Is Secrets Akumal Preferred Club Worth It?

The Complete Guide to Upgrading Your Paradise Experience

You’ve been dreaming of that perfect getaway to Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya, and Secrets Akumal has caught your eye. But now comes the decision that’s keeping you awake at 2 AM: is the Preferred Club upgrade worth the extra cost?

After analyzing countless guest reviews, examining the amenities, and understanding exactly what you get for your investment, here’s your definitive guide to making this decision with confidence.

What Exactly Is the Secrets Akumal Preferred Club?

The Preferred Club at Secrets Akumal isn’t just a room upgrade—it’s an elevated experience that includes enhanced accommodations, exclusive amenities, and personalized service. Think of it as your VIP pass to a more refined vacation experience within an already luxury resort.

Quick Reality Check: Secrets Akumal earned TripAdvisor's #1 Hotel in the World designation for 2025, which means even the standard experience here is exceptional. The Preferred Club simply takes it up a notch.

What's Included in Your Preferred Club Upgrade

Room Features: You’ll get a 572-square-foot junior suite with premium location, private terrace or balcony with plunge pool, hot tub for two, rain shower, and double vanities. Ocean view suites offer breathtaking Caribbean vistas right from your room.

Exclusive Access: The Preferred Club lounge operates daily from 7 AM to 11 PM, offering continental breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and premium liquors in a refined atmosphere away from the crowds.

Dining Privileges: Instead of the main buffet, you can enjoy à la carte breakfast at Oceana Restaurant by the pool—a more intimate dining experience with personalized service.

Enhanced Service: Elevated concierge service helps you secure dinner reservations, arrange activities, and handle special requests with priority attention.

The Pros and Cons

Room Location & Size: Premium beachfront locations with larger suites and private plunge pools
Exclusive Breakfast Venue: À la carte breakfast at Oceana instead of the busy buffet
Private Retreat: Preferred Club lounge offers a quiet escape with complimentary snacks and drinks
Enhanced Amenities: Upgraded bath products, mini bottles of premium liquor, and exclusive room perks
Concierge Priority: Faster service for restaurant reservations and activity bookings
Adult Sophistication: More refined atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways

Premium Pricing: Significant daily upcharge that may not justify the benefits for all travelers
Limited Lounge Appeal: Some guests find the Preferred Club space underwhelming compared to other resorts
Redundant Perks: Top-shelf liquor available throughout the resort—you just need to ask by name
Resort Quality: Standard rooms and service are already exceptional at this AAA Five Diamond property
Breakfast Preference: Some guests prefer the variety and energy of the main buffet
Value Calculation: May not make financial sense for shorter stays or budget-conscious travelers

The Verdict Based on Guest Experiences

Guests who value intimate dining, quiet spaces, and premium room amenities consistently rate the upgrade as worthwhile. Those seeking maximum resort energy and variety often find the standard experience more appealing.

@travelagentbecky Akumal literally means “place of the turtles” in Mayan - and these ancient sea creatures have been blessing couples here for centuries. At Secrets Akumal, you’re not just getting married at a beautiful resort… you’re exchanging vows where nature’s most enduring symbol of longevity and wisdom calls home. Plus your guests can snorkel with sea turtles. Try getting THAT at a country club. 🐢✨ Ready to plan your turtle-blessed destination wedding? My info is in my b!o #D#DestinationWeddingS#SecretsAkumalA#AkumalWedding#M#MexicoWeddingtravelagentbecky #W#WeddingPlanningR#RivieraMayaWeddingS#SeaTurtles#W#WeddingGoals ♬ Save My Soul - noahrinker

Who Should Consider the Preferred Club Upgrade?

Perfect For: Couples celebrating special occasions, travelers who appreciate exclusive amenities, guests seeking quieter spaces within the resort, and those who prefer personalized service over high-energy resort atmosphere.

Skip If: You’re traveling on a tight budget, prefer the social energy of main resort areas, plan to spend minimal time in your room, or typically avoid resort upgrades as unnecessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Secrets Akumal Preferred Club

How much does the Preferred Club upgrade typically cost?

Pricing varies by season and demand, but guests report paying anywhere from $60-150+ per night extra for the upgrade. Booking during promotional periods can significantly reduce the premium.

Can I access the Preferred Club lounge if I'm not staying in a Preferred Club room?

No, access to the Preferred Club lounge and its amenities is exclusively for guests staying in Preferred Club accommodations.

Are the Preferred Club rooms actually in a better location?

Many Preferred Club rooms are positioned closer to the beach and in premium locations, though Secrets Akumal’s compact layout means no room is far from the action.

Can I upgrade to Preferred Club after I arrive?

Subject to availability, but it’s always more expensive to upgrade on arrival. Booking in advance or working with a travel agent typically secures better rates.

Making the Smart Decision for Your Vacation

The truth about the Secrets Akumal Preferred Club upgrade comes down to your priorities and expectations. This isn’t about getting access to dramatically different facilities—it’s about elevating an already exceptional experience with more personalized touches and exclusive spaces.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates having a quiet retreat within the resort, values intimate dining experiences, and enjoys premium room amenities, the upgrade delivers tangible benefits. However, if you’re looking to maximize your resort experience through activities, beach time, and social energy, the standard accommodations at this world-class property will exceed your expectations.

Pro Tip: Consider your travel style, budget, and length of stay. A 3-night getaway might not justify the upgrade cost, while a week-long celebration could make the enhanced experience worthwhile.

Remember, Secrets Akumal earned its #1 ranking through exceptional service, stunning beachfront location, and the incredible experience of swimming with sea turtles right from the resort. The Preferred Club upgrade enhances this experience but doesn’t define it.