Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Sandos Benidorm Suites
Velas Resorts vs Sandos Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Benidorm Suites |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 3.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 200 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 2 |
| Pools | 4 | 2 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | 1975 |
| Year Renovated | — | 2017 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Benidorm Suites |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Sandos Benidorm Suites |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 7 |
| Included | 11 | 7 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Benidorm Suites |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 4 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 4 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Benidorm Suites |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 21 |
| Included | 18 | 16 |
| 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
Sandos Benidorm Suites
Pros
- All-suite format means every room has a separate living area — a practical upgrade over standard hotel rooms at the same price point.
- The 70s/80s/90s music entertainment is the most consistent and well-executed theme in the building — guests who like this era find the evenings genuinely fun.
- Khas Mahal Indian restaurant is one of the better specialty dining options among Benidorm all-inclusives.
Cons
- Neither main pool is heated — visiting October–April means cold pool water unless you use the Sandos Monaco spa circuit.
- The 15-minute walk to the main Levante Beach area is slightly uphill on return — a minor but recurring mention in guest reviews.
- Food variety becomes repetitive on longer stays; guests staying over 5 nights consistently note this.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos is the larger property, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.