Putting our years of experience to good use, we’ve ranked the top Secrets Resorts, with insights for each, to help you find your version of paradise.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Secrets Resorts
There can be a lot of confusion when weighing the pros and cons of resorts for destination weddings.
Much of this noise can be avoided by finding a group of resorts that appeal to your priorities and reflect your idea of a dream wedding.
Secrets makes this easy, with uncomplicated packages and amenities that can appeal to anyone.
Their “Unlimited Luxury” all-inclusive for guests promises high-quality amenities, food and beverages.
If you’re looking for more of a VIP experience, Secrets offers “Preferred Club” options, which means upgraded rooms and a more personal and exclusive stay.
The Preferred Club includes a check-in experience in a designated preferred club lounge and exclusive bars with even more premium drinks options.
Secrets Resorts and Spas are far-reaching in Mexico and the Caribbean, meaning that they have stunning locations from the Riviera Maya to Los Cabos, Oaxaca, and even the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, giving you a wealth of options.
If you’d prefer a family-friendly all-inclusive wedding venue option, check out Dreams Resorts.
Dreams Resorts delivers the same sophisticated luxury, but with the entire family in mind.
You’ll often find Dreams Resorts in many similar locations as Secrets Resorts, plus they offer comparable wedding packages.
Wedding Packages at Secrets Resorts
Sifting through all the conditions and inclusions of wedding packages can be exhausting (not to mention confusing!)
One of the reasons we love destination weddings at Secrets Resorts is their wedding packages simplify this process with clearly priced options and competitive incentives.
You can even have a FREE wedding at Secrets!
Their complimentary wedding package allows couples to enjoy a free symbolic ceremony with the services of an on-site wedding coordinator.
The packages that most Secrets Resorts offer include:
Weddings in paradise– romantic symbolic ceremony, complimentary when you meet certain conditions.
Secrets of Love– ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception dinner
Secrets Ultimate– leveled-up ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception dinner
Beyond Memorable– comprehensive package with rehearsal dinner, ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception dinner (can accommodate large groups)
Elope in luxury– couple-only with ceremony, cake, and romantic dinner
The prices for each package may vary slightly between resorts.
Each resort also has different venues to include in their packages to suit a range of needs.
Some Secrets resorts even offer “Shaadi” and “Dulha &Dulhan” South Asian wedding packages, allowing even more variety in the celebrations they host.
If you’re planning a destination wedding with between 50-100 guests, Beyond Memorable provides most of the inclusions you’d want for between $9,000-$15,000, depending on the resort, day of the week, and the number of guests.
It’s hard to rank resorts since everyone is looking for something different, but we tried to share a few of our favorites based on client feedback and our experiences at the resorts.
Nonetheless, we’ll attempt to put together our list of the top Secrets resorts ranked in order of most recommended, with information about location, the ideal wedding style, and highlights:
Secrets Moxche
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples drawn to Mexico’s natural splendor of cenotes and sand
Highlights: Secrets Moxche is a AAA, Five-Diamond resort with 485 lavish suites that offer an elevated experience just 10 minutes from the area’s famous Fifth Avenue, or “Quinta Avenida”. The resort sits against the Caribbean sea on a strip of white sand beach, although it’s seven luxurious pools plus three man-made cenotes offer more than one way to cool off. For those wanting a wedding venue that drinks up the region’s spectacular scenery, the Sky Wedding Gazebo is hard to beat. Another special venue to consider is the Mystic Area by Cenote, for surroundings unique to that picturesque part of the world.
Secrets Playa Mujeres
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples with an appreciation for golf and world-class spa treatment
Highlights: Secrets Playa Mujeres is another AAA Four-Diamond resort with a big swing toward avid golfers, featuring an 18-hole signature Greg Norman golf course. For those who’re partial to some R&R, the world-class Pevonia Spa is the best way to unwind in luxury. Secrets Playa Mujeres features a protected mangrove, offering a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty. The standout wedding venue for this Secrets resort has to be its pristine white sand beach, where they can host up to 300 guests for large-scale weddings.
Please note: Secrets Playa Mujeres is currently planning a significant renovation so be sure to check your potential wedding date to ensure it’ll be re-opened in time.
Best For: Couples who seek luxury amenities, stunning scenery, and world-class service
Highlights: Secrets Maroma rests on one of the Travel Channel’s best beaches of the world, and is another proud AAA, Five-Diamond resort option. The pool gazebo provides a unique venue for immersing your wedding in a rustic style to remember your Mexican destination wedding by. They also provide a spot in their famous beach for weddings. Twelve swim-up suites and other luxurious pools throughout the resort offer guests the Mexican vacation dream while they enjoy a true fantasy wedding.
Secrets Playa Blanca (Coming soon)
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle on pristine Mexican coastline
Highlights: Secrets Playa Blanca is a brand new resort on a remote spit of land just north of Cancun. It boasts a bright sandy beach and social-media-worthy infinity pools, and promises the same Ultimate Luxury service offered across all Secrets Resorts. After June 2024, this resort will even be equipped with a theater, as well as a spa and fitness center. This is another Secrets resort where you can take advantage of their beach, for weddings ranging from bohemian fun to modern chic.
Secrets Tulum
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples who enjoy tranquility and brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities
Highlights: Secrets Tulum is a resort and beach club that makes the most of the lush beauty of Mexico’s jungle, while transporting guests to its famous beaches…literally. Another brand new resort, this Secrets hideout places gorgeous pools in the surrounds of the jungle, but also delivers guests to a beach club, where they can spend the day lounging in tropical beach dreamscape. It offers many unique areas to take advantage of for wedding venues, most notably, its cenote poolside terrace and Sky Wedding Gazebo.
Secrets Riviera Cancun
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples who want a small beachside hotel atmosphere with a sophisticated edge
Highlights: The Preferred Gazebo at Secrets Riviera Cancun offers breathtaking views of Mexico’s turquoise waters in a chic and romantic setting. The resort itself is cozy and exclusive, but with no shortage of stunning pools, top-notch bars, and gourmet cuisine options. Whether day or night, the entertainment and activities mean it’s nearly impossible to be bored. If relaxation is more your speed, the Pevonia Spa is always ready and waiting for you.
Secrets Akumal
Location: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Best For: Couples who love the ocean and combining adventure with luxury.
Highlights: Secrets Akumal is another AAA, Five-Diamond resort under the Secrets banner that connects guests with the natural beauty of the Akumal (“place of the turtle”) beach, which lives up to its name. Those who love connecting with the wonders of the tropics can get their fill with the snorkeling, kayaking, and other action-packed activities. Of course, romance and sophistication are never lacking with Akumal’s many dining and cuisine options. One venue that’s definitely worth considering is the Seaside Garden, which can host large and small parties among its lush green surroundings.
Highlights: Secrets Bahia Mita’s rooftop infinity pool is a notable highlight that offers guests a scenic way to soak up the stunning western coast near Puerto Vallarta. Of course, the most characteristic draw to this resort is the surfing opportunity it provides guests, as well as another world-class Pevonia Spa. Hunger and thirst are distant memories for guests, with limitless gourmet food and top-shelf spirits to whet the appetite. One of the best features of this resort is the free-flow access to neighboring family-friendly Dreams Bahia Mita. Couples who are interested in Secrets Bahia Mita should definitely consider the Presidential Suite Marietas venue for spectacular views of the area’s sparkling waters.
Secrets Huatulco
Location: Oaxaca, Mexico
Best For: Couples seeking seclusion and sophistication in food-famous Oaxaca
Highlights: Secrets Huatulco resides on the southern coast of Mexico, in the area of Oaxaca. This region is famous for mezcal and delicious food, and this resort certainly delivers on that promise with its array of both Mexican and international cuisine. The beach is soft and welcoming, and the sapphire waters of Conejo Bay are hard to beat for a refreshing dip. One of the many standout venues for weddings at Secrets Huatulco is the Sugar Reef, which places the ceremony before a backdrop of coastal majesty, with views of the small offshore island and surrounding waters.
Secrets Puerto Los Cabos
Location: Los Cabos, Mexico
Best For: Couples inspired by the beauty of desert meeting ocean, and avid golfers
Highlights: Secrets Puerto Los Cabos is the perfect destination wedding choice for couples who love golf, featuring two golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. This is another AAA, Five-Diamond resort that offers excellent service 24-hours a day, and a world-class Pevonia Spa. The Gazebo can’t be beaten for scenery, and is a venue that couples should definitely consider for weddings of up to 150 guests.
Best For: Couples who want a unique balance between beautiful Latin American scenery and romantic Italian touches
Highlights: Secrets the Vine is a wine-lover’s paradise, perfectly situated to flaunt breathtaking views of both the Caribbean Sea and Laguna Nichupte. This elegant resort offers AAA Five-Diamond service and several stunning settings for an unforgettable wedding ceremony. The Gazebo is the perfect venue for an intimate ceremony with close friends and family. Guests who enjoy the finer things in life can indulge in a range of experiences, from sommelier-led wine tastings to a cenote-inspired spa.
Secrets Vallarta Bay
Location: Banderas Bay, Mexico
Best For: Couples who want the perfect oceanfront backdrop for their wedding ceremony
Highlights: Secrets Vallarta Bay boasts beautiful panoramic views of Banderas Bay and AAA Four-Diamond service. Whether couples are seeking an intimate boho chic wedding on the beach or a sophisticated pool-side ceremony, there’s a locale to suit every vision. Terraza la Vista is a stunning rainforest-inspired venue surrounded by lush greenery for those who love nature. Guests can enjoy three different pools, an on-site spa, and direct access to Las Glorias beach where pods of dolphins sometimes play.
Secrets Cap Cana
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Best For: Couples who want a beachy backdrop for ceremonies with an extensive guest lists
Highlights: Moving away from Mexico and towards something more unique, Secrets Cap Cana lies on one of the Dominican Republic’s most beautiful palm-studded beaches. Couples can enjoy exclusive access to Juanillo Beach for picture-perfect outdoor ceremonies with up to 350 of their closest friends and family. Guests are pampered with AAA Five-Diamond service and can enjoy exciting activities, such as world-class diving and snorkeling or culturally immersive merengue dancing. From rustic beach gazebos to lush green garden terraces, there’s a magical setting to bring any couple’s dream wedding to life.
Secrets Royal Beach
Location: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Best For: Couples who seek a luxury laid back Caribbean charm
Highlights: Secrets Royal Beach offers a playful twist on Caribbean elegance and AAA Four-Diamond service and an array of gourmet dining options. Perfect for beach bums, foodies, golf enthusiasts, and those who want to relax and reset with yoga, hydrotherapy, and luxury treatments at the spa. The Fountain is a stunning setting for a unique ceremony, and couples can move the party to the beach for the wedding reception.
Secrets St. James
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Best For: Couples who want to balance relaxation with adventurous activities.
Highlights: Secrets St. James boasts timeless British colonial suites and warm Jamaican hospitality. Guests can choose from seven gourmet dining options and nine lively bars with AAA Four-Diamond luxury service. The Breathless Gazebo is the perfect blend of beach and garden for a wedding ceremony, with impossibly clear turquoise water for a dreamy backdrop. There are exciting entertainment options at all hours of the day to suit every type of vacationer, from adrenaline-filled water activities to cooking and dance classes. Adventurous guests can try a chocolate fondue body wrap at the spa for something a little different.
Secrets Wild Orchid
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Best For: Couples seeking a high-energy, Jamaican-inspired resort
Highlights: Secrets Wild Orchid sits right next to Secrets St. James, so guests can enjoy even more dining and entertainment options with free-flow access between the two properties. With a more vibrant atmosphere that focuses on Jamaica’s cultural roots, this resort is perfect for young couples… or the young at heart! Barracuda Beach is an idyllic venue for wedding ceremonies, cocktail parties, and receptions, where guests can dance the night away.
Secrets Aura Cozumel
Location: Cozumel, Mexico
Best For: Couples looking to start their marriage off with a grand adventure
Highlights: Secrets Aura Cozumel prides itself on unique wedding experiences. From snorkeling in the world’s second-largest barrier reef and exploring Mayan ruins to getting married underwater, there’s something for every adventurous couple. For a more modest and intimate ceremony venue, The Pier offers an over-water wedding experience on a beautiful wooden dock.
Secrets Papagayo
Location: Papagayo Gulf, Costa Rica
Best For: Couples seeking a romantic and exotic wedding getaway
Highlights: Secrets Papagayo is a secluded luxury resort surrounded by lush Latin American rainforest. Couples can choose from a range of unique party and ceremony venues, like the Amphitheater or Sugar Reef Bar, or get married on a volcanic black sand beach. This Latin American paradise exudes romance and is a beautiful place for couples to dive into married life.
Secrets St. Martin
Location: Northern St. Martin
Best For: Couples who want a secluded and relaxed environment.
Highlights: Secrets St. Martin lies on the quieter, French-speaking side of the island. It’s tucked away in a private bay and surrounded by rugged mountains covered in rainforest. Couples can celebrate their love with friends and family on the beach, on the extensive panoramic terrace, or in the Grand Ballroom. It delivers a stunning fusion of Caribbean and European culture, making for a stunning, unique, and romantic wedding setting.
Secrets Tides (Coming soon)
Location: Uvero Alto, Dominican Republic
Best For: Couples who dream of a wedding on a pristine white beach in a brand-spanking new resort
Highlights: Secrets Tides pampers guests with luxury suites, six international gourmet restaurants, eight bars, and a world-class spa. Its idyllic coastline is the perfect place to share a dream wedding with friends and family. Couples and guests can unwind and enjoy the laid back Caribbean atmosphere, or create lasting memories while enjoying water activities and other entertainment. Of course, their beach makes for a postcard-worthy beach wedding backdrop.
Tips For Booking Your Destination Wedding at Secrets Resorts
Here are some top tips to have in mind when booking a Secrets destination wedding:
Consider your experience priorities
Secrets Resorts offers a wide range of experiences, and some specialize in particular elements or activities that might resonate more with you.
For example, some resorts provide world-class golfing, while others deliver a unique wine-lovers experience or surfers’ paradise.
If you love the jungle, some Secrets Resort locations may appeal to you more than others, which focus on the tropical beach experience.
Consider what excites you when on vacation and let that experience drive your destination wedding plan.
Decide which regions appeal to you the most
Just as the different resorts offer something different, so do the regions where they’re located.
For example, Cancun is popular for tourism, with easy access to the airport, warm waters, and bustling nightlife.
Puerto Vallarta offers more seclusion and access to the Pacific Ocean on the west coast.
One important consideration for photos (especially for outdoor weddings) is the direction you’re facing.
On the west coast, you can see the sunset over the water, while facing east gives you a gorgeous golden hour facing away from the sunset.
Book ahead of time
Be sure to start booking your destination wedding before the last minute.
There are many reasons why Secrets Resorts are popular for weddings, but this means that you can miss out if you wait too long.
Finding the resort you want at least one year to 18 months in advance is best.
This will help you avoid sold-out resorts and give you more venue options.
The most popular days for booking a wedding are between Thursday and Sunday, so if you’re hoping for one of these days, the earlier, the better.
And if you’re thinking about the Beyond Memorable package, that must be booked one year in advance.
Lean into your wedding coordinator
All wedding packages that Secrets Resorts offers include the use of a dedicated wedding coordinator, so USE THEM!
Don’t leave any ideas for the last minute, and don’t leave any questions, concerns, or desires unheard.
Our team is here to act as your advocate throughout this process and help you work with your wedding coordinator.
Secure a room contract
Lastly, secure a room block contract to lock in the price for you and your guests.
The last thing you want is for your cousin to miss out on the pricing you got and have to fork out more than anyone else for the same stay.
These contracts also secure your access to a set amount of rooms for your guests on your event date.
Recap: Top Secrets Resorts
So there you have it, the best Secrets Resorts ranked!
As you can see, there is no shortage of variety, excitement, or luxury across this extensive range of all-inclusive resorts. We hope that after reading this list, Secrets seems a little less secretive.
That said, there are still so many options, and we wouldn’t blame you for feeling overwhelmed by choice.
Jared is a certified destination wedding travel advisor and has been recognized as a top agent by Palace Resorts, Karisma Resorts, Lomas Hospitality, and Hyatt Inclusive Collection.
He caught the travel bug early in his life as his parents (the founders of Vacationeeze!) instilled a passion for travel and adventure in him and his siblings.
