Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa
Velas Resorts vs Paradisus by Meliá — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 794 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 11 |
| Pools | 4 | 6 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2017 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Varadero Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 24 |
| Included | 11 | 24 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 12 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 11 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 23 |
| Included | 18 | 17 |
| 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
Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa
Pros
- YHI Spa Agua Marina's outdoor palapa treatments are legitimately distinctive—one of the few open-air spa experiences in Varadero.
- Integration with the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve means natural surroundings rather than purely manicured resort landscaping.
- Blue Flag beach certification on Punta Francés beach is a consistent quality and cleanliness standard.
- Eleven restaurants make this one of the more diverse dining options on the Varadero strip.
Cons
- Cuban 5-star grading does not match international standards—expect solid 4-star delivery in most areas.
- Bana (teppanyaki) and Bella Mar (gourmet) are only accessible to Reserve/Royal Service tier guests—standard guests miss the best specialty restaurants.
- All specialty restaurants require reservations; with 510 rooms the competition for slots is real.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa is the larger property, while Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.