I haven’t fallen in love with a resort recently quite like I have with Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya.

Driving to the resort from the airport, I thought ‘woah, this is far’. But from the moment we pulled up, I realized that being so far from the hustle and bustle of Cancun is part of what makes this resort so special. You are in the oasis that is Akumal.

Akumal was rated one of the “Top 10 Beaches in Mexico” by Trip Advisor, and I agree. Akumal means “place of the turtle”, and you can snorkel and see turtles right outside your resort suite! The waters are crystal clear, the white sand beaches stretch off into the distance, and the the shady palm trees are inviting. Do you understand why this is one of my new favorite beaches?

Now take a look at what makes Akumal my new favorite Secrets Resort…

The Resort

Opening just about 6 months ago, Secrets Akumal has a fresher feel compared to other Secrets properties I’ve visited. Featuring colorful decor and trendy details, it sometimes felt more like a boutique hotel than a resort.

You might think with 434 suites it would seem crowded, but it is spread out with many places to escape.

Hungry? There are 6 restaurants, a buffet, a grill, and a cafe, plus room service. Thirsty? Try one of the 7 bars and lounges, especially my personal favorite Barracuda right on the beach. Speaking of the beach, Secrets Akumal is located directly on Akumal Beach so you can walk to nearby shops, restaurants, snorkel amongst the turtles, and so much more.

If you want to stay at the resort, there are 3 pools to keep you occupied as well as beach huts lining the beach. The active traveler can engage in snorkeling, daily yoga, bike tours, paddle boarding and kayaking… all for free!

The Room

Prettiest. Bed. Ever. Obsessed with this room would be an understatement. From the vibrant warm-toned statement pillows to the Mayan gold woven headboard, this room was designed for me. The color scheme even carries out to the balcony where pink and orange throw pillows adorn a comfortable bench area that I could spend hours on. Talk about the ideal spot to enjoy your morning espresso!

Food & Beverage

To say I loved the different food & beverage options here would be an understatement. They were unique, healthy, and accommodating to my dietary needs. Plus can we talk about the amazing decor at each restaurant? Not to mention the cutest Coco Cafe I’ve ever seen!

My Favorites

• Breakfast:
  • My typical egg white omelet with all the veggies topped with guacamole & salsa and a side of fruit at The Market Cafe. They also had a freshly made donut station… uh, yes!
• Lunch:
  • The Shrimp Fajitas & Al Pastor Tacos at Seaside Grill
  • Enjoying Ceviche & Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos from Barefoot Grill on the beach
• Dinner:
  • Vietnamese Rolls, Green Curry Vegetables, & any of the Sushi Rolls at Himitsu
  • Nicoise Salad & Catch of the Day at Bordeaux
  • My favorite meal was at Oceana where I dined on Tuna Ceviche (green tomato juice, ginger, honey, & mango), the Green Salad (spirulina seaweed and chia seeds with mixed lettuce, cucumber, green tomato, parsley & lime vinaigrette), Grilled Mahi Mahi and sides of grilled cactus with pomegranate & honey and roasted fig salad with mixed lettuce, balsamic vinaigrette & caramelized nuts
• Drinks:
  • Skinny Grapefruit Margarita: Tequila blanca, Cointreau, splash of grapefruit juice, splash of lime juice, splash of soda water shaken and poured over ice topped with a Grand Marnier float & a spicy salt rim
  • Espresso blended with soy milk & Frangelico at Coco Cafe
  • Cabernet Sauvignon & Chardonnay & Champagne
  • When you don’t want to drink (me often lately)… sparkling water with a splash of grapefruit juice, so good!

Nearby Must-Dos

Although the resort is amazing, you must explore all of the other incredible spots this area has to offer. I suggest:

La Buena Vida Restaurant & Bar

La Buena Vida was probably the most recommended place I go to. How many other restaurants allow you to lay in a hammock, take a dip in the pool or ocean, and dine on local cuisine all in one place?

I enjoyed a Margarita De La Casa, but they offer unique selections as well. I enviously eyed a table’s stuffed avocados and assorted tacos, but unfortunately I already had dinner plans elsewhere. They’re open from noon to 11pm but have happy hour 5 to 6 pm nightly.

Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Step back into time and visit the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulum. Perched upon a cliff overlooking the ocean, the views are spectacular and there is direct beach access.

Cenotes & Caverns

These natural wonders exclusive to the Mayan region are an unforgettable experience. Whether you are diving or just lounging, these freshwater caves are the perfect place for a relaxing day. There are cenotes located all over the Riviera Maya area, so you will have no problem finding one.

The Good:

• Best WiFi I’ve experienced in Mexico
• Healthier & more unique food options
• Cutest Coco Cafe I’ve ever seen
• Never felt crowded even with a ton of groups in-house
• The decor with pops of color everywhere
• Akumal Beach is just overall incredible

The Not As Good:

• Can’t think of anything. If I had to say anything it would be that it’s a long narrow resort as opposed to wide and expansive so if you’re at the beach it takes a long time to walk to your room if you have one in the back. Seriously if that’s my only issue with this resort, I’m insanely impressed.

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Safe travels y’all!

Best,