Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Velas Resorts vs Rixos Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.2 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 378 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 7 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2022 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2022 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 11 |
| Included | 11 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 1 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 15 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 7 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 20 |
| Included | 18 | 19 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 1 |
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
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Pros
- Mr. Tailor Steakhouse won Best Steakhouse in Qatar at the FACT Dining Awards 2024—the dining quality here is legitimately award-backed.
- 10–12 minutes from Hamad International Airport—the shortest transfer time of any Rixos Gulf property, and one of the most convenient of any Doha resort.
- Sauna, steam room, hot tub, and plunge pool are included in the all-inclusive rate.
Cons
- Specialty restaurants serve all-inclusive guests a selected set menu, not full à la carte—guests expecting complete menu access on their package will be surprised.
- Main buffet (Farmhouse) can become overcrowded with limited seating during peak meal times.
- Cabanas on the private beach are extra cost and available only 8am–8pm—not included in the all-inclusive rate.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.