Akumal’s Sargassum-Free Beaches: How Teamwork Made It Happen

Tulum, Mexico — The beaches of Akumal Bay remain free of sargassum, a feat that local tourism service providers attribute to coordinated efforts between tour operators, workers in the sector, and local authorities. In recent weeks, intensified cleanup measures have ensured the popular destination maintains its pristine condition.

Sustained Cleanup Efforts Yield Results

According to workers from nautical cooperatives and tour agencies operating in the area, the successful control of massive sargassum influxes stems from constant efforts by hoteliers, employees of the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conamp), nautical service providers, and personnel from the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat) in the municipality. These efforts include daily manual cleaning, timely removal of accumulated seaweed, and a surveillance system that allows for immediate action in case of unusual sargassum arrivals.

“This year, we’ve had better organization. We don’t wait for the sargassum to pile up; we work in shifts starting early in the morning to keep the bay clean,” explained Manuel Jiménez, a snorkeling tour operator in Akumal. “Everyone here contributes, from service providers to hotel workers.”

Tourism Activities Thrive Without Disruption

The ongoing cleanup has not only improved the destination’s image but also ensured that tourist activities—such as turtle sightings, snorkeling, and kayak tours—continue uninterrupted, benefiting both visitors and the local economy.

“People arrive and are surprised to see a beach without sargassum. This helps us maintain stable occupancy and a good reputation,” said Anaí R., a guide with a tourism cooperative. She also noted that keeping Akumal in optimal conditions strengthens the destination’s competitiveness compared to other beaches in the Mexican Caribbean affected by the seaweed.

Challenges Remain, but Preparedness Continues

Tourism service providers agreed that challenges persist but affirmed they are prepared to continue addressing the issue through discipline and collective effort.

The sustained collaboration between stakeholders has positioned Akumal as a model for managing sargassum, ensuring its beaches remain a top choice for travelers.