Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Paradisus Cancún
Velas Resorts vs Paradisus by Meliá — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 694 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 9 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2026 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2025 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus 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 | Paradisus Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 28 |
| Included | 11 | 28 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 10 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 10 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Cancún |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 20 |
| Included | 18 | 15 |
| 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
Paradisus Cancún
Pros
- The Reserve tier transforms the experience — dedicated restaurant, private pool, and premium concierge put it in a different quality band from the standard Paradisus room
- Fuego restaurant's grill consistently earns specific praise in guest reviews — the open-fire beef preparations are genuinely good, not just resort-standard
- Blue Agave's tequila and mezcal program is more serious than typical resort bar offerings — worth an evening specifically if Mexican spirits interest you
Cons
- Vacation club / timeshare solicitation is persistent and aggressive — decline firmly at check-in and avoid any 'orientation meeting' framing
- Major renovation June 2025–April 2026 will affect facilities — book outside this window if possible
- Main pool music runs loud into the evening — rooms facing the pool stage get full audio impact; specifically request a non-pool-facing room if you sleep before midnight
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Paradisus Cancún has more restaurants, while Paradisus Cancún is the larger property, while Paradisus Cancún has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.