Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive vs Grand Velas Los Cabos
Decameron All Inclusive vs Velas Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive | Grand Velas Los Cabos |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 6.4 | 9.7 |
| Star Rating | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 250 | 307 |
| Restaurants | 3 | 7 |
| Pools | 5 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2013 | 2016 |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive | Grand Velas Los Cabos |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive | Grand Velas Los Cabos |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 10 | 11 |
| Included | 10 | 11 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive | Grand Velas Los Cabos |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 3 | 11 |
| Suite Categories | 0 | 11 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive | Grand Velas Los Cabos |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 20 | 27 |
| Included | 14 | 18 |
| Extra Charge | 6 | 9 |
Pros & Cons
Decameron Isleño - All Inclusive
Pros
- Spratt Bight is genuinely San Andrés' finest beach — the barrier reef delivers calm, clear Caribbean water right at the resort's door.
- Included scuba mini-course is rare at this price tier and a clear reason to choose this property over comparable options.
- 3-block walk to the airport is a practical advantage for late arrivals and early departures.
- Inter-hotel plan effectively expands dining and beach options across multiple Decameron properties on the island.
Cons
- Buffet rotates on a weekly theme cycle that guests on 7-night stays will complete — limited variety in the second half of a stay.
- Front desk and check-in service is the most cited problem area; interactions beyond the initial check-in are generally better.
- In-room Wi-Fi is weak; common areas have stronger signal.
- Beach loungers have been reported as a potential extra charge — confirm policy at check-in.
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
- 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
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.