Xcacel Beach and Nearby Activities:
Xcacel is where the turtles come to hatch on the beach each year during nesting season. Xcacel is a pure, secluded stretch of white sand set against the turquoise sea and has received honors as one of the finest beaches in all of Mexico. This secluded beach is a hidden gem in the Riviera Maya and is a short walk from Chan Chemuyil. With powder-soft white sand and pure blue tropical water this is a relaxing and tranquil beach. It is maintained by a local Mayan family who ask for a small donation to help assist in their efforts. Enjoy privacy while swimming, snorkeling and other beach activities. Enjoy a turtle walk at Xcacel or snorkel with the turtles in Akumal Bay, just a short 5 minute drive. Nearby Yal-Ku Lagoon also provides an aquarium-like setting for snorkeling in serene, crystal clear seas. The infamous Xel-Ha eco-park, where you take a lazy river ride or jump off a rope swing into the lagoon, is practically across the street!
Snorkeling and Swimming:
Akumal is one of the most popular snorkeling areas in the Caribbean and is famous for an array of giant sea turtles, stingrays, barracudas, moray eels and a variety of tropical fish. The dive shop on the north end of the beach offers rental equipment for snorkeling and scuba diving trips to several reefs. The small seaside town contains several restaurants, a grocery story and gift shop. Yal-ku Lagoon offers great snorkeling in an open aquarium-like setting with calm water. Cost is approx. $8 per person. Snorkel rentals available there or the Akumal Dive Shop.
When swimming in the cenotes and lagoons DO NOT use regular sunscreen. It is a requirement that you must use Eco-friendly biodegradable sunscreen to avoid coral bleaching. The staff will check!
Mayan Ruins of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza:
Tulum is the site of Mayan ruins located atop cliffs with breathtaking views of the tropical blue water. Originally built as a fort for defense against invasion, the site now attracts more than 8000 visitors per day. El Paraiso beach is renowned as a backdrop for photo shoots. Tulum Pueblo has a cultural downtown experience with restaurants that serve local cuisine at reasonable prices.
Coba is a newly unearthed Mayan ruins site west of Tulum. This is where you can climb the steps of the largest castle in the Yucatan for an amazing view of the Jungle. The ruins are scattered over hundreds of acres, so the bicycle rentals are recommended for getting around the entire landscape.
Chichen Itza is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. Approximately 100 miles from Chan Chemuyil. Take 307 south to Tulum and a right on Coba road west, through the town of Valladolid. Get there early to beat the tour buses and get great photos without people in the way
Other Activities:
Tulum Mayan Ruins, Xel-Ha, Hidden Worlds/Dos Ojos cenotes and caverns, Coba Mayan Ruins, Xcaret, kayaking, spa, Sian Kaan biosphere, Yal-Ku Lagoon
