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 Playacar All Inclusive
Pros
The beach is one of the better resort beaches in the Riviera Maya — the calm, clear water protected by Cozumel Island is a genuine advantage over Cancun Hotel Zone properties that battle rough waves.
The Playacar location puts Fifth Avenue and Playa del Carmen's independent restaurants and nightlife within walking distance of the resort gate — more built-in off-resort access than most all-inclusives this size.
The Lite Teen Club running until midnight and the Kids Club running until 10 PM give parents meaningful free time in the evenings without external childcare arrangements.
Cons
Specialty restaurant demand far exceeds capacity — Le Gourmet, Fogo de Janeiro, and Asana fill immediately when the Sandos App goes live for reservations. Guests who don't book on arrival day may miss preferred dinner venues for their stay.
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Sandos Playacar All Inclusive has more restaurants, while Sandos Playacar All Inclusive is the larger property, while Sandos Playacar All Inclusive has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.
The resort operates at genuine resort-city scale (819 rooms) — navigating between the Hacienda villas, the Platinum Tower, and the main pool areas requires time and comfortable footwear on the first day.
Couples who don't explicitly book Select Club accommodation will find the main resort environment predominantly family-forward and high-energy — not a complaint for families, but a mismatch for adults seeking quiet.
