Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Ikos Olivia
Velas Resorts vs Ikos Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ikos Olivia |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 9.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 291 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 5 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2015 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2024 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ikos Olivia |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Ikos Olivia |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 20 |
| Included | 11 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ikos Olivia |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 15 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 12 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ikos Olivia |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 22 |
| Included | 18 | 16 |
| 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
Ikos Olivia
Pros
- 450-meter Blue Flag beach with shallow, genuinely swimmable water — one of the better swimming beaches in the Ikos portfolio
- 300-label wine program included in the all-inclusive rate — ask for sommelier recommendations at dinner
- 22 acres of ancient olive trees creates natural shade throughout the grounds — unlike most treeless pool deck resorts
- April 2025 renovation completes a full room and public area redesign — guests booking after this date get a fully refreshed product
Cons
- Adults-only pool and beach sections exist but the overall resort atmosphere skews family-forward — couples wanting tranquility should book Deluxe Collection
- Pre-renovation rooms were noted as dated; guests booking before the April 2025 completion should be aware of this
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Ikos Olivia has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.