Yalku Lagoon, in Akumal is one of the most beautiful places for snorkeling in the Riviera Maya. It is a spectacular cove that serves as a natural sanctuary for the reproduction of a great variety of marine species that live in the reefs of the Mexican Caribbean.

The sweet waters that emerge from the bottom of the earth merge here with the salty ocean waters, thus creating ideal conditions for the reproduction and hatching of all sorts of fish. Yalku Lagoon has been for thousands of years, just as other similar formations along the coast, an important factor for the sound development and growth of life in the reefs.

With thousands of multi-colored fish, rocky capricious underwater formations, mangroves and shoals, the Lagoon of Yalku is a delight for those who want to be captivated by watching and exploring the underwater world through a mask and snorkel. This easiness to access the wonderful world of coral reefs without having to incur in the complications and risks of scuba diving, make this a place of enormous interest for the whole family; from little children to grandparents can enjoy of the natural wonders that the Caribbean offers us.

The Lagoon of Yalku is located at the end of North Akumal, and getting there is very simple. You just have to take the road to Akumal Beach and stay on the road that runs along the coast. At the end of this road, after having driven a little over 2kms from the entrance to Akumal Bay, you will find the Lagoon. There is controlled access and you will find many services as are parking, rest rooms and snorkel gear for rent which runs for about US$6.00 per person. This is a very safe place although it is always advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings as it is a public place where many people go to every day.

Another way of enjoying the wonders of this beautiful lagoon is by staying at any of the villas around the Yalku Lagoon. There are multiple options. All of them are very attractive and may lodge families or groups from 6 to 14 people. These Akumal villas are excellent options for first class vacations without spending as much money as you would in a Grand Tourism Hotel, yet having the privacy and tranquility that only a house can provide, while enjoying all the services you would expect during your holidays. As an example, I will describe three of these villas in Akumal:

Casa Azul Riviera: This is one of the first villas built on the shore of the Yalku Lagoon. This villa accommodates up to 14 people. Its interior areas are ample and comfortable, but what is really spectacular about this house, is its outdoor areas. It has beautiful gardens, a very good-sized pool, and a grand palapa next to the pool with a bar that is ideal for gatherings or parties. There are areas with beach sand and pallets to sunbathe as well as two entrances to the Yalku Lagoon; one is to an area where there is no public access so it ends up being an additional natural pool, and the second access is to the public side of the lagoon. This is one of the cheapest houses in the area, and it offers very good quality in its services.

Casa de los Sueños is a smaller house that can accommodate from 6 to 10 people. This house is located at the entrance of the Caribbean ocean so the views from anywhere around the house are simply spectacular. The combination of having a section of the Yalku Lagoon and the immensity of the Caribbean ocean in front of oneself is breathtaking! This house comes with a large patio and a pool facing the ocean. There is also a beautiful garden with a barbecue grill. It is a three-bedroom, one studio house.

The most recent construction in front of the Yalku Lagoon is Villa Gauguin; a villa with a modern style that can accommodate up to 14 guests. This house has floor to ceiling windows throughout its façade that faces the ocean and the lagoon, which makes one feel completely immerse in them. The combination of the avant-garde design and the natural almost intact environment, create a very pleasant sensation. This house is not only beautiful, but it is also comfortable and peaceful: the ideal spot for anyone looking for sound rest in his vacation.

There are many other options to enjoy the lagoon of Yalku, so it is very important in your next visit to the Mayan Riviera to program at least a one day visit to this great and unique place. I can guarantee you an unforgettable experience.