Grand Velas Los Cabos vs Viva Heavens by Wyndham
Velas Resorts vs Viva Wyndham Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Viva Heavens by Wyndham |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.7 | 7.7 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 307 | — |
| Restaurants | 7 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2016 | — |
| Year Renovated | — | 2023 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Viva Heavens by Wyndham |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Viva Heavens by Wyndham |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 11 | 11 |
| Included | 11 | 11 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Viva Heavens by Wyndham |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 11 | 4 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 1 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Los Cabos | Viva Heavens by Wyndham |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 27 | 25 |
| Included | 18 | 22 |
| Extra Charge | 9 | 3 |
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
Viva Heavens by Wyndham
Pros
- Five specialty restaurants for 190 rooms is an unusually high ratio — you can eat at a different restaurant every night without repeating
- Sofrito's authentic Dominican menu using local ingredients and ancestral recipes is the most distinctive dining option on the Playa Dorada strip
- Fast, reliable WiFi throughout the property including rooms — consistently mentioned in guest reviews as a genuine differentiator from comparable resorts
Cons
- Bathroom conditions are the most reported physical complaint — moisture problems and missing exhaust fans in some units; inspect on arrival and request a room change if needed
- The 'Stay at 1, Play at 2' exchange with Viva Tangerine in Cabarete is geographically inconvenient — 20+ minutes away with no included transport, making it a planned excursion rather than a casual lunch option
Summary
Grand Velas Los Cabos has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Los Cabos has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Los Cabos offers more activities.