Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún
Velas Resorts vs Iberostar Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 366 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 5 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2011 |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 12 |
| Included | 11 | 12 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 12 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 6 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 31 |
| Included | 18 | 26 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 5 |
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
Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún
Pros
- All-suite property with no standard room downgrades — the entry level here is what passes as junior suite at older Iberostar properties
- Swim-up suites with direct terrace-to-pool access and in-room jacuzzis at corner suite categories
- Eagles teen zone with retro gaming, DJ table, and pool tables is among the more thoughtfully designed teen programs in this price bracket
- Proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef makes PADI diving here ecologically significant, not just recreational
Cons
- Opened November 2025 — no substantial review record exists yet; operational quality, food variety, and service standards require a full season to assess reliably
- Seasonal sargassum significantly affects beach conditions during summer months
- Some early guest reports cite timeshare pitch encounters and tennis court maintenance issues — confirm both situations on arrival
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún is the larger property, while Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún has more dining venues, while Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancún offers more activities.