See full version: Best Places to Snorkel and Swim with Sea Turtles
Finally, you may be able to see large Leatherback turtles nesting between the months of March and May, and by the Pacific coast from September and March. Despite their large size, they are a vulnerable species and seeing one is rare even during peak season. A few locations to see them are the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park.
Second, remember that most sea turtle species are endangered, and there are probably some strict laws in place that protect them. Furthermore, you should never attempt to touch them. Sea turtles can bite, and they may attack you if they feel threatened. You may also get fined for not keeping a safe distance, so stay at least 5-10 feet away (if the turtles even allow you to get so close).
Off the coast of Jamaica you can find the Hawksbill turtle and Green turtle in the waters. Specifically, turtles tend to nest on the north coast around Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Kingston Harbour’s Palisadoes Spit.
The Maldives are nothing short of a dream come true for underwater adventures. Made up of thousands of islands surrounded by coral reefs, the Maldives is a treasure-trove of life. Turtles are everywhere, and we mean everywhere here. There is nowhere you can really go in the Maldives without having a chance to swim with sea turtles. Ari Atoll, one of the largest atolls (a ring-shaped lagoon surrounded by islets) of the Maldives archipelagos is a favourite for snorkelers and divers, just because of its size and the amount of life attracted to this region of the country.
Do not enter the water too close to a sea turtle. Maintain a distance of at least 10 metres. Approach slowly and keep your distance. Back off if they start to show signs of distress like swimming away quickly, and do not chase them. more
The Great Barrier Reef is an exceptional ecosystem. Sea turtles are found here in their droves. It’s difficult to visit anywhere on the Great Barrier Reef without being able to swim with a sea turtle. Lady Elliot Island is an exceptional area of an exceptional destination. This remote island offers some of the best snorkelling and diving experiences anywhere on Earth, and that includes swimming with turtles. here
Fact: Biggest Habitat Range
Leatherback Sea Turtle
Which Sea Turtles Can You Swim With? more
You can only swim in the bay from 9 am to 5 pm [links]
Akumal beach is closed every Monday [links]
Akumal is located 16 miles/27 km north of Tulum or 24 miles/39 km from Playa del Carmen. This makes it an easy and quick trip from either. Plus, there are many things other than swimming with Turtles to do in Akumal - you should really make a whole day of it! While in Akumal check out Yal-ku a great cenote and natural aquarium for snorkeling. There are also many restaurants and bars in Akumal!
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get to Akumal, your best bet is to take the colectivo from the colectivo station in Playa del Carmen. The colectivo station in Playa del Carmen is located on Calle 2 Norte between Avenida 15 and 20. Look for the man yelling "Tulum". The colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Akumal takes approximately 25-30 minutes and costs 35 pesos per person for a one-way journey. You will be dropped off underneath a white bridge with a pedestrian overpass. All you have to do is walk up the stairs and across the bridge. Once on the other side, walk straight down the road towards the beach about a half mile or so and you’ll arrive at Akumal Bay. To take the colectivo back simply wait on the opposite side of the road you were dropped off on. I am not sure of colectivo options from Tulum.
Tourists must maintain a minimum distance of 3 meters (10 ft) from the back of each turtle, without exceeding the observation time of five minutes
If you don't join a tour. BRING YOUR OWN SNORKEL EQUIPMENT. Before you leave buy some for a reasonable price on Amazon. or once in Mexico head to a local store and grab some. If you wait till you arrive in Akumal you will pay about $18 - $20 to rent the snorkel equipment for the day. Pricey. here
Get to snorkel with marine turtles in Akumal, were the second largest reef in the world is located and get to discover the sacred waters of a marvelous Cenote.
During this tour you really get the chance to immerse yourself in the sealife of Akumal, Mexico! Come and make this experience a memory for a lifetime! more
Akumal, means "Place of the Turtles" in the Maya. Akumal is located 100km (62 miles) south of Cancun in the heart of the Riviera Maya. In the natural protected area you get the opportunity to snorkel and enjoy the amazing Marine Turtles and the very colorful fish at the second largest reef in the world.