Infinity pools with Banderas Bay panoramas from a hillside elevation are genuinely different from any beachfront resort in the area
Trekking trails through the ecological reserve offer bird watching through Sierra Madre jungle — you'll see species not present at beachfront resorts
Adults-only pool area with tree-shaded hot tubs is one of the more atmospheric outdoor spaces on the Riviera Nayarit
Makawe Spa's palm-hut treatment rooms in the jungle garden are architecturally distinctive — the setting enhances the experience
Master Suite plunge pool with bay views plus butler service is a genuinely excellent configuration for couples
Cons
No beach at the resort — Eva Mandarina Beach Club requires a 10-minute shuttle with a limited schedule; plan your beach days around it
Hilly terraced layout requires significant walking and stair navigation — not ideal if mobility is a concern
Most a la carte restaurants are adults-only — families with children have fewer specialty dining options
Evening buffet quality draws mixed reviews; the a la carte restaurants are meaningfully better but limited seats require early booking
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
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
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
