Akumal Bay Sea Turtle Snorkeling
Snorkel with wild sea turtles in their natural habitat—strict conservation regulations apply
Overview
Akumal Bay offers one of the most accessible wild sea turtle encounters in the Caribbean, where green and loggerhead turtles graze on seagrass beds in shallow, calm waters. The bay's name means "Place of Turtles" in Maya, and the resident population provides reliable sightings year-round. **Important conservation regulations (strictly enforced):** - Swimming hours: 9 AM-5 PM only (closed Mondays for turtle rest) - Maximum 6 people per licensed guide - 55-minute session limits - NO sunscreen allowed—even biodegradable types damage the ecosystem - Minimum distance from turtles enforced - Independent swimming with turtles no longer permitted—guides required **Costs:** Beach access runs 120-140 MXN (~$7-8 USD). Guided turtle snorkeling tours cost $30-50 USD including gear.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day (2-3 hours)
140 MXN
Beach access 120-140 MXN (~$7-8). Guided turtle tour $30-50 USD including gear. Yal-ku lagoon 250-350 MXN (~$15-20).
Arrive early (9 AM opening) for calmest water and best visibility. Avoid peak hours (11 AM-2 PM) when tour buses arrive. Closed Mondays. Year-round turtle presence, but calmer seas November-April.
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