Akumal is a small resort town outside Tulum. 'Akumal' means 'land of the turtles' and the they are among the abundant marine life that teems the reefs of the white sandy beaches here. We take some time to enjoy the sea before continuing on to Tulum.
Sitting atop 40 foot cliffs overlooking the sea, the ruins at Tulum were once part of the complex for this walled Mayan city that served as a major port for Coba. Tulum was one of the last cities to be inhabited by the Mayans, and they continued some seven decades after the arrival of the Spaniards. We visit El Castillo, The Temple of the Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God. The beach at Tulum is protected for nesting sea turtles.
We're bringing lunch from the Pitted Date, a beautiful and charming little cafe in Playa del Carmen.
After exploring the ruins of Tulum, we drive the hour back to Playa del Carmen where you're free to enjoy the remainder of the afternoon sunning, swimming, shopping, sleeping or...something else.
If you do nap, don't oversleep your alarm because tonight we're having dinner at Clorofila, a restaurant that's been described as a 'happy, relaxed atmosphere' complete with recycled furniture, From sushi to pizza and even a vegan cheese platter, this diverse menu has something for everyone.