Waterskiing and wakeboarding with group lessons are included — this is rare at any all-inclusive and the primary sporting differentiator at Rio Das Pedras over other Brazil Club Meds
The Ilha Grande excursion (extra cost) is one of the most genuinely distinctive nearby destinations available from any Club Med in the Americas — a car-free national park island with Atlantic Forest and clear water that looks nothing like a standard day-trip
Cons
The drive from Rio's Galeão International Airport is 110–150 km and averages 2–2.5 hours under normal conditions — plan for up to 4 hours during Carnival; factor this transfer time into arrival/departure scheduling
Unrenovated standard rooms co-exist with the 2024-renovated deluxe units — always book a confirmed renovated Deluxe or Junior Suite category and verify at check-in
Jangada reservations are limited to one per stay and fill within hours of arrival — go to the restaurant between noon and 1pm on the day you arrive to secure your slot
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Pros
The only all-inclusive in the world simultaneously holding Forbes Five Stars, AAA Five Diamonds, and a MICHELIN-starred restaurant — a genuine distinction, not a marketing claim
Cocina de Autor's 8-10 course tasting menu with wine pairing is fully included in the all-inclusive rate — at a standalone restaurant this would cost hundreds per person
Every suite starts at 1,081 sq ft with ocean views, private terrace jacuzzi, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry suite here exceeds most competitors' top categories
Three-tier infinity pools naturally segregate family, activity, and adult-only zones without restricting access — practical design rather than strict policy
Cons
Beach is not swimmable — Los Cabos Pacific currents make ocean swimming dangerous; the infinity pools are where guests actually swim
Cocina de Autor is restricted to adults and guests 18+ — families with younger children can't access the MICHELIN-starred restaurant during their stay
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Club Med Rio Das Pedras is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
Rates start around $1,600/night in low season and $1,800+ in peak winter — a significant commitment that requires being genuinely invested in the Five Diamond experience to justify
