As you search for your accommodation options for your vacation to Akumal, Mexico, you will find that there are three main options from which you can choose. From these three options, you can choose which ones fit best for your group, length of trip, and vacation budget.

The first type of accommodations in Akumal, Mexico is hotel rooms and suites. Hotels and suites provide guests with much diversity in rooms, prices, and availability. Hotels also provide several amenities for guests to enjoy from a breakfast spread to pools and hot tubs.

Similarly, the second type of accommodations in Akumal is found in resort locations. Much like hotels, resorts provide individual rooms and a number of amenities for all guests to enjoy. However, the difference between hotels and resorts come in the activities that a resort will provide for its guests.

Resorts often provide group activities as well as resources for individuals to plan their own activities throughout their stay. Some activities will be at an additional cost and others are included in the vacation package. They will often provide tour leaders and professionals for various activities for a positive experience.

The last type of accommodations for Akumal visitors is home or condo rentals. Once a group or family commits to this type of accommodation, most will choose a home rental over that of a condo because it affords them more space, in the form of living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

However, many couples will choose to stay at condos simply because they do not need the space and because many condos are available at a more economical price. There are several different types of home and condo rentals, including those that provide daily maid service, those that provide some activities and equipment for guests, and those that provide their own stretch of beachfront property.

While most hotels and resorts are run by a corporation, many homes are being run differently. Although there are some that are run by an agency, there are homes that are provided by the homeowners, which offer guests a more personal experience. Not only do many homeowners provide extra touches and considerations not available in hotels or resorts.

To find a complete list of the best deals on accommodation in Akumal, Mexico, travel sites like HotelsCombined.com can provide those for you. Upon entering your travel information, you will find out the most recent deals available from various travel groups available online.

There are many tips that you may already know and many that you should know, which is why you should always know these tips before your stay in Akumal. These tips are not only helpful once you arrive in Akumal, Mexico, but they are also helpful when you are packing as well.

The first, and most important, tip is not to drink the water. Many people have heard that you should not drink the water in Mexico and they have heard it for a reason. Instead, have access to plenty of bottled water and remember that ingesting water can also happen when you are brushing your teeth, making your morning coffee, or taking a shower. While it is okay to bath or wash dishes with the tap water, you want to make sure that you do not directly swallow the water.

The next tip for your stay in Akumal is to pack a flashlight. From night travels on dimly lit roads to the frequent power outages and lack of generators, having a flashlight with you is always a good idea. Although this flashlight does not need to be big, it should have a fresh set of batteries and be able to fit in whatever you plan to take with you, like a purse or a bag, throughout the duration of your vacation.

Another tip for your stay in Akumal is to make sure your health insurance covers you while on vacation. If something were to happen, most businesses that provide medical services will not cost what they would in the United States. However they will still need upfront payment for service to be performed. You can then take the receipt to your insurance company and request a reimbursement.

Furthermore, on your way to Akumal, and even while you are there, you should insure that you have the proper documentation for everyone in your family, including any minors who may be traveling with you. Not only will they need their passport, but each airline traveling to and from Akumal may have a unique set of requirements so it is important that you know what those are ahead of time.

The last tip for your stay in Akumal is to know when to go. Akumal typically has a low season and a high season, which means that it will either be rainy or dry. The dry season is usually from December to March and will prove to be the best time for your vacation. You can find several hotels and accommodations for throughout the year at HotelsCombined.com.

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For many people, shopping is on the list of things to do while on your Akumal vacation. Whether you plan to only purchase a few souvenirs for others back at home or you want to buy something new for yourself, here are a few shopping tips for Akumal, Mexico.

The first of many shopping tips for your Akumal vacation is to purchase all of your souvenirs from one of the many gift shops in the center of town. These shops include everything from souvenir t-shirts to hand-crafted jewelry. They also include the popular sarongs, which make great gifts and do not cost a lot, and original pieces of art. This folk art ranges in price, but can often be more on the expensive side.

If you plan to purchase alcohol on your trip, one of the best shopping tips for Akumal is not to search too hard for anything other than beer. “Cervesa” can be found anywhere throughout Mexico, but wine and other types of hard liquor may be harder to locate. Therefore, your shopping tip for alcohol in Akumal is also to try something new. Although beer may not be your favorite, you should embrace the local customs and have a few drinks with your meals during your stay.

Another one of the shopping tips in Akumal is to be careful of the groceries that you purchase in town, especially local fruits and vegetables. From convenience stores to pueblos to supermarkets, there are several places that you can buy the items that you need. If you cannot find the produce that you need in Akumal, feel free to travel a short distance to Playa del Carmen. However, no matter where you purchase your fruits or vegetables, you should always soak them in an anti-bacterial solution for approximately 15 minutes before you cook or eat them. This will help ensure that they are safe to eat and that you will enjoy the rest of your trip.

The last shopping tips in Akumal are related to clothing. Purchasing local clothing can be an exciting venture and help you feel at home in the Akumal area. There are several local shops from which you can choose and many high-end stores, like Sak’s 5th Avenue, if you want to travel to nearby Playa del Carmen. The items you purchase can be what you need while on vacation, just for fun, or to take back with you. Regardless, you should be able to get a good deal on any item that you buy.

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Knowing what to pack when traveling to Akumal, Mexico can prepare on how to handle anything unexpected on your trip. These tips will help you have the safest, happiest vacation possible.

The first step in learning what to pack in Akumal is preparing for what you plan to do. Once you know what you plan to do, you can easily move on to figuring out what to pack for your trip. Even if you only have a broad idea, like that you want to take a few day trips, you want to spend time in the water, and that you want to try some interesting restaurants, you will know that you need to pack your beach gear, some good walking shoes, and a nice outfit for your dinner plans.

Now that you know what to pack for Akumal for all of your daily adventures, you can begin packing your clothing and accessories. Knowing your plans is extremely helpful so that you bring along the right items, especially if you are going on a family vacation and need to pack for several people. At the top of your list should be a hat, sunglasses, and waterproofs sunscreen for each member of your group.

Clothing for your trip should be light weight, like sundresses, shorts, and cotton shirts. Linen and khaki can also be much cooler than a pair of jeans either day or night. While you want to plan a number of clothing items that will keep you cool, you should bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Part of your packing will include items that prove that you know that you will not always be able to anticipate what to expect in Akumal, Mexico. This list of items include a flashlight if you plan to be out at night, insect repellant in case you take a trip to the jungle, and a carry-on bag to keep your passport, cash, and other important documentation on you or with you at all times. Copies should also be made of all of this documentation in case something was to happen to them.

No matter where you go on vacation, knowledge is power. This includes what you need to expect in Akumal. Although it may turn out that you are over prepared, that is far better than not being prepared nearly enough for whatever situations may arise.

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There are so many ways to spend each and every day while you are on vacation in Akumal. The best part, however, is that you choose how to spend a day in Akumal and that means you can do whatever it is that you want.

For many people, the beginning or end of their vacation is the time for them to spend a day in Akumal completely relaxed. Whether they decide to sleep in or just relax on the beach under the warm sun, that day provides them the opportunity to rejuvenate their body and recuperate.

Those entering into their vacation with an unusual amount of stress, this might be more beneficial in the beginning. On the other hand, those who want to do as much as possible on their vacation, it might be best to spend the last day in Akumal relaxing so that they do not need a vacation after their vacation.

Another way to spend a day in Akumal is in the water. The waters are so beautiful in Akumal and there is so much that you can do. From swimming and snorkeling to kayaking and taking a boat trip, you can enjoy some new or fun water activity each day of your vacation.

Anyone who appreciates a cultural experience can spend a day in Akumal taking one of the many available tours. Traveling to the nature reserves in Riviera Maya, on the Sian Ka’an jungle tours, or even out to sea on a deep sea fishing excursion can be an exciting and educational experience.

Tours to the local cenotes in the Yucatan can also be a way to spend a day around Akumal. These sinkholes are found all around Akumal and were believed to be the sacred wells of the gods. Still to this day, tourists travel to the cenotes and pay homage to the sun, bathe in the fresh, cool waters, and explore any hidden caves.

Also surrounding Akumal is a number of ancient ruins that provide a glimpse at the past Mayan world. The Tulum ruin is one of the most visited of all the ruins and is located just south of Akumal.

Akumal, Mexico is a magical place that allows you to spend each day of your trip doing exactly what you want. Whether you want to wade in the water, sit in the sand, or travel into town, you have the chance to do it all. You can find excellent hotel accommodations on HotelsCombined.com.

When traveling to Akumal Mexico one nearly passes this small quiet village by without realizing that it is actually one of the Caribbean coast’s best locations for diving and snorkeling on the Yucatan Peninsula. Akumal is located a mere 65 miles to the south of the Cancun resort area and 50 miles from the Mexican airport. It may be small but it is the ideal vacation get away for families or divers who wish to escape the daily rush of Mexico’s often crowded beaches. Located in Akumal are two very tranquil bays as well as the Yalku Lagoon which is perfect for family swimming or snorkeling. The area boasts of 30 beautiful reef sites that are ideal for diving while the beautiful white sandy beaches invite one to enjoy the relaxing Mexican sun.

There is an abundance of accommodations in Akumal, five different restaurants which offer local and European Fare, several grocery stores, a few boutiques or gift shops plus an excellent Dive Shop. Most of these attractions are within a 15 minute walk of one and other. The best part of this small village is that should you be interested in snorkeling, diving, fishing or merely relaxing in the warm Mexican sun you will find you can walk to the various locations although buses and taxis are readily available should you desire them.

The temperatures in Akumal range around 80 degree during September to April and during the rest of the year you can expect 90 degree temperatures. The area receives a gentle sea breeze from the nearby Caribbean and during the winter season you may require a sweater in the evenings.

The local dive shop will setup your equipment and have it ready for your dive when you arrive at the dock. They have all the necessary diving equipment you will need at reasonable rental rates. You will be provided with an 80 cu. Ft aluminum tank which is filled to approximately 3000 psi. You will board one of the 28 foot open panga boats docked nearby. The dives are generally limited to eight people plus the dive master and the ships captain. Should you happen to be part of a larger group you can easily make special arrangements for all members to dive.

Most of the arranged dives are drift dives which take place over very stunning and colorful coral reefs. The typically currents are weak in this area and water temperature hover around 82 degree. The underwater visibility in the area can reach 50 feet up to 150 feet depending upon the weather. A light wet suit is recommended during the winter season.

If you are seeking a pristine location with clear water and an abundance of undersea life to view during your next dive adventure then Akumal Mexico is the place you just may be looking for.

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A Candid Review of Akumal’s Eateries

We take a look at all the places to eat in the town of Akumal, Mexico.  All are owned by locals who also operate them.  These are just our opinions… other people’s opinions may vary!

Lol-Ha Resturant in Akumal

Lol-Ha on Akumal Bay Our favorite!  The Beach Bar has a large palapa style outside dining area surrounded by palms with a great ocean view and cool ocean breeze. The menu offers a wide selection of well prepared foods. For more elegant dining, the main dining area offers a beautiful indoor dining room and a full menu. Their breakfast is a delight. The staff are friendly and helpful.  Friday Happy Hour is a Local’s Favorite.  The Lol-Ha Pizzeria offers freshly baked pizzas.  Located on the right just inside the arch in central Akumal.

La Buena Vida, “The Good Life”  This restaurant has a gorgeous view of Half Moon Bay. The shrimp tacos are wonderful!  The beach bar has swings instead of bar stools.  A fun “night life” place that rocks from Happy Hour to closing everyday.  Wednesday is karaoke night.  Dining on the beach or upstairs in the dining room.  They have a gift shop across the street with some fun stuff for sale.  It’s located on the beach road in the north of Akumal.

Cueva de Pescador, “The Cave of the Fisherman”–Freshest fish in Akumal!  Pescador is a seafood restaurant offering local fresh seafood caught by their own boats daily.  Grouper, Red Snapper, Boquinete (a local favorite), Atun (Tuna) and Dorado (Mahi Mahi) are usually available depending on the season.It is owned by Carlos Danú, a professional fisherman in Akumal since 1982, who for a fee will take you fishing and cook your catch for dinner!  We have fished with Carlos several times.  Always fun and inexpensive compared to the States.  Book fishing trips at the resturant.  Located on the left in the center of Akumal.

Turtle Bay Bakery & Cafe. They bake their own breads, cakes, cookies and pastries daily. Come early for the best selection.  Their breakfast is a treat. Open for breakfast andlunch.  Dinner in the high season.  Located in the center of Akumal behind Cueva de Pescador.

La Lunita, an intimate beach cafe serves contemporary style Mexican cuisine. Indoor or beach seating.  La Lunita is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the winter. Dinner only summer and fall.  It’s located in Hacienda Las Tortugas condos on Half Moon Bay in north Akumal.

Que Onda! specializes in Italian cuisine and is personally attended by owners.. Enjoy fresh pastas made daily in house and a nice selection of Italian wines. Enjoy dining in a beautiful garden setting and with an illuminated pool. Que Onda is located in a tropical garden setting at the north end of Akumal near Yal-ku Lagoon.

Loncheria Akumalito is a small breakfast/lunch bar located next to Super Chomak Grocery.  It is inexpensive with simple, delicious meals.

Lucy’s Kitchen Shrimp Tacos and handmade gormet ice cream.  Located by the basketball courts on the left before you go through the arch.

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Akumal is a safe place to travel and is not known for crime like some other larger resort areas. It is always a good idea to be smart about your cash and valuables when travelling anywhere, and Akumal is no exception. Violent crimes like muggings are virtually non-existent in Akumal, but theft is a possibility like any tourist area. If you rent a car, don’t leave valuables inside the car and make good use of the safes that hotels provide. Wearing a money belt is also another good tip to make sure your money stays with you and you can avoid being pick pocketed.

One health tip that is a must not just for Akumal, but for all of Mexico is not to drink the tap water. This sounds like a cliché, but it is one that is true. Drink only bottled water or purified water and even use that to make your morning cup of coffee. It is okay to take showers or wash dishes with the water, but to avoid any illness, do not ingest the tap water. Hotels and other accommodations usually offer plenty of bottled or filtered water to their guests.

Another important travel tip especially for Akumal is to bring a small flashlight with you, especially if you do not plan to rent a car. While everything is within 15 minutes walking distance, at night you will most likely be walking along unlit roads. There are no streetlights along these roads, so it’s important to have this flashlight handy so you can see where you are going and motorists can see you traversing along the road. Some of these roads, especially the North Akumal road, need paving and can be rough walking at night. You need the flashlight to make sure you don’t trip over anything or fall into a pothole. Put a flashlight at the top of your things to pack list, especially if you do not plan to rent a car.

In terms of renting a car, you can decide to rent a car and there are plenty of rentals in town, or you can take advantage of the many taxis or collectivos available. Collectivos are white vans and are less costly than taxis or car rentals. They can be hailed from the street and are often available to take you to popular tourist destinations. For only $2, you can take a collectivo from Playa de Carmen to Tulum. This is definitely a bargain for the traveler on a budget who doesn’t mind sharing a ride with others. If you are going to rent a car, especially during high season, it is best to make your arrangements in advance as availability can be limited when there are a lot of tourists in town.

If you follow these tips, pack a lot of sunscreen, and travel smart and safe, you can enjoy your trip to Akumal and not have any unfortunate incidents or illnesses.

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