Playa del Inglés location means a real town's restaurants, shops, and nightlife are minutes from the resort — unlike remote beach properties, you have genuine alternatives without a long taxi ride
Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve is walkable from the beach end — one of the Canary Islands' most dramatic landscapes for a free afternoon
The pool heating in winter (November-April) makes this a viable year-round property, which is rare for outdoor pool-focused resorts
10-15 minute walk to one of Gran Canaria's best beaches — the proximity without the isolation is the defining location trade-off
Cons
Dining options are narrow for an all-inclusive: two restaurants with the à la carte lunch at Bohío potentially carrying additional charges — confirm coverage at booking
No private beach access — the resort pool is the only exclusive water amenity; the beach is a public, shared resort beach a 10-minute walk away
27 sq ft rooms are modest — for a couples or honeymoon property, the room size can feel tight if spending significant time indoors
The Princess Disco Lounge entertainment program varies heavily by season — shoulder season guests may find fewer shows running than peak season
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 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Gran Canaria Princess (Only Adults +16) is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers more activities.
