The natural saltwater pool is a legitimate differentiator — 3,000 sq m with no chlorine, notably gentler on skin and eyes
Adults-only infinity pool stays open until midnight with Pacific views and nearly no crowd after 8 PM
Baby Club accepts children from age one, which is younger than most resort programs — a real advantage for parents with toddlers
Weekly beach BBQ and Friday tequila tasting break up the dining routine on longer stays
Sustainable tourism credentials (EarthCheck, Travelife Gold) are audited certifications, not self-reported claims
Cons
50-minute transfer from Puerto Vallarta airport and no walkable restaurants or shops — you are committed to the resort once you arrive
Property spread means 10-15 minute walks between some buildings and the beach — not ideal if mobility is a concern
A la carte restaurants book out during peak season; guests who don't reserve on arrival day end up at the buffet by default
Many rooms face garden rather than ocean despite the beachfront setting — check your room category carefully before booking
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Pros
Cocina de Autor is the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to earn both a MICHELIN star and AAA Five Diamond — included in the rate
SE Spa with Forbes Five Stars, 90,000+ square feet, and 40+ treatment suites is one of the largest and most awarded resort spas in Mexico
Three distinct ambiances mean guests in Zen Grand have a completely different resort experience from guests in Grand Class — useful for multi-room group bookings
Tulum ruins are 15 minutes away and cenote tours are easy half-day excursions from this location
Cons
Zen Grand suites are three-quarters of a mile from the beach — the shuttle runs frequently but beach access requires active planning
Cocina de Autor and Piaf book up as far as 6 months in advance in peak season — call before arrival rather than assuming on-arrival booking
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Maya has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Maya has more dining venues, while Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa offers more activities.
