Genuinely walkable location — Puerto de la Cruz's historic center, harbor, and Lago Martiánez lido are all within 10 minutes on foot
The Sunlight Spa hydrotherapy circuit is an unusually strong amenity for this price category
Main outdoor pool is heated November–April, making the resort viable year-round for swimmers
Views of both Mount Teide and the Atlantic Ocean from higher-floor rooms are rare and memorable
Friendly, attentive staff — consistently the most praised element in guest reviews
Two included à la carte specialty dinners per week are a genuine dining upgrade over buffet-only properties
Cons
The building was last renovated in 2006 — rooms are noticeably dated, with worn furniture and bathrooms that show their age
Nearest beach (Playa Martianez) has rocky black sand and strong Atlantic swells — it's a surf beach, not a gentle swim beach
Kids' Club only operates during school holidays, not year-round
On-site parking is expensive and reportedly the cost has increased significantly — factor this in if driving
Tenerife North Airport is closer (20 min), but Tenerife South (the main international hub) is almost an hour away
Food quality at the main buffet receives mixed reviews — the specialty restaurants are a meaningfully better experience
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 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit 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
