Akumal: Snorkeling with Sea Turtles & GoPro Photos

Summary

Swim with turtles in Akumal’s calm waters, photos included

You’ll float over seagrass beds alongside wild green sea turtles in Akumal’s protected bay, guided by someone who knows every ripple here. Expect laughter as you spot rays and fish, plus free GoPro photos to remember it all. Facilities like lockers and showers keep things easy—just bring curiosity (and maybe some pesos for beach access).

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the water in Akumal to feel so soft—almost silky, like the air had melted into it. We met our guide just past the main road (she waved first), and after a quick laugh about my mask fitting crooked, we shuffled down to the beach. There was this salty tang in the breeze and a bit of sunscreen smell from other folks, but our guide reminded us—no sunscreen allowed here. The turtles don’t like it. I kind of liked that rule.

We waded out slowly; there was no rush. The sand felt cool underfoot even though the sun was already high. Our guide pointed out how to spot the green sea turtles—look for the darker shapes gliding along the bottom—and suddenly there they were, just moving so calmly through the seagrass. At one point, I tried to follow a smaller turtle but got distracted by a school of bright fish darting around my legs. Someone in our group giggled through their snorkel when a ray swooped past. It’s not as quiet underwater as you’d think—you can hear your own breathing, and sometimes someone else’s excited gasp.

The whole snorkeling tour lasted about an hour and a half, but time did that weird thing where it stretches and shrinks at once. Our guide took photos with her GoPro (she caught me making a face at a barracuda—hope that doesn’t make the album). She told us about how old some of these turtles are, and I remember thinking how ancient they looked up close—like little armored grandpas drifting by. Afterward, we rinsed off in the showers near the lockers (bring some pesos for access), still talking about whether that really was a squid or just my imagination.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling with green sea turtles

• Arrive at protected natural area
• Receive snorkeling gear and instructions
• Snorkel to observe green sea turtles
• See other marine species like rays and fish
• Enjoy photos taken with GoPro camera

Top questions

Is snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal safe?

Yes, it's safe for most fitness levels and guided by locals who know the area well.

How long does the snorkeling tour last?

The experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Are GoPro photos included in the tour?

Yes, you'll receive a photo album from your guide at no extra cost.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

No, all necessary gear is provided—including vest, visor, and snorkel tube.

Is sunscreen allowed during this activity?

No, sunscreen is not permitted to protect marine life in Akumal's bay.

Are there facilities like showers or lockers available?

Yes, access to bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, and lockers is available for an extra fee via bracelet.

Will I definitely get a photo with a turtle?

Your guide will try but can't guarantee it since turtles are wild animals.

Is this snorkeling activity done from a boat?

No boats are used; you'll enter directly from the beach.

What’s included

Your day covers entry into Akumal’s protected turtle area with all snorkeling equipment provided—vests, visors, snorkel tubes—and guidance from a local expert. You’ll get free GoPro photos taken during your swim plus access to bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, and lockers if you purchase the required beach access bracelet on site.