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15 Aug 2022
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Local Tips

One of the most common questions travelers make when planning a vacation to Riviera Maya is “Do I need a car rental in Akumal?”.  Funny enough the answer to this question is in 2 additional questions. What experience are you looking for during your stay and where are you staying?

What Experience Are You Expecting In Riviera Maya? 

Driving in Riviera Maya can be an adventure all on its own. The state of Quintana Roo does use international traffic signs but there are unexpected detours, traffic jams, and constant construction on the one road that connects the coast. If you’re looking for a relaxing and hassle-free vacation you’re probably better off having a shuttle service bus you to and from the airport. Of course, if you would like to go sightseeing during your stay you can always hire a shuttle service or have a car rental delivered to your vacation rental. Just remember to assign someone in your party as the designated driver to avoid getting pulled over and having to negotiate your way out of a ticket in Spanish.

Where In Akumal Are You Staying?

Akumal is a quiet sleepy beach town loved by travelers and sea turtles, composed of the following 5 bays: Halfmoon Bay, Akumal Bay, Jade Bay, South Akumal Bay, and Aventuras Akumal. That said, not all of these Bays are within walking distance of the downtown area where you’ll find Akumal’s restaurants, shops, and grocery stores. 

Guests staying in Yalku Lagoon, Half Moon Bay, and Akumal proper can get to Akumal Bay via Akumal road which is only 1.5 miles. Walking, bikes and golf carts are the most fun way to get around but if you want to explore further out you’ll want a taxi, shuttle, or car rental.

Jade Bay is about a 15-25 minute walk from Akumal Bay and South Akumal Bay is a good 30-40 minute walk to Akumal Bay. Aventuras Akumal is over 3.5 miles from Akumal Bay and so we highly recommend using a car rental or shuttle service to go into downtown Akumal.

Guests wanting to do nothing but enjoy their private villa can have groceries delivered to their door, hire a chef to cook dinner, and use a shuttle service to go sightseeing. Of course, having a car rental delivered to your door will permit you and your party to move more at ease during your stay but you will need to deal with parking.  Read this helpful guide before driving into Akumal.  If you’re planning to walk from bay to bay, be sure to bring sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes as there are rocky areas between each bay.

If you're ready to join us in Akumal or need more details and information for your upcoming vacation contact us and our team will gladly help you find what you are looking for in Riviera Maya.