Friendly, professional, and attentive staff provide excellent service.
Impeccable cleanliness throughout the resort and in rooms.
New, modern facilities with spacious, well-designed rooms and comfortable beds.
Diverse culinary offerings, especially the fabulous and varied breakfast buffet.
Vibrant on-site waterpark and pools provide great family fun.
Beautiful, pristine beach with soft white sands and calm waters.
Non-intrusive, high-quality entertainment.
Family-friendly amenities including dedicated kids and teens clubs.
Adult guests have full access to amenities and dining at adjacent Secrets Playa Esmeralda.
Peaceful, tranquil location away from crowded tourist strips.
Cons
Occasional initial administrative issues with reservations/check-in.
Language barriers with some staff leading to communication challenges (e.g., incorrect food orders).
Mixed quality and consistency of dining for lunch/dinner buffets and à la carte.
Instances of "black flag" beach conditions, making swimming unsuitable.
Minor room issues reported (e.g., non-functional toilet, tight double beds).
Noise potential for ground-floor swim-up rooms from pool area.
Secluded location means longer travel times (2-3 hours) for off-resort excursions.
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
Summary
Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa has more dining venues.
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
