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Akumal and Playacar continue to show just how important their place is in the tourism of the Riviera Maya.
Out of all the destinations in Mexico, these two mini-powerhouses are leading the nation in occupancy and continuous popularity.
That may sound like tourism industry mumbo jumbo, but between them, they haven’t dropped below 86.6% occupancy.
For such small destinations, that kind of continuous popularity is rare. In a part of the world dominated by Cancun and Playa del Carmen, you can’t help but wonder…
What makes these two small towns so attractive to travelers?
Akumal
Meaning “place of turtles” in Mayan, Akumal lives up to its name, providing an amazing experience for both wildlife lovers and sun-seekers alike.
With its protected bays, a rare plus in the Riviera Maya, visitors have the incredible opportunity to swim alongside majestic sea turtles, observing these peaceful creatures in their natural habitat.
The crystal-clear waters reveal colorful coral reefs that not even Bob Ross could beat.
@wayak_viajes Sí buscas la experiencia de nadar con tortugas 🐢 Akumal es el mejor destino 🌊♥️ ¿Te gustaria recibir mayor información de nuestros viajes🤭? ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️ 📲 477-684-7543 https://wa.me/message/NOUCUV6USX4DP1 📲 📩 [email protected] ✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅✅ ✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️✈️ 🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎 🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎🌎 ➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰➰ #frasesviajeras #mujeresviajeras #viajera #frasesdeviajes #viajero #viajes #viajaporelmundo #disfrutar #lugaresdeensueño #lugaresquedebesconocer #conociendoelmundo #paisajeshermosos #mexico #méxicosorprendente #mexicowey #frasesmotivadoras #quotes #travel #frases #conociendoyucatan #viajar #viajandoconfamilia #frasesdeviajes #frasesviajeras ♬ Stories 2 – Danilo Stankovic
These coral reefs are a playground for those adventurous enough to try snorkeling and diving. The prize of an underwater wonderland awaits the brave.
The destination of Akumal has embraced eco-tourism to the fullest, ensuring the delicate balance between an awesome vacation experience and the protection of the natural environment.
With strict regulations in place, visitors can bask in the beauty of Akumal’s marine ecosystem while actively participating in its conservation.
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@monagyns Swimming with turtles 🐢💦🐚💚 #turtle #akumal #mexico #swim #fyp ♬ this is what falling in love feels like – JVKE
More Than Just Turtles
But Akumal is more than just turtles. The destination boasts a unique charm that captures the essence of the area’s rich heritage.
Unlike the large, commercialized destinations of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Akumal maintains a personal and laid-back vibe.
The absence of imposing super-resorts and busy crowds allows travelers to unwind in a perfect oasis. In Akumal, relaxation and rejuvenation take center stage.
The magical destination of Akumal is where paradise and Maya charm meet to create an unforgettable vacation.
@nicolemidwest I still can’t believe we shot a family session in Akumal, Mexico. 😱 #travelphotographer #familyphotoshoot #momtok ♬ Island In The Sun – Weezer
Playacar
For travelers who want to remain close enough to Playa del Carmen to enjoy the bustling nightlife but far enough away to maintain the calm Caribbean vibe, Playacar is perfection.
Whether travelers are seeking a relaxed beachfront vacation, a golfer’s paradise, or a beautiful base to explore the wonders of the Riviera Maya, Playacar delivers an extraordinary experience.
Looking at a map, it can be easy to confuse Playacar and Playa del Carmen. Its big sister, Playa del Carmen, has grown at an explosive rate over the last 20 years.
But don’t be fooled; Playacar is its own destination. The vibe, the scenery, and the approach to tourism here will confirm that to any travelers lucky enough to vacation here.
Not to mention it is situated in its own super secure gated community.
@priscillaono My review on #palmia resort in #playacar #allinclusive #mexico #houseofaia #rivieramaya ♬ original sound – Priscillaono
Why Not Just Choose Playa Del Carmen?
Like its neighbor Akumal, a commendable balance between nature and humanity has been struck here in spite of its neighbor status with Playa del Carmen.
This feeling of harmony between the two is rare in the modern world, and it can’t help but be wondered if we’re reaping the rewards of the Mayan culture and its close relationship to the nature around it.
Playacar’s luxury offerings and world-class amenities further differentiate it from its neighboring destinations.
Exclusive resorts and boutique hotels cater to travelers who want Dubai levels of luxury, offering one-off resorts, exceptional dining experiences, and stress-busting spa treatments.
The renowned golf course designed by Robert Von Hagge brings golf enthusiasts from all over the world with its challenging fairways and breathtaking views.
@eboomtrip Tú y tu pareja merecen #lomejor#Disfruta #Lujosas#habitaciones #PlayadelCarmen#PlayacarPalace#playacar #playa#mexico🇲🇽#Hotelesdelujo#PalaceResorts ♬ sonido original – MY MUSIC LIFE
Why Akumal And Playacar Are Special
Akumal and Playacar are the poster children of perfect destinations in Mexico. They offer a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural exploration.
Akumal draws visitors with its perfect beaches, turquoise waters, and the opportunity to swim alongside graceful sea turtles. Its commitment to eco-tourism ensures a respectful experience with the undersea world.
@kateinmontreal Follow for more travel tips! #cancun #mexico #traveltiktok #tropicaltravel ♬ original sound – bestspedup
Playacar, on the other hand, blows the big shooters of Playa del Carmen and Cancun out of the water with its exclusive luxury resorts, world-class golf course, and a pulse slowing vibe that allows for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Both destinations continue to prove that this corner of Mexico offers much more than cheap cocktails and super-complex resorts.
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