Akumal... Pearl of the Caribbean

It is known that the turtles return to the land where they were born to spawn or mate, but what is surprising is that two of these species have chosen as permanent home Akumal beach. Could be by the temperature of water, or its vegetation, the thing is they´re right to do so, because of the extraordinary beauty of this place.

The inhabitants of Akumal, the so called “secret of the Riviera Maya”, have always been concerned of environment and even though it was the first place to be developed at the Riviera Maya, it still has its primitive character.
It all began in the fifties when a Mayan family named Tun built a cottage at the front sea and the only way to get there was by mule.

The turquoise waters of the sea kept for hundred of years a shipwreck “El Matenceras" or “Our Lady of miracles”. This galleon attracted the attention of a group of American divers seeking for treasures. Finally in 1958 one of them, Paul Bush astonished with the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean decided to settle there, buying big portions of the land and avoiding the plundering of the treasures.

The bay is like a shallow pool that has no end, ideal for children. In addition, near the reef, one of the favorite activities is to live with the turtles in its natural habitat. In the Mayan language, Akumal means "place of turtles." Biologists say that 7 of the 8 species of sea turtles in the world reach the Mexican coast. The species "white and loggerhead" chose Akumal as a site for breeding, spawning and permanent home. So, if you visit the site, find out the various activities in which you can take part with the care of turtles.

On the other hand, what I love about Akumal is a beautiful pond with clear waters called "Yalku". Water flows amid rocks and marine vegetation. There you can dive or snorkel with hundreds of multicolored fish and more capricious forms as home-makers of all types of corals, such as fans, brain, among others. In addition to seeing species of crustaceans, shells and anemones, there are over 600 species of marine life. This superb coral reef system is part of the Mexican Caribbean, the second largest in the world.

Talking of environmental matters, it is important to mention that the Akumal Ecological Center has a Marine Protection Program of the reef which includes the care of all living species, a Water Quality Program for the Bays and Wetland Areas, which is promoting the sustainability of water in the area and also a Sustainable Development Program of Low Impact, Environmental Education and Communication addressed to the community and visitors, for more information Visit http://www.ceakumal.org

Now you're ready to enjoy the red and purple sunsets, clear waters, dancing palm trees, and excellent lodging options, seafood, water sports and above all, enjoy this paradise that is saved as treasure and be called the pearl of the Caribbean.

Until next time!

Author: Julio García Castillo
Edition: Alejandra Aguilar

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