Having enjoyed Secrets Excellence in Punta Cana a couple of years ago, we decided to spend a few days at the new Secrets Capri in Riviera Maya. We weren't disappointed.

Secrets Capris opened last year midway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Its 300 rooms are in a horseshoe shaped three story building in the style of a Spanish Villa, overlooking a free-form pool along the beach.

The main lobby is very open and airy. The lobby bar has music in the evening and tea is served at 4pm with small nibbles. The buffet restaurant is on this level. A grand staircase leads you down to the lower level, with access to the pool and beach. This lower level has a complimentary internet cafe, card tables for games, and a pool table. The beautiful spa is in one section with it's own quiet pool and a small fitness room. Another section is occupied by Italian and Asian restaurants.

The rooms are not large, but are well appointed with dark wood furnishings and marble floors—the bathrooms are large and have jacuzzi tubs. Lots of amenities here (described in more detail in "rooms" journal). Each of the two floors have their own concierge for assistance in booking tours or answering questions. All rooms have balconies or patios with two chairs and a small table. The pool and ocean view rooms overlook the lovely landscaped grounds but provide less privacy than the tropical view, aka the "Jungle." No one sees you on your balcony on the back part of the hotel, but I recommend the ocean/pool view for more interest.

The sandy beach is lined with lots of palapas and palm trees, has soft fine sand, and calm blue water. Waiter service is provided for drinks and a limited "easy to manage at the beach" menu. There is a water sports concession that provides complimentary non-motorized water sports and also offers excursions for diving and snorkeling for an extra charge. Do bring along a credit card, even for the complimentary activities because they hold it in case of damage to the watercraft.

The pool is free-form with a swim up bar and lots of floaties. There is no shortage of umbrellas for shade and towels are plentiful. This pool is relatively quiet since the resort is adults only, but mid-afternoon for an hour or so there is some type of poolside activity. Service throughout the hotel is exceptional.

Secrets Capri website has lots of information and pictures.