by Kimberly Fisher

This story starts sometime in November, when I was contacted by Sally Golan of Social Exposure Media. She was looking for a media sponsor for one of many events she was produces.

I had actually attended one of Sally’s events last year, at The Museum of Sex. I don’t recall the actual name of the party, but I do remember the upstairs floor being hosted by vendors…some with some very racy products.  The event she was producing this time around has been something she has been doing since 2010: a naked painting party. One in New York City, the other two in Mexico. At Hidden Beach Resort.

Knowing that the Jetsetera readership was younger, hipper and open-minded with a jet set lifestyle, I agreed to sponsor. While we were both in Miami, we met, along with representatives from Hidden Beach Resort, which would be hosting the Mexico party.

For those that have never heard of Hidden Beach, it is an au natural resort. Clothing-option. Naked. I surprised myself when given the option between staying at Hidden Beach and its sister resort, El Dorado Seaside Suites…and said yes to Hidden Beach.

So fast forward to February, and next thing you know, I am on a plane to Cancun. With very lightly packed luggage.

Upon arrival, you venture about 45 minutes from Cancun along a beautiful strip of what seems to be- glamourous resorts. I always wonder what is behind the massive walls, if it is a sanctuary of beauty and serenity or covering a crumbling mess.

A little about Hidden Beach: it is the only all-inclusive, luxury au natural resort in the Mexican Caribbean. The property is made up of 42 gorgeous beachside suites, with pristine perfectly-manicured grounds decorated with sun beds, palapas, a restaurant, 2 bars, disco, gym, giant hot tub and pools that span the grounds.

When you arrive at the security gate for Hidden Beach and El Dorado Seaside Suites, you venture down a long, steep road. The valet is shared by both resorts, but to the left is a large stone wall with the understated Hidden Beach logo, guarded by two large stone frogs and giant solid wood doors. Frogs symbolize many things: cleansing, renewal, birth, transformation and metamorphosis.  Seemed fitting considering the circumstances.

When you enter, you walk into a real-life paradise. Similar to what I am sure the Garden of Eden looked like, except with modern villas and swim-up pools. Champagne is handed to you in reception, and the staff makes you feel as comfortable as possible. I had a bunch of questions running through my head on the drive down. “What do people wear to dinner?” “Are you forced to be naked?” ( The answers, so graciously answered for me is that clothing is option at mealtime and towels are placed on the seats for sanitary reasons, and no, you are not forced to hand over your clothing at the door).

The view from the room was gorgeous. Over the swim-up pool and walkways, you have cabanas, sun beds and the blue of the ocean as the backdrop and lush palm trees framing everything like a painted picture.

The room itself was comfortable, with a plush King-sized bed and in-room jacuzzi. The bathroom did not have a door, and the shower was center stage to face the inside of the room…a little intimidating at first, and probably not recommended for a first trip away together for a couple…unless maybe you are an experienced nudist. Other amenities included an iPod docking station, coffee maker, 42 inch TV with dvd player and bed pillow menu.

One thing that Hidden Beach does extremely well is pay attention to detail. From the cute animal towels, to filling up the jacuzzi with bubbles upon turndown.

I have stayed probably at no fewer than 30 resorts in Mexico, and I have to say I was impressed with the grounds of both Hidden Beach and its non-nude sister El Dorado Seaside Suites. Sun beds are available to all guests in the gardens, by the ocean or by the pool. If you need to relax, a beachside massage should do the trick.

Dining options at Hidden Beach are limited to one main dining area, and seven different restaurants ( Arrecifes, GI, Sandwicherie, Vida Garden Grill, La Carreta, Mia Casa and Klay Talay) on the El Dorado side. With choice ranging from International cuisine to Mexican to Italian to Asian, you can find something suitable for everyone. If none of those work, you also have the option of 24 hour room service.

My weekend stay seemed way to short, but I am thankful I got to experience the luxury offered by Karima Resort Properties, and a preview to the Naked Painting Party in March. To book or learn more about the resort: HiddenBeachResort.com

Thoughts on this article? Would you ever go au natural? Leave a comment below!