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Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet

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January 2025

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Property grounds
On the beach
Pool
Smart TV, DVD player, books, music library
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire condo

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5139 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi
    Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Akumal, QROO
  • Yal-ku Lagoon
    4 min walk
  • Half Moon Bay
    5 min walk
  • Akumal Ecological Center
    4 min drive
  • Tulum Intl. Airport (TQO)
    81 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire condo to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

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.
During your stay at this condo building, you're just a quick walk from Half Moon Bay. A water park is available. The condo includes amenities such as free WiFi and a kitchen.
  • Air-conditioned condo with kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and balcony
  • Free WiFi (speed: 25+ Mbps)
  • Splash around at the water park
  • Just a 1-minute drive from Half Moon Bay and 13 minutes from Akumal Beach
This condo offers its guests a water park. This condo also features barbecue grills and a garden.

This Akumal condo is smoke free.

Property manager

Diana

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach

Pool/Spa

  • Shared/communal pool

Internet

  • Free Wi-Fi, with a speed of 25+ Mbps

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking
  • Car not required

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • DVD player
  • Stereo
  • Books
  • Music library
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Fenced garden
  • Barbecue
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Near a laundromat

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Limited housekeeping
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the ocean
  • Near the sea
  • On the waterfront
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the bay
  • In a village

Things to do

  • Water park
  • Water sports equipment
  • Golf privileges
  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Horse riding nearby
  • Surfing/body boarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Fishing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector installed (host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 1500 sq ft (139 sq m)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Welcome

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.

Property is also known as

Gorgeous Condo w/ Pool Gardens Private Beach
Free Airport Transfer Lavish Mayan Artistry Condo
Free Airport Transfer Lavish Mayan Artistry
Lavish Mayan Artistry on the Beach w/ Pool Gardens
Gorgeous Condo w/ Pool Gardens Private Beach
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Beachfront, Stunning Huge Pool, Great Internet Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Cindy

Liked: Cleanliness
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
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

Katie

Travelled with family
Liked: Amenities
Beautiful
Stayed 8 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa W., BLOOMINGTON

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Kerry F., Wayzata

Liked: Cleanliness
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
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

10/10 Excellent

R Scott F., Littleton, Colorado

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Mill J., Brooklyn, NY

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Joe S.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

Merry D.

Liked: Cleanliness
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
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
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
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

10/10 Excellent

Genevieve D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Few days in paradise !
We were 3 adults + a 5 years old child and we all had a wonderful time!!! Diana’s place is fantastic. We loved everything in it, the location, the calm, the spectacular views, the comfort of the place and the owner’s artistic flair… This apartment is a gem. We really hope to be able to come back !
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sam B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Riviera Maya home life
Excellent condo option if you prefer living your own pace and style to being at a resort. Akumal is quiet, Half Moon Bay quieter and that's how we like it. Bring water shoes the bottom is rocky but the reef in the bay makes for good snorkling and no boats or day trippers, which is great. Diana provides hands on service.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lani G.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Luck of the Draw
Every convenience we wanted plus an artistic aesthetic that was the best on the bay by far. We couldn’t believe what we got for the money.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Scott W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location, nice amenities and amazing views!
We had a lovely week and would return! Staff were kind, beach is amazing and the weather was perfect. The condo suited our family well and we enjoyed the balcony and views!!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Anne B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely
I have stayed at many places in Half Moon Bay, and this is my favorite. Well stocked kitchen, air conditioning in every room (which is hard to come by) and the courtyard / pool is amazing.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

tuala p.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great condo
Super relaxing experience and the condo views and feeling we’re fantastic. I would definitely return!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Erich H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cen Balam on Halfmoon Bay
Can Balam is a well-appointed 2nd floor 2BR condo on the northern most part of Halfmoon Bay. The grounds of the property are safe and very well maintained. The gardens and pool are meticulously maintained daily and are beautiful. The unit itself is home to a lovely collection of Meso-American art and boasts a well-stocked kitchen. We cooked in for the majority of our stay. The tile finishes in the bathrooms are a bit dated but they are clean and well maintained. The water pressure is great. Air temperature can be set separately for both bedrooms and the living area. The windows can also be opened front and back for wonderful cross breezes and having the huge windows in front open meant the sound of the ocean filled the unit. The unit is so close to the water that from most perspectives inside looking out through the huge windows it’s as if you’re floating in the ocean; a magical effect. The corner balcony was a nice place to enjoy breakfast looking SW down the arc of the bay. The access to the reef is easy, less than 100yds. Our teenagers snorkeled often in varying conditions and were always safe. The ocean was warmer than the pool by several degrees... amazing. You can walk one block away for paid access to Yal Kul lagoon. We opted to simply swim into the lagoon from the point; a safe and interesting snorkel starting in salt water and ultimately ending in freshwater. We enjoyed or extended stay here and felt it was an excellent value. We would return without hesitation. 5 stars!
Stayed 11 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Amy W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Experience
Ok, well I am sure I would have given this property five stars as I noted above if we actually could have stayed there as planned. But because of the Covid 19 pandemic, we had to cancel. But it is important for me to let people know how wonderfully the property manager handled our situation. We were not 100% sure that we had to cancel until just a few days prior to our planned visit. Throughout the few days leading up to our decision, Diana, the property manager was very responsive whenever I left a voicemail or texted. Despite being a very last minute cancelation and well outside of the normal cancelation date range, Diana graciously offered for us to re-book later in the year. When it later became apparent that due to our personal circumstances changing because of the virus, she worked with me to arrange an acceptable refund. She also helped me in my (successful) endeavor to obtain a refund of my service fee and taxes from VRBO. **Please note that I always have travel insurance but with the exception of "Cancel for Any Reason" insurance, no policy would have covered us under these circumstances. We love Akumal, having been there a few times, and I am certain we will return. Because of the gracious, understanding and responsive way that she handled our situation, we will be renting from Diana, without hesitation.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mark R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our weeks stay in Akumal
As a family with a young child, this property was absolutely perfect for our vacation. We enjoyed the ocean balcony for morning coffee and the other two overlook the pool. The condo was well appointed for kitchen items, the cleaning staff was courteous and efficient, the yard staff kept the entire property well manicured and clean and the condo itself has a wonderful comfy feel that has an incredible book collection about Mexican culture and life. The reef is just steps away from the shore where you can snorkel with so many different types of fish and turtles if you're lucky! The Yal Ku lagoon is just a short walk from here where the snorkelling is equally spectacular. Options for eating are easily accessible by either walking, cycling or renting a golf cart. We would definitely stay here again to enjoy the ocean, the pool and the overall sweetness of Akumal.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Celine L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Snorkeling paradise
If you are looking for a quiet place with great snorkeling right out your front door this is the place for you. The condo has everything you need to cook any meals. The neighborhood has some nice restaurants. The town is about 11/2 miles away.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Laura S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Stay in Akumal
The condo was even nicer in person than in the photos. The grounds are beautiful, and the beachfront area was perfect and made going for a swim or snorkel very accessible. The rocks/coral are sharp so be sure to wear water shoes. The condo itself is very comfortable and has three patio balconies, one on the ocean side where we ate all our meals. It was great having the pool to cool off in at night after days at the beach, and there are plenty of good, low key restaurants in walking distance. Yalku lagoon is about a 5 minute walk away. Diana was very responsive when we had questions, and the staff onsite were very helpful. We'll definitely be back!
Stayed 8 nights in May 2019

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