My wife and I visited Desire Riviera Maya Pearl for a long weekend in September, arriving Friday and leaving Monday. We enjoy spontaneous trips, and this time decided on a quick “debauchery” weekend at Pearl. Before going, we found only short comments about certain aspects of the resort, so we wanted to expand on those for anyone else researching. Here’s our take:
• The Crowd
We often read that Pearl draws an “older crowd.” At 43 and 51, we figured we’d blend in—and we did. That said, we found ourselves on the younger side compared to most guests, which sometimes made us feel less approachable. Still, everyone we did connect with was friendly, engaging, and easy to converse with.
• Clothing-Optional Atmosphere
This was our first clothing-optional resort, though we’ve been to many swinger clubs, so nudity wasn’t an issue. We assumed most women would go topless and men would wear shorts, but that wasn’t the case. Men of all ages were fully nude around the pool. It wasn’t uncomfortable, just surprising at first. The pool area leaned more toward a relaxed nudist vibe than the “sexy, seductive” energy we expected.
• Sexy Vibe & Party Scene
Pearl has a very sensual feel with décor that promotes a sexy energy. However, it’s not an all-day, all-night party resort. Days at the pool were calm and conversational, with a little playful fun when the Playmakers got involved. Nights felt similar to what you’d find at a Couples or Secrets resort—dinner, drinks, a show, then most people drifted off. We tried the disco Friday night but found only about a dozen people there after 11 p.m.
• The Playroom
The playroom is tucked inside the disco. It’s upscale, clean, and inviting, but also tiny. More than three couples would make it feel crowded. We had fun using it alone, but its size and location explain why it doesn’t see much action.
• The Staff
This part needs no elaboration—everyone’s right: the staff is incredible. From Miguel at the pool and Cob at the lobby bar to the waitstaff, bartenders, and our massage therapists, everyone was attentive, genuine, and hardworking. We tip generously and enjoy connecting with the staff, and those small conversations about their lives made our experience even better.
• Sensual Erotic Massage
A must-do. Truly the highlight of our weekend. We booked two female therapists, and they were phenomenal—intuitive, skilled, and professional while still creating an unforgettable, erotic experience. The moment we book another Desire trip, this will be the first thing we reserve.
• Dinner Stripper Experience
We signed up without asking many questions, assuming it would be a fun group activity. Instead, it was just us in the disco, set up romantically for two. Since we’re not particularly romantic, it felt a little over the top. The performers—a male and a female—were amazing at their craft, fit, and professional. Dinner included appetizers, a show, then dessert served off the performers’ bodies. While it was memorable, we felt awkward and pretentious doing it. Glad we tried it once, but not something we’d repeat (though we’d happily see the female performer again elsewhere—she was outstanding).
• Hot Tubs at Night
We’d heard rumors of wild nighttime hot-tub parties. On Sunday, before departure, we checked it out. The large hot tub was packed, but it felt more social than sexual. Most people were chatting and hanging out, while a few couples got more intimate in nearby cabanas. A good spot to mingle if you’re looking for late-night connections, but not the wild scene some describe.
Final Thoughts
We’re glad we went—100% worth it for a fun, indulgent weekend. We enjoyed the people we met, the experiences we tried, and the chance to create our own fun. At the end of the day, it’s about who you’re with, and my wife and I always know how to have a good time together.
For next time, we’ll likely try Desire Riviera Maya, as several Pearl guests suggested it might suit our style better. Still, huge thanks to the Pearl staff for a memorable weekend—we truly loved it.