Five specialty restaurants for dinner means guests on a 5-night stay can eat at a different à la carte venue every evening.
Late-night snacks at Melange Bar until 4 AM (included) — the best post-nightclub food access of any Desire property.
The Eden section's 2024 addition brings the newest rooms, swim-up suites, and a Diamond-tier experience to a 20-year-old property.
The rooftop Jacuzzi Lounge with 30-person capacity and ocean views remains functional and social regardless of beach sargassum conditions.
Cons
Sargassum is the primary environmental risk — Puerto Morelos beach conditions vary seasonally and can be severe April through August.
Cabanas at the main pool require advance reservation; guests who don't book early are shut out during peak periods.
Buffet dinner at El Arrecife has inconsistent temperature and quality — plan to use specialty restaurants for evening meals.
Jacuzzi pump noise has been reported in some adjacent rooms — ask at check-in whether your room is near the jacuzzi facilities.
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 is the larger property, while Desire Riviera Maya Resort 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
