About Akna Restaurant Tulum
Akna Beach Club (also advertised as Akna Beach Restaurant Tulum) is a beachfront restaurant and club built into the Maya Tulum by G Hotels property at KM 5 on the Tulum-Boca Paila road (aknarestaurant.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). It offers a luxury-meets-nature vibe: open-air dining with thatched palapas, Balinese-style daybeds and hammocks right on the sand (aknarestaurant.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The owners describe it as a place “where the beach and gastronomy merge” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In practice, Akna fuses traditional Mexican (especially Mayan-influenced) cuisine with Caribbean flair. Fresh seafood (ceviches, local fish tacos) and healthy bowls feature alongside mixologist-driven drinks – for example, its signature Tamarind Margarita. (aknarestaurant.com ) (aknarestaurant.com ). As part of the new Maya Tulum resort, Akna opened in the mid-2020s. It’s notable in Tulum’s scene for its jungle-inspired design and ocean views. Guests love the “spectacular views of one of the most beautiful beaches” and the poolside chillout areas (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), making Akna both a dining hotspot and a scenic day club in the hotel zone.
Events and Programming
While Akna operates daily as a restaurant, it also turns into a beach-party venue on weekends and holidays. Expect sunset-to-late-night electronic and world-music sets, as well as special themed nights. For example, the international Astradanza collective staged a full-day rainbow-themed party here – on January 8, 2025 DJs like Pech and Regina Tartuffa played from 3PM to 1AM (www.astradanza.com ) (www.astradanza.com ). The club frequently holds curated events: travel blogs note “themed nights and tasting dinners” with paired cocktails or wine menus (aknarestaurant.com ), and every Sunday they host family-style picnics and pool-side brunches (maletadeviajes.com ). Regular events may require advance tickets through promoters (look for announcements on local Tulum event sites or social media). Typically, small parties and resident DJ evenings have no formal ticketing – simply show up early and check with the host stand. In short, Akna offers a mix of gourmet dining, pool lounging by day, and electronic/house music parties at select times. (www.astradanza.com ) (aknarestaurant.com )
Tickets and Booking
For ordinary visits (lunch or dinner), no ticket is needed – you simply walk in or make a reservation. In fact, reservations are recommended on busy weekends. The restaurant takes bookings via the Maya Tulum hotel website or by phone (phone: +52 984 231 7485) (aknarestaurant.com ). There is no separate Akna box office on site; ask the hotel concierge or check the official MayaTulum.com site for best pricing on breakfast/lunch reservations. However, for special events (DJ parties, concerts, tastings) you typically need to buy tickets in advance. These are usually handled online by event promoters (for the January 2025 Astradanza party, tickets were sold through an online ticket vendor (www.ticketfairy.com )). Keep in mind most major events are 18+ or 21+ only – for example the Astradanza show was age-21+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). Door sales on the night of an event are rare if it’s popular, so the best strategy is to buy tickets as soon as the lineup is announced.
Seating and Layout
Akna is entirely open-air and sprawling. There is no formal seating chart or numbered tables – seating is beach-club style. The main dining area consists of tables under palm-thatched palapas facing the ocean, and adjacent to a large round pool. Around the pool and along the beach are cushioned lounge chairs, Balinese beds and swing hammocks (aknarestaurant.com ) (maletadeviajes.com ). Guests often scatter – some sit at the bar, others claim a bed on the sand, and many reserve a table by the water. There are no obstructed views since there’s no stage – DJs typically set up near the pool or on a deck, and music carries over the open air. For best experience, request seating in the shade if you arrive early in the afternoon, or by the beachside pergola in the evening. Avoid sitting too far from the bar if you plan to drink a lot, since servers reach you on foot.
Getting There and Parking
Akna’s address is Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, KM 5 (inside Maya Tulum Hotel) (aknarestaurant.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). This is about a 10–15 minute drive south from Tulum town center. If coming by car, park at the Maya Tulum property – the hotel provides on-site parking (mayabyghotels.tulumehotel.com ). (Parking appears to be complimentary for hotel guests and diners, but confirm with staff so you’re not towed.) Public transport options are limited; local “R-03” or “R-05” colectivo vans run along Boca Paila road, but the stop is still a short walk on sand to the club. Taxis from downtown Tulum or Playa do cover the hotel zone – just tell the driver “Maya Tulum hotel, Km 5” on the Boca Paila highway. Rideshare apps (Uber is unreliable in this area) may drop you at the same location. From the new Tulum airport, expect about a 35-minute drive (maletadeviajes.com ). If you’ll be out late, note there are no local bus services late at night – pre-book a taxi return or use a local shuttle service.
Inside the Venue
On entering Akna Beach Club, prepare for a laid-back tropical atmosphere. There is no formal security line (except on ticketed event nights, where ID checks enforce age limits). Attire is beach-casual: swimwear, shorts and sandals are perfectly acceptable during the day; dinner time sees light resort dress (men often go without shoes in the sandy area). The restaurant has buffet and table service – there are two bars (one by the pool, one on the beach) staffed by mixologists who churn out cocktails and fresh juices. Don’t miss their specialty drinks – for example, the menu highlights a “famous Tamarind Margarita” made with local ingredients (aknarestaurant.com ). The menu is Mexican- and Mayan-inspired, so you’ll find dishes like fresh ceviches, guacamole with tortilla chips, and traditional fish tacos with a Caribbean twist (aknarestaurant.com ). There’s also a selection of healthy salads, bowls and vegetarian options. Akna’s dining area opens right onto the pool: the large circular pool invites guests to lounge with a cocktail, and servers bring food and drinks to the sunbeds. Restrooms are at pool level (casual swim attire is fine). Wi-Fi is not prominently advertised – assume it may not have strong internet, since this is mainly a daytime beach club, not a co-working cafe. The overall vibe is chill and communal – most people come to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Be aware that during peak hours the kitchen and bar can get busy – reviews mention slow service at times (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ) (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ), so plan accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
Akna sits in Tulum’s Hotel Zone, a stretch known for eco-chic clubs and restaurants. Right next door is Maya Tulum’s beachfront pool bar and restaurant sibling, and about 200 meters north is Beso Tulum (another beach club/restaurant). For casual food nearby you can walk up the beach road to find La Eufemia (famous for fish tacos), Raw Love, and a few palapa bars along the sand. Most of Tulum’s downtown dining and nightlife (handicraft markets, Taquerias, clubs, etc.) is about 10–15 minutes’ drive north. The hotel zone is fairly remote otherwise – the nearest market is 150 meters back up the road at the organic La Alumbra market (mayabyghotels.tulumehotel.com ), which offers groceries and local snacks. If you’re staying at one of the nearby vacation rentals, some mention that Kokomo Beach (Cenote Los Corales) and the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve are the next points south. For last-night activities, the only late bars are in town (a short cab ride away). If you need coffee or other services, it’s best to stop in Tulum town first.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike a concrete club or sports bar, Akna’s special character comes from its nature setting and design. It’s built right into the jungle edge of the beach, so guests say the feel is “harmonious and serene” despite being in the busy hotel zone (maletadeviajes.com ). Its architecture blends modern wood structures with Mayan and bohemian accents (cord-wrapped pillars, earthy decor). The view is a star – you’re literally dining or dancing on white sand under palm trees (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (aknarestaurant.com ). Performance artists (DJs, dancers) are drawn to it because it channels that classic Tulum sunrise/sunset vibe. Cultural touches (use of local ingredients, Maya motifs in cocktails, Mayan-inspired menu) give a sense of place. Locally, it matters because it creates jobs and uplifts Maya cuisine in a high-end restaurant context. The Sunday picnic tradition and occasional green-market tie-ins (using local produce) help it connect with nearby residents, not just tourists. In short, Akna is special for delivering a full-sensory Caribbean beachfront experience — beautiful architecture, sounds of waves underfoot, creative Mexican food, and beach parties – all in one spot (aknarestaurant.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: This is a sandy, beachside venue, so accessibility is limited. Sturdy sandals or flat shoes are recommended. Wheelchair access may be difficult on sand, though the main restaurant deck has level flooring. Reservations/Timings: If you plan to go for dinner or a daybed, it’s wise to call ahead for a table or chair (in Spanish “reserva”). Arrive at least 15 minutes early for peak times (especially sunset) to secure good leisure seats. The restaurant typically opens late morning for brunch until early night, and stays open later on party nights. Minimum Spend/Club Fee: Prepare for a beach club minimum. Some reports indicate a required spend of about 700 MXN per person in the lounge area (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ). Ensure you ask about any cover or minimum consumption when you arrive to avoid surprises. Dress Code: Beach resort casual is fine. Bathing suits are allowed (bring a coverup or sarong if you go for dinner). Avoid formal wear – think linen shorts, light summer dress, flip-flops or barefoot. There is no strict dress code beyond “nice casual”. Age Restrictions: All-ages are welcome during regular hours (kids can use the pool), but events are typically 18+ or 21+. Ask venue info. ID may be checked for alcohol or events. Payment/Gratuity: Major credit cards are usually accepted but bring some cash for tips or small purchases. Tipping 10–15% is customary. What to Bring: Sunscreen (reef-safe), a hat and sunglasses for day; a light jacket for evenings (it can cool down). Towels are provided for guests, but double-check. Food Notes: The menu is not cheap ($$–$$$). You can expect appetizers and mains in the 200–400 MXN range. If you have dietary requests (allergies, vegan), those options are available – just alert your server. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume fast service under busy conditions – kitchens can be slow. Don’t wander without ordering – the beach beds and pool are for paying customers only. Finally, always confirm any rules (like hammock use or minimums) up front so you can fully relax. Enjoy the unique sunset dinners or days lounging in this coastal paradise! (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ) (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ).
What is the exact address of Akna Beach Club Tulum?
Akna Beach Club is located at the Maya Tulum Hotel on the south hotel zone road, at KM 5 (sometimes listed as KM 5.7) on Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico (aknarestaurant.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In practice, just give the taxi driver “Maya Tulum hotel” or show this address.
Is there a parking fee at Akna Beach Club?
Akna shares parking with Maya Tulum hotel. On-site parking is available at the hotel’s lot (mayabyghotels.tulumehotel.com ). As of recent reports, there was no charge for parking when dining at the restaurant, but it’s always safest to confirm this with staff on arrival to avoid any changes.
How do I get to Akna Beach Club by bus or taxi?
The easiest way is by taxi or rental car. From downtown Tulum, taxi or colectivos go south on Carretera Boca Paila (no metro or subway exists). Ask to be dropped at “Maya Tulum hotel, KM 5” (aknarestaurant.com ). From Tulum bus terminal, you can take a southbound shuttle or colectivo to Boca Paila road and walk a short way. Rideshare (Uber) is spotty, and no local bus runs at night, so pre-arrange your return if you stay late.
Do I need tickets or reservations to visit Akna?
For dining, Akna is open to all without tickets – just walk in or make a restaurant reservation by calling the hotel or via Maya Tulum’s website. On busy dates, it’s wise to book a table. However, special events and parties do require advance tickets (sold online). If you see a notice of a DJ event, plan to purchase online early since door tickets may not be available once it sells out (www.astradanza.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there a dress code at Akna Beach Club?
Dress is resort-casual. During the day, beachwear (swimsuits, shorts) and flip-flops are fine; for evening dining, people tend to wear light casual attire (dresses, slacks, men often don’t wear shoes on the sand). There’s no strict formal dress code, but avoid athletic gym wear or anything too gritty. Generally, embrace the “boho beachfront” vibe.
What seats or areas do locals recommend?
Opinions vary, but many guests say that seating near the water under a palapa is ideal for views. The pool-level lounge chairs are popular during day parties. If you want shade, try a poolside thatched hut. For dining, a table on the wooden deck (under roof) can be good to avoid sun. Ultimately it’s open-nature, so “best seat” is whatever spot lets you enjoy the ocean breeze.
Are there age restrictions or family policies?
Akna welcomes all ages during regular hours. Families with kids are allowed and even encouraged on designated days (Sunday picnics are family-friendly). However, the DJs and club events are usually 18+ or 21+ only, so check an event’s details. There is no play area, so kids must stay with adults by the pool or beach.
What food and drink options are available?
The menu is upscale Mexican/Caribbean fusion. Expect fresh ceviches, seafood tacos, guacamole, grilled meats, vegetarian bowls and salads. Highlights include a local-spice fish taco and homemade guac (aknarestaurant.com ). On the drinks side, there’s a full bar with creative cocktails (the tamarind margarita is a specialty (aknarestaurant.com )), plus beers and non-alcoholic aguas frescas (hibiscus, cucumber-lime juices). They do not allow outside food or drink into the club area.
Does Akna Beach Club have a cover charge or minimum spend?
According to visitor reports, Akna enforces a per-person minimum spend in the lounge sections. One diner noted a 700 MXN (about $40 USD) per person minimum for day use (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ). They must have forgotten or not seen any sign. To avoid surprises, ask on entry about any cover or spend requirement. During normal meal times (dinner, brunch) it’s unlikely they’ll enforce a minimum beyond ordering food, but it’s best to clarify.
What’s the capacity of Akna Beach Club?
The club size is moderate by beach-club standards. There’s no official public number, but it can seat perhaps 100–150 diners at tables plus dozens more on the sandbeds. On big event days it can probably host a few hundred (including standing-room) in total. It’s not a massive concert hall though – the space is more intimate and open, spreading along the beachfront.
Is Akna Beach Club accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Because Akna is built on the beach, accessibility is limited. The main deck and dining areas are on wooden boardwalks which help, but moving through the soft sand sections (palapa areas, hammocks) is very difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. Some parts have ramps, but many paths are uneven. If accessibility is crucial, call ahead to ask about your specific needs.
Can I use Akna’s facilities (pool) without ordering?
No, the pool and lounge beds are intended for paying guests. Akna does not sell separate day passes just for the pool – you must be a restaurant customer or event ticket-holder to use them. This is typically enforced on busy days. If one of your rental packages includes “free Akna access,” it means you can dine there without a cover; otherwise just order food/drink at full price and enjoy the amenities.
Does Akna Beach Club expire your entry or offer re-entry?
Akna is a restaurant/dayclub, not a gated festival, so re-entry isn’t a formal issue. If you leave to go to your car or nearby hotel, the staff generally lets you back in for the day. However, if there were an event ticket involved, you’d need to keep the wristband or pass. In practice, just check with a server or manager: since it’s not a fenced venue, leaving for a quick errand is usually fine.
What are the opening hours of Akna Beach Club?
Official hours aren’t published, but typically it opens for breakfast/brunch (around 9–10AM) and closes after nightly events. In high season expect service until midnight or 1AM on party nights. Always modernize times from the hotel or event list: for planned parties it listed a 3PM start (www.ticketfairy.com ) in one example, implying earlier guests arrive to eat and lounge. If in doubt, call around noon the day of your visit to confirm hours.
Will it be crowded around sunset or holidays?
Yes, very likely. Akna is famous for its sunset views, so weekend evenings and holidays fill up with both diners and dayguests. Booking in advance is wise for Friday–Sunday evenings. The Sunday “family picnic” bookings can sell out, and any advertised sunset party will attract crowds. Arrive early (late afternoon) if you want first pick of the loungers or tables.
