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 Phuket
Pros
Mai Khao Beach location is genuinely uncrowded and natural — adjacent to Sirinat National Park rather than the commercial resort strip
20-minute transfer from HKT — one of the shorter Phuket resort transfers given the island's typical traffic
All-inclusive eliminates per-item billing that makes standard Phuket hotels expensive day-to-day
504 rooms all in suite format — no standard double rooms anywhere on the property
Cons
Opening June 26, 2026 means no operational track record — first-season guests are the testing cohort for staff, kitchen, and systems
The Thai restaurant quality cannot be verified pre-opening — Thai food authenticity at resort all-inclusives varies dramatically
Mai Khao's remote location means off-property dining and shopping requires a car or resort shuttle — less spontaneous than central Phuket
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Palace Phuket is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Palace Phuket has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
