Pros

  • Located directly on a small white-sand beach
  • Adult-only resort (minimum guest age is 18); mostly couples
  • Spacious, modern rooms with whirlpool tubs, separate showers, and balconies
  • Stocked minibars, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi
  • Plenty of dining options – nine restaurants and multiple bar areas
  • Well-outfitted fitness center; yoga, Zumba, water aerobics, volleyball, and a tennis court
  • Gorgeous spa and salon with a variety of treatments (for an extra fee)
  • Nightly music and entertainment; destination weddings possible
  • Only 20 to 25 minutes from the airport
See More Pros

Cons

  • Lots of seaweed; ocean not really swimmable
  • Isolated location makes it challenging to get to area attractions
  • Dress code enforced (pants required in restaurants at dinner); pro for some
  • Resort credits are a hassle to use
See More Cons

Bottom Line

This luxurious, 433-room all-inclusive resort is an adult-only escape with a fairly remote location a half-hour drive south of Cancun's bustling Hotel Zone. There's a classy, jet set vibe, and spring break shenanigans are prohibited, as are children under 18. Extensive features include a white-sand beach (that's smaller than those at competing properties), eight pools, nine restaurants, and abundant bars -- plus nightly entertainment to keep things lively. There is a full-service spa as well as a nicely outfitted fitness center, not to mention regular yoga and water aerobics classes. Rooms are spacious, spotless, and modern, all with amazing whirlpool tubs and balconies or patios. Really fantastic free Wi-Fi is offered throughout (reception can even be found on the beach).

See More Bottom Line

Oyster Hotel Review

Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

Scene

A luxury beach resort with lots of activities that appeal to the jet set

Since the resort is adult-only, the vibe at this resort is decidedly more trendy and hip than family-friendly. Upon arrival, it doesn't look like anything special  -- there's just a small white entrance around a circular drive. But guests are greeted warmly not only with champagne and cookies, but also eucalyptus-infused towels -- a welcome refresher after travel.

The check-in area has multiple desks, and the actual check-in process is much more involved than just getting room keys, as staff members take time to explain the resort's vouchers, restaurants, and activities. The lobby -- like the rest of the hotel interior -- is sleek, airy, and uber-modern, with nearly all-white decor. There is a metallic school of fish sculpture and a spiral staircase that takes guests to a massive bar and lounge below, which has views of the resort through the large floor-to-ceiling windows. This offers guests their first glimpse of the idyllic setting that lies beyond.

The grounds are expansive with lots of palm trees, green grass, and paved pathways to the different areas of the resort. Ocean views are prevalent, but even in obstructed view areas there is a tropical feel. Modern accents such as illuminated mannequin-like statues (which change colors at night) are intermixed with more traditional structures such as thatched-roof buildings and hammocks.

In the evenings, people dress to impress (partly owing to the dress code in the restaurants, but also because of the upscale culture of the place). Most guests spend lazy days by the beach and pool, and then partake in evening entertainment, which may include live musical performances, rousing rounds of bingo, and drinks at one of the many bars. There is a lot of interaction between guests, but couples can easily find intimate time for themselves as well if that’s the preference.

See More Scene

Location

Beachfront location on the Riviera Maya, a 30-minute drive south of Cancun

Immediately surrounding this hotel there is pretty much nothing. The hotel is set down a private road lined with indigenous plants accessible only by vehicle. Once at the resort most guests tend to stay put. However, should guests wish to take side trips it is about a 15- to 20-minute drive to Puerto Morales (with its impressive reefs that are popular with the diving set), 30 minutes to downtown Cancun, and an hour and 15 minutes to the Mayan ruins in Tulum. The Cancun International Airport is about 25 minutes away. If guests turn left to walk down the beach they will encounter various other resorts, including a clothing-optional hotel (so be prepared for nudity if taking a sandy stroll).

See More Location

Rooms

Spacious, uber-modern rooms adorned mostly in white, with jetted tubs and balconies; some have ocean views

The rooms here are luxurious and large, starting at nearly 700 square feet. Unlike some resorts where guests might not want to spend much time in their accommodations, it’s quite easy to loll away hours in these comfy, modern spaces. The decor is streamlined but appealing with lots of white, making the spaces feel clean and open. Interesting features like blue track lighting and a granite-covered divider that illuminates from underneath add contemporary appeal. Almost all rooms are Junior Suites -- the difference between most categories is the view, though guests can also upgrade to the Preferred Club for extras such as better minibars and better bath amenities (Preferred Club guests also get access to a lounge with a free breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres, though many won't find that a worthwhile upgrade given this is an all-inclusive property). There are separate living spaces with couches as well as super comfy beds with lots of pillows. Personal climate control allows guests to keep temperatures cool or tropical at will.

The fully stocked minibars have a varied selection of Coke products, bottled water, and plentiful Coronas; it is restocked daily for no additional fee. Purified ice machines are also located in the outdoor hallways near rooms. Other modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and coffeemakers. The bathrooms are huge with double sinks, walk-in showers, and separate whirlpool tubs (though the jets aren’t powerful, the water is warm and the baths are huge). The showers are partially open so things can get a little wet, and while the marble floors make sense in a sandy environment, they can also get really slippery. It is a good idea to wear shoes or socks with rubber bottoms in order to prevent falls. The toilets also have see-through frosted glass doors (a tad awkward if sharing a room).

There are robes and slippers available for guest use, though once the robes get soggy it takes forever for them to dry; same thing goes with swimwear so pack multiple suits. There is a clothesline in the shower but the humidity is so high things stay damp for days. The Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are quite nice, and include sunscreen, bath wash, shampoo, and conditioner in generous four ounce sizes.

The rooms are kept spotless thanks to a very diligent housekeeping staff. Unfortunately their attention to detail means that rooms are often not cleaned until really late (sometimes someone comes by for turndown service before the room has even been spruced up for the day). However, the romantic touches like incense are nice and all rooms have balconies or patios. For those really looking to splurge, specialty suites include the Honeymoon Suite, Master Suite, and Presidential Suite. The Junior Swim-Out Suites have lounge chairs on a stretch of grass a few steps from the pool (technically, they don't have direct swim-out access). 

See More Rooms

Features

A full-service spa, fitness facilities, and slightly annoying resort credits

Upon check-in guests receive a handful of resort credits, which seems like an exciting perk, as they’re purportedly applicable for the spa, a romantic dinner on the beach, or shopping. Unfortunately, upon closer inspection it becomes apparent that these vouchers are really just a way for the resort to get guests to spend more money, since the credits aren't sufficient to cover an entire spa treatment and there are limitations on how many coupons can be used at one time. 

If guests decide to visit the spa -- limited vouchers aside -- it’s lovely and worth the extra expenditure. There are 17 treatment rooms and a variety of services available (the massages are very popular) as well as hydrotherapy and salon services. Just try to book in advance or at off-peak times if you want to get serviced by the best estheticians and therapists. 

The sporty set will appreciate not only the well-equipped gym -- which has at least a dozen pieces of cardio equipment, free weights, pulleys, physioballs, and more -- but also the daily yoga and Zumba classes. There are a putting green and a tennis court as well (with racquets available for loan).

See More Features

All-Inclusive / Food

Nine restaurants with quality food, including French, Mexican, Italian, and Pan-Asian options

While there is 24-hour room service, the menu is very limited. Though items are cheerfully delivered whatever the hour, the quality isn't up to the same standards as the food found in the resort’s nine restaurants. Speaking of which, the food is generally very good by all-inclusive standards.

Breakfast is available only at the casual World Café, and the buffet is impressive; there are enough choices to satisfy any palate. Highlights are the made-to-order omelette station and the smoothie bar (which even features soy milk), as well as a wide variety of hot and cold items. It’s impossible to leave this buffet hungry. Lunch can also be enjoyed at the World Café, though many guests opt for relaxed noshes like quesadillas and guacamole at the poolside Barefoot Grill. On certain days resort chefs make a giant paella poolside as well, which is delicious and a big hit.

Fresh seafood can be had at the outdoor Oceana or Seaside Grill (which are overlooking the pool and open for lunch and/or dinner depending on the day). Just watch out for the seagulls in this area, as they are brazen and not afraid to dive in if food is left unattended for even a moment. The French restaurant Bordeaux has a formal dress code and is lovely, with black-and-white decor and punches of red. Service here, however, can be really slow (be prepared to spend your entire evening here); keep in mind that if wine is ordered by the bottle, there will be an additional charge. The French Onion soup is a highlight here, arriving with a cheese sprinkled puff pastry topping. The tinkling sounds of a live pianist at a grand piano add to the ambience.

The other more formal dinner choices include Himitsu for Pan-Asian cuisine, El Patio for an authentic Mexican food experience, and Portofino, which specializes in Italian offerings.

See More All-Inclusive / Food

Drinks

Multiple bars across the property

Finding a drink is never an issue at this resort as bars seem to be everywhere. Popular bars include the Veranda Bar -- which is closer to the main building and evening entertainment (including live musical performances as well as fun activities such as bingo) -- and the Barracuda Bar, which is housed under a thatched roof and is located almost right on the beach. The Desires Sports Bar also turns into a disco for dancing late at night (and people definitely participate in the revelry). Opportunities for a good time abound here.

See More Drinks

Beach

Small white-sand beach with lots of seaweed

The resort is directly located on a small white-sand beach. It's well-suited to sunning there and listening to the relaxing sound of the waves, but it's not ideal for ocean swimming or activities, as it is overrun with seaweed and the ocean floor is rocky and slimy. The resort staff is tireless in its effort to clean the beach of the seaweed, but there is so much that it's impossible to eradicate. This a general downside to the area, and is a problem at other resort beaches as well.

On a positive note, there are plentiful sun loungers and palapas for guests. Waiters regularly mill around taking fresh drink orders (the Sexy Banana is particularly delicious), and there are strong breezes from the ocean, meaning this area never feels too warm (basically, it’s heavenly).

Destination weddings are easily scheduled here and the setting could not be more idyllic, with ceremonies taking place at the end of a pier in a large, thatched-roof gazebo directly over the ocean.

See More Beach

Pools

Eight magnificent pools and two hot tubs

If the beach doesn’t appeal, there are eight pools covering over 43,000 square feet. The main pool has a swim-up bar and lots of activities (including daily water aerobics and water volleyball). Plentiful sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach towels are available. Poolside activities also include the occasional swimsuit fashion show.

The almost adjacent infinity pool has a stunning view out to the ocean and is a bit more subdued than the main area (though the piped-in house music can still be heard). There are fewer loungers here but still more than enough to go around. 

The other pools on the property are connected to the separate hotel buildings, giving them a very private feel. Those staying in Swim-Out Suites should keep in mind that these rooms are actually separated from these pools by about 10 feet of grass, and are not actually of the open-the-door-step-into-the-water variety. There are two large hot tubs on-site as well; one with amazing views of the ocean that is open late (enjoying cocktails in the hot tub after dark is popular).

See More Pools

Our Favorite Vacation Wear for Puerto Morelos

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Things You Should Know About Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

Also Known As

  • Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

Room Types

  • Honeymoon Suite
  • Master Suite
  • Ocean View Junior Suite
  • Partial Ocean View Junior Suite
  • Pool View Junior Suite
  • Preferred Club Oceanfront Jr Suite
  • Preferred Club Oceanfront Swim Out Jr Suite
  • Preferred Club Pool View Junior Suite
  • Preferred Club Swim Out Junior Suite
  • Presidential Suite
  • Swim Out Junior Suite

Address

Bahia de Petempich SM 12, Mz 31, Puerto Morelos 77580, Mexico

Phone

(998) 193-1800

Website

Oyster Hotel Review

Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun

Scene

A luxury beach resort with lots of activities that appeal to the jet set

Since the resort is adult-only, the vibe at this resort is decidedly more trendy and hip than family-friendly. Upon arrival, it doesn't look like anything special  -- there's just a small white entrance around a circular drive. But guests are greeted warmly not only with champagne and cookies, but also eucalyptus-infused towels -- a welcome refresher after travel.

The check-in area has multiple desks, and the actual check-in process is much more involved than just getting room keys, as staff members take time to explain the resort's vouchers, restaurants, and activities. The lobby -- like the rest of the hotel interior -- is sleek, airy, and uber-modern, with nearly all-white decor. There is a metallic school of fish sculpture and a spiral staircase that takes guests to a massive bar and lounge below, which has views of the resort through the large floor-to-ceiling windows. This offers guests their first glimpse of the idyllic setting that lies beyond.

The grounds are expansive with lots of palm trees, green grass, and paved pathways to the different areas of the resort. Ocean views are prevalent, but even in obstructed view areas there is a tropical feel. Modern accents such as illuminated mannequin-like statues (which change colors at night) are intermixed with more traditional structures such as thatched-roof buildings and hammocks.

In the evenings, people dress to impress (partly owing to the dress code in the restaurants, but also because of the upscale culture of the place). Most guests spend lazy days by the beach and pool, and then partake in evening entertainment, which may include live musical performances, rousing rounds of bingo, and drinks at one of the many bars. There is a lot of interaction between guests, but couples can easily find intimate time for themselves as well if that’s the preference.

See More Scene

Location

Beachfront location on the Riviera Maya, a 30-minute drive south of Cancun

Immediately surrounding this hotel there is pretty much nothing. The hotel is set down a private road lined with indigenous plants accessible only by vehicle. Once at the resort most guests tend to stay put. However, should guests wish to take side trips it is about a 15- to 20-minute drive to Puerto Morales (with its impressive reefs that are popular with the diving set), 30 minutes to downtown Cancun, and an hour and 15 minutes to the Mayan ruins in Tulum. The Cancun International Airport is about 25 minutes away. If guests turn left to walk down the beach they will encounter various other resorts, including a clothing-optional hotel (so be prepared for nudity if taking a sandy stroll).

See More Location

Rooms

Spacious, uber-modern rooms adorned mostly in white, with jetted tubs and balconies; some have ocean views

The rooms here are luxurious and large, starting at nearly 700 square feet. Unlike some resorts where guests might not want to spend much time in their accommodations, it’s quite easy to loll away hours in these comfy, modern spaces. The decor is streamlined but appealing with lots of white, making the spaces feel clean and open. Interesting features like blue track lighting and a granite-covered divider that illuminates from underneath add contemporary appeal. Almost all rooms are Junior Suites -- the difference between most categories is the view, though guests can also upgrade to the Preferred Club for extras such as better minibars and better bath amenities (Preferred Club guests also get access to a lounge with a free breakfast and afternoon hors d'oeuvres, though many won't find that a worthwhile upgrade given this is an all-inclusive property). There are separate living spaces with couches as well as super comfy beds with lots of pillows. Personal climate control allows guests to keep temperatures cool or tropical at will.

The fully stocked minibars have a varied selection of Coke products, bottled water, and plentiful Coronas; it is restocked daily for no additional fee. Purified ice machines are also located in the outdoor hallways near rooms. Other modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and coffeemakers. The bathrooms are huge with double sinks, walk-in showers, and separate whirlpool tubs (though the jets aren’t powerful, the water is warm and the baths are huge). The showers are partially open so things can get a little wet, and while the marble floors make sense in a sandy environment, they can also get really slippery. It is a good idea to wear shoes or socks with rubber bottoms in order to prevent falls. The toilets also have see-through frosted glass doors (a tad awkward if sharing a room).

There are robes and slippers available for guest use, though once the robes get soggy it takes forever for them to dry; same thing goes with swimwear so pack multiple suits. There is a clothesline in the shower but the humidity is so high things stay damp for days. The Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are quite nice, and include sunscreen, bath wash, shampoo, and conditioner in generous four ounce sizes.

The rooms are kept spotless thanks to a very diligent housekeeping staff. Unfortunately their attention to detail means that rooms are often not cleaned until really late (sometimes someone comes by for turndown service before the room has even been spruced up for the day). However, the romantic touches like incense are nice and all rooms have balconies or patios. For those really looking to splurge, specialty suites include the Honeymoon Suite, Master Suite, and Presidential Suite. The Junior Swim-Out Suites have lounge chairs on a stretch of grass a few steps from the pool (technically, they don't have direct swim-out access). 

See More Rooms

Features

A full-service spa, fitness facilities, and slightly annoying resort credits

Upon check-in guests receive a handful of resort credits, which seems like an exciting perk, as they’re purportedly applicable for the spa, a romantic dinner on the beach, or shopping. Unfortunately, upon closer inspection it becomes apparent that these vouchers are really just a way for the resort to get guests to spend more money, since the credits aren't sufficient to cover an entire spa treatment and there are limitations on how many coupons can be used at one time. 

If guests decide to visit the spa -- limited vouchers aside -- it’s lovely and worth the extra expenditure. There are 17 treatment rooms and a variety of services available (the massages are very popular) as well as hydrotherapy and salon services. Just try to book in advance or at off-peak times if you want to get serviced by the best estheticians and therapists. 

The sporty set will appreciate not only the well-equipped gym -- which has at least a dozen pieces of cardio equipment, free weights, pulleys, physioballs, and more -- but also the daily yoga and Zumba classes. There are a putting green and a tennis court as well (with racquets available for loan).

See More Features

All-Inclusive / Food

Nine restaurants with quality food, including French, Mexican, Italian, and Pan-Asian options

While there is 24-hour room service, the menu is very limited. Though items are cheerfully delivered whatever the hour, the quality isn't up to the same standards as the food found in the resort’s nine restaurants. Speaking of which, the food is generally very good by all-inclusive standards.

Breakfast is available only at the casual World Café, and the buffet is impressive; there are enough choices to satisfy any palate. Highlights are the made-to-order omelette station and the smoothie bar (which even features soy milk), as well as a wide variety of hot and cold items. It’s impossible to leave this buffet hungry. Lunch can also be enjoyed at the World Café, though many guests opt for relaxed noshes like quesadillas and guacamole at the poolside Barefoot Grill. On certain days resort chefs make a giant paella poolside as well, which is delicious and a big hit.

Fresh seafood can be had at the outdoor Oceana or Seaside Grill (which are overlooking the pool and open for lunch and/or dinner depending on the day). Just watch out for the seagulls in this area, as they are brazen and not afraid to dive in if food is left unattended for even a moment. The French restaurant Bordeaux has a formal dress code and is lovely, with black-and-white decor and punches of red. Service here, however, can be really slow (be prepared to spend your entire evening here); keep in mind that if wine is ordered by the bottle, there will be an additional charge. The French Onion soup is a highlight here, arriving with a cheese sprinkled puff pastry topping. The tinkling sounds of a live pianist at a grand piano add to the ambience.

The other more formal dinner choices include Himitsu for Pan-Asian cuisine, El Patio for an authentic Mexican food experience, and Portofino, which specializes in Italian offerings.

See More All-Inclusive / Food

Drinks

Multiple bars across the property

Finding a drink is never an issue at this resort as bars seem to be everywhere. Popular bars include the Veranda Bar -- which is closer to the main building and evening entertainment (including live musical performances as well as fun activities such as bingo) -- and the Barracuda Bar, which is housed under a thatched roof and is located almost right on the beach. The Desires Sports Bar also turns into a disco for dancing late at night (and people definitely participate in the revelry). Opportunities for a good time abound here.

See More Drinks

Beach

Small white-sand beach with lots of seaweed

The resort is directly located on a small white-sand beach. It's well-suited to sunning there and listening to the relaxing sound of the waves, but it's not ideal for ocean swimming or activities, as it is overrun with seaweed and the ocean floor is rocky and slimy. The resort staff is tireless in its effort to clean the beach of the seaweed, but there is so much that it's impossible to eradicate. This a general downside to the area, and is a problem at other resort beaches as well.

On a positive note, there are plentiful sun loungers and palapas for guests. Waiters regularly mill around taking fresh drink orders (the Sexy Banana is particularly delicious), and there are strong breezes from the ocean, meaning this area never feels too warm (basically, it’s heavenly).

Destination weddings are easily scheduled here and the setting could not be more idyllic, with ceremonies taking place at the end of a pier in a large, thatched-roof gazebo directly over the ocean.

See More Beach

Pools

Eight magnificent pools and two hot tubs

If the beach doesn’t appeal, there are eight pools covering over 43,000 square feet. The main pool has a swim-up bar and lots of activities (including daily water aerobics and water volleyball). Plentiful sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach towels are available. Poolside activities also include the occasional swimsuit fashion show.

The almost adjacent infinity pool has a stunning view out to the ocean and is a bit more subdued than the main area (though the piped-in house music can still be heard). There are fewer loungers here but still more than enough to go around. 

The other pools on the property are connected to the separate hotel buildings, giving them a very private feel. Those staying in Swim-Out Suites should keep in mind that these rooms are actually separated from these pools by about 10 feet of grass, and are not actually of the open-the-door-step-into-the-water variety. There are two large hot tubs on-site as well; one with amazing views of the ocean that is open late (enjoying cocktails in the hot tub after dark is popular).

See More Pools

Best Rates

Amenities

  • Air Conditioner

  • Airport Transportation

  • Balcony / Terrace / Patio

  • Basic Television

  • Beach

  • Beauty / Hair Salon

  • Business Center

  • Cable

  • Concierge

  • Cribs

  • Dry Cleaning

  • Fitness Center

  • Free Breakfast

  • Gameroom / Arcade

  • Internet

  • Jacuzzi

  • Laundry

  • Meeting / Conference Rooms

  • Mini Bar (with liquor)

  • Pool

  • Poolside Drink Service

  • Rental Car Service Desk Onsite

  • Room Service

  • Separate Bedroom / Living Room Space

  • Spa

  • Swim-Up Bar

  • Tennis Court

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.