Akumal means 'The Place of the Turtle,' named after the creatures who come and nest on its beaches every year, as they have for centuries. To many the name Akumal holds many positive memories.

There is a tour company giving jungle and cenote trips for adults and children; perfect for more adventurous visitors. Trips to the ruins in Tulum and Coba are only a half day outing and Chichen ltza and other sites can be toured through the travel agency in Akumal as well. Taxi service is available near the entrance to town, as well as public transportation.

There are several fine restaurants in Akumal: Lol-Ha in Akumal Centro, Buena Vida and La Lunita in Half Moon Bay. They offer different cuisine in each, from casual to gourmet with regional specialties. Two small grocery stores are located at the entrance to Akumal, one on each side of the road.

The Ecology Center is next to the Akumal Dive Shop and is an interesting place to spend some time browsing or conversing with local ecologists. The Akumal Bilingual Library is located in the Cancha area and always welcomes visitors.

The scuba diving here is some of the best in the Caribbean with many varied species of fish, turtles, coral and other sealife to be found right off its shores. There are two dive shops here in Akumal to help you with your diving plans and for rentals of snorkel gear.

The snorkeling in Half Moon Bay and Yal-Ku Lagoon can best be described as unbelievably great because of the multitudes of gorgeous, colorful creatures easily seen in clear, shallow water. The dive shop here also offers sailboat cruises, windsurfing, kayaking and other activities.