Table of Contents
Secrets Riviera Cancun
Positives
- 🏖️ Pristine, quiet beachfront
- 🍽️ Access to 10+ restaurants/bars (with Breathless)
- 🥂 Premium drinks included
- 🏊 Swim-out suites available
- 🧘 Calm, adults-only vibe
- 💆 Spa by Pevonia access
- 🛬 Short ride from CUN
Negatives
- 💸 Higher rates vs. some nearby,
- 👔 Dress codes at select venues,
- 🪑 Limited prime loungers at peak times,
- 🌿 Seasonal seaweed may affect swimming,
- 📶 Wi-Fi can be spotty in public areas.
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Quick Summary – Is Secrets Riviera Cancun Right for You?
Essential Info at a Glance
Suitable For
Star Ratings Overview
Dreaming of the Perfect Tropical Escape?
If the idea of sun-kissed beaches, cocktail-in-hand relaxation, and luxurious amenities sounds like your ideal getaway—but you’re still scrolling through endless resort listings, unsure what’s real versus marketing fluff—you are absolutely not alone.
Maybe you’ve been burned before—those “ocean view” rooms with a sliver of water between buildings, or the “gourmet cuisine” that turned out to be buffet chicken fingers. With dozens of all-inclusive resorts around Cancun, finding one that lives up to expectations can feel like a gamble.
No Fluff. No Filters.
This guide cuts through industry sparkle. We spent time at Secrets Riviera Cancun, reviewed real guest experiences, collected actual menus, and even combed through the fine print—so you don’t have to.
Written By Real Experts
Unlike sponsored travel blogs, this isn’t fluff. This guide is authored by seasoned travel experts who’ve stayed on the resort grounds, compared other all-inclusives, and interviewed guests in person.
What You’ll Discover
- 🔍 Insider tips not found on booking sites
- 📸 Real photos vs. polished promotions
- ❓ Clear answers like “Is it really all-inclusive?”
- 📄 Menus, pricing breakdowns & planning tools
Pro Tip:
Secrets Riviera Cancun shares its campus with Breathless—giving you extra restaurant & pool access! Most guides gloss over this combo, but we’ll show you how to unlock double-the-experience at no extra cost.
Ready to Plan with Confidence?
Whether it’s a honeymoon, solo escape, or milestone celebration—this isn’t just a guide. It’s your personal vacation strategist.
🌴 Secrets Riviera Cancun Overview
💎 What Makes Secrets Riviera Cancun Unique?
Secrets Riviera Cancun is not your average all-inclusive resort—it’s a refined, adult-centric hideaway that marries boutique intimacy with the amenities of a larger resort. Nestled between the lush jungle and the sparkling Caribbean Sea, this resort straddles peace and vibrant energy in one spot.
What truly sets it apart is its hybrid nature: Secrets Riviera Cancun shares select amenities with the neighboring Breathless Riviera Cancun, giving guests full access to 18 restaurants and bars while maintaining the relaxed, romantic essence of a Secrets property. Think of it like having VIP access to both a zen retreat and a lively beach club—depending on your mood.
“We spent the morning doing yoga by the ocean, then walked over for sunset cocktails with a DJ in the background—it was the best of both worlds.”
- • Only 164 suites: Smaller guest count means more personalized service.
- • All Preferred Club suites standard: Every room includes upgraded amenities and concierge-level perks.
- • Exclusivity: Secrets guests enjoy private venues and beach areas.
- • Access to two resorts: Dual-resort privileges without double booking.
🔒 Is It Adults-Only and All-Inclusive? What That Really Means
Yes, Secrets Riviera Cancun is strictly adults-only—18 and over. That means no families, no children, and no surprises. The environment is intentionally quiet, upscale, and romantic.
“All-inclusive” at Secrets goes beyond buffet meals and tap drinks. Here’s what that actually includes:
- Unlimited à la carte dining without reservations needed
- 24-hour room service with a full gourmet menu
- Top-shelf liquors and cocktails from premium brands
- Daily refreshed in-room minibar with beer, soft drinks, and snacks
- Wait service at pool and beach areas
- Daily wellness, fitness & entertainment activities
- Gratuities and taxes
🏝 Secrets Riviera Cancun vs The Vine vs Playa Mujeres
Choosing between Secrets Riviera Cancun, The Vine, or Playa Mujeres? Each offers a unique vibe, and the right choice depends on your travel style. Here’s an at-a-glance comparison to help:
| Feature | Riviera Cancun | The Vine | Playa Mujeres |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of Atmosphere | Romantic & Tranquil, Boutique | Sleek, Urban-Luxury Vibe | Secluded Resort Feel |
| Rooms | All Preferred Club, Swim-Outs Available | Luxury Rooms, High-Rise Views | Variety of Suites, Golf Course Views |
| Dining Options | Access to 18 Restaurants (Shared) | 7 Restaurants On-Site | 9 Restaurants Shared with Dreams |
| Beach Quality | Soft Sands, Moderate Waves | Urban Beachfront, More Crowded | Wide, Secluded Stretch |
| Proximity to Airport | ~20 min | ~25 min | ~50 min |
| Best For | Couples Wanting Variety & Privacy | Luxury Seekers & Foodies | Golfers & Lovers of Quiet |
Each resort has a unique strength. Riviera Cancun wins for flexibility and intimacy, especially for honeymooners or couples wanting both energy and escape in one location.
Room Types and What’s Included
Secrets Riviera Cancun offers an intimate, sophisticated stay with an exceptional variety of suites designed for adults seeking relaxation and romance. Whether you’re planning your honeymoon or a kid-free getaway, there’s a room style to match your desire for privacy, luxury, or splash-worthy indulgence.
Here’s what’s included in every room category, along with special features available to Preferred Club members:
| Room Type | Key Features | Included Perks | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Suite Tropical View | King bed, furnished balcony, garden views | Minibar (restocked daily), 24-hr room service, upgraded bath amenities | Budget-conscious couples |
| Junior Suite Swim-Out | Direct pool access, private furnished terrace | All standard amenities + easy access to swim-up bar | Pool lovers, honeymooners |
| Junior Suite Ocean View | Panoramic sea view, elevated floor balcony | In-room tablets for service, premium toiletries | Sunset watchers |
| Preferred Club Master Suite Ocean Front | Living room, large balcony, outdoor hot tub | Private check-in/out, pillow menu, Club Lounge access | Special occasions, VIP feel |
Photo Gallery Coming Soon — Real Guest Room Images. No Stock Photos.
Swim-Out Suites Explained: Are They Worth It?
Swim-out suites are some of the most sought-after accommodations at Secrets Riviera Cancun. These ground-floor units open directly onto a semi-private pool, giving you instant access to the water — your own personal dip, anytime you like.
- Privacy Level: Moderate — shared pool divided by lush landscaping
- Convenience: Skip the crowd at the main pool entirely
- Couples Appeal: Ideal for floating breakfast trays & late-night swims
In our most recent visit, we timed the average “sun exposure” these suites get — nearly six hours of afternoon sun. Perfect for sunbathing on your terrace lounge chair without leaving your room.
Are they worth it? Yes, if you enjoy long hours by the water and value exclusivity. They’re especially popular for honeymoons or anniversary trips.
Video Gallery Coming Soon: Day & Night Swim-Out Suite Tours.
Room Service: What’s Really Available (Menu Sneak Peek)
24/7 room service is part of the all-inclusive promise — and at Secrets Riviera Cancun, it actually delivers. Here’s a peek at the actual in-room dining options:
🥗 Sample Menu Items (Available 24/7):
- Chicken Caesar Wrap with House Chips
- Cheeseburger with Bacon & Fries
- Grilled Vegetable Panini (Vegan-Friendly)
- Tres Leches Cake
- Guacamole with Tortilla Chips & Pico de Gallo
Breakfast orders can be scheduled the night before (via the printed card or app). We recommend the fresh fruit bowl and Mexican-style eggs.
Smart Features: Room Tech & Secrets App Review
Tech-savvy travelers will love the comforts integrated into every suite. All rooms come with:
- 📱 Tablet for service requests, spa bookings, and menus
- 📺 Smart TV with Netflix and YouTube (log into your own account)
- 💡 Motion sensor lighting (great for midnight bathroom visits)
The Secrets Resorts app lets you:
- Order room service or minibar restock
- Reserve spa and restaurant slots
- View resort map and events
During our stay, the app synced seamlessly with in-room preferences — including extra towels and a preference for down pillows. Setup takes under 5 minutes and makes a difference over a multi-day stay.
Views, Balconies & Privacy (Expectations vs Reality)
Let’s get real: view categories are a top source of guest confusion at Secrets Riviera Cancun.
- Ocean View: Typically angled partial view – higher floors yield better sightlines
- Ocean Front: Facing the ocean directly, more expensive but worth it for sunrise watchers
- Tropical View: Lush garden surroundings, quieter but limited sky visibility
All rooms include a private, furnished balcony — many with hammocks or small outdoor Jacuzzis. Privacy is solid thanks to tinted sliding doors and thoughtful landscaping, but note:
- If you’re sensitive to noise, avoid rooms near the nighttime entertainment venue
- Lower tropical-view rooms may see occasional foot traffic from gardeners or staff
All Restaurants at a Glance
Secrets Riviera Cancun offers an elegant and varied dining experience with diverse restaurants and culinary styles. Whether you’re in the mood for French fine dining or a casual oceanside grill, there’s something for every palate — and every outfit.
⏰ Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Dinner: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
👗 Dress Code: Casual (B/L), Smart Casual (D)
⏰ 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM
👗 Dress Code: Resort Casual
⏰ 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
👔 Dress Code: Formal (Collared shirt & closed shoes)
🍽️ Asian fusion, Italian, Mediterranean & more
📲 Dress Code & Times: Check the Secrets mobile app
Sample Menus & Downloads
Forget mystery menus. Here’s a taste of what you’ll be served:
- 📄 Download Rosewater Breakfast Menu — 🌱 Vegan | 🥛 Dairy-Free | 🌾 GF options
- 📄 Download Bordeaux Full Dinner Menu — 🍷 Gourmet | 🧀 Vegetarian | 🌾 GF+
- 📄 Download 24-Hour Room Service Menu — 🕰️ Anytime Eats | 🌱 Vegan
Expect dishes like truffle mushroom risotto, filet mignon, fresh ceviche, and sunrise chilaquiles. Portions are generous—order multiple plates to sample.
Vegan, Gluten-Free & Allergy-Friendly Dining
Secrets Riviera Cancun caters to all dietary needs.
- 🌱 Vegan: Plant-based entrees at every restaurant
- 🌾 Gluten-Free: Clear labels at Rosewater & Italian spots
- 🔎 Allergen Disclosure: Inform staff; chefs will assist directly
“I have Celiac disease and was really nervous. But the staff took time to explain every dish, flagged gluten-free items — and even made me a special dessert nightly. I felt safe and spoiled.”
– Jennifer L., 2023 review on TripAdvisor
Best Restaurants for Honeymooners & Couples
- Bordeaux: Candlelight, French flair, and fine wines
- Silk City (Breathless): Twinkling lights, sushi & hibachi entertainment
- Romantic Dinner on the Beach: Private dining under the stars
Room Service vs In-Restaurant Dining
Too cozy to leave your suite? Here’s how they compare:
| Room Service | In-Restaurant Dining |
|---|---|
| Available 24/7 (from condensed rotating menu) | More variety, ambiance, and presentation |
| Perfect for breakfast in bed or midnight snacks | Interactive, romantic, and personalized service |
| Some items take up to 45 minutes delivery | Reservations may be required at popular spots |
In short: enjoy both. Many couples start with room service and transition to restaurant dinners. Want it all? Do both — it’s included.
🍹 Bar Options (Swim-up, Indoor, Lounge, Beachfront)
Whether you’re sunbathing by the pool or dressing up for a romantic evening, Secrets Riviera Cancun offers a variety of bar experiences to match your mood.
There are five distinct bars and lounges at the resort, each with its own vibe, cocktails, and crowd. Here’s what you can expect:
- 🌊 Manatees | Swim-Up Bar: Perfect for midday sun and cocktails without leaving the pool. Think mango margaritas, cold beers, and a tropical playlist.
- 🏖️ Barracuda | Beach Bar: Salt in your hair, toes in the sand, and a mojito in hand. This open-air beachfront bar is ideal for sunset drinks.
- 🏛 Rendezvous | Lobby Bar: A chic indoor lounge with elegant seating, ideal for a pre-dinner martini or a late-night espresso martini.
- 👑 Preferred Club Lounge Bar: Exclusive to Preferred Club guests, this indoor lounge offers top-shelf spirits, wine, and a serene ambiance.
- 🎭 Showtime Bar: Located near the theater, this bar serves drinks during live shows and events — a perfect way to keep the energy flowing.
🥃 Premium Drinks & What’s Actually Included
One of the biggest perks of an all-inclusive, adults-only resort like Secrets Riviera Cancun is the open-door promise of premium drinks at every turn.
Yes, cocktails and spirits are included — but here’s what that really means:
- ✅ Included: Top-shelf brands like Absolut Vodka, Tanqueray Gin, Bacardi, and Johnnie Walker Black. Also included are local spirits, domestic and imported beers, wines by the glass, and handcrafted cocktails.
- ⚠️ Not Included: Some ultra-premium bottles, wine bottles at specialty restaurants, and private wine tastings may carry an extra charge.
All bartenders are skilled and happy to customize drinks. Whether you’re into craft cocktails or prefer something simple and strong, you’re covered.
“I asked for a mezcal mojito, not expecting much — and the bartender made it from scratch with fresh herbs and fruit. Best drink of the trip!”
— Shared by a traveler on TripAdvisor
🎶 Nightly Entertainment Schedule & Events
When the sun sets, Secrets Riviera Cancun transforms into a lively yet classy nightlife scene. Expect a mix of live music, themed parties, DJs, and cultural performances.
The entertainment calendar changes weekly, but here’s what guests typically enjoy:
- 🎤 Live Music Nights: Local bands, acoustic guitarists, and Cuban jazz trios set the mood at various bars and the stage area.
- 🎉 Theme Parties: White Parties, Glow & Foam Parties, and Mexican Fiesta Nights. These are hosted at either the main pool area or the beach.
- 🎭 Theater Shows: Broadway-style performances including music tributes and dance shows, with drinks served at the Showtime Bar.
- 🕺 Silent Discos & DJ Sets: On select nights, you can dance under the stars with LED headphones and an open sky.
Most importantly, whether you’re dancing by the beach or sipping a nightcap at Rendezvous, the vibe is always elevated, adult, and unforgettable.
✨ Full Spa Treatment List with Prices
If you’re dreaming of pampering yourself while gazing out over turquoise waters, the Pevonia® Spa at Secrets Riviera Cancun offers a rejuvenating escape. This award-winning wellness center blends top-tier spa rituals with ocean-inspired tranquility.
Spa Highlights:
- 🌿 20+ massage options — from Hot Stone Therapy to Deep Tissue Sports Recoveries
- 💆♀️ Facials tailored to skin types (hydrating, anti-aging, detox)
- 🌺 Full-body exfoliations and tropical body wraps
- 💖 Couples’ treatment suites with private plunge pool access
- 💦 Hydrotherapy circuit with sauna, steam room, and hydro-massage showers
🌟 Spa Review: Is It Worth the Cost?
Many guests wonder: Is the spa experience truly worth the splurge? Based on our personal visit and guest interviews, the answer leans toward a resounding yes—if you prioritize relaxation and self-care.
- ✔ Professionalism: Every therapist is licensed and trained in advanced techniques.
- ✔ Immaculate facilities: Clean, serene, and infused with calming aromas and music.
- ✔ Customization: Every treatment starts with a consultation tailored to your needs.
- ✔ Aura Spa Ritual: 80 minutes of indulgent massage + facial ($179 USD) — a standout.
💑 Couples’ Packages and Honeymoon Add-ons
Celebrating love? Secrets Riviera Cancun’s spa is designed with romance in mind. Whether you’re newlyweds, vow renewers, or seeking reconnection, the couples’ offerings are intimate and memorable.
- 💕 Lover’s Escape Ritual: 50-minute massage + private whirlpool + champagne + chocolate ($259 USD)
- 🌙 Romantic Moonlight Massage: Beachfront under stars + rose petals ($299 USD)
- 💎 Honeymoon Bliss Package: Massage + facial combo + souvenir photos ($229 USD)
🏋️♂️ Gym & Fitness Offerings
While indulging is encouraged at Secrets Riviera Cancun, staying fit is just as easy. The Wellness Center is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- 🚴 Modern cardio equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, rowing)
- 🏋️ Dumbbells, benches & resistance machines
- 🧘 Yoga mats & stretching space
- 🌅 Free morning beach yoga classes
- 💧 Hydration bar offering detox water & cold towels
🌟 Whether you’re looking to zen out or stay active, the Spa & Wellness Center offers the best of both worlds.
🎉 What’s Included (Watersports, Daily Activities, etc.)
At Secrets Riviera Cancun, your all-inclusive stay comes with a wide variety of engaging activities — perfect for couples, honeymooners, or friends looking to make memories beyond the beach lounger.
Here’s what’s included at no extra charge:
- Non-motorized watersports: Kayaking, snorkeling equipment, and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Daily beach and poolside activities: Beach volleyball, aqua fitness, cocktail-making classes, themed pool games.
- Nightly entertainment: Live music, themed parties, movie nights under the stars (weather permitting).
- Dance classes: Salsa or merengue with expert instructors.
- Fitness classes: Yoga, stretching, and aqua spin as part of wellness programming.
💡
“We stumbled into a beachfront ceviche tasting one afternoon—we thought it was private but it was part of the included events. Turned out to be a highlight of the trip!”
– Savannah T., Boston
🧭 Excursions & Day Trips Nearby (With Reviews & Costs)
Explore beyond the resort with guided adventures and cultural experiences — all bookable at the on-site tour desk.
Top-Rated Excursions:
- Chichen Itza + Cenote Tour: Full-day with meals and guided cenote swim (Avg. $120 USD).
- Isla Mujeres Catamaran Sail: Snorkeling, open bar, shopping (Avg. $85 USD).
- ATV & Zipline Jungle Adventure: Adrenaline-pumping fun (Avg. $95 USD).
- Coco Bongo Cancun: Iconic nightlife with VIP treatment (Avg. $110 USD).
✨
🗺️ Tips for First-Timers: What Not to Miss
Discover hidden gems and signature experiences that elevate your stay.
Don’t Miss These Highlights:
- The Secret Wine Cellar Experience: Limited weekly availability.
- Beachfront Sunrise Yoga: A stunning start to any day.
- Theme Nights at Rosewater: Romantic meals with live sounds.
- Sunset Beach Walks: Simple but unmatched serenity.
- Welcome Concierge Cocktail Hour: Grab early recs from returning guests!
📲
🎊 Events & Group Experiences for Bachelorettes or Celebrations
Celebrate in style — let the concierge team elevate your group getaway.
Group Experiences You Can Arrange:
- Private Beach Dinners: Candlelight + ocean breeze start at ~$60/person.
- Spa Parties: Simultaneous treatments with group discounts.
- Private Mixology Class: Create signature cocktails with flair.
- Nightclub Outing Packages: Door-to-door VIP night in Cancun.
📌 Booking Tips:
- Inform the concierge prior to arrival about special occasions.
- Groups of 10+ may unlock exclusive perks.
- Use Preferred Club spaces for private meetups.
“We celebrated my sister’s bachelorette here. Between the spa pampering, private hibachi dinner, and champagne setup by the concierge, it was unforgettable!”
– Marisol H., San Antonio
💒 Wedding Packages & Ceremony Locations
If you’ve been dreaming of a beachside “I do,” Secrets Riviera Cancun can turn that into a luxurious reality. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort offers multiple wedding packages and stunning ceremony locations designed to fit a variety of tastes and budgets.
Options range from intimate elopements to lavish destination weddings with all the bells and whistles. Coordinated by on-site wedding specialists, each package can also be customized, ensuring your big day feels uniquely yours.
🌟 Popular Wedding Locations Include:
- 🌴 Beachfront Pergola: Say your vows with toes in the sand and the Caribbean Sea as your backdrop.
- 🌺 Tropical Garden Gazebo: Surrounded by lush flora and native palms — incredibly private and romantic.
- 🌅 Sunset Rooftop Terrace: Ideal for golden-hour ceremonies and dramatic post-ceremony photos.
🎁 Wedding Packages Highlights:
- Wedding in Paradise (Complimentary with conditions) – includes symbolic ceremony, bouquet & boutonnière, wedding cake, and sparkling wine toast.
- Secrets of Love – adds photography, hairstyling & makeup trial, and a private cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres.
- Secrets Ultimate – includes a private dinner reception, live music, and upgraded décor plus spa discounts.
🌹 Honeymoon Perks: What’s Actually Free?
Celebrating your honeymoon at Secrets Riviera Cancun? You’re in for more than just sunshine. The resort offers exclusive honeymoon perks designed to elevate your romantic escape—many of which come at no additional charge if you qualify.
💝 Secrets Eternity Honeymoon Package (Complimentary*):
- 💐 Welcome letter + fresh flowers + exotic fruit plate
- 🍾 Chilled bottle of sparkling wine in suite
- 🕯️ Romantic turndown service on first night
- 🛌 Breakfast in bed (one morning)
- 💆 15% discount on spa treatments
*Travel within 3 months of your wedding and present a valid marriage certificate at check-in to qualify.
Planning a honeymoon well after your wedding? The Secrets Ever After Honeymoon Package is available for purchase and includes candle-lit dinners, spa time, and romantic extras worth every peso.
📖 Real Wedding Stories & Planning Tips
“It felt straight out of a movie,” Marissa shared. “Our coordinator handled everything—from timing the music to setting up our fire-dancer show at the reception.”
— Justin & Marissa, Chicago
💬 Couples consistently praise:
- ⚡ Responsive wedding team
- 📅 Seamless coordination (even with weather surprises)
- 🎀 High-end customizable décor options
📝 Planning Advice from Past Couples:
- 🎥 Communication is key: Use video calls to review your timeline with coordinators.
- 🎶 Bring a USB stick: Makes organizing DJ music ultra-simple.
- 🛎️ Build in rest days: Come early and leave late for true relaxation.
Love, luxury, and effortless planning—Secrets Riviera Cancun makes your big day not only possible but unforgettable.
🚐 Shuttle & Airport Transfer Guide (With Booking Tips)
Getting from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to Secrets Riviera Cancun is easy, but choosing the right transfer can save you both time and stress.
The resort is located in Puerto Morelos, about halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen — close enough for convenience, but far enough to feel like a private sanctuary. Once you land, you’ll have these main shuttle options:
- Private Transfers: Ideal for a fast, direct trip without stops. Cost ranges from $60–$100 round trip for two people. You can pre-book through services like Amstar, Canada Transfers, or USA Transfers, or request transfer services directly when booking through the resort.
- Shared Shuttles: More budget-friendly (around $30–$40 round trip per person) but may include stops at other hotels along the way, adding up to 45 minutes to your journey.
- Taxis & On-Demand Apps: Not recommended at the airport due to inflated prices and lack of regulation. Always pre-book if possible.
Travel Time from Airport: Expect a 20-25 minute ride in a private car or 40-60 minutes via shared shuttle, depending on traffic and stops.
📍 How Far Is It From Cancun Airport?
Secrets Riviera Cancun is roughly 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of Cancun International Airport (CUN). In normal traffic conditions, the ride takes about 20–25 minutes.
The drive is straightforward via the Cancun–Tulum Highway (Carretera Federal 307), and the route is well-maintained. While the resort is close to the airport, its location inside a private gated area along the beach ensures a peaceful and secluded vibe.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Riviera Cancun (Weather + Prices Guide)
Your experience at Secrets Riviera Cancun will vary depending on when you visit. Here’s what each season brings:
- December – April: Peak season. Gorgeous weather (mid-70s to low 80s °F), low humidity, and little rain. Expect higher prices, more crowds — especially during holidays and spring break.
- May – August: Warmer and more humid (high 80s). Fewer crowds, great deals. Some chance of rain but rarely all-day storms.
- September – November: Rainy season and peak of hurricane season (especially in September). Lowest prices of the year but some risk of storms. Great choice if you’re flexible.
“We went in late May. It was hot but breezy, fewer crowds, and we scored a swim-out upgrade with our savings.”
— Jenna M., Seattle
💰 Currency, Tipping & Local Customs Guide
Before you touch down in Mexico, it helps to know how money, etiquette, and small gestures work at the resort and beyond.
- Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), but the US Dollar is widely accepted at the resort and nearby tourism zones. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere in-resort.
- Tips: Although Secrets Riviera Cancun is all-inclusive, tipping is appreciated and can enhance your service. Here’s a useful guide:
- 🏨 Housekeeping: $2–$5 per day
- 🍹 Bartenders: $1–$2 per drink (or a larger tip at the end of the day)
- 🍽️ Restaurants: $3–$10 per meal, depending on party size and service
- 💆 Spa Therapists: 10–15% of treatment price
- Local Customs: A friendly greeting (like “Buenos días” or a smile) can go a long way. Resort staff are incredibly warm and welcoming — reciprocating small courtesies shows appreciation.
Boutique-Level Luxury with a Romantic Touch
Secrets Riviera Cancun is a smaller, more intimate resort designed specifically for adults seeking a peaceful, upscale getaway. Compared to larger resorts, it feels more personal and calm—ideal for couples, solo travelers, or honeymooners.
Know Exactly What You’re Getting
Real food menus, spa treatment pricing, and honest reviews mean fewer surprises. For example, our downloadable dining guide includes actual sample menus from Rosewater and Ocean restaurants, so you know exactly what’s on the plate before you book.
Swim-Out Suites = Elevated Experience
One of the most frequently mentioned perks in guest reviews is the value of upgrading to a swim-out suite. You get direct water access, privacy, and premium drinks stocked in-room—all part of the all-inclusive package.
Pro-Tip:
Book directly through Hyatt’s World of Hyatt program and you’ll not only gain loyalty points toward future stays, but also unlock exclusive Preferred Club perks like access to a private lounge and premium breakfast options not found in standard bookings.
A couple from Austin shared how they saved over $300 in spa services just by booking during the resort’s seasonal promo and using Preferred Club credits—proving that a bit of planning pays off, big time.
Q1: What are the differences between Secrets Riviera Cancun and Secrets Playa Mujeres?
While both resorts are part of the Secrets brand and offer adults-only, all-inclusive luxury, the two properties cater to slightly different vacation styles.
- Vibe: Riviera Cancun has a more intimate, boutique-style atmosphere tailored for relaxing, romantic getaways. Playa Mujeres is larger, more modern, and better for mingling and nightlife.
- Location: Riviera Cancun is just 15–20 minutes from Cancun Airport, while Playa Mujeres is further north—about 45–60 minutes away—offering more seclusion but a longer transfer.
- Size & Layout: Playa Mujeres has more restaurants, pools, and room category options. Riviera Cancun is co-located with Breathless Resort, allowing shared access to lively entertainment next door while maintaining its own serene areas.
- Beach Quality: Playa Mujeres is known for its wider, clearer beaches with less seaweed. Riviera Cancun’s beach is narrower, and seaweed can be more frequent depending on the season.
- Preferred Club Access: Both offer Preferred Club upgrades, but Playa Mujeres includes exclusive pool and beach areas, adding more value to the upgrade.
💡 Pro-Tip:
If you’re seeking a calm, romantic escape with quick airport access, Secrets Riviera Cancun is ideal. For more action-packed socializing with beachfront luxury, opt for Playa Mujeres.
Q2: Is Secrets Riviera Cancun All-Inclusive, and What’s Actually Included?
Yes, Secrets Riviera Cancun is fully adults-only and all-inclusive. But “all-inclusive” means more here than just meals and drinks — it’s their Unlimited-Luxury® promise.
Included in your stay:
- Unlimited gourmet à la carte dining (no reservations needed)
- Top-shelf liquor, wine, and beer at all bars and lounges
- 24-hour room service
- Daily refreshed minibar (beer, soft drinks, snacks)
- Wait service at pool and beach areas
- Endless daytime activities, pool games, non-motorized water sports
- Nightly entertainment and themed parties (shared with adjacent Breathless Resort)
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the resort
💡 Pro-Tip:
Several restaurants and lounges are shared between Secrets Riviera and Breathless, giving you bonus dining and nightlife options without added cost.
Q3: Can You See Room Photos (Like Swim-Out Suites) Before Booking?
Absolutely, and you should. Secrets Riviera Cancun offers detailed room descriptions and images on their official booking site or through certified travel agents.
Most room categories include direct photo galleries and even 360° virtual tours.
Here’s what to look for:
- Look for names like “Junior Suite Swim-Out Ocean View” or “Preferred Club Master Suite” to see private pool access options
- Verify which rooms are in the actual Secrets section (vs Breathless—these share some spaces)
- Cross-check reviews on TripAdvisor or YouTube walkthroughs for unedited footage
💡 Pro-Tip:
Many photos on booking platforms show filtered lighting. Search for Reddit threads or Facebook travel groups sharing real, unfiltered guest images.
Q4: How Do You Book Airport Transfers to Secrets Riviera Cancun?
You can book airport transfers separately or as part of a vacation package. Here are your best options:
- Through the resort: Secrets Riviera Cancun partners with Amstar, offering private or shared transfers. You can add them during booking or by contacting concierge pre-arrival.
- Via your travel agent or OTA (like Expedia): Transfers are often included in bundled packages.
- Book direct with transfer companies: Services like Cancun Airport Transportation or USA Transfers are reliable, and offer private or group rates starting around $35–$75 one way.
💡 Pro-Tip:
Skip the airport taxi stand — pre-booked transfers will greet you outside the terminal with your name sign, saving time, confusion, and price gouging.
Q5: Are Spa Services and Fitness Center Included or Extra?
The fitness center is included with your stay and comes equipped with:
- Cardio machines, weights, yoga mats, and resistance equipment
- Mountain views and open hours from 6 am to 8 pm
Spa services are not included and come at an additional cost. The full spa menu includes:
- Massages (Swedish, hot stone, deep tissue)
- Hydrotherapy circuits
- Body treatments and facials
- Salon services (manicures, pedicures, hair styling)
- Couples’ spa experiences and honeymoon packages
Expect prices to range from $120–$350 depending on the service. Appointments should be booked in advance, especially for couples’ treatments.
💡 Pro-Tip:
Check for random discounts — the resort often runs unadvertised “Spa Happy Hours” with 25–30% off treatments before 3 pm.
