Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
Velas Resorts vs Riu Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.2 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 694 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2016 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | Yes |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 18 |
| Included | 11 | 18 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 6 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 5 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 30 |
| Included | 18 | 14 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 16 |
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 Palace Cabo San Lucas
Pros
- Bombay Indian restaurant is genuinely unusual in the Cabo all-inclusive market and well-executed.
- Land's End Arch views from El Medano Beach — one of the most photographed landmarks in Mexico.
- Swim-up junior suites for adults provide private pool access without the crowds.
- Complimentary Splash Water World compensates for the non-swimmable beach situation.
- Six specialty restaurants provides dinner variety across a week-long stay.
Cons
- El Medano Beach is non-swimmable — strong Pacific surf prohibits ocean swimming directly from the resort. This needs to be understood before booking.
- 40–50 minute transfer from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
- 692 rooms means peak-period crowds at pools and buffet.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas has more dining venues, while Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas offers more activities.