Snorkeling in Akumal

It's hard to play on the beach and in the ocean all day, without wondering what you're not seeing under the surface of the water. This is why so many people are interested in snorkeling during their vacation in Akumal. There are so many places to snorkel and so many things to see, everybody who visits Akumal should make snorkeling a big part of their trip.

Even though you can buy snorkeling gear in Akumal, it's nice to do your shopping before your vacation so you can make sure you buy everything you need, and so you know you're buying a quality product. You should buy a high-end diving mask so water doesn't leak in and burn your eyes during your snorkeling trip. I can't stress mask quality enough, nothing is worse than clearing the water out of your mask every five minutes because you got low quality gear. It's worth spending a few extra dollars to make this experience has comfortable as possible.

You don't need an expensive snorkel, but it's nice having one with a water filter on top. This way you can dive underwater and not gag on a bunch of salt water when you return to the surface. Many people only swim on the surface of the water while they're snorkeling and therefore don't need an expensive snorkel.

Flippers for your feet are nice to have because you can swim faster and more easily with them on, but consider this before going into the ocean with your flippers. Coral reefs are being damaged all the time from people standing on them to catch their breath while they snorkel. The coral is a very important part of the ecosystem in the ocean for fish and many other animals. The more coral that gets destroyed, the less there is to see on your snorkeling trip. So be nice and think twice before you put on those flippers and dive into the ocean.

If some of your gear gets lost or broken on your trip, don't worry. The Akumal Dive Center and The Akumal Dive Shop both sell all kinds of snorkeling gear. The prices will probably be a little higher than in the United States, but only by a few dollars. You won't go broke replacing broken snorkel gear. Something that costs $12 in the states will cost around $15 in Akumal.

You can also try something very few people try, and that's night snorkeling. All you need is your snorkel gear and a flashlight. Some snorkel masks can have a light attached to them so you have light anywhere you turn your head. Hand held lights will be cheaper but equally effective. Snorkeling at night will give you a chance to see creatures that only come out at night, like the octopus. You can rent a halogen light at the Akumal Dive Shop for $12 per day.

Because you're close to the equator (and closer to the sun), it's important to wear sunscreen and even a shirt so avoid getting sunburned. Nothing can ruin a vacation like having a bad sunburn on your back and neck.

There are many different places to snorkel in Akumal, all of which have their ups and downs. Some cost money but have tons of wild-life, some are free with no wild-life, and some are free with tons of wild-life! You just have to know where to look.