Eager to join me for lunch on the beachfront terrace at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres’ Seaside Grill, a spiny-tailed iguana slowly made its way toward my impeccably set table. Before I had a chance to snap its photo, a server swiftly stepped into the local creature’s path, directing it away from the guests nibbling on grilled octopus, Baja-style tacos and crispy shrimp.
Super-attentive staff members seem to pop up everywhere at the newest adults-only all-inclusive resort from The Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt. On the lushly landscaped, meandering pathways leading from the 507 suites past several jungle-wrapped pools to the beach, the almost-too-discreet signage meant I got lost often during my recent four-night stay. Each time I asked someone where the infinity pool was or which staircase I should take to grab a gourmet coffee at Coco Cafe, a staff member would insist on accompanying me there. Pampering guests in a luxurious setting designed for ultimate relaxation is top of mind here.
Located 12 miles north of Cancun along the expansive Costa Mujeres shoreline, this Secrets resort dazzles the moment guests arrive in the open-air lobby. Perched at the highest point of the property, this breezy space was designed so guests can enjoy sunrises bursting over the Caribbean Sea and spectacular sunsets over the lagoon.
The property’s junior suites are one of 14 guestroom categories.
Credit: 2024 Secrets Playa Blanca Costa MujeresMy ocean-front corner junior suite — one of 14 guestroom categories — was furnished in the same neutral hues as the rest of the resort, with handmade furniture crafted from locally sourced Parota wood, known for its durability in tropical climates. Smooth stone floors and woven accents added casual elegance.
The large terrace had ample comfy seating. Slatted sliding wood doors revealed a massive bathroom with a two-person soaking tub, a separate shower and a double vanity stocked with Pharmacopia products and handy amenities. I appreciated the ready-to-go beach bag, daily replenishment of snacks and cold drinks and having a dedicated concierge for my building.
And while the Wi-Fi can be spotty — especially at the beach — it’s further incentive to unplug and soak up the coastal serenity. The powdery beach faces Isla Mujeres, which serves as a barrier against the piles of seaweed found at many Cancun resorts. I was also struck by the majesty of three large ceiba trees growing on the property. In Mayan culture, this divine tree’s roots are connected to the underworld, representing life and prosperity.
The property is located on the Costa Mujeres coastline.
Credit: 2024 Secrets Playa Blanca Costa MujeresDining Options Abound
With nine no-reservations-required eateries dotted throughout the property — including six a la carte restaurants, the Market Cafe buffet, the 24-hour Coco Cafe and the poolside Barefoot Grill — guests can indulge any craving, from sushi to upscale French dishes and authentic Mexican delights. I savored crispy squid and coconut shrimp at Oceana, short ribs and homemade ice cream at Seaside Grill, fresh smoothies and made-to-order omelets at Market Cafe and a decadent, Snickers-inspired pastry at Coco Cafe.
Sharing the same owner and designer as Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya and Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, this resort’s tropical look is similar. I was impressed by the stunning decorative elements crafted by Yucatan artisans, including several hand-painted tile murals by Mexican artist Carla Guajardo that infuse tropical whimsy into the Market Cafe, Portofino and Himitsu restaurants. This last spot is the only one requiring reservations for its four teppanyaki tables, which can be booked through the resort app.
The resort’s nine eateries include the Seaside Grill.
Credit: 2024 Secrets Playa Blanca Costa MujeresSecrets Playa Blanca also offers memorable culinary experiences in private rooms, such as kitchen tours, chef-led cooking classes, wine-and-food pairings in Portofino’s cellar — which has an extensive selection, including one $11,000 bottle — or tequila tasting at El Patio.
Multiple fire pits, including one in a sunken conversation area surrounded by water, provide congenial gathering spots once the sun sets. And with more than 9,000 square feet of event space, the resort is ideal for destination weddings and incentive trips.
Resort Activities for Every Mood
The Secrets app updates with activities ranging from mixology classes, beach volleyball and sunrise yoga to kayaking, water polo, tennis and pickleball. The bustling social pool offers non-stop entertainment, fitness classes and live music.
For those who crave serenity, multiple small pools are tucked among the jungle-like landscape, with cozy Bali beds and hammocks. There’s plenty of space around the oceanfront infinity pool and its swim-up bar, Manatees. From there, a wooden boardwalk leads straight to the beach, where loungers and palapa umbrellas are set up.
For clients seeking more privacy, 10 small, dedicated pools for guests staying in ground-floor swim-out suites offer a quick dip. Rooms on higher floors include balcony soaker tubs. Guests in the 221 Preferred suites have their own beach bar, infinity pool and indoor lounge — where I nibbled tasty appetizers.
The spa at Secrets Playa Blanca
Credit: 2024 Secrets Playa Blanca Costa MujeresI also loved the hydrotherapy circuit at the Secrets Spa — attendants accompany you from the dry sauna or steam room when it’s time for a plunge in the cold pool or to wander through the hot-and-cold reflexology foot baths. A series of jets in adjoining pools provided soothing massage.
For clients wishing to explore, it’s a short drive to a championship golf course, several historical attractions or Isla Contoy National Park, which houses one of Mexico’s largest wildlife sanctuaries. Guests can also take a ferry to Isla Mujeres for shopping and snorkeling. But with such an array of options right on property, I was happy to stay put at this swanky resort.
