Playa Secreto: Why This Beach Should Not Be a Secret

The Riviera Maya boasts numerous stunning beaches, each with its own charm and allure, catering to various preferences, moods, ages, and budgets. Playa Secreto, or Secret Beach, lives up to its name as a secluded spot shared among locals and villa owners, devoid of typical beach amenities found elsewhere along the Riviera Maya. Geographically, it is in Puerto Morelos, so it is a small drive away.

Why visit?

Because it’s a pristine beach offering guaranteed tranquility and immersion in nature. Unlike many beaches in the area, Playa del Secreto retains its natural essence with minimal constructions and fewer tourists.

Accessible via a road winding through mangroves, it offers glimpses of various bird species perched in the trees. Additionally, the beach serves as a sanctuary for nesting sea turtles and is home to freely roaming iguanas, adding to its allure as a serene and ecologically rich destination.

Where is Playa Secreto?

This beach is right between the north of Playa del Carmen and south of Puerto Morelos.

If you are coming from Cancun, take Federal Highway 307 towards Tulum. Passing the entrance to Puerto Morelos at 13.5 kilometers on your left, you will see a small rustic sign indicating the access to Playa del Secreto. You will have to turn at the first turn-off to get to the access.

If you are coming from Playa del Carmen, take Federal Highway 307 towards Cancun. At kilometer 22 you must turn right at the sign indicating the entrance to the beach.

Can you stay in Playa Secreto?

While Playa Secreto is best-known for its gated community, there are small, comfortable rentals available for your stay. This is a natural area that is protected by its residents. You’ll find that this community is very conscious of the environment. They have implemented measures such as utilizing solar and wind power to minimize the environmental impact of living in the area.

When visiting Playa Secreto, it is important to adhere to the rules in place, which include avoiding certain types of sunscreens and properly disposing of trash, in order to preserve the natural environment.

What to do in Playa Secreto?

In this beach’s mangrove swamp, seabirds abound, while crabs and turtle nesting sites can be found along its shores. The warm waters invite swimming and snorkeling, offering an ideal experience. Clear nights are a spectacle as millions of stars fill the sky.

The beach also serves as a sanctuary for sea turtles, where they nest and lay their eggs. Iguanas freely roam the area, adding to the natural charm.

Some ideas

While immersing in nature remains the main attraction, various activities await. Snorkeling is a popular choice, given the proximity to the Great Mayan Reef. You can also enjoy kayaking and paddle surfing, taking advantage of the calm waves.

So, if you are planning on coming to the Riviera Maya, definitely consider paying a visit to Playa Secreto.