There are many beaches all along the Riviera Maya, as Akumal is in the center of it. There are excellent beaches both north and south of Akumal / Half Moon Bay if you choose to explore further. The MesoAmerican reef, the 2nd longest on earth, comes in close to many of the beaches, therefore some of the entrances to the water can be rocky, so bring reef shoes when exploring. In general, the rockier a beach is, the better chance for good snorkeling. Many of the beaches have an outer reef, so the water will be calmer. For those that do not and are fully open to the ocean, occasionally there can be some undertow. So before you venture out into the water, please check. Most beaches do not have monitoring.
Most beaches have a charge now for access. The charge may be direct at the road entrance, or could be a local restaurant or day club. While all beaches in Mexico are federal property; some may be difficult to access.Most of the beaches now have some level of development, i.e. houses, and resorts, but there will be a public access point.
We list only those that are close and have some level of easy access. Always leave valuables at home, or in the car's trunk.
PaaMul is actually a unique village of homes built of combining 5th wheeler trailer parks under giant palapas. Fun to visit and view a unique way of living on the beach. On the small side, sandy, and never crowded. There is also an oceanfront restaurant, which has very good food. Paamul's snorkeling is best near the point. It is usually quiet.
A Tulum beach that has been voted one of the world's most beautiful beaches, and therefore gets it's own mention. Located following the left fork to the Tulum Beach road, almost all the way down. Paradise Beach has a day beach club with decent food, beach chairs, umbrellas, hammocks, all at a cost. You can easily spend a full day here. Especially fun people watching. Clothing here can be on the very minimal side. Great walking and often some kitesurfing, but not snorkeling.
Slightly off the beaten path, a wonderful long sandy beach. Great for beachcombing. Access is at the far opposite ends, as there are house in the center. On the far right is a very rustic seafood restaurant. Very limited facilities.
Tankah beach is located such that it has a mangrove (and cenote) on its jungle side. About 10 yards off the beach in the middle of it, is the exit of the cenote creating an interesting bubble effect. Another fun beach restaurant.
There are many stunningly beautiful beaches along the Tulum Beach road, following either the left or right fork. To the left of the fork close to Paradise Beach, is a public access, which offers snorkel tours out to the reef. The left side ends at the base of the Tulum ruins (no access). Following the right fork, are miles and miles of beaches all the way to Sian Ka'an. Access is typically by eating at one of the restaurants or day clubs that line the beaches, upon which you may spend a few hours. Depending on the location, there may be various services such as kite/windsurfing and massages. Prices are not in-expensive.The further south you go, the more raw and natural will be the area.
A beautiful wild and natural beach about 3 miles south of us. Xcacel is used as a relocation point for turtle nests that are laid at the various resorts. It has no shade, and no facilities, bring your own.