Excellence Playa Mujeres and Secrets Maroma Beach are perennially ranked as two of the best adults-only resorts in Mexico. Secrets has the distinct geographical advantage of sitting squarely on Maroma Beach—widely considered one of the most beautiful and swimmable beaches in the world. Excellence Playa Mujeres, while on a slightly less impressive beach, compensates with outstanding dining, a magnificent spa, and massive multi-pool layouts including a two-mile lazy river. If the sheer quality of the beach is your absolute top priority, go with Secrets; if you prefer better pool complexes and slightly more diverse dining, lean toward Excellence.
Key Metrics
Metric
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Our Rating
9.0
8.3
Star Rating
5.0
5.0
Room Count
450
412
Restaurants
13
9
Pools
7
12
Year Opened
2007
2008
Year Renovated
—
2024
Features
Metric
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
All-Inclusive
Yes
Yes
Adults Only
Yes
Yes
Beach Access
Yes
Yes
Spa
Yes
Yes
Kids Club
No
No
Dining Comparison
Metric
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Total Venues
22
20
Included
22
19
Extra Charge
0
1
Room Comparison
Metric
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Room Categories
12
10
Suite Categories
12
10
Activities Comparison
Metric
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Total Activities
22
24
Included
15
20
Extra Charge
7
4
Pros & Cons
Excellence Playa Mujeres
Pros
Phenomenal and attentive service from all staff members
Delicious food with a wide variety of 13 dining options
No reservation requirements for most à la carte restaurants
No 'nickel-and-diming'; items like lobster are included
Beautifully maintained grounds and immaculate facilities
Seven diverse pools including lively, quiet, and exclusive Club areas
Pristine white-sand beach with tranquil, swimmable waters
Spacious, clean, and modern suites featuring whirlpool tubs
Highlight hydrotherapy spa experience at Miilé Spa
Cons
Some areas of the resort may feel a bit dated to repeat guests
Lazy river can experience mosquito issues during rainy season
Nightlife is generally not 'wild,' which may disappoint party-goers
Ground-floor rooms may offer less privacy for guests
Beach, while calm, might not be as expansive as Cancun's Hotel Zone for some preferences
Secluded location means longer drives for off-site excursions
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún
Pros
Stunning location on Maroma Beach with pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters.
Exceptional and attentive service from friendly and helpful staff.
Delicious and varied gourmet dining options across multiple venues.
Luxurious, clean, and spacious all-suite accommodations, many with private balconies and whirlpool tubs.
Relaxing, romantic, and tranquil adults-only atmosphere.
Extensive pool facilities, including an infinity pool and numerous swim-out options.
Wide range of daily activities and engaging nightly entertainment.
Excellent Wi-Fi coverage available even on the beach.
Convenient 24-hour room service.
Cons
Occasional inconsistencies in dining experiences or limited complimentary house wine selection.
Potential noise disruptions during active renovation periods.
Summary
Excellence Playa Mujeres has a higher guest rating, while Excellence Playa Mujeres has more restaurants, while Excellence Playa Mujeres is the larger property, while Excellence Playa Mujeres has more dining venues, while Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún offers more activities.
