Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Hotel Riu Lupita
Velas Resorts vs Riu Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Hotel Riu Lupita |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 8.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | 456 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 4 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | — |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2015 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Hotel Riu Lupita |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | No |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | Yes |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Hotel Riu Lupita |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 10 |
| Included | 9 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Hotel Riu Lupita |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 3 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 1 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Hotel Riu Lupita |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 30 |
| Included | 21 | 23 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 7 |
Pros & Cons
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Pros
- AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star simultaneously — one of the most decorated all-inclusive resorts in Mexico
- Suites start at 1,000 sq ft with private terraces, ocean views, and 24-hour butler concierge — the entry level here exceeds most competitors' premium categories
- Premium spirits, wines, and 24-hour room service are fully included — not standard at most all-inclusives, even premium ones
- Banderas Bay is swimmable — actual ocean swimming possible, unlike Los Cabos Pacific corridor properties
Cons
- Pool lounger competition peaks by 8 AM in high season (December through March) — early rising is required for preferred positions
- Some ocean view suites have partial obstructions from palm trees or the Selva del Mar restaurant building — ask at booking about specific suite positioning
- Piaf and Frida fill up during high season — book before arrival rather than assuming walk-in availability
Hotel Riu Lupita
Pros
- 18-hole golf course access is included in the all-inclusive rate — uncommon among Riviera Maya resorts that typically charge green fees separately
- Walking distance to Fifth Avenue and Playa del Carmen's town center — gives access to independent restaurants, shops, and nightlife outside the resort without a taxi
- Adults-only quiet pool genuinely delivers a calm alternative to the main activity pool
- Floodlit tennis courts allow play in the cooler evening hours rather than the midday heat
Cons
- The beach requires a shuttle — the main resort property does not have direct beach access, which is a fundamental difference from most comparable all-inclusives
- Coatis (large raccoon-like animals) visit outdoor dining areas and will approach tables with food — a minor but real logistical concern for families with young children
- Air conditioning performance in rooms has been flagged in reviews as insufficient during the hottest months
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Lupita is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Lupita has more dining venues, while Hotel Riu Lupita offers more activities.