Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16)
Velas Resorts vs Princess Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 505 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 3 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 1988 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2018 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | Yes |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | No |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 10 |
| Included | 11 | 6 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 4 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 6 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 3 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 29 |
| Included | 18 | 17 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 12 |
Pros & Cons
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
- 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
Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16)
Pros
- Direct Fañabé Beach access and promenade proximity make this the most walkable of Costa Adeje's all-inclusive options — guests can leave the resort easily without organizing an excursion
- Adults-only (16+) creates a genuinely quieter atmosphere than the family-heavy resorts neighboring it on the Tenerife coast
- Year-round Canary Islands climate with clear days and stable temperatures makes seasonal booking less critical than at Mediterranean resorts
Cons
- Buffet hot food temperatures are inconsistently maintained — guest feedback is consistent about this; eat closer to opening time for best results
- Noise from adjacent hotel's cooling installations affects specific room locations — request a room away from the east/northeast side when booking
- Air conditioning quality has been noted as variable across different room categories
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Guayarmina Princess (Only Adults +16) offers more activities.