Condo

Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet

Photo gallery for Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet

The Best Views and Access of Half Moon Bay, Seaweed Free!
Our Beach is Twice the Size as Others With Plenty of Loungers and Palapas
And a Beautiful New and Large Pool that Even has a Sunning Ledge
Gorgeous Beach Views When You Just Open the Door
Views, Views Everywhere!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pool
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Akumal, QROO
  • Yal-ku Lagoon
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Half Moon Bay
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Akumal Beach
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Tulum, Quintana Roo (TUY)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Garden Bedroom

1 King Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

On Suite Master Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet

This is Cen Balam: Cherished for years, this lovely two- bedroom, two-bath La Sirena #5 is a corner unit located directly on Half Moon Bay, Akumal in between the beach and the complex's beautiful, tropical gardens, which surround the large, blue- tile lined pool, with both a lap lane and a sunning ledge.

Experience the best of the Mayan Riviera here: the snorkeling, the food (from restaurants or your own kitchen), the local renowned craftsmanship, and of course the sunset views, all in a quiet tropical beachfront setting.

Cen Balam's owners love this part of the world and have traveled throughout Latin America collecting amazing, one-of-a-kind Latin American artwork. This artwork adorns the condo and is it's focal point. Exotic objet d'art include Mayan wood carvings, oil paintings of local flora and fauna, and Guatamalen weavings. All beautifully displayed.

With the floor to ceiling windows and patio on the beach side, and the multiple patios on the courtyard side, panoramic views abound. White sand and the turquoise waters of the bay, and sea beyond, amazing garden views of flora and fauna, and the jungle beyond dominate.

Inside, each of the two bedrooms has a very comfortable king- size bed, with quality linens and wonderful detail, and each has its own private patio. The two accompanying bathrooms are well equipped, as is the kitchen, indoor dining area, living area, and outdoor dining area on the beach side patio.. There is even a mini-office for that work day or e-mail!

As travelers ourselves we have adapted our policies to be much more supportive than the standard, including more flexible payment and cancellation options. We have also implemented the most modern current cleaning protocols. And our staff are dedicated only to us, they don't move around to other complexes... Less exposure. Finally our complex is twice the size as others, with the same number of units. So social distancing is natural. Check out our website for details!

Everything is provided for a stress free vacation: Free parking, Wifi, daily maid service (except on Sunday), unlimited bottled water delivered to the unit, full air conditioning, satellite TV, all linens, including beach towels, and so much more!

Make sure to look at our other 2 bedroom listings and their reviews VRBO # 44902 #4523903 and VRBO # 4315869.

DETAILS
Cen Balam (Cave of the Jaguar) was intended as a private second home and has only recently become available as a vacation rental. The owners and guests love the second-floor, corner location, with its feeling of increased privacy and security, and its views over Half-Moon Bay and the Caribbean beyond.

The condo's design and location provides wonderful flow-through sea breezes. There is also A/C throughout, and ceiling fans in all rooms, including the open-air beach front beach front patio. Cen Balam is also one of the few units in the area that have the finest in upgraded doors and windows, which provide increased security, protection from the elements, including noise, heat and storms.

The kitchen, with its custom made window shade, has been remodeled, with additional cabinets, and new appliances while still retaining the local tropical rustic character. It is well stocked with Fiesta Ware dishes, and green, hand-blown Mexican glassware, as well as matching cutlery. Enjoy playing in this wonderful kitchen surrounded by views of Half Moon Bay.

The dining area boasts a large supply of table linens, many of which are local or Guatemalan handicrafts, as are the throw-cushions and bed scarves in the bedrooms.

Both bedrooms can be opened to the breeze. Both feature Mexican and/or Maya décor, including framed antique prints of Frederick Catherwood's original drawings of Maya ruins. Both beds have embroidered Guatemalan throw-cushions and hand-made bed scarves, and both bedrooms have their own private patios, with a table and chairs, ensuring a peaceful place for that early morning cup of coffee, as well as a shady place to relax. These patios overlook the beautiful gardens surrounding the swimming pool and the jungle beyond.

All the rooms are decorated with original Mexican or Maya art. Many of the wood carvings are by Efrain Cetz, acknowledged as one of the finest Maya craftsmen practicing today. His large, bas-relief, cedar carving of a Maya Death Canoe overlooking the dining area was based on an original design carved on a piece of ancient bone found at the Maya site of Tikal in Guatemala.

The pieces in Cen Balam represent commissions by the owners, but carvings by Efrain Cetz (aka "Chino") are now available in Lamanai (a not-to-be missed shop on the beach, outside the Lol Ha Restaurant Palapa). Many of the paintings in Cen Balam are by Isabel Schober, a local resident and artist.

A permanent library on Maya art and history (books are clearly marked) is available for guests' use while in Cen Balam. There are also various paper back novels for relaxing on the beach ("take one if you need to; leave one if you can"). An assortment of games is present in the condo, and a television (with Netflix) has been installed for the convenience of guests.

And to make your vacation even more stress free, we can help with airport transfers, groceries and even tour planning! Let us know what you wish!

As a reminder, we follow a seasonal cancellation policy. As there are constant changes being made by the OTAs, this may not always be reflected properly in their system. As an integrated partner with proven exceptional service and fairness, our Rental Agreement takes precedence. For Details see our rule or feel free to ask Ask Questions.

Property manager

Diana
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Ocean view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Welcome
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
For Holiday rentals, we require either Christmas or NY week, or both weeks. We cannot accept partial weeks that include both. You may add on each end.
All bookings require the signing of our Rental Agreement, sent to you as a separate email, and includes detailed rules and policies.
Cancellation/change policies are detailed in the Rental Agreement. Summary: If we can easily make a change we will. Refunds are seasonally dependent.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Akumal

Located in Akumal, this condo is near theme parks and on the beach. Xel-Há Park is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Half Moon Bay and Akumal Beach. Akumal Ecological Center and El Toh Ecopark are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Akumal, QROO

What's nearby

  • Yal-ku Lagoon - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Half Moon Bay - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Akumal Ecological Center - 4 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Riviera Maya Golf Club - 9 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Akumal Beach - 13 min drive - 2.1 km

Getting around

  • Tulum Intl. Airport (TQO) - 81 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mezcal Lobby Bar - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Mediterraneo - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Coffe Shop at Grand Sirenis - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Akumal Sushi Beach Bar - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Market Café - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet located?

Nestled on the beach, this Akumal condo building is within a 10-minute walk of Yal-ku Lagoon and Half Moon Bay. Akumal Beach is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 44 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 44 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 44 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 44 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 44 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Elena O.

Amazing apartment

Great location,quiet and peaceful My husband and I loved to staying here. The apartment is beautiful and clean. We have been coming to Half Moon Bay for 5 years now and are always very happy. Would definitely recommend to others!!!
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Nigel M.

Absolutely lovely

I have stayed at La Sirena several times now and keep returning because it is excellent. This was my first stay in number 5 and I enjoyed it immensely. The views from all the condos here are lovely and the design of the condos is such that the vistas can be enjoyed from virtually anywhere. The gardens and pool are particularly attractive, night and day. Once again, my only complaint is that it is time to go. Thank you to the owners who clearly take such pride in the decoration and upkeep of their condos.

10/10 Excellent

Ann C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous

Exactly as described. I will return!
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2024
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Katie M.

Excellent

This is a wonderful property with an excellent view. The place had everything we needed and then some. I highly recommend booking here.
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2024
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Judy S.

Comfortable and a beautiful view

Enjoyed our time spent at this comfortable and beautiful condo. We enjoyed sitting on the porch. Being near the water and spending time on the sand sunning is wonderful.

10/10 Excellent

Jerome and Ann G., Marshall, MN

Peaceful adventure

Very relaxing and peaceful setting with the bay in front and pool in back for variety.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Katie

Liked: Amenities
Beautiful
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kerry F., Wayzata

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

We so enjoyed Cen Balam

Everything was ready upon our arrival. Beautiful sight ocean and the gardens were lovely. Highly recommend.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anne Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Blissful

This property is blissful and soul refreshing. We spent 90% of our time on the porch. Perfect location. Great pool.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Mariya K.

Perfect

A beautiful condo with everything you need. Location is perfect. Easy walking distance to Yal Ku and several great restaurants. Very nice reef right off the property beach. The grounds are lush and the pool was great. Thank you!
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kerry W.

Fantastic tropical getaway

Our family of four had a great stay. Beautiful well-appointed condo, friendly staff, very quiet & relaxed atmosphere, exactly as advertised. The views from the balcony were breathtaking, lagoon snorkeling was magical and there was so much to see and explore. Our family of four had a wonderful, rejuvenating holiday. Highly recommended!
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2019
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Pat D.

This condo has it all

This is a perfect Akumal condo on the quiet end of Half Moon Bay. Snorkeling is right out front and a short walk to YalKu and several restaurants. The view is the best! You can see the entire bay with the floor to ceiling windows. We like to cook and the kitchen has everything, even a maid to clean up! The large swimming pool located in the beautiful garden in the middle of the condo was great to cool off. We visited in August and found the whisper quiet AC in every room kept things cool when the sea breezes were not enough. This was our second stay in this condo and we're already planning a trip back.

10/10 Excellent

Mill J., Brooklyn, NY

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A little corner of paradise.

Cen Balaam was everything we had hoped for: a comfortable apartment, a lovely beach, a large, welcoming pool. We spent a good bit of time on our corner deck looking out at the beautiful water. Daily housekeeping was a plus, and everything was exceptional clean. The beds were extremely comfortable; the air-conditioning worked perfectly; the sun never failed to shine. There are some wonderful restaurants within walking distance. All in all, a great place .
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2023

8/10 Good

Cindy

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

AKUMAL in October

Quiet area located right on the water at the end of the bay. This is not a sandy beach, bring your water shoes! Excellent snorkelling half block away in the lagoon with denotes. We had a great guide(you do not require one) his name was Eduardo, fun and informative! There is also snorkeling directly at the condo. Everything was ‘okay’, our only negative comments would be that we emailed and texted the owner repeatedly asking how to access the tv channels, but we never received a reply so all we had was Netflix. The unit itself needs some repairs and updating but the view was fantastic, the pool impeccably cleaned daily (not heated) and a super friendly dog that watches over everyone but actually belongs to the National Guard base across the street. We felt safe staying here and the people were amazing. If you golf, the absolutely Beautiful PGA Riviera Maya course is just a 12 minute drive down the highway!
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Allison T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful June get-a-way

The place was just as described, though I would say the art and brightness of the condo was even better than the photos show. The concrete base for the couch made us more likely to do other things than hang out in the condo. it was hot in June so we did mostly water activities. The pool was so hot, we never used it. We didn't rent a car, so had to rent bikes to get to the restaurants and mini-mart. Had it been cooler, the walks would have been doable. a taxi to dos ojos was about $100 US dollars, so consider that as a comparison to the cost of renting a car. snorkeling just outside the condo in the early morning was my favorite thing.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa W., BLOOMINGTON

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful views, spacious condo, lots to explore

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at La Sirena Condos on Half Moon Bay, Akumal. The Cen Balem corner unit is in a perfect location on the bay for views out to the ocean and of the bay. Snorkeling is very good right out from the front of the condos. We enjoyed being able to sit on the balcony and look out on the bay or sit on the balcony on the other side of the unit when the sun was too hot. The inner courtyard is beautiful with many lovely flowering plants. The unit was very quiet and complete with a well supplied kitchen and comfortable beds. It was easy to contact Diana whenever we had questions about the unit or places to go. The location is also great for touring Mayan ruins (Tulum, Coba and Muyil) and exploring cenotes (many within a few minutes). We enjoyed having a great home-base to come back to that was peaceful with the ocean surf to listen to. We'd stay again, it was great!
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2024
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Pat D.

Beautiful condo, very relaxing stay

This condo has view windows of the water every where. That was a big selling point for me. They open to the breezes, so we never needed to turn on the AC. Also its equipped with ceiling fans through out. The condo is tastefully filled with beautiful wood carvings of Mayan glyphs and paintings. Being a corner unit even enhances the wrap around view. if you tire of the ocean, each bedroom has its own patio overlooking the garden. You enter through the common area grounds with a large pool and garden area filled with tropical plants and orchids. The location is perfect for a 2 minute walk to Yalku Lagoon, or the best snorkeling in the bay right out front and several restaurants within an easy walk. We like to cook and found every thing we could possibly need, and even a maid to clean up our mess!

10/10 Excellent

tatjana o.

The property is fantastic; great location, spacious, wonderfully decorated feels like someones home.

The property is located on the half-moon bay (beautiful and peaceful), 5 minutes on foot from the first restaurants right on the beach, and walking distance from the Akumal beach. The condo complex is in very safe neighborhood, has wonderful garden with the pool, and the beach on the sea side. It takes about 5-7 minutes swimming from the condo beach to reach the reef (very healthy) with fishes, rays, and occasional turtle. We were amazed with the apartment, the authentic artwork, carvings on the doors, traditionally designed rooms including bathrooms and spacious seaside facing balcony and two additional from each room. The apartment felt as home, not as rental. One truly does not need the car to reach Akumal beach, Akumal Pueblo and can use public transport to go to Tulum. We plan to go back with another half of the extended family and continue to explore this magnificent Riviera, culture, history, nature and food. This was my best rental ever.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Joe S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Snorkel and Chill

The property and location had things we desired for vacation including snorkeling Horseshoe Bay, enjoying the pool, and indulging the local food and drink. The interior of the apartment is nice, but we spent more time on the 3 balconies than inside. The only real complaint was that a few in my group found the beds and couches uncomfortable. We were certainly relieved when we realized that hot water was available in the shower, but it just takes a while to warm up. I was very appreciative of the area’s safety and lack of crowds. We walked to restaurants for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and the only place that provided IPA beer called La Lunita. There is also a walkable convenience store that has groceries for breakfast at home, alcohol & ice, and snacks. Everybody we encountered was courteous and the language barrier was a minimal problem.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

R Scott F., Littleton, Colorado

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay at La Sirena

We originally booked for 5 days, and after 3, we had to extend! FIrst, the condo itself was great. It had everything you might need for a stay. The linens were fresh, it was well-appointed, clean and the beds and pillows were comfortable. The wifi is very strong and both my wife and i were able to work remotely, and stream on the connected TV. The maid service was exceptional as well. There was plenty of purified water as well. The property itself was also great. The neighbors were very friendly and welcoming. The property manager was pleasant and attentive. The pool and the beach are very nice. It is close to several good restaurants. We rented a car, but there are ample taxis and tuk tuks available. There are a few good smaller markets in Akumal, and an excellent Chedraui in Puetro Aventuras a few miles up the road. The property and the neighborhood are also very secure. There is private security for the neighborhood, a person at the entrance, and the property is across the street from a national guard outpost. We felt 100% safe and secure. We loved the place and we will definitely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023
This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

stacy H.

Amazing

Our family loved staying in this beautiful condo on Halfmoon bay. We have been coming to this area for over 10 years and have been staying at La sirena for the last 3 years. We love the location of the Cen Balam, it meets our needs perfectly. The gardens around the pool area area beautiful and relaxing. The reef and snorkeling are the best in the area.

10/10 Excellent

Merry D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it

We enjoyed Seascape very much. Diana was super at communicating before and during our stay. Especially liked being within walking distance from Yal Ku Lagoon for snorkeling. The space was nicely decorated and kitchen well stocked. The gardens were amazing. Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking condo in paradise

The Cen Balam La Sirena condominiums are in a beautiful setting right on the beach of Half Moon Bay about a mile north of Akumal. We had a wonderful week of walking the beach (wear your water shoes because there are sections of sharp coral), snorkeling on the reef directly off the beach in front of the condo, swimming in the gorgeous pool in the complex, visiting the lagoon within a 5 minute walk, and simply enjoying morning coffee and evening beverages on the perfect deck overlooking the ocean. The complex staff were friendly and extremely patient with my broken Spanish. The locals were also super accommodating and lovely. It is a very safe location with a person posted at the gate on the road along Half Moon Bay. We walked the road daily and saw others walking into town as well. We will definitely recommend this property and, hopefully, return very soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dorothy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

I love Akumal

This place is so beautiful, the pictures don’t do it justice. It’s quiet, beautiful view, comfortable. Grounds and beach are impeccably maintained. So close to Yal-ku, snorkeling right off the beach, close to La Buena Vida.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim G., Fortier Gruidl

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing ocean view and gardens.

Perfect place for our family vacation. Great snorkeling right off the beach. Very well maintained. Great communication. Restaurants in Akumal were very nice. Good to rent a car to get around. The condo is pretty secluded. Recommend snorkeling at the lagoon.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

About the host

Hosted by Diana

Host profile image
Besotted with the Maya, and after traveling the Yucatan (collecting many beautiful things), Mary Sue and Glen bought this condo naming it Cen Balam "Cave of the Jaguar', their reprise from the rest of the world. Now when they can't be here, they share it with others.

Why they chose this property

Our little complex, La Sirena is special in that we have double the space that other properties in HMB. This allows us to have a wonderful large pool, as well as gardens and no crowds on our beach. The set up of our building is such that it feels more like attached houses, not condos.

What makes this property unique

We are on Half Moon Bay (HMB) which is considered the 'original' Akumal, along with Akumal Bay. HMB, now called 'North Akumal' is where most of the beach front houses and small condo complexes are; and is a designated ecological zone, therefore it is very low density. So while you are close to everything you feel as though you are in the middle of nowhere because its very private and quieter.

All types of water sports are available, including deep sea fishing and swimming with dolphins. There are also many close by activities, Nature Parks, Hiking/Walking, and Museums. Being a center of strong ecological conservation, Akumal has incredible snorkeling and some of the best diving in the Caribbean, being on the Meso-American reef (2nd longest reef system in the world), With an established environmental center Centro Ecologica Akumal (CEA), you also have opportunities to various eco-tourism activities such as turtle monitoring.

In addition to the water sports and adventure parks, there are many culture activities, as our area has many Mayan ruins close by, the major ones being Coba, Tulum, Muyhuil, and Ek-Balam.

We truly are the center of a great vacation spot!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests