Hotel Akumal Caribe

Hotel Akumal Caribe is a lovely, low-key hotel well situated for tourists on the main Akumal Beach. The hotel was the first resort and beach club in Akumal and is a family-friendly establishment that prides itself on intimate service, eco-friendly practices, and guests that return year after year. Today, it’s ran by the family of Pablo Bush Romero, the man who introduced tourism to Akumal and built it into a major diving capital. The public areas have a relaxed vibe, and the grounds are landscaped with green grass, tropical trees, and stone pathways that lead to the restaurant, beach, main building, and bungalows. The green and white adobe-like exterior of the three-story building speaks to the laid-back nature of the place. The lobby is mostly functional with a gray reception desk, a small couch to relax on, and a small tour information desk. 

The hotel features a prime location on the central beach in the middle of Akumal, a major world class diving destination. The Akumal Dive Center is just next door. The beach in front of the hotel is well-known for good snorkel conditions, with large and small turtles. There are restaurants, bars, and shops within a short stroll from the property. The hotel is about a 33-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and a 23-minute drive to the Mayan Ruins of Tulum. It’s an hour- and 45-minute drive to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and 28 minutes by car to the Xcaret eco-park. Cancun International Airport is an hour-and 15-minute drive away.  

The hotel’s rooms have a modern feel that combines tiled floors, beds with soft yellow and brown bedding, and dark streamlined furniture. All are complete with a balcony or patio and many have lovely ocean views or beach access. The bungalows, on the other hand, are clean but a bit dated in decor with yellow and green bedding, adobe-colored tiled floors, and worn wooden furniture. Amenities in all rooms include free Wi-Fi, safes, air-conditioning, fans, kettles, mini-fridges, a few beach towels, ironing equipment, and free large jugs of filtered water. All rooms lack flat-screen TVs, allowing for guests to somewhat disconnect on vacation. Some rooms and bungalows offer kitchenettes with two-burner stovetops, sinks, and microwaves. Bathrooms are modern with tan tiles, showers covered by shower curtains, Yuc Herbal toiletries, and hairdryers. 

Hotel Akumal Caribe provides a good selection of features for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There’s the beach in front of the hotel where guests can grab chairs and a thatch-style umbrella from the on-site attendant. It’s not a private beach and it can get crowded at times, due to its reputation for excellent snorkeling conditions. The beach bar provides snacks, drinks, and happy hour for guests. There’s an outdoor pool with loungers and a cabana with hammocks. A small spa provides four treatment rooms, massages, and beauty treatments. A free continental breakfast buffet is offered daily, while made-to-order dishes can be ordered separately for a fee. The Lol-Ha restaurant has a diverse menu of Mexican dishes and international cuisine, but it’s closed on Saturdays for dinner. Entertainment is occasionally provided in the restaurant. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available. There are also two golf carts available to rent.