Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Our Rating
7.7
9.8
Star Rating
5.0
5.0
Room Count
283
267
Restaurants
9
8
Pools
7
4
Year Opened
2018
2003
Year Renovated
2017
2015
Features
Metric
Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
All-Inclusive
Yes
Yes
Adults Only
No
No
Beach Access
Yes
Yes
Spa
Yes
Yes
Kids Club
Yes
Yes
Dining Comparison
Metric
Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Total Venues
18
9
Included
18
9
Extra Charge
0
0
Room Comparison
Metric
Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Room Categories
13
12
Suite Categories
11
11
Activities Comparison
Metric
Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Total Activities
25
23
Included
20
21
Extra Charge
5
2
Pros & Cons
Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma
Pros
Direct Seven Mile Beach access with calm water, minimal boat traffic, and genuine Caribbean sunset views from the resort's west-facing beach.
Nine pools including dedicated adults-only options mean you can almost always find a calm spot regardless of occupancy.
The Ackee Restaurant staffed by an all-Jamaican culinary team delivers an authentic experience; the Di Romagna Italian consistently impresses.
The Azulitos Playhouse hours (7 AM–11 PM) are longer than any comparable Jamaica all-inclusive kids program.
Rooms in the 400–800 sq ft range feel genuinely spacious, with premium bedding and large balconies noted consistently.
Cons
No elevators on property — a significant accessibility issue and a daily inconvenience for upper-floor guests with luggage.
Room service takes an hour or more routinely — plan meals at restaurants rather than relying on in-room delivery.
The property shows age: chipped paint, scratched furniture, and minor mold in pool areas are recurring observations.
Evening entertainment is inconsistent and minimal during low-occupancy periods — don't book for nightlife.
Check-in requires a ~$200 USD deposit hold that surprises many guests; prepare your card for the hold.
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
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma has more restaurants, while Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma is the larger property, while Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma has more dining venues, while Azul Beach Resort Negril, Gourmet All Inclusive by Karisma offers more activities.
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
