Picture it: You’re sitting in a sunken lounge space, adjacent to an infinity-edge pool, sipping on a cocktail or a white wine from Mediterranean coast and taking in views of the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. The setting is Unik, a rooftop restaurant that serves globally inspired tapas by day and live DJ performances by night, at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets. Oh, and did we mention it was this scene that led the readers of Luxury Travel Advisor to name the property The Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World for 2024?
Less than a year after its opening (May 2023), the property has received rave reviews from our readers. Located on the southern end of Isla Mujeres, just off the coast of Cancún, the resort was the first in Hyatt Hotels’ new line of adults-only luxury resorts (it has since been joined by a sister property in Playa del Carmen).
Beyond some seriously Insta-worthy photo spots, what can guests expect? Impression by Secrets offers an “Endless Privileges” concept, inclusive of butler service, who will welcome guests on the mainland before they board the private yacht in Marina Hacienda del Mar en route to the resort’s private pier, as well as access to eight à la carte dining venues, nine bars and lounges with unlimited top-shelf spirits, and pool and beach service. (Guests can also avail themselves of 24-hour in-suite dining.)
As for those butlers, they can handle everything from booking spa appointments to arranging off-site excursions across the island and beyond. They will also personalize any experience the guest requests, such as arranging a private dinner, customizing in-room amenities or offering local recommendations.
While Unik is certainly worth a visit for the views and the vibes, don’t miss out on the open terrace restaurant, Spezia, serving Mediterranean cuisine. Here, Chef Paolo Parlanti (who hails from Tuscany) created a menu comprising classic antipasti, homemade pastas and grilled meats and seafood representative of all regions of Italy. Be sure to try the beef carpaccio with arugula, Parmigiano Reggiano and black truffle, the tortelli filled with ricotta cheese and spinach in a white wine sauce and topped with butter and sage, or the “fish of the day,” served whole and topped with sweet bell peppers, olive oil, onions, garlic and tomatoes. Best of all: All tables, whether inside or out, offer ocean views.
Looking for the right room for you? The Honeymoon Ocean Front Suite has a spacious layout with a king-size bed, a living area and a fully furnished terrace. We like that the bathroom has an oversized rain shower, double vanities, a full-length mirror and a walk-in closet. And that terrace? It has a hot tub overlooking the beachfront. These 1,410-square-foot rooms are all located on the top floor and accommodate only two guests.
Alternatively, guests can book the Paramount Suite Ocean Front. Its ground-floor location allows for views right onto the Caribbean. A bit smaller than the Honeymoon Ocean (1,290 square feet), this accommodation has a living area and a king-size bed. This is a great option for friends or couples traveling together as it also offers a six-person bar and a separate bathroom, perfect for hosting.
The largest suite on property is the Presidential Suite. The 3,500-square-foot room has a private swim-out pool — the only accommodation to offer one. In all, Isla Mujeres by Secrets has 125 suites, which are complete with Le Labo bath amenities, custom-stocked wine fridges, yoga mats and more.
Travel advisors should book three to four months out with Sales Manager Rodrigo Centeno, who can be reached via [email protected].
Guests will also have plenty to do. On property, they can enjoy four oceanfront infinity pools, equipped with Bali beds and hammocks, not to mention an over-water lounge that’s ideal for observing marine life. We’re also big fans of the four-story waterslide from the rooftop, ending directly in the ocean. The white-sand beach where the hotel is located is also a great spot for snorkeling. The daily activities calendar and nightly entertainment include cooking classes, coffee and wine tastings, and sunset paddle boarding, among others.
To explore the island, the resort provides guests with complimentary golf carts and bikes. From here, they can check out Isla Mujeres’ coral reefs, rocky coastline, Mayan ruins and local boutique shops and eateries.
After a long day of exploration on- or off-island, be sure to book a treatment at PURE SPA by Natura Bissé. The facility is home to the island’s only Hammam, a traditional Turkish steam bath, a Floatarium and touchless therapies. Good to know: Couples can indulge in a number of specialty treatments, from deep tissue, Swedish and hot stone massages to full body scrubs that reenergize and nourish the skin. In all, the spa has six private spa cabins, as well as a fitness center, complete with a certified personal trainer, equipment, fitness classes and a variety of wellness-focused activities such as stand-up paddle board (SUP) yoga.
Worth noting: In line with Hyatt’s “World of Care” platform, sustainable practices were at the forefront of the development of Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres. Features include eco-friendly building materials, solar panels for heating water and avoiding single-use plastics. The resort has also formed an alliance with the non-profit Saving Our Sharks Foundation to highlight responsible fishing and protection of the marine ecosystems of Mexico.
Related Articles
The Ritz-Carlton to Enter Mexico’s Caribbean Coast
Three Recently Updated Family-Friendly Resorts in Mexico