Entrance to Akumal's La Cueva del Pescador and the freshest seafood and fish in town.

Dig your toes into the sandy floor of this casual Akumal, Mexico seafood restaurant, La Cueva de Pescador. Enter Akumal’s main entrance archway and just inside to the left across from Akumal Bay is the local’s favorite hangout, and La Cueva will become yours too.

Dig your toes into the sandy floor of Akumal's La Cueva del Pescador

Two years earlier while on another family/friend vacation, a group of friends raved about the service, margaritas and tacos at La Cueva Del Pescador, “The Cave of the Fisherman.”  After experiencing USDA Prime Beef at Wicky’s in Playa, I really wanted to experience authentic Mexican dishes, so no way was I going to miss this day trip from Playa del Carmen again. Just over 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Akumal is a laid back fishing village and a real taste of the Mexican life.

Known for its motto “Hook it and Cook it,” La Cueva del Pescador is owned and operated by local, Carlos Danú, a professional fisherman in Akumal since 1982. You can kick back and simply enjoy the catches of the day at La Cueva — grouper, red snapper, Boquinete (local favorite) tuna (atun) and Mahi Mahi (Dorado).

You can also book personalized fishing trips at the restaurant and La Cueva fishermen will take you and your group so you can cast your reel and then cook your catch upon you return.

Either way, the menu is affordable, ranging from fresh Ceviche to Avocado Stuffed Shrimp – absolutely divine!

Order the freshest fish and seafood tacos at Akumal's La Cueva del Pescador

The Seafood Medley includes mini lobster, shrimp, fish fillet & squid and is only 600 pesos for 2 people (about $50 US). The tacos range from 60-90 pesos ($5-$7US), a heaping plate of 3 tacos.

I ordered the shrimp, sweet and fresh, but although I’m not a fan of fish, the fish tacos were non-fishy and absolutely yummy!

(The Cueva also offers options “not from the sea.”)

From fish to seafood, you can have it cooked anyway you like: fried, grilled, sautéed in garlic and butter, and even with curry or mushroom sauce. Although I didn’t try it this trip, I’m told the Veracruz style fish filet — wrapped in foil and baked with tomato, onion, and pepper – is to die for!

Order a pitcher of Gonzalo’s special margaritas, guaranteed to kick your butt, and oh so yummy; fresh squeezed lime juice and a generous portion of tequila. Happy hours get even happier, which explains why you’ll see so many locals and tourists hanging out with a big ol’ smile on their faces.

Behind the restaurant area you can also shop on cheesy touristy souvenirs displayed, but take a few minutes as there are also some local artisan finds.

Be sure to pack your swimsuit! Walk across the quiet street to Akumal Bay and another of Mexico’s white sandy beaches for a dip in the turquoise waters.

Bring your swimsuits and cross the street to Akumal Bay

La Cueva del Pescador

Half Moon Bay Rd, at plaza
Akumal, Quintana Roo, 77750
(984) 875-9255; (984) 875-9205
Open for Lunch and dinner daily

Blog & Photos © Diana Rowe

NOTE: Scary part – I went to the restroom (banos) which were very clean, but when I stepped back out, there was a feral diseased cat lurking in the bushes. Really creepy. I also noticed a handful of cats slinking through the shadows, waiting for leftovers, but they didn’t bother us, just kind of sad.