Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton vs Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Which is Better? (2026) | Resort Flock
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton vs Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Our Rating
8.1
9.8
Star Rating
5.0
5.0
Room Count
358
267
Restaurants
8
8
Pools
5
4
Year Opened
2024
2003
Year Renovated
2024
2015
Features
Metric
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
All-Inclusive
Yes
Yes
Adults Only
No
No
Beach Access
Yes
Yes
Spa
Yes
Yes
Kids Club
Yes
Yes
Dining Comparison
Metric
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Total Venues
14
9
Included
14
9
Extra Charge
0
0
Room Comparison
Metric
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Room Categories
6
12
Suite Categories
6
11
Activities Comparison
Metric
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Total Activities
22
23
Included
18
21
Extra Charge
4
2
Pros & Cons
Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Pros
Brand new (2024) — no maintenance backlog, modern finishes throughout, and equipment that hasn't been through years of salt air and heavy use.
The lazy river with caves is a distinctive feature not available at most Mazatlán properties.
10–25 minute airport transfer is shorter than comparable Pacific Mexico resorts.
TPC golf course adjacent — a genuine draw for serious golfers not available elsewhere in South America.
The turtle sanctuary next door (July–December) provides an unusual wildlife experience within walking distance.
Cons
The beach is unreliable for swimming due to Pacific currents — this is a meaningful limitation for guests who book specifically for a beach-swimming holiday.
Eight dining venues for 358 suites is a lower ratio than comparable AMR Collection properties — the buffet can feel crowded during peak meal windows.
The gated Estrella del Mar location means any trip to Mazatlán's city center or historic downtown requires arranging transport.
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
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton is the larger property, while Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers more activities.
