We chose Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya for our honeymoon, expecting a relaxing, all-inclusive luxury experience. Instead, it was one of the most stressful, disappointing trips we’ve ever taken.
From the moment we arrived, things felt off. During check-in, we were immediately pressured to “upgrade” our stay for an additional $2,000, despite already booking through their system and using their transportation. We refused to upgrade after paying $7,500 to have our “full ocean view”
When we were shown to our room, it was incredibly disappointing. We paid extra for a “full ocean view,” but in reality, it was barely visible—just a small glimpse of water from the back of the property. It felt completely misleading and not worth the upgrade at all.
One of the worst parts of our stay was the so-called “breakfast” we were invited to for a $50 massage promotion. This turned into a three-hour high-pressure sales presentation. We were never told it was a sales pitch, and despite repeatedly being told “this is not a timeshare,” it absolutely felt like one. We spoke with 5–6 different people, and every time we said no, someone new was brought in to try to sell us again. They pushed a $100,000+ membership, even after we clearly explained we had just gotten married and are in the process of buying a home. It was exhausting, uncomfortable, and wasted two beautiful vacation days we will never get back.
The hidden fees didn’t stop there. When we scheduled our spa services, we were later told it would cost an additional $600 total for things like being in the same room and requesting deep pressure—none of which were disclosed upfront. We still ended up paying over $100 per person, which completely contradicts the idea of an “all-inclusive” resort.
When we tried to address these concerns with management, we were dismissed. We were told to lower our voices because other guests were present, and when we returned the next day, we were essentially told that we were lying and that their staff had explained everything—which is simply not true.
We also had issues with the dress code, which was never clearly communicated. My husband brought nice, appropriate dress shorts (similar to golf attire), and we were repeatedly turned away from restaurants because he wasn’t wearing long pants. This caused unnecessary stress and limited where we could eat.
The only positive part of this experience was the kindness and professionalism of many of the staff working on the grounds. Alejandro, Andy, Felipe, Isaac, Ari, Noemi, and Carlos were all truly incredible and were the highlight of our trip. They were welcoming, attentive, and made us feel taken care of in a way that the overall resort experience did not. Unfortunately, even their efforts could not make up for everything else we experienced.
For a resort that claims to be one of the best all-inclusive destinations in the world, this felt like a constant attempt to upsell and take advantage of guests. It was anything but relaxing.
I spent part of my honeymoon in tears, regretting this decision. I have traveled to Mexico every year and have never had an experience like this. This was our first all-inclusive—and it will likely be our last.
We will never return to Secrets or any Hyatt property again.
Do not book your honeymoon here.
