Luxury Gets Au Naturel in Mexico at Hidden Beach Resort

Looking to take a walk on the wild side?

If you are looking for something risque and adventurous mixed with ocean side luxury, look no further than the Mexican Riviera at Hidden Beach Resort.

Located just one hour from Cancun is the secret, tucked-away oasis of Hidden Beach Resort. At the private gated entryway, two stone frog statues greet you as a fitting symbol of cleansing, renewal and transformation. Continue through the massive solid wood doors and on the other side is a real-life, modern-day Garden of Eden.

The reception area looks like that of any other upscale resort hotel. The decor is comfortably modern, with welcoming gestures, like complimentary champagne upon arrival. The staff is always fully clothed, but after you exit reception to the resort, clothing is optional.

Hidden Beach Resort

Hidden Beach Resort is the only all-inclusive, luxury au naturel resort in the Mexican Caribbean. The resort is made up of 42 beach side suites, perfectly manicured grounds, palapas, a gourmet restaurant, two bars, a disco, a gym, a giant hot tub and pools that span the immaculate grounds. The resort caters to both couples and singles alike, and with the limited number of rooms, it provides a truly intimate and secluded environment. Some guests return year after year to this spot, and once you arrive you will know why.

As I check in, I ask the host what the protocol is, as I have never been to a nudist resort in my life. (I usually like to wear my bikini cover-up if I am ever leaving the pool).  She goes over general rules of engagement, like improper staring and eating in the nude (a towel is suggested for sitting). I wish I would have compiled a list of more questions for her, but alas I was flying by the seat of my pants.  After check-in, I walk the gardens to my pool suite room, anxiously keeping the look out for any nudists…and didn’t run in to any right away.

Suite at Hidden Beach

The room itself was a dedication to comfort, featuring a plush King-sized bed and in-room Jacuzzi. The open bathroom is different than those in most hotels, giving a risque feel to showering with no barrier between the shower and the living space. Other in-room amenities included an iPod docking station, coffee maker, 42-inch TV with DVD player and bed pillow menu. The view from the pool suite is gorgeous. Over the swim-up pool and walkways, you have cabanas, sun beds and the blues of the ocean as the backdrop and lush palm trees, framing everything like a serene painted picture.

View from the suite

I look out into the Jacuzzi area and see a beautiful sunset, with couples lounging in the water…nude. I observe from afar for awhile, but don’t want to be categorized as a peeping tom, stealing glances from behind the curtains. I don’t have enough nerve to join the crowd, so I go back to unpacking and exploring the resort and its sister resort, El Dorado Seaside Suites.

The activities at a nudist resort are similar to those at any other resort: spa, yoga, pool, dancing in the disco at night. The only difference is that clothes are optional.

One perk of checking in to Hidden Beach is the use of its sister resort, if you feel like joining the clothed members of society again. A short walk outside the stone gate and you are matched with mirror image scenery, without the “sans clothing” option. Perfect for the first time nudist who may be a bit shy (like me). Sun beds are available to all guests from both resorts in the gardens, by the ocean or by the pool. If you need to relax, a beach side massage can be booked with a trained masseuse.

Dining options at Hidden Beach are limited to one main dining area, but seven different restaurants (Arrecifes, GI, Sandwicherie, Vida Garden Grill, La Carreta, Mia Casa and Klay Talay) are available on the El Dorado side.

With choices ranging from International Cuisine to Mexican to Italian to Asian, there is something for everyone. If none of the restaurants appeal, you also have the option of 24-hour room service.

When you retire for the evening, don’t miss the attention to detail provided by the resort.  From the cute animal towels sitting on your bed, to filling up the Jacuzzi with bubbles upon turn-down, the thoughtfulness of the staff is second to none.

All photos courtesy of Hidden Beach Resort.