Secret Bay

I’ve been fortunate to stay at leading hotels around the world. That said, this review is in comparison to properties like St. Regis Rome, Ritz-Carlton Venice, Hotel Chable Yucatán and countless of other “5-Star” properties across the globe. Location - 3.5 out of 5 - You can hear traffic from the busy road almost everywhere on the property. In addition, it’s a very hilly property which requires you to either call for a golf cart or ride the funicular. Food - 4 out of 5 - The chefs were creative with their dishes and tried to use local sourced produce and meats. Room - 4.5 out of 5 - Very nice rooms with fantastic views, private pool, complete kitchen, hardwood folding doors that could open up the entire space to the outside. Service - 3.5 out of 5 - Most employees tried but were either undertrained or it was just a culture thing. In general, the way they greeted us or lack there of, their lack of attentiveness or anticipation of our needs and the general feel that we were more of an annoyance by being there. Specific examples were when we returned to the hotel in our rental car no one was there to greet us nor help us with our things. Often, I had to retrieve my car myself. At the poolside bar one particular bartender (not Melissa) was one of the worst. She wanted to be anywhere but there serving us. It was uncomfortable. Front desk staff was poorly trained. Beach - 3.5 out of 5 - A lot of seaweed, rocky and the water was not real clear. In summary, Secret Beach tries to be a “world-class destination” but falls short in too many areas for us to consider returning.

My husband & I had the opportunity to celebrate our anniversary here, away from our young children, so we were seeking a truly intimate getaway. Secret Bay is that & more. We actually now hope to return with our children someday, as the island offers adventure for the whole family. We spent 4 nights, and much of our time reading by the beach, snorkeling (day AND night - night snorkeling was so cool!) & enjoying the property. The property itself is so lush & natural, and largely untouched; the beautiful, spacious villas are built right into the hillside...and the funicular was so unique to get up/down. We often felt like we were the only ones there! Breakfast in our villa's screened porch was the perfect way to begin our days, and the plunge pool was a delight in the evenings. Yoga & massages were relaxing, as both overlooked the sea. The Indian River tour was a great way to learn more about Dominica, and you departed right from Secret Bay's beach. Any passing rain showers or mosquitos were not a bother, even in July (and bug repellant was provided, if asked). *All* of the staff is truly wonderful, knowledgable & attentive. I only wish we could have stayed longer!

We loved our stay at Secret Bay! My husband and I celebrated our 15th anniversary here. The rooms are incredible but beyond that, the service and attention to detail is exceptional.

We completely and thoroughly loved our stay at Secret Bay. What an incredible place! Not only were the staff very welcoming, helpful, always there to meet every need, but the resort is true paradise. Every possible thing we could need for a week-long stay was provided, including stocking of the kitchen with whatever we requested from local and sustainable sources on Dominica. Many times it felt as if we had the place to ourselves, between the very private villas that are well spaced out and with lush tropical vegetation throughout the resort, to the limited access by sea to Secret Beach. We love the small boutique type of resort and the limited number of villas that really make it easy to unwind, truly relax, and enjoy solitude. We will be back!

We were very satisfied with the welcome party. The room was well stocked and overall very comfortable and clean. The restaurant service staff were great, little time waiting for the meals and very well prepared

excellent stay. We dont have any previous "6 star" stays to compare it to, but the location, property amenities were as advertised. We did have one dinner experience that was fine ( slow service) but I wouldn't classify as 6 star, but all other meals and experiences were top notch.