Things to do in Akumal

No. 4 of Family-friendly Attractions in Mexico

Xel-Ha Park

Xelha Water Park is a snorkeling-themed nature park whose name means "Wherethewatersareborn". It is located at the place where the freshwater underground river flows into the sea, so it is known as the world's largest natural aquarium with a wide variety of fish. Besides snorkeling, there are other activities such as rafting, rope walking and dolphin swimming.

2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions

Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park has more than 50 attractions. In the park, you can swim in underground rivers, explore mysterious caves, stroll along jungle trails, and observe the animals that inhabit the park. You can also discover new colors at the Butterfly Pavilion and uncover the mysteries of the ocean at the Coral Reef Aquarium. In Xcaret, Mexico, there are several attractions worth visiting, such as the Mayan ruins, the Mexican Folk Art Museum, the traditional Hacienda Henequenera, and the Chapel of Guadalupe. Additionally, visitors can watch pre-Hispanic dances, equestrian shows, and the "Xcaret México Espectacular" Mexican cultural performance grandly presented by 300 performers to experience Mexican culture. There are many restaurants in the park for visitors to choose from.

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Mexico

Tulum

Tulum sits on a Caribbean cliff along the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. This coastal city-state was built in the late Maya civilization and remained inhabited, reaching its peak between the 13th and 15th centuries. "Tulum" means "wall" in Yucatec Maya, as the ancient city is enclosed by stone walls several m high on three sides, with the fourth facing the sea, serving as both a fortress and a port. It was a gateway for the inland Maya city of Cobá to maritime routes and a key hub for goods like obsidian. Facing the sunrise over the sea, it was possibly once called Zama, meaning "city of dawn." The main attractions are concentrated along the cliff edge: El Castillo stands at the cliff's end as the site's landmark, with carvings of deities like the feathered serpent visible on its facade. The Temple of the Frescoes retains remnants of Maya murals and red handprint decorations, while the Temple of the Descending God features a diving deity figure, an iconic symbol of Tulum. The Temple of the Wind occupies a small rocky platform jutting into the sea, offering expansive views perfect for capturing the turquoise waters and white sand. Below the cliff lies a beach where many travelers stop to wade or rest, and iguanas basking among the rocks are common "locals." Follow the cliffside path to explore the temples, then look back at the castle from the seaside—the frame of ancient stone walls against the Caribbean is what sets it apart from inland Maya ruins. At dawn, the soft light enhances the layers of the walls and sea, and the site is relatively quiet.

Two Eyes Cenote

Two Eyes Cenote is located in Tulum, Mexico, in the northeastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula, and is a well-known attraction near important late Mayan cultural sites. "Dos Ojos" means "two eyes" in Spanish, derived from the fact that it consists of two interconnected cenotes. It is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, offering activities such as cave diving, snorkeling, and freediving. Divers can explore this area and admire stalactites, stalagmites, and abundant underground life, such as freshwater jellyfish and cave shrimp. Snorkelers can also swim in the open water areas, enjoying the clear water and beautiful underwater view. Two Eyes Cenote, with its unique underground view and rich underwater ecosystem, has become an ideal place to explore the natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula. Whether you are a diving enthusiast or a nature lover, you can find your own adventure and tranquility here.

Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is an open-air natural cenote. It is L-shaped with a wide water area and crystal-clear blue water. It has distinct shallow and deep areas. The shallow area is suitable for family-friendly water play, while the deep area is perfect for cliff jumping and snorkeling. Surrounded by tropical jungle and limestone, the environment is quiet and natural. Visitors can swim, snorkel to watch schools of fish, or challenge themselves with cliff jumping to experience the fun of pristine water activities. It is a popular natural attraction that combines leisure and adventure.

Cenote Nic Te Ha

Cenote Nic Te Ha is classified as an open cenote. It is characterized by a relatively wide opening, which allows sunlight to penetrate and promotes the growth of abundant aquatic plants.

No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Mexico

Xplor Park

Cypro Maya Adventure Park is an adventure park in the heart of a beautiful natural environment. There are many adventures in the park, from ziplining, driving amphibious vehicles above and below ground, exploring caves and marvelling at the various stalactites and stalagmites in the underground river. There are also buffets and drink bars in the park, which is very convenient.

YAL-KU CENOTE Y Laguna Yalku

YAL-KU CENOTE Y Laguna Yalku is a nature reserve and tourist attraction. With its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, it's an ideal spot for diving, snorkeling, and sightseeing. It is a natural bay consisting of sea water and underground rivers. The water here is very clear, and you can see various creatures and coral reefs on the seabed. Activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking can be done here. In addition to the bay, there are several other natural sights and activities to visit at YAL-KU CENOTE Y Laguna Yalku. There is a natural cave where you can go on adventures and dives. Additionally, there is a tropical garden that showcases a variety of local plants and flowers. It is also an important ecological reserve, protecting a variety of marine life and coral reefs. You can learn about the local ecological environment and protection work here and enhance environmental awareness.

Xpu-ha Beach

Akumal Monkey Sanctuary

Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is an animal conservation center that protects and rescues wildlife. This conservation center is dedicated to the conservation and study of wildlife, particularly monkey populations, while providing visitors with opportunities to interact with animals. You can observe and learn about different species of monkeys up close, including spider monkeys, black apes, and white-faced spoonbills. The guide at the conservation center will provide you with interesting knowledge about these animals and explanations of conservation efforts. In addition to monkeys, Akumal Monkey Sanctuary also offers protection for other wildlife, including zebras, deer, parrots, and other birds. You can visit wildlife habitats and observe their natural behavior in this safe environment. Akumal Monkey Sanctuary offers opportunities to interact with monkeys and other wildlife, and is also a non-profit organization dedicated to wildlife conservation and rescue.