Couples Swept Away vs Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Couples Resorts vs Velas Resorts— Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Couples Swept Away | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 8.0 | 9.8 |
| Star Rating | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 312 | 267 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 8 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 1990 | 2003 |
| Year Renovated | 2006 | 2015 |
Features
| Metric | Couples Swept Away | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | Yes | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | No | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Couples Swept Away | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 19 | 9 |
| Included | 18 | 9 |
| Extra Charge | 1 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Couples Swept Away | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 8 | 12 |
| Suite Categories | 8 | 11 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Couples Swept Away | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 25 | 23 |
| Included | 20 | 21 |
| Extra Charge | 5 | 2 |
Pros & Cons
Couples Swept Away
Pros
- The 10-acre sports complex is the largest in Negril and among the most comprehensive at any Caribbean all-inclusive — squash and racquetball courts are rare finds
- Custom mini-bars in all rooms are included in the rate — an unusual and practical amenity that most all-inclusives charge extra for
- PADI-certified scuba and golf green fees are both included, which meaningfully changes the value calculation versus comparable Negril properties
- The full fitness class schedule (yoga, Pilates, spinning, aerobics) is more comprehensive than most Caribbean all-inclusives
Cons
- The 2006 renovation means some room elements feel their age — newer furnishings in some categories don't change the underlying infrastructure
- Food consistency is uneven: Feathers and Lemon Grass earn strong marks, the main buffet is more variable, and wine quality gets regular criticism
- The sports complex is across the road from the main resort — traffic crossing is minimal but not integrated with the beachside 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
- 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 Couples Swept Away is the larger property, while Couples Swept Away has more dining venues, while Couples Swept Away offers more activities.