Welcome to Akumal, one of the most unique vacation destinations in the Riviera Maya! Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, connect with the local community, and unwind far from the hustle and bustle of the big resort towns like Tulum, Coba, Valladolid, and Playa del Carmen. Whether you’re lounging on pristine beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or marveling at nature parks, Akumal offers an authentic escape. But before you dive into all that paradise, let’s talk restrooms. Yup, we’re going there—because, hey, we want you to have the best vacation ever, and that includes keeping things running smoothly (pun intended).

The Lowdown on Akumal’s Restroom Facilities

Unlike the massive resorts with their own water treatment plants, most of Akumal’s charming, privately-owned vacation rentals operate on a septic system. This means we need to be a bit more mindful when it comes to what we flush down the toilet.

Many villas in Akumal ask guests to throw toilet paper in the bin rather than flushing it. We know it might feel a little unusual if you’re used to the luxury of a city sewer system, but trust us—it’s all part of keeping Akumal’s stunning environment in tip-top shape. This small act helps prevent septic clogs, keeping everything fresh and functioning during your stay.

Septic Systems: Not as Archaic as You Might Think

Septic systems might seem unfamiliar if you usually travel the well-trodden path, but they’re actually quite common worldwide. In rural areas across the United States and Canada, many homes and vacation properties rely on septic systems, and they are the norm throughout the Caribbean islands, where eco-friendly living is a way of life. In fact, they’re also standard in sought-after destinations like the Greek Islands, Bali, and parts of rural France and Italy. So, when you stay in Akumal, you’re part of a global practice that supports sustainable and localized livin

But What About the High-End Villas?

Now, for those of you lucky enough to stay in one of our swankier properties—great news! These villas are generally equipped with systems that can handle toilet paper, but (and this is a big but) in reasonable quantities. Think of it as practicing a bit of toilet paper conservation: no giant wads, and absolutely no feminine products or other non-biodegradable items down the pipes, please.

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Hey, things happen—even in paradise! If you encounter any plumbing hiccups, don’t stress. Our villas have on-site staff ready to handle any situation, no matter how awkward it might seem. So, if a mishap does occur, let them know—they’ve seen it all, and they’ll get things back on track in no time.

Why We Do This: Protecting Akumal’s Beauty

By being mindful of how we use the facilities, we’re all doing our part to protect the environment and preserve the charm of Akumal. Every guest’s small effort adds up, helping us maintain a pristine, eco-friendly destination where we can all enjoy the natural beauty without the added stress of plumbing issues.

So, when you visit Akumal, think of it as part of the adventure—connecting with nature, respecting local practices, and making sure you leave nothing behind but footprints in the sand. And while you’re embracing these local customs, be sure to check out our guide on tipping in Akumal. It’s another way to support the community and show appreciation for the service provided during your stay.

Enjoy your stay in Akumal and remember—if in doubt, bin it out!

Contact us for more information and details about visiting Akumal at hola@akumalmx.com, and we’ll gladly help you find the information you need.