Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa

While it's not the most polished Secrets outpost in the chain, Secrets Huatulco is a solid option for those who want a Mexican beach getaway without all of the touristy insanity that comes from being in places like the Mayan Riviera. To be clear: This is still 100 percent a big all-inclusive resort, and is packed with all of the bells and whistles you'd expect from the brand. It's set in the hills overlooking Conejos Bay, away from other hotels and resorts in the Huatulco area. That fact alone helps make Secrets feel like a secluded destination, which is part of its appeal. Once you've arrived at the hotel, it's all about ocean vistas and breezy days, as most of the common areas are open-air affairs. Guests drift in and out of the multiple restaurants and bars, though during the day, the two infinity pools and beach are the main social hubs. As an adult-only hotel, there are plenty of bars open throughout the day and into the night, including a laid-back swim up bar, the sophisticated Sky Bar, and the trendy late-night Desires Lounge. It can all get lively at times, though rarely rowdy, and most guests are couples or groups of friends.

Secrets Huatulco sits along the Pacific Ocean and has stunning views of Conejos Bay. The hotel is situated overlooking the beach, though keep in mind that swimming here isn't ideal as the surf can be dangerous. There's little, if any, development nearby, and while most guests choose to stay on-site for the duration of their trip, nothing is within an easy walk. It's a five-minute drive into Tangolunda, the nearest town, while the restaurants and shops of downtown Crucecita are a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Las Parotas Golf Course is 10 minutes away by car, while the waterfalls and archeological park of Bocana del Rio Copalita are a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Renting a car is the best way to get around Huatulco, as the resort is a bit secluded and there aren’t sidewalks. Huatulco International Airport takes 30 minutes to reach by car. 

Across all categories, rooms are pleasant and spacious. The look is reasonably modern, though some of the furniture and style choices are starting to appear dated. Colors tend toward red, gold, blue, and black with a few pieces of generic abstract artwork for decoration. The dark furniture and chrome fixtures, plus black paneling in spots, don't create the freshest style. The majority of rooms have seating areas with beige couches or armchairs, as well as spacious closets with extra pillows, safes, and robes. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and air-conditioning. Minibars include snacks, sodas, and beers that are free for guests (they're filled once daily). No matter what room you get, you'll have at least a partial ocean view -- which is a major bonus of a stay here -- though some rooms also feature either hot tubs or swim-out access to semi-private pools. The Presidential and Master Suites include extras like champagne and fruit. Bathrooms are spacious and well-appointed, with separate rainfall showers and bathtubs. Some tubs are jetted. All bathrooms have plenty of vanity space, with white countertops and white square sinks. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided.

The resort's beach features a handful of thatched cabanas and white lounge chairs. While the beach is technically public, the resort is situated farther away from other hotels of the area, so it feels essentially private. Keep in mind that the surf can be dangerous here and swimming isn't advised. Two large infinity pools overlooking the beach. The pool terraces are expansive, but there aren't always enough lounge chairs for guests (and seat saving can be an issue). Ping-pong, a life-size chess board, and archery are available in the common areas surrounding the pool terraces.  

The fitness center and spa are located on a hill away from the main hub of the resort. The tranquil spa offers a range traditional services, plus some unexpected extras. Chocolate body wraps and a traditional Mexican temazcal (“house of heat”) are also on offer, as is an aromatherapy pool and daily snacks. Guests should note that spa services are not included in the all-inclusive package. The spacious fitness center has modern cardio equipment, mats, free weights, and medicine balls. Access to the gym is free.

A handful of shops are situated in the lower level of the main courtyard, featuring jewelry, beach wear, and souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel and valet parking is free.

No matter where you dine, your meal is included in the resort's rates. However, guests should note that some a la carte restaurants are only open based on occupancy. Additionally, dress codes are enforced at many venues, so check ahead before dining. Market Cafe is Secrets' main restaurant. It serves up international and Mexican fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Buffet and a la carte options are available and there are live-cooking stations. Market Cafe stays open regardless of the resort's occupancy.

Castaways and Barefoot Grill are casual open-air venues. Barefoot Grill is situated between the two pools and a short walk from the beach, while Castaways is located away from the main resort hub and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Expect grill fare at both, though Castaways is the more upmarket of the two and is open for both lunch and dinner (Barefoot Grill only serves lunch).

There are several a la carte options for dinner. Tamarindo is the traditional Mexican restaurant, while Cin Cin, Bordeaux, and Spice serve Italian, French, and Asian dishes (respectively). Oceana is situated away from the resort's main hub and offers fresh seafood. Coco Cafe is open all day and late into the night for lighter snacks, coffee, and pastries. Room service is also available 24 hours a day and is part of the all-inclusive package. 

There are a number of bars to suit all moods here, and all are covered by the hotel's wristband-free all-inclusive policy. Premium, international, and domestic drinks are generally included. However, minibars are relatively limited compared to all-inclusives that have in-room liquor options like speed-pour racks. They're also only refilled once per day. For those who'd prefer to drink outside of their rooms, Marlin swim-up bar and Barracuda pool bar are busy spots during the day. Rendezvous is the lobby piano bar and is open from morning to night, offering drinks in a modern setting. Open-air Sky Bar is where most guests congregate for happy hour and into the evening. It's a sophisticated lounge that's located between the main resort hub and the rooms, making a quick stop nearly inevitable (especially with the stunning sunset views). Trendy Desires Lounge doesn’t open until later at night, but guests can expect drinks, music, and dancing. There's also a theater for nightly shows.