We traveled with three of our children (14, 12, 10) and stayed in the 'penthouse' for five nights. This was the first time we rented a place - ever - where, as other reviewers have said, we walked in and were like, 'wow - this really is better than the pictures even show!' We felt like there was plenty of space for our family and we spent a lot of time in the penthouse, as well as on the AMAZING roof which has 360 views of the bay, ocean, and jungle. The penthouse was spotless and comfortable. One thing I really appreciated was that there was not a ton of past-rental clutter...you know how stuff just seems to accumulate in a place? They struck a great balance of having things on-hand that were useful, without it feeling like a hoarder's lair. The configuration of the bedrooms - with floor-to-ceiling glass doors and black-out curtains made the entire place feel open and bright and spacious when you wanted, and separate and private when you wanted. The decor, materials, lighting, audio/entertainment is all very well thought out and high-end. And exceptionally clean. The first few nights we slept with the doors open - enjoying cool breezes and the sound of the waves. The last two nights the weather turned a bit steamy, so we ran some AC during the nights - it worked great and everyone was comfortable. Every morning we woke up to a great sunrise and watching the waves and bay. It really just is a magical place. On to some other details that helped convince us this is our go-to place...we are NOT Cancun, Tulum, etc experts - in fact, this was our first time here. BUT, having driven through Cancun, Playa, and Tulum - we are 110% thrilled we discovered Akumal - it is mellow, small, private, quiet, with amazing beaches and snorkeling and fun. I don't think we would look at any other location when we go back - we are already missing Nahil #8 and Akumal. The Nahil condos are very pretty - a lovely entry courtyard, in very good condition, a great pool that our kids loved. And then just steps across the sand to the bay - where we found great snorkeling and saw as many varieties of fish as we've ever seen in Hawaii or British Virgin Islands. The SUPs were SO GREAT to have - and I used them to use as a 'floating island' during our snorkeling adventures in the bay. We loved Yal Ku Lagoon (go early), Cenote Santa Cruz, Coba Ruins & Cenotes (go early). We ate at La Buena Vida, Turtle Bay Cafe, and Taverna - loved it all. Can't wait to go back. Michaela is amazing
