October 26, 2024
Secrets Akumal Resort is an all-inclusive adults-only resort situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya in Mexico. This luxurious resort boasts a pristine private beach, turquoise waters, secluded swimming pools, and lush tropical gardens, all surrounded by the exquisite beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
This AAA Five Diamond award winner was recognized as the #1 Best of the Best Hotels in the World on Tripadvisor in 2025 and we can see why it’s a well deserved distinction! Click here to read about Secret Akumal’s 2025 Best of the Best Award!
Life Goal Travel Pro Tips:
- Download the World of Hyatt Inclusive Collection app for access to your hotel’s restaurants, reservations for the Teppanyaki table, room service and more. Available here for Android and Apple
- Visit the resort’s online restaurant menu link ahead of time using THIS link. You’ll have info on all the restaurants, bars, and even special cocktails for each bar!
- Room Service is top notch and spectacular. With choice like grilled fish and vegetables, New York Steak, Beef/Shrimp/Chicken fajitas, shrimp tacos, guac and pico de gallo, sushi, calamari, soups and so much more, there’s hardly any reason to leave your room. Room Service can take about an hour, so plan ahead and schedule your breakfast the night before! Pro Tip: have the server place it in you Secrets Box for an incredible way to start your day.
- Plan your dinners. Soon after you check in, make your dinner reservations on the app, including the Teppanyaki table. Some restaurants close certain days so be sure to check. Check which days the resort will have themed dinner events outdoors.
- Bring some dollar bills for tipping. Your servers work extremely hard to keep the exclusivity of this resort at its finest, and even though it’s not required, they’ll appreciate your gratitude. Tipping will also ensure that they’ll keep an eye on you personally in case you need a special service during your stay.
Check the Hyatt Inclusive App for the Silent Disco Party at the Rendezvous Lobby Bar. If you’ve never been to a silent disco, I won’t ruin the surprise for you. Suffice it to say, it’s A LOT of fun. our Life Goal Hack: Be one of the first in line prior to start. Headphones are limited.
Restaurants:
Secrets Akumal Resort offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy each guest’s craving or preference. They provide the ultimate gastronomic experience with some of the finest chefs in Mexico. The resort has nine restaurants that serve a variety of cuisine from around the world.
Dress Code:
Before we proceed, Secrets resorts do their best to maintain the high standards and elegance of their properties. While lunch has a much more relaxed vibe at the Market Buffet and outdoor restaurants like Seaside and Barefoot Grill, indoor dining will require a casual elegance dress code to include:
- Dress shoes, sneakers/tennis shoes
- Dress shirts with short or long sleeves
- Collared shirts, dresses, blouses
- Long pants for men for indoor seating
- Bermuda shorts or capri pants are acceptable for outdoor seating for dinner.
- Absolutely no sleeveless shirts, flip-flops for dinner restaurants
- For lunch dining, women must wear a bathing suit wrap or cover-up
Now, here’s a detailed look at the dining options that made our stay unforgettable. The menus are very hard to search for on the web, but we have provided links for you below so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Market Cafe
The perfect spot to start your day, Market Café serves an expansive breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelets, fresh fruit, pastries, and Mexican specialties like chilaquiles. For lunch, the seafood and carving stations shine, featuring grilled fish, prime meats, and a ceviche bar. Don’t miss the Yucatán-style cochinita pibil or the freshly baked bread with imported cheeses.
El Patio
Open 6pm to 11:30pm, El Patio (Authentic Mexican) is a vibrant celebration of traditional flavors, beginning with the Aguachile de Camarón—zesty lime-marinated shrimp with cucumber and serrano chili for a refreshing kick. The Cochinita Pibil, slow-roasted achiote-marinated pork, is a Yucatán specialty best enjoyed with handmade tortillas and pickled onions. For a taste of Mexican haute cuisine, the Chiles en Nogada features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo and draped in walnut cream and pomegranate seeds. The Queso Fundido con Chorizo, a bubbling skillet of melted Oaxaca cheese and spicy chorizo, is ideal for sharing, while the Churros con Chocolate—crispy, cinnamon-dusted delights served with rich Mexican chocolate—make for a sweet finale. Also, be sure to try their specialty margaritas and Mexican cocktails. They even have a gluten-free menu with choices like crispy tacos, pumpkin flower soup and chile relleno.
Himitsu
Open from 6pm to 10:30pm, Himitsu (Pan-Asian) delivers an unforgettable fusion of bold flavors, with standout dishes like the Short Rib Massaman—succulent beef rib slow-cooked in rich red curry and served with sweet potato mash. For a lighter yet vibrant option, the Spicy Tuna Bao Buns feature tender seared tuna, spicy mayo, and pickled veggies tucked into pillowy steamed buns. The Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass melts in your mouth with its buttery texture and sweet-savory glaze, while the Pad Thai brings the perfect balance of tangy tamarind, shrimp, and crushed peanuts. End your meal with the playful Tempura Ice Cream, a crispy-fried vanilla scoop drizzled in chocolate—pure indulgence.
Portofino
Portofino (Italian) captures the essence of rustic elegance with dishes like the Truffle Mushroom Risotto, where creamy Arborio rice is infused with earthy wild mushrooms and white truffle oil. The Lobster Ravioli, stuffed with tender lobster and ricotta in a velvety Marsala wine cream sauce, is a must-try for seafood lovers. Hearty and comforting, the Veal Ossobuco falls apart at the touch of a fork, paired beautifully with saffron risotto. For starters, the Caprese Salad showcases fresh buffalo mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes drizzled with basil pesto, while the classic Tiramisu provides the perfect espresso-kissed finish. Open from 6pm to 10:30pm
Oceana
Oceana is an open-air restaurant overlooking the beach offers fresh seafood and fish, open from 6pm to 10:30pm. It can get a bit hot out there, so this restaurant allows long shorts or capri pants, sneakers or sandals (no sleeveless shirts for men). Women can even sit with a bathing suit cover up. Oceana offers oceanfront dining at its finest, with highlights like the Grilled Octopus—tender, charred to perfection, and served with roasted pepper purée and olive tapenade. The Coconut Shrimp, encased in a crispy coconut crust, pairs wonderfully with a tangy mango-habanero dipping sauce. For a showstopping main, the Whole Fried Red Snapper arrives golden and crisp, topped with a tamarind glaze and citrus slaw. Lobster Thermidor lovers will adore the butter-poached lobster in a decadent brandy cream sauce, while the Key Lime Pie, with its tart filling and toasted meringue, provides a refreshing end to the meal.
bordeaux
Bordeaux (French Fine Dining) elevates the experience with classics like Escargot à la Bourguignonne—plump snails bathed in garlic-herb butter, perfect for spreading on warm bread. The Duck à l’Orange features seared duck breast glazed in a Grand Marnier-orange reduction, balanced by grilled asparagus. Steak lovers will savor the Filet Mignon, cooked to perfection and topped with a velvety red wine demi-glace. The French Onion Soup, with its rich beef broth and melted Gruyère crust, is a comforting starter, while the Crème Brûlée—cracked caramel over silky vanilla custard—delivers the quintessential French dessert experience.
Life Goal Travel recommendation: Burgundy escargot is a must!
Barefoot Grill
Open 12:30pm to 6pm and offers casual grilled meals and snacks for beachside or poolside cravings. Choices include grilled fajitas with guac, Cuban pork sandwich, beef or vegetarian hamburger (portobello), and the Life Goal Travel recommendation: Vegetables Tempura. Yumm!
Coco Cafe
A lifesaver for early risers and late-night cravings, Coco Café offers espresso drinks, pastries, sandwiches, and desserts. The Mayan Coffee (spiked with Kahlúa) is a must-try.
Life Goal Travel recommends the Mayan coffee!
Seaside Grill
(Open for breakfast for preferred club guests only)
Seaside Grill offers an exceptional oceanfront dining experience at Secrets Akumal, with distinct menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that showcase fresh, flavorful cuisine.
Preferred Club guests enjoy exclusive access to a gourmet beachfront breakfast (8-10 AM) featuring specialties like Chilaquiles Divorciados with both red and green salsas, Eggs Benedict Royale topped with smoked salmon and caviar, and tropical fruit platters with chili-lime salt.
The lunch service (11:30 AM-5 PM) presents a seafood lover’s paradise with highlights including a Ceviche Trio sampling, buttery Lobster Rolls, Grilled Octopus Tacos, and a shareable Beachside Paella brimming with mussels, clams and chorizo.
As evening falls, the restaurant transforms into a romantic torch-lit venue (6:30-10:30 PM) serving elevated grill fare like a massive 32oz Tomahawk Steak for two, Whole Lobster Thermidor gratinated in brandy cream, and fresh Catch of the Day prepared Veracruzana-style with capers and olives.
The bar crafts signature cocktails like the Salty Chihuahua (tequila with grapefruit soda) and Turtle Bite mezcal-pineapple cocktail, named for Akumal’s famous sea turtles. What makes Seaside Grill truly special is its ever-changing seafood selection based on the day’s catch, optional toes-in-the-sand dining, and the exclusive Chef’s Whim tasting menu with wine pairings for a truly memorable culinary experience overlooking the Caribbean waves.
READT to visit Secrets resorts like a vip?
Visit www.lifegoaltravel.com and submit a request for a quote today! As part of our Unlimited Sharing Referral Program, you’ll receive exclusive benefits like:
➡️25% off standard rates (at least 25% better than Expedia, Travelocity, & more!
➡️Preferred Club access and benefits even if you don’t book a Preferred room!
➡️VIP Preferred Club check-in
➡️Potential room upgrade, if available at time of check-in
➡️Daily in-room snacks and refreshments
➡️25% off spa treatments, wine and private dinners.
➡️15% off Amstar Tours airport transfers and excursions
Bars:
There are various bars available in Secrets Akumal Resort that cater to different preferences.
- The resort’s main bar, the Rendezvous Lobby Bar, is located in the lobby and serves a wide selection of cocktails, beers, wines, and liqueurs. This is the hang out spot for evening fun with live music some days, dancing, and even a silent disco once or twice a week. Life Goal Travel recommendation: the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, made with tequila and mezcal, instead of rye. Try it with Splenda instead of sugar for a low-carb option.
- Preferred Club Bar caters to elevated tastes with exclusive pours like the Cadillac Margarita, made with top-shelf Don Julio Reposado and Grand Marnier. Hands down, the Preferred Club bartenders make the best margaritas on the property in our opinion. The French 75, a sparkling mix of gin, champagne, and lemon, adds a touch of elegance, while the Smoky Paloma combines tequila, grapefruit soda, and a mezcal float for a bold finish. It’s also the only bar that carries VSOP Cognac for that evening digestif. Snacks were plentiful and elevated including mussels, chicken cordon Bleu, octopus skewers, Mexican flautas and spinach quiche. And finally, the PC lounge has immaculate and very private restrooms and less public than the others around the resort.
- The Sugar Reef pool bar is located beside the ocean and serves refreshing drinks and cocktails while guests lounge in the pool or soak up the sun on the beach.
- The swim-up Manatee Bar keeps the poolside energy high with playful drinks like the Mango Tango, blending rum with mango and strawberry purées for a fruity frozen treat. The Dirty Monkey—a creamy mix of banana, coconut, and chocolate—tastes like vacation in a glass, while the classic Piña Colada, made with fresh pineapple and coconut cream, is a tropical staple.
- The Halftime Bar has great music, sports on TV, and billiard tables. It fuels the fun with spirited concoctions like the Mexican Michelada—a spicy, savory blend of beer, lime, and Tajín rim. The Miami Vice layers strawberry daiquiri and piña colada for a vibrant sip, and the Spicy Margarita, with jalapeño-infused tequila, delivers a fiery kick.
- Barracuda Bar (Beachfront Swings!) complements toes-in-the-sand relaxation with breezy favorites like the Pineapple Cucumber Mezcalita—mezcal, fresh pineapple, and cucumber with a chili-salt rim. The Coconut Mojito adds a tropical twist to the classic, while the Blue Hawaiian, with blue curaçao and coconut cream, is as Instagram-worthy as it is refreshing.
- Desires Music Lounge is Secrets Akumal’s vibrant nightlife hub, where the party comes alive after dark with craft cocktails, pulsating beats, and an electric atmosphere. This stylish indoor-outdoor venue features a sleek modern design with plush seating, a spacious dance floor, and state-of-the-art lighting that transforms throughout the night. Talented DJs spin an energetic mix of top 40, Latin rhythms, and EDM from 10pm until late, with special theme nights like salsa parties and neon glow events. The expert mixologists shake up creative cocktails like the Tiramisu Martini (vodka, espresso, and mascarpone foam) and Smoky Mezcal Mules, while bottle service is available for VIP groups. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy late-night cocktails under the stars, or simply people-watch from the lounge areas, Desires offers the perfect blend of sophistication and high-energy fun for the resort’s adult clientele. The lounge frequently hosts special performances including fire dancers, acrobats, and live musicians, ensuring no two nights are exactly alike at Akumal’s premier nightlife destination.
No matter what your preference is, the Akumal bartenders and servers are ultra friendly and accommodating and are there to ensure you have a great time. Although not required, tipping is greatly appreciated and goes a long way in ensuring you get personalized service with extra attention to your preferences.
Life Goal Travel Recommendation: Remember that booking through us means you’ll have complimentary access to Preferred Club amenities and upgraded selections of beer and liquor from Preferred Club bars!
Pool & Beach Fun at Secrets Akumal
At Secrets Akumal, the sparkling pools and pristine beach create the ultimate playground for relaxation and recreation. The resort features three expansive pools, each with its own vibe: the lively main pool with a swim-up bar and daily activities, the tranquil relaxation pool surrounded by lush greenery, and the exclusive Preferred Club pool offering upgraded service. Spend your days lounging on plush Bali beds, floating with a cocktail from the Manatees Swim-Up Bar, or joining in on the fun with poolside games like water volleyball and aqua aerobics led by the energetic entertainment team.
Just steps away, the powdery white-sand beach beckons with its crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Grab a complimentary kayak or paddleboard to explore the coast or simply unwind under a thatched palapa while waiters deliver fresh coconuts and tropical drinks. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel right from shore—Akumal’s famous sea turtles often swim just meters away in the gentle waves. Whether you’re seeking lively poolside energy or peaceful beachfront serenity, every moment here is pure paradise under the Mexican sun.
Life Goal Travel Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag the best beachfront loungers, or upgrade to Preferred Club for reserved Bali beds and premium service. 🌴🍹
reADY to visit Secrets resorts like a vip?
Visit www.lifegoaltravel.com and submit a request for a quote today! As part of our Unlimited Sharing Referral Program, you’ll receive exclusive benefits like:
➡️25% off standard rates (at least 25% better than Expedia, Travelocity, & more!
➡️Preferred Club access and benefits even if you don’t book a Preferred room!
➡️VIP Preferred Club check-in
➡️Potential room upgrade, if available at time of check-in
➡️Daily in-room snacks and refreshments
➡️25% off spa treatments, wine and private dinners.
➡️15% off Amstar Tours airport transfers and excursions
Activities at Secrets Akumal – On & Off Resort
Secrets Akumal keeps guests engaged with a daily lineup of fun, thanks to the resort’s outstanding entertainment team—including fan favorites like Max, Arantxa, Javier, Alejandro, Andrea, and Jesus, who bring their infectious energy. Join in on:
- Morning yoga & aqua fitness (perfect for starting the day refreshed)
- Cooking & mixology classes (learn to make guacamole or craft the perfect margarita)
- Beach volleyball & pool games (often led by the hilarious Octavio and Lisbeth)
- Evening shows (from fire dancers to live bands—don’t miss the Beatles tribute night!)
- Bike tours (explore Akumal’s town with guide Oscar & Isabel, a highlight for many guests)
We especially loved the “Pirate Show” by the pool (complete with fireworks) and bingo with Alejandro.
Off-Resort Excursions: Explore the Riviera Maya
Venture beyond the resort with our recommended local guides:
- Snorkeling with Sea Turtles – Many guests adore Maximiliano’s (known for his eagle-eyed turtle spotting!) guided tour, where you can spot turtles and stingrays in Akumal Bay. While the resort offers tours, local operators like Akumal Dive Shop typically provide smaller groups and better prices. Website: www.akumaldiveshop.com
- Cenote Adventures – Fernando Cat (praised for his knowledge) leads trips to hidden cenotes like Yal-Ku Lagoon, just a 30-minute walk from the resort. Make sure to bring water shoes and a waterproof camera cover! Website: www.facebook.com/guialocalrm
- Chichen Itza & Tulum Ruins – We often book through Amstar (the resort’s trusted partner) for seamless tours. Website: www.amstardmc.com
- Adventure Parks: Xel-Há & Xplore – Enjoy zip-lining, cave swimming, and river floats in all-inclusive eco-parks. Website: www.xcaret.com
Life Goal Travel Pro Tip:: For snorkeling, rent gear from beach vendors (cheaper than the resort) and go before 10 AM for the clearest water
Life Goal Travel Pro Tip: For last-minute bookings, check with the resort’s tour desk—but for better prices, book online in advance! 🌊🌴
Secrets Spa by Pevonia® – A Sanctuary of Relaxation
Indulge in pure bliss at Secrets Spa by Pevonia®, a luxurious oasis offering world-class treatments designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. This award-winning spa combines ancient healing traditions with modern techniques, set in a serene environment with private gardens, hydrotherapy circuits, and expert therapists.
Must-Try Spa Services
- Hydrotherapy Circuit – This complimentary (for Preferred Club guests like you!) ritual includes a thermal whirlpool, ice room, sauna, and sensory showers—perfect for detoxing before your treatment.
- Couples’ Massage – Enjoy side-by-side Swedish, deep tissue, or hot stone massages in a romantic candlelit suite. (If possible request Melissa and Noe for their magic hands!)
- Mayan Clay Ritual – A detoxifying body wrap using local clay and tropical oils, followed by a scalp massage.
- CBD Massage – For ultimate relaxation, this treatment uses cannabidiol-infused oil to ease muscle tension.
- Brightening Facial – Pevonia’s signature glow-boosting facial with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.
Life Goal Travel Pro Tips for the Spa
✔ Book Early – The spa fills up fast, especially on rainy days. Schedule treatments before your trip via the Hyatt app.
✔ Book with us to receive Preferred Club benefits! – Gets you free hydrotherapy access (a $50 value) and 25% off treatments.
✔ Try the “Spa Under the Stars” – An outdoor massage in a private cabana (pure magic!).
✔ Pack Smart – Swimsuits (for hydrotherapy) and flip-flops. Robes/slippers are provided.
Visit Secrets Akumal like a VIP with our complimentary Preferred Club status throughout your stay!
If you are not familiar with our VIP Friend Referral Program, you’ll be glad to read below. Our Vacation Club membership allows us to refer friends like you to visit any Secrets Brand Resort with our full Gold Plus Member benefits which include:
- 25% off popular travel site standard rates (from sites such as Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline, Orbitz, booking.com, and hotels.com). You’ll be hard pressed to find ANY better rates than through our VIP Friend Referral Program.
- Free Room Upgrades if available, upon check-in. This means you can book the lowest tiered room in the resort, and my be upgraded to a junior suite with Preferred Club privileges.
- Complimentary access to Preferred Club areas and restaurants. All Secrets resorts have exclusive areas and restaurants that are only accessible to VIP Preferred Club guests. Our VIP Friend Referral Program allows you access to these VIP amenities throughout your entire stay, without having to dish out more cash for a Preferred Club room.
- 25% off spa services, specialty wines, and romantic beachside dinners with your favorite person!
- Requires you and your travel partner to attend a 2-hr presentation during your stay to learn about all the benefits of becoming a Gold Plus Member like us. You can schedule your presentation over breakfast, coffee & mimosas, and you can even show up in PJs! They’ll make it as hassle-free as possible for you to enjoy it. If you feel the membership is not for you, a simple “No, thank you” will suffice. So EASY!
Got a question? Message us here!
No question is too small. We’re here to help!
Click HERE to request your Life Goal Travel Referral Code and receive the full Terms and Conditions.
In conclusion, Secrets Akumal Resort is an all-inclusive luxury resort that offers an unparalleled experience of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment. The resort’s diverse range of dining options, bars, amenities and activities are designed to provide guests with an exceptional and memorable vacation experience. Whether guests are looking for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled adventure or a bit of both, Secrets Akumal is an ideal destination to create memories that last a lifetime.
ready to visit Secrets resorts like a vip?
Visit www.lifegoaltravel.com and submit a request for a quote today! As part of our Unlimited Sharing Referral Program, you’ll receive exclusive benefits like:
➡️25% off standard rates (at least 25% better than Expedia, Travelocity, & more!
➡️Preferred Club access and benefits even if you don’t book a Preferred room!
➡️VIP Preferred Club check-in
➡️Potential room upgrade, if available at time of check-in
➡️Daily in-room snacks and refreshments
➡️25% off spa treatments, wine and private dinners.
➡️15% off Amstar Tours airport transfers and excursions
Life goal travel 