HISTORY

The village of Akumal has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. Originally a seaport and trading center for the Maya people, a historic shipwreck occurred leaving a lasting effect on the area. In the year 1513, a Spanish galleon shipwrecked off its coast forcing seventeen sailors to be enslaved by the Mayans. Only two of these sailors survived their ordeal, one of these men, Gonzalo Guerrero, ended up marrying a Mayan princess. Their union created the first “mestizos” Spanish-indigenous blood. Gonzalo so integrated himself with the Mayan people, he no longer considered himself a Spaniard. Today, a statue of Gonzalo Guerrero greets the visitor just past the arch at the entrance to the beach in Akumal.

When rediscovered, over 50 years ago, by adventurer and world explorer, Pablo Bush Romero, Akumal was a pristine beach fringed with coconut palms on one side and crystal clear Caribbean waters on the other. With no roads leading to this primitive area, it was virtually undisturbed by man. This worldly traveler was so taken with the beautiful bay he purchased it from a coconut plantation farmer and founded a city consisting of a small resort catering to scuba divers.

When visiting, be sure to notice the Spanish cannons that stand guard over Akumal Bay. They were recovered from their ocean grave by CEDAM divers. Also, a memorial park was dedicated by the citizens of Akumal to Pablo Bush, the village founder. The museum with most of the artifacts from the shipwreck is located in Pto. Aventuras.

COMMUNITY

Akumal, is a small resort village, situated in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Located halfway between the towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Akumal lies one hour to the south of Cancun. With a population of around 1,500 inhabitants, the beachfront resort village is a popular tourist location. In the Mayan language, Akumal means the "Place of the Turtle", due to the fact that sea turtles are present year-round, and nest here each year from the end of April to October. These magnificent creatures can frequently be seen swimming in the crystal clear waters in the bay.

Akumal is where one travels to find quiet beaches, powdery sand, lush jungle, and friendly people. Tropical life abounds in our protected bays where the most experienced snorkeler will find fulfillment, and where the youngest can discover the beauty of the underwater world. Your days can be as busy and varied as you choose, or as restful and unwinding. There are plenty of reefs, jungles, sacred Mayan ruin sites, and cenotes all within easy reach of Akumal, and the natural setting almost guarantees unforgettable sunsets and moonlit nights.

The village of Akumal has kept its relaxed, laid back mood amongst boom towns such as Playa Del Carmen and Cancun. Unlike the many pre-planned resort communities popping up on the coast, Akumal is a quaint Mexican village with a rich history and a proud local mix of Mexicans and ex-patriots. Centro Ecologico Akumal monitors and protects the bay and turtles for future generations to enjoy as well.

The area’s shallow bays are a popular destination for scuba divers and for those who enjoy snorkeling. There are 6 crystal clear bays. From north to south, is National Geographic's 50 best secrets of Mexico, Yal Ku Lagoon, then Half Moon Bay, Akumal Bay, South Akumal, Aventuras Akumal and Jade Bay. The water is an incredibly brilliant turquoise blue color with fantastic clarity. The world's 2nd largest barrier reef (Meso-American) occupies these waters and the abundance of sea life is amazing. There are over 500 species of fish and 4 different species of sea turtles that can be seen here. For those who prefer fresh water, there are a number of Cenotes (sinkholes leading to underground rivers) that provide entrance to underlying cave systems, offering the cave diver and snorkeler fantastic opportunities for exploring. Akumal Dive Center can handle any excursion involving water.

Adventures on land include exploring the surrounding jungle where hidden caves can be explored and exotic flora and fauna can be seen. Deep-sea fishing is an active sport in these waters as well; the promise of a day's catch might include Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Marlin or Sail Fish. We recommend Tequila Sunrise Charters out of Pto. Aventuras if you want to catch fish and be pampered on a yacht versus a panga style boat. If you prefer fly fishing; tarpon, bonefish, jack, permit, and snook, are all abundant, and year-round. Check in with Akumal Fly Fishing for a memorable trip

Akumal is unspoiled in its natural beauty, providing all the comforts and services you will need on your vacation, and a true balance between tourism and the environmental conservation. Centrally located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Akumal is easily accessible to many popular destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Coba, the Chichen Itza and Uxmal ruins (stay at any of the fabulous Mayaland Resorts), and do not miss the Sian Ka'an biosphere.