Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Hotel Riu Jalisco
Velas Resorts vs Riu Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Jalisco |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 7.3 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 700 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 8 |
| Pools | 4 | 6 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2025 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Jalisco |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Jalisco |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 20 |
| Included | 11 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Jalisco |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 6 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 3 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Jalisco |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 22 |
| Included | 18 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 2 |
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
Hotel Riu Jalisco
Pros
- 10-minute airport transfer from Puerto Vallarta airport — the fastest of any Nuevo Vallarta resort and meaningful when traveling with family luggage
- December 2025 full renovation means all rooms and facilities are in current condition — no dated sections
- Seven pools split between swim-up bar, relaxation, and sports designations give genuine choice of atmosphere
- Three-bedroom family room configuration is unusual in Riu's portfolio and useful for extended families
Cons
- Buffet food quality is inconsistently reviewed — dishes described as bland or watery appear across multiple reviews, not just individual complaints
- Gym quality has been noted as lagging behind the rest of the renovation — worth checking on arrival if fitness is a priority
- The beach is public in Mexico; vendors and independent operators approach resort guests
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Hotel Riu Jalisco has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Jalisco is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Jalisco has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.