Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort
Velas Resorts vs Royalton Luxury Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 38 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 2 |
| Pools | 4 | 1 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2019 |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | No |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 4 |
| Included | 11 | 0 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 4 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 7 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 7 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 17 |
| Included | 18 | 4 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 13 |
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
Mystique Holbox by Royalton, A Tribute Portfolio Resort
Pros
- Walking distance to the town of Holbox — guests can leave the resort easily and explore local restaurants, bars, and shops without needing transportation.
- Staff consistently praised for being genuinely helpful and attentive, not just performatively so.
- The beach is cleaner and quieter than the Cancun Hotel Zone beaches at virtually any time of year.
Cons
- No room service, one primary restaurant, no all-inclusive option — guests who want resort dining convenience should book elsewhere.
- Construction noise from neighboring buildings has been a recurring complaint in recent reviews; confirm current status before booking.
- The à la carte pricing adds up quickly on a multi-night stay; budget accordingly.
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 Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.