Akumal: Swim with Sea Turtles Private Snorkel Tour

Summary

Swim alongside wild sea turtles in akumal’s calm bay waters

You’ll slip into Akumal Bay with a local guide and swim quietly among wild sea turtles—no touching, just observing them glide through seagrass beds. All snorkeling equipment is provided, plus lockers for your stuff and showers after. It’s peaceful, unrushed, and you might just leave thinking about those silent underwater glances long after.

What’s the experience like?

“If you’re gentle, they’ll come close enough to see their eyes,” our guide Miguel said as we shuffled into the water at Akumal Beach. I was still fumbling with my snorkel mask (I always get the strap twisted), but he waited patiently, grinning like he’d seen this a hundred times. The sand here is soft and pale—almost squeaky underfoot—and there was this salty tang in the air that made me want to just float forever.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would feel once we dipped below the surface. Just muffled waves and my own breathing echoing back at me. Then—out of nowhere—a big green sea turtle glided past, totally unbothered by us drifting above. Miguel pointed out how they munch on seagrass right there in the shallow bay, about two meters deep. He reminded us not to reach out or chase them (which honestly felt right). There were a few other swimmers around but it never felt crowded—maybe because it’s a private tour and Miguel knows when to avoid busy times.

Afterwards, we rinsed off in the beach showers and I tried (and failed) to pronounce “caguama” properly—Miguel laughed and said I was close enough. My hair still smelled like saltwater hours later. It’s funny, but I keep thinking about that slow-motion moment underwater when the turtle looked up at me… kind of makes you feel small in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Swim with sea turtles at Akumal beach

• Arrive at Akumal beach
• Use snorkeling equipment
• Swim with sea turtles
• Observe turtles without touching

Top questions

Can children join the swim with sea turtles tour?

Yes, infants and small children can participate and ride in a pram or stroller if needed.

Is snorkeling equipment included on the Akumal tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of the experience.

How deep is the water where we swim with sea turtles?

The snorkeling takes place at about 2 meters depth inside Akumal Bay.

Are there showers and bathrooms available at Akumal Beach?

Yes, bathrooms and showers are included for use after your swim.

Is insurance included for snorkeling activities?

Yes, snorkeling activity insurance is provided during your tour.

Can travelers with limited fitness join this tour?

The activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes entrance to Akumal Beach, all necessary snorkeling equipment (so you don’t need to bring your own), access to bathrooms and showers for freshening up afterwards, lockers for your belongings, plus all fees and taxes covered—and even specialized infant seats if you’re bringing little ones along.