Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Ocean Maya Royale
Velas Resorts vs Ocean by H10 Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Maya Royale |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Room Count | 307 | 320 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 2 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2005 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2010 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Maya Royale |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | Yes |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | No |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Maya Royale |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 14 |
| Included | 11 | 14 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Maya Royale |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 6 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 2 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Maya Royale |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 24 |
| Included | 18 | 17 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 7 |
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
Ocean Maya Royale
Pros
- Four distinct à la carte restaurants included nightly with no reservation requirement at most.
- Sports Bar open until 6am—genuinely rare for this market.
- Biosphere sustainability certification verified by third party.
- Teppanyaki at Yookoso is one of the better specialty dining experiences at this price point in Playa del Carmen.
Cons
- Beach has erosion barriers in sections—check current conditions before booking if beach quality is a priority.
- Room finishes date from the 2010 renovation and are showing their age.
- Privilege upgrades gate some of the best amenities (butler service, 24-hour room service) behind a meaningful price increase.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Ocean Maya Royale is the larger property, while Ocean Maya Royale has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.