Weather Overview
With the calendar turning from April to May, Akumal and the region surrounding it are going from the dry season to the wet one. As a result, visitors will need to consult an extended forecast before leaving home to make sure they have the proper gear packed in order to stay dry while on holiday. On the other hand, however, the crowds are generally not as thick during the down season and some good deals can be had for both hotels and flights.
Despite the extra cloud cover and rain, temperatures continue to climb as the summer season is just one month away. In fact, the average daily temperature for the month is a very warm 28°C (82°F). Average overnight temperatures are also very warm with lows only falling to 24°C (75°F). Thanks to the area's location in the middle of the tropics, there isn't a lot of difference between the overnight temperatures and afternoon highs. Without wild temperature swings from the morning to the night, afternoon highs will climb to an average of 31°C (88°F). Additionally, the region will experience an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day so visitors will need to pack plenty of sunscreen in order to fully enjoy their holiday.
Even with 8 hours of sunshine, rain chances are on the rise. During the month, the region will experience an average of 108mm of precipitation. This rain is expected to fall over a period of 7 days. While much of the month is still dry, the rainfall can be unpredictable and drive visitors indoors for a period of time.
If the weather is cooperating, now is the perfect time to hit the beach and enjoy water temperatures that average 28°C (82°F). With numbers like these visitors are able to take advantage of the region's beautiful beaches throughout the month.
Where to Stay
Combining modern architecture with elegance, the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort & Spa is located in one of the most pristine parts of the region. This all-inclusive resort features a number of different room types, each with plenty of amenities. The all-inclusive feature includes breakfast, lunch and dinner at one of the resorts seven restaurants. Additionally, there are nine bars, including two of the swim up variety, gym, daily and nightly entertainment and room service.
The Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa is the perfect place for a May holiday. Made up entirely of suites, this five-star resort is sure to bring guests back again and again. In all, there are 210 junior suites, 12 Mayan suites and 42 suites for families of all sizes. Guests may also enjoy the nine pools, including the one saltwater pool, baby club and adult disco. Additionally, there are numerous sports and activities to partake in on a daily basis.
Located in the heart of Akumal, the Hotel Akumal Caribe is a great choice for those looking for luxury while not breaking the bank. There are numerous room styles to choose from including conventional rooms all the way to private bungalows. You will be assured of a carefree holiday thanks to the attention of the well-trained staff and numerous daily activities to participate in.
Hit the Beach
For those looking to spend some quality family time at the beach, Paamul is a great choice. As May is the last month to experience 8 hours of sunshine per day, now is a good time to spend some time soaking up the rays and exploring the coral reefs located just offshore. This small area is located just 20 minutes north of Akumal and is a great location to go snorkeling or go a step further and have the local dive shop take you out scuba diving. There is also a nearby restaurant and pool located right on the beach to keep everyone in the family happy.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Que Onda is a small restaurant that is easily missed, but shouldn't be, especially if you are looking for top-notch food at inexpensive prices. With excellent spring rolls, tiramisu, and tortas, guests should also not miss taco Sunday. Guests will not only enjoy excellent food, but also experience excellent service where the staff are happy to help suggest a dish for everyone's taste. However, be sure to bring cash as credit cards are not accepted.
Those who are up early will want to check out Loncheria Akumalito for breakfast. If you can't get up that early, there is no worry as the restaurant also serves an outstanding lunch and dinner. This is also the perfect casual location as most guests seat themselves around the counter and watch the world go by while enjoying complimentary chips and salsa and waiting on their main dish.
Mamita's Beach Club in Playa del Carmen is known as one of the hottest spots in the region. With a champagne bar, world-class events and 650 feet of beachfront property, there is a lot to like about this club. Open 365 days a year, visitors can get just about anything they desire from the well-stocked bar and enjoy some great views at the same time.
Things to Do
One of the best things to do while in Akumal is to explore the city. With an average daily temperature in May of 28°C (82°F) and good rain chances, now may be a good time to head in from the beach and see what the city has to offer. There are any number of good restaurants and bars to stop into if the rain gets too bad. There are also plenty of shops that sell anything from t-shirts to antiques for you to take home and help you remember your trip.
For those looking to learn a little more about the wildlife in the region and conservation efforts, be sure to spend some time at the Akumal Ecological Center. The people who work at the center are dedicated to raising awareness about and helping to protect the area's ecosystem. Open on a daily basis, guests can enter for a donation and learn more about the area's teaming plant and animal life
