Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
Our Rating
9.7
8.0
Star Rating
5.0
5.0
Room Count
307
500
Restaurants
7
8
Pools
4
3
Year Opened
2016
2018
Year Renovated
—
2019
Features
Metric
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
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
Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
Total Venues
11
16
Included
11
16
Extra Charge
0
0
Room Comparison
Metric
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
Room Categories
11
8
Suite Categories
11
8
Activities Comparison
Metric
Grand Velas Los Cabos
Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
Total Activities
27
29
Included
18
26
Extra Charge
9
3
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
Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort
Pros
All 524 accommodations are suites — the in-room whirlpool tub comes standard at the entry level, not as an upgrade.
Fifth Avenue is one block away: the best pedestrian shopping, taco spots, and nightlife in Playa del Carmen are genuinely walkable from the resort.
Booking a single spa treatment unlocks daily hydrotherapy circuit access (sauna, hot/cold plunge, steam) for the length of the stay.
The $20M renovation was completed in 2019 — rooms and public areas are current, not dated.
Cons
All specialty dinner restaurants require reservations, with some specifying formal dress. Guests who arrive without reservations are turned away at peak times — book everything at check-in.
The beach has documented seasonal seaweed and rocky water entry — the pools are the reliable swimming option, and the beach itself is primarily for sunbathing.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort has more restaurants, while Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort is the larger property, while Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort has more dining venues, while Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adults Only Resort offers more activities.
