Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Sandals Dunn's River
Velas Resorts vs Sandals Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandals Dunn's River |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 260 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 12 |
| Pools | 4 | 5 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 2023 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2023 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandals Dunn's River |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | Yes |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | No |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandals Dunn's River |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 21 |
| Included | 11 | 21 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandals Dunn's River |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 14 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 8 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandals Dunn's River |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 21 |
| Included | 18 | 17 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 4 |
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
Sandals Dunn's River
Pros
- 2023 full renovation means you're booking a genuinely new resort — rooms, pools, restaurants, and public spaces are all fresh
- Dunn's Rum Club is the best bar experience on the property and genuinely connected to Jamaican rum culture — plan an evening here
- Golf at Upton Estate is included with transfers — rare to have complimentary green fees at an all-inclusive
- Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) is 20–30 minutes away vs 90 minutes from MBJ — worth checking flight options from your origin
Cons
- 90-minute transfer from Sangster International (MBJ) is a real consideration for families with young children or late-night arrivals
- The beach, while beautiful, is on the smaller side — not a wide open stretch
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Dunn's River has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Sandals Dunn's River has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.