Open cenote · Akumal
Cenote Xunaan Ha
- Type
- Open cenote
- Area
- Akumal
- Entry fee
- Check at entrance
- Hours
- Daytime, check locally
Xunaan Ha is a small, community-run open cenote in the village of Chemuyil, between Akumal and Tulum. It is quiet, shady and simple, with clear water, fish and turtles often reported.
Cenote Xunaan Ha is one of the best cenotes in Akumal in our guide to cenotes in Mexico.
What the name means
Xunaan Ha is usually translated as 'lady of the water' or 'goddess of water' in Maya. Local families look after the cenote and keep it simple.
Part of a large cave system
The cenote opens into a long underwater cave network that cave divers have mapped for decades. Swimmers and snorkelers stay in the open pool, while trained divers can enter the caves with a guide.
Swimming and snorkeling
The water is clear, with shallow edges and a deeper centre. Fish and turtles are often seen. Life jackets can be rented, and there are basic toilets and parking.
Getting there
Turn into Chemuyil village from Highway 307 between Akumal and Tulum and follow the signs through the streets. Taxis from Akumal or Tulum also work.
What to do at Cenote Xunaan Ha
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
Highlights
- Community-run
- Few visitors
- Clear water with fish
How to get to Cenote Xunaan Ha
Location: In Chemuyil village, west of Highway 307, a few minutes south of Akumal.
Turn into Chemuyil from Highway 307 and follow signs through the village; colectivos stop at the Chemuyil turn-off.
Cenote Xunaan Ha entrance fee and hours
Entry: we have not found a reliable, current price for Cenote Xunaan Ha yet. Ask at the Akumal entrance and bring cash in pesos.
Hours: Cenote Xunaan Ha opens in daytime only; confirm hours locally before you go.
How far is Cenote Xunaan Ha?
Approximate driving times to the Akumal cenote area (car, normal traffic):
- Akumal to Cenote Xunaan Ha: 5–15 min
- Tulum to Cenote Xunaan Ha: 25 min
- Playa del Carmen to Cenote Xunaan Ha: 30 min
- Cancún to Cenote Xunaan Ha: 1 h 20 min
- Valladolid to Cenote Xunaan Ha: 1 h 50 min
Plan your visit to Cenote Xunaan Ha
- Time needed: 1–2 hours at the cenote, more if you combine it with nearby cenotes.
- Best time to go: Early morning (before about 10 am) for calm water and fewer people; weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Packing: see what to bring to a cenote.
Is Cenote Xunaan Ha worth visiting?
Yes, if you are looking for quiet swim, snorkeling, avoiding crowds. At Cenote Xunaan Ha you can do: swimming, snorkeling.
Tips and rules for visiting
- Bring cash.
- Few facilities; bring water and snacks.
- Shower before swimming.
Nearby cenotes
See all the best cenotes in AkumalLearn more: Wildlife in cenotes, Types of cenotes
Cenote Xunaan Ha FAQs
Where is Cenote Xunaan Ha?
In Chemuyil village, between Akumal and Tulum, just off Highway 307.
Is Xunaan Ha crowded?
Usually not; it is one of the quieter cenotes on the coast.
What type of cenote is Cenote Xunaan Ha?
Cenote Xunaan Ha is an open cenote. Xunaan Ha is a small, community-run open cenote in the village of Chemuyil, between Akumal and Tulum.
What can you do at Cenote Xunaan Ha?
Popular activities at Cenote Xunaan Ha: swimming, snorkeling.