Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa
Velas Resorts vs Sandos Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 8.2 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | 199 |
| Restaurants | 7 | 1 |
| Pools | 4 | 2 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2009 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 6 |
| Included | 11 | 4 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 2 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 5 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 1 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 22 |
| Included | 18 | 18 |
| 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
Sandos Monaco Beach Hotel & Spa
Pros
- Central Benidorm location means the old town, Levante Beach, and the city's independent restaurants and bars are all walking distance — this doubles the value of the all-inclusive rate.
- 9-treatment-room spa is substantially larger and more complete than most Benidorm all-inclusive hotel spas.
- The staff scores are among the highest consistent praise points in guest reviews — efficiency and friendliness at reception and restaurant.
Cons
- Pool sunbeds get claimed by 9 AM in peak season — this is a documented competition and the hotel hasn't resolved it with a reservation system.
- Outdoor pool is unheated and the Jacuzzi is reported as cold even in the spa area — the thermal circuit doesn't consistently reach expected temperatures.
- Red wine is served chilled by default — ask specifically for room temperature or it will arrive from the refrigerator.
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.