Alua Linda Mallorca vs Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Alua Hotels & Resorts vs Velas Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Alua Linda Mallorca | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 6.9 | 9.8 |
| Star Rating | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 189 | 267 |
| Restaurants | 2 | 8 |
| Pools | 2 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2026 | 2003 |
| Year Renovated | 2026 | 2015 |
Features
| Metric | Alua Linda Mallorca | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | No | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | No | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Alua Linda Mallorca | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 3 | 9 |
| Included | 3 | 9 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Alua Linda Mallorca | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 2 | 12 |
| Suite Categories | 0 | 11 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Alua Linda Mallorca | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 25 | 23 |
| Included | 22 | 21 |
| Extra Charge | 3 | 2 |
Pros & Cons
Alua Linda Mallorca
Pros
- Complete 2026 renovation means the property is in genuinely new condition — no old-stock maintenance issues.
- 269 sq ft rooms are meaningfully larger than the 215 sq ft standard common at comparable properties.
- PMI Airport is 7 minutes away by the A2 bus from the stop directly across the street.
- Three pools including a quiet relax pool separate from the main activity area.
- Pet-friendly policy for small dogs — rare in the all-inclusive segment.
Cons
- Only two room categories with no sea-view option at any price point.
- No spa or dedicated wellness facility beyond fitness classes and gym.
- Terra buffet does not serve lunch — guests must use the Fresco poolside bar or go off-site at midday.
- No specialty à la carte restaurant — dining variety requires leaving the property.
- Post-2026 guest reviews are limited; the renovation track record is strong on paper but untested at scale.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Pros
- AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star simultaneously — one of the most decorated all-inclusive resorts in Mexico
- Suites start at 1,000 sq ft with private terraces, ocean views, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry level here exceeds most competitors' premium categories
- Premium spirits, wines, and 24-hour room service are fully included — not standard at most all-inclusives, even premium ones
- Banderas Bay is swimmable — actual ocean swimming possible, unlike Los Cabos Pacific corridor properties
Cons
- Pool lounger competition peaks by 8 AM in high season (December through March) — early rising is required for preferred positions
- Some ocean view suites have partial obstructions from palm trees or the Selva del Mar restaurant building — ask at booking about specific suite positioning
- Piaf and Frida fill up during high season — book before arrival rather than assuming walk-in availability
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more dining venues, while Alua Linda Mallorca offers more activities.