Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Ocean Vista Azul
Velas Resorts vs Ocean by H10 Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Vista Azul |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | — |
| Room Count | 307 | — |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Vista Azul |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Ocean Vista Azul |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 17 |
| Included | 11 | 17 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Vista Azul |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 7 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 1 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Ocean Vista Azul |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 28 |
| Included | 18 | 26 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 2 |
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 Vista Azul
Pros
- The clifftop infinity pool is genuinely spectacular and unlike anything else in Varadero
- Mini Club Daisy and Teen Club are well-run — parents consistently report returning from beach time to find their kids still happily occupied
- À la carte dinner quality is consistently praised, especially El Coral's poolside ocean view tables at sunset
- Staff warm and attentive by Cuban standards — multiple reviews note bartenders learning regular drink orders by day two
Cons
- The main buffet rotation becomes noticeably repetitive by day four or five of a week-long stay
- Wi-Fi costs extra for standard room guests outside the lobby — a significant omission that surprises many European visitors
- Premium spirits (imported labels) are not included in the standard all-inclusive package — domestic Cuban rum is the default
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Ocean Vista Azul has more dining venues, while Ocean Vista Azul offers more activities.