Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive
Velas Resorts vs Princess Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 144 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 12 |
| Pools | 4 | 12 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 40 |
| Included | 11 | 39 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 1 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 2 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 2 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 24 |
| Included | 18 | 21 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 3 |
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
Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive
Pros
- 40 swim-out suites give children direct room-to-pool access — the most practical room feature for families with active young children
- Family Club-exclusive pirate restaurant and ice cream parlor mean there's always a child-friendly option that doesn't require dress codes or advance reservations
- 12 restaurants and 20+ bars across the complex gives real variety without leaving the all-inclusive program
- Cribs, strollers, and bottle warmers are available on request — a facility most all-inclusives don't publicize
Cons
- The complex is large and requires transit between the Family Club section and many restaurants and the beach — add 10–15 minutes to everything
- La Fleur and other popular specialty restaurants require reservations; don't assume you can walk in on the night you want
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Princess Family Club Riviera - All Inclusive has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.