A premium adults-only all-inclusive resort situated on Akumal Bay where sea turtles swim daily just offshore, Secrets Akumal offers an intimate 314-suite property with 9 restaurants, swim-out rooms with direct pool access, and easy access to the most famous turtle-snorkeling bay in Mexico.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya sits on Akumal Bay at kilometer 254.5 of Federal Highway 307, roughly 100 km south of Cancun and 27 km north of Tulum. The bay is internationally recognized as one of the most reliable locations in Mexico to snorkel with wild green and loggerhead sea turtles, which feed on seagrass beds directly offshore year-round. The 314-suite adults-only all-inclusive property opened in 2014 and is operated by AMResorts under the Secrets brand, known for upscale all-inclusive experiences without the mass-market character of larger Caribbean properties.
Suite categories range from Preferred Club Tropical View rooms to ground-floor swim-out suites with direct pool access from a private terrace. All suites include air conditioning, whirlpool bath, stocked minibar, and 24-hour room service; upper Preferred Club tiers add butler service and access to a private lounge with premium spirits. Dining spans nine restaurants offering Mexican, Asian fusion, Italian, Cajun, international buffet, and a beach grill — all meals and alcoholic beverages are included in the rate. A full-service spa, thermal suite, and fitness center complement the wellness offering. Seven pools, including dedicated quiet adults-only pools and a main swim-up bar pool, accommodate different moods throughout the day.
The turtle-snorkeling experience is the resort's primary differentiator. A 200-meter walk along the beach road leads to the public entry point for Akumal Bay, where mask and fins can be rented locally for a minimal fee; encounters with multiple turtles are near-certain during a morning session. The resort concierge also arranges excursions to nearby cenotes (Dos Ojos, Aktun Chen), the Tulum ruins 30 minutes south, and Coba. The nearest town is Akumal village, a quiet community with dive shops and local restaurants a short walk from the property.
Amenities
- adults-only
- all-inclusive
- 9 restaurants
- private beach
- swim-out rooms
- spa
- wifi
Location
Carretera Federal 307 Km 254.5, Akumal, Quintana Roo 77760
20.3956, -87.3162 View on map
Highlights
- Akumal Bay frontage provides year-round access to wild sea turtle snorkeling 200 m from the resort
- 314 suites with swim-out pool access options and private whirlpool baths
- Nine restaurants and unlimited alcoholic beverages included in the adults-only all-inclusive rate
- Seven pools including a swim-up bar pool and dedicated quiet adults-only pools
- Full-service spa with thermal suite, hydrotherapy circuit, and Mayan-inspired treatments
Tips for visiting
- Visit Akumal Bay for turtle snorkeling before 9am — crowds build quickly after that, and early-morning light is best for underwater visibility
- Swim-out suites are the first category to sell out; reserve at least 3 months ahead for peak season (December to April)
- Preferred Club tier unlocks butler service and premium spirits in a private lounge — worth the upgrade for week-long stays
- Hire a licensed guide at the bay entrance for a better experience; guides keep groups small and maintain a respectful distance from the turtles
When to visit
December to April for dry season and optimal snorkeling conditions; turtle activity is present year-round.
Accessibility
The resort offers accessible suite categories and pool lift equipment. Guests with specific accessibility requirements should notify the property at reservation.