12th-floor rooftop adults-only pool with Banderas Bay panoramas is one of the most distinctive pool features on the Puerto Vallarta hotel zone
Smaller size (222 rooms) means fewer guests competing for loungers and more attentive service than larger neighboring resorts
Local bus to the Zona Romántica runs for roughly 10 pesos — access to Puerto Vallarta's restaurant scene and Malecón without taxi costs
December to March whale season in Banderas Bay is one of Mexico's best — the resort is well-positioned for excursion access
Cons
Single operational elevator for guests creates notable bottlenecks at busy check-in/out times
Rooms facing the entertainment area or main pool pick up significant evening show noise
Pacific beach waves can be strong — not suitable for young children without careful supervision
Premier Ocean Front room is the only category with included Ekinox Bar access; the surcharge applies to most other guests
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
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
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Park Royal Puerto Vallarta - All Inclusive has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
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
