San Andrés' seven-color sea — one of the Caribbean's most visually distinctive water settings — is accessible by a five-minute walk from the resort
Self-sufficient sustainability credentials (65% renewable energy, 28% rainwater harvesting) are specific and verifiable, not just marketing language
Five minutes from the airport and 500 meters from Spratt Bight Beach makes this the most centrally positioned all-inclusive on the island
The Blue Wall Buffet quality has been consistently praised by independent reviewers for variety and freshness
Cons
No private beach — Spratt Bight is a public beach requiring a 500-meter walk, which is a different experience from a gated resort beach
As a resort that opened in November 2023, some services (spa, à la carte booking systems) had operational inconsistencies in the first year — verify current status before booking
The a la carte restaurant booking app has been unreliable — use the reception desk as your primary booking channel
Only three specialty restaurants for a 236-room resort — dining variety is more limited than Grand Sirenis properties in Mexico
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 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Grand Sirenis San Andrés has more dining venues, while Grand Sirenis San Andrés offers more activities.
