Akumal: Private Snorkeling Tour with Sea Turtles & Certified Biologist

Summary

Swim beside Akumal’s wild turtles with a marine biologist guide

You’ll float over Akumal’s seagrass beds alongside wild green turtles, guided by a certified biologist who shares local stories and helps you feel safe in open water. Expect close-up views of turtles and tropical fish within an official protected circuit—plus little moments of laughter and saltwater in your nose that make it real.

What’s the experience like?

Hands dipping into the cool saltwater, I fumbled with my snorkel mask while our guide, Luis, grinned and tightened the straps for me. He’d already explained (twice) how to keep the fog off the lens — apparently spit is the secret, which made us all laugh. The sand was soft underfoot but gritty between my toes, and there was this faint smell of sunscreen mixed with seaweed that just clung to everything. Luis grew up nearby and you could tell he cared about Akumal Bay — he kept glancing at the water like he was checking in on old friends.

We waded out together, just our small group — no other tourists crowding around. Luis pointed out where the official swimming circuit started; it’s about a kilometer loop, which sounded longer than it felt once we were floating. The water was warm but not bathtub-warm, more like that first sip of cold coconut water after walking in the sun. I remember hearing muffled laughter through my snorkel when someone spotted their first turtle — big green shell moving slow as a dream. You really do need to swim here, but knowing Luis was right there (he’s a certified divemaster and studied biology at Campeche University) made me relax enough to just watch the fish darting below.

The turtles didn’t seem bothered by us at all — they just grazed on seagrass while rays glided past like shadows. At one point I got distracted by these tiny neon fish flickering near some coral and almost drifted outside the circuit; Luis gently tugged me back with a quick “todo bien?” and a thumbs up. There’s something about seeing wild animals in their own home that sticks with you, even if your mask keeps leaking or you swallow half the ocean trying to breathe right. I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for my own breath and the sound of fins stirring up sand below.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling with sea turtles at Akumal

• Meet professional certified guide
• Receive snorkeling equipment and instructions
• Enter sea at Akumal Beach
• Swim 1 km in protected circuit
• Observe green turtles and marine life
• Return to shore after 50 minutes

Top questions

Is this Akumal snorkeling tour private?

Yes, your booking is for your group only—no mixed groups.

Do I need strong swimming skills for snorkeling with turtles in Akumal?

You need at least moderate swimming ability since it’s open ocean; let your guide know if you’re unsure.

How long does the snorkeling circuit last?

The official swimming route is about 1 km (0.7 miles) and takes around 50 minutes in the water.

Are we guaranteed to see sea turtles?

You’re guaranteed to observe green turtles in their natural habitat during this tour.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, use of mask, snorkel tube, lifejacket—all provided as part of your day.

Is there wheelchair access at Akumal Beach?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible; inform your guide ahead if needed.

Can children join this snorkeling tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller until entering the water; swimming skills are required for participants.

What if I have special needs or disabilities?

Please inform your guide before arrival so they can offer personalized attention or adapt as needed.

What’s included

Your day covers access fees for Akumal Bay’s protected area, use of quality snorkeling gear including lifejackets, lockers for your belongings, plus showers and restrooms nearby. A certified biologist leads you through the official CONANP swimming circuit—just bring yourself (and maybe extra dry clothes for after).