I have stayed at Akumal twice and was happy both times, but Tulum looked nice too, just a little older. Not run down or anything, but you could tell it was probably the first phase of Bahia. I think Akumal is all junior suites, where Tulum has junior suites and rooms. My sis-in-law stayed at Tulum Diamond Club and she loved the private pool. We're actually thinking of trying Tulum next time simply because it was within walking distance of the Hacienda. Good luck! I'll be reading to see what others contribute!

Thanks for the info Frekkles, much appreciated!

We adore the Tulum side. We have travelled there twice and now for our third visit we are staying on the Akumal side. The Tulum was totally booked (there are 11 of us travelling) so we are on the Akumal side. Still looking forward to it as it is our favourite resort (and we travel extensively). We have stayed in Villa 15 and 17 on the Tulum side and it is perfect for us. While the Tulum side is 1.5 years older (or thereabout) it is more established (i.e. flaura and fauna) and we prefer that. Also the Akumal bar on the Tulum side (main bar) is all open air whereas the Akumal side is glassed in. We prefer to sit there in the early morning having our coffee and hearing the birds and, of course, feeding them muffins.

Tulum is the only way to go. The beach is amazing and there is so much to do for us kids. They have a wonderful kids club and a mini disco that is really wonderful. I think you would really enjoy your vacation better if you stayed at Tulum, afterall you can always still visit Akumal!!!

Best of luck!!!!

Don't ya just love people who reply to a post that is 9 months old?

why do people keep saying tulum's beach is better than akumal's? uh, no it isn't......

We liked the Tulum side, but I must say the whole resort is great. Either choice you make would be fine.

ARggh! My bad, didn't note the orginal post date. Any way this forum has been kind of quite lately.