The moment I first set foot on the powdery white sands of Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. Between the turquoise waves of Akumal Bay, the graceful sea turtles gliding just offshore, and the resort’s blend of barefoot luxury and heartfelt hospitality, I was completely smitten. So smitten, in fact, that my husband surprised me with a second trip for my birthday. Our second visit was even more magical than the first, filled with romantic sunrise walks, indulgent dinners under the stars, and a new adventure we’ll never forget: heading out for a deep sea fishing trip and bringing our catch back for the resort’s chefs to transform into a culinary masterpiece.
A Romantic Retreat in Turtle-Territory
Nestled on the pristine sands of Akumal Bay—whose Mayan name fittingly translates to “Place of the Turtle”—Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is a luxurious adults-only, all-inclusive resort that recently earned the prestigious title of #1 Hotel in the World from Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards. From the moment you step foot onto its tranquil, palm-strewn grounds, this AAA Five Diamond gem captures the essence of indulgence—think lush suites, romantic shaded pathways, serene pools, and attentive concierge service without wristbands or fuss.
Endless Luxury Meets Natural Wonder
Whether you’re lounging by one of the resort’s three pools—one featuring a swim-up bar and another boasting infinity views—or strolling the beach at sunrise, Secrets Akumal blends nature with opulence. The grounds offer world-class spa treatments, inspired by local Mayan designs, plus an award-winning eco-conscious approach that protects Akumal’s nesting sea turtles during key seasons. The resort also places you steps from the vibrant Mesoamerican Reef and near iconic Mayan ruins like Tulum and Cobá.
Adventure at Sea: Deep Sea Fishing and a Feast to Follow
One highlight of my stay was the exhilarating deep sea fishing experience—an activity seamlessly arranged through the resort’s concierge as part of their tours and excursions offerings. We set out early aboard a chartered boat, feeling the fresh sea breeze and anticipation of landing our own catch. From snorkeling with sea turtles in crystalline shallows to battling ocean fish in amusingly dramatic style, every moment was electrifying.
And here’s where the magic really happens: guests can bring their fresh catch back to Secrets Akumal and have the resort’s talented chefs prepare it for dinner. This “reel-to-plate” experience adds an unforgettable culinary twist—there’s nothing quite as satisfying as savoring your own fish, expertly cooked and plated, while watching the sun dip below the Caribbean horizon
Gourmet Dining—A Culinary Voyage of Its Own
One of Secrets Akumal’s signature features is its Unlimited-Luxury® experience—no reservations required, unlimited gourmet meals, and top-shelf drinks available at nine stylish restaurants and seven vibrant bars. From Mexican favorites at El Patio to sophisticated French fare at Bordeaux, Italian dishes at Portofino, and Pan-Asian flavors at Himitsu, the variety is both extensive and inviting.
Dinner after our fishing trip felt extra special. The freshly prepared catch, paired with a chilled cocktail at a seaside table, captured the essence of this luxury escape—personal, romantic, and utterly indulgent.
Activities by Day; Romance by Night
Beyond fishing and fine dining, the resort keeps you delightfully occupied. Snorkel alongside graceful sea turtles just off the beach before sunrise, paddleboard at your own pace, join a pool biking class, or try a tequila or cooking class—there’s something to tantalize every type of traveler.
Evenings spark to life with live music, themed parties, and the resort’s unique Sip, Savor & See program, allowing you to dine or enjoy entertainment at neighboring sister resorts—a delightful change of scene if you’re craving variety.
A Sustainable Spark of Magic
What impressed me most was the resort’s authentic commitment to preservation. During turtle nesting season, lighting and noise are consciously minimized, letting nature flourish undisturbed. Plus, their no-straw policy and active environmental manager underscore this dedication to safeguarding Akumal’s ecosystem.
Why Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya Became My Love Letter to the Sea
From the heart-stopping beauty of its turtle-inhabited bay to the scrumptious meal I personally contributed from sea to kitchen, Secrets Akumal is where adventure meets romance. It isn’t just a resort—it’s an inspired escape, wrapped in eco-awareness, luxuriously tailored service, and uniquely YOU experiences like deep sea fishing and private gourmet flare.
If you dream of a vacation where every detail fits just right—where your catch becomes your dinner, and every sunset is savored—I can’t recommend Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya enough.
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