Yal Ku Lagoon, Akumal

I think Yal Ku Lagoon is a great place to visit for many reasons and it’s a perfect half day adventure. On days when the surf is a bit rough this little bay provides calmer waters. I’ve only been twice and would go again. The last time we went it was somewhat stormy and cool elsewhere. This is a wonderful place for beginning snorkelers for this reason. The entry is easy as you sit on a stairway or platform to put on your fins before dropping into the water. There are lots and lots of fish!I love the cave formations and valleys and felt comfortable swimming in between them  and how it felt adventurous. You will notice an oily look to the water – this is caused from the freshwater meeting the saltwater and it does diminish visibility. The park setting is nice with lovely statues (which I think are done by Fransico Zuniga) and there’s a snack bar & refreshment stand there, but I’d recommended bringing your own lunch and refreshments as it’s a bit pricey for what it is. There are nice shady spots for a tailgate picnic or have an inexpensive lunch at Lucy’s Kitchen before leaving Akumal.

Admission is about $7 per person. Go early to beat the tour buses. I think you can return later in the day after a siesta if you want with your bracelet. Yal Ku Lagoon has bathrooms, change-rooms, lockers and they rent snorkel equipment.  There’s also a snack bar. They also stock life-jackets if you require any.

How to get there – Go through the archway at Akumal and follow the road all the way past the condos and eventually you’ll come to Yal Ku near the end of the road.  It is about 3 miles.