
Not the owner's recommendations. Ratings are the figures we read on the date shown, and they change.
Known for
- Green sea turtles come into Akumal Bay to feed, and the bay was declared a marine refuge in March 2016.
- The tour is private and guided, and it adds a cenote swim and lunch to the turtle snorkel.
- The price includes the Akumal Bay cooperative fee, the CONAP fee, snorkel gear, lunch and hotel transport.
Practical tips
- Sunblock and insect repellent may not be applied before snorkeling, even biodegradable ones. The operator recommends a rash guard or UV shirt.
- The price includes the Akumal Bay cooperative fee and the CONAP fee, so tour guests make no extra entry payments.
Stay a short walk away
Penthouse 315 at Aldea Thai sleeps 10, with a private heated rooftop pool and ocean views, a 1-minute walk (about 230 ft) from Mamitas Beach. The penthouse is also for sale.