Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Hotel Riu Montego Bay
Velas Resorts vs Riu Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Montego Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 6.6 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Room Count | 307 | 681 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 5 |
| Pools | 4 | 5 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2020 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Montego Bay |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Hotel Riu Montego Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 11 |
| Included | 11 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 1 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Montego Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 5 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 1 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Montego Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 26 |
| Included | 18 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 6 |
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 Montego Bay
Pros
- 5–15 minute transfer from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) — the most airport-convenient all-inclusive in Montego Bay
- The beach Jerk Station at lunch is authentic and consistently the most-praised individual food experience at the property
- Pacha disco and drinks included at night — no additional entry fees or drink minimums
- Splash Water World on-site and included in the rate
Cons
- This is a party resort with a clear identity — the Pacha disco, Riu Party events, and animated pool programming are central, not peripheral; guests seeking quiet should look at the more relaxed Riu Palace Jamaica instead
- Aircraft noise is a factor depending on wind direction and flight schedules given the 2–5 km proximity to MBJ
- Late-night food options are limited after specialty restaurants close — the 24-hour Sports Bar snack menu is the fallback
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Montego Bay is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.