Daily complimentary 18-hole golf at Los Delfines Golf & Country Club is a meaningful inclusion — few all-inclusives include green fees in the base rate.
The volcanic sand beach in a protected cove has calm, shallow water that's genuinely safe for families with young children.
The surrounding rainforest delivers genuine wildlife encounters — howler monkeys, scarlet macaws, and iguanas are regular morning visitors to the grounds.
Two large pools connected by a waterfall create a strong day-use core, with the swim-up bar at the south pool as the social hub.
Miyako Japanese and El Rancho Steak House consistently receive better food reviews than the resort's all-inclusive peers.
Cons
The main buffet (El Tucán) receives consistently poor reviews — guests who don't prioritize specialty restaurant access will be disappointed with the baseline dining.
Specialty restaurant reservations are competitive and limited for non-Premium Level guests — arriving without a plan means missed dinners at the three best venues.
Wi-Fi is unreliable in rooms and often carries an extra charge — a persistent complaint unresolved across multiple seasons of guest reviews.
The location requires a full commitment to the resort — no walkable restaurants, bars, or entertainment in Tambor village without transport.
Room quality reports mention dated decor, occasional musty smells, and dripping AC units — the property renovated in 2012 and age is showing in some blocks.
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
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Barceló Tambor is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers more activities.
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
