It is a nice place to snorkel without huge crowds. Parking and bathrooms are on site. Most rental homes and condominiums in Akumal are within walking distance to the lagoon. From the center of town, it is about 1 mile. There is also snorkeling off the main beach in Akumal Bay and some in Half Moon Bay but wear something on your feet.
Most dive facilities rent snorkel equipment.
Xel-ha is 10 minutes south of Akumal. A friend recently said that Xel-Ha is wonderful early in the morning before the tour buses arrive. Full facilities for refreshments, bathrooms and changing rooms. The ruins of Tulum are about 40 minutes from Playa and 20 minutes south of Akumal. The ruins do not have many large trees, so it is best to visit the ruins in the morning or late afternoon and avoid the heat of the day.