Cross-access to Colonial and White Sand properties means up to 14 restaurants, 11 bars, and 6 pools on a single wristband
800 meters of fine white Caribbean sand with genuinely warm, clear water — the beach here is real, not reconstructed
Pirate-themed water park and three-tier kids programming make this one of the better-organized family all-inclusives in the Riviera Maya
$40 million 2023 renovation introduced Family Selection suites with rooftop private pools and swim-up access that didn't exist before
Adults-only El Secreto pool provides a viable quiet option even in high season
Cons
A la carte restaurant dinners are capped at 3-4 per week depending on stay length — popular venues like Sumptuori teppanyaki fill fast and require advance planning
Sargassum seaweed accumulates on the beach between April and August — a regional issue the resort manages but can't fully solve
No elevators in most buildings, which becomes relevant for guests with mobility considerations or heavy luggage
Spa hydrotherapy access costs $50/day without a booked treatment — factor this into the budget
Some previously shared dining venues with neighboring properties are no longer accessible to Kantenah guests as of late 2025
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
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa offers more activities.
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
