Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Iberostar Waves Punta Cana
Velas Resorts vs Iberostar Hotels & Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Iberostar Waves Punta Cana |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 8.1 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | 427 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 8 |
| Pools | 4 | 3 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 1997 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2003 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Iberostar Waves Punta Cana |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Iberostar Waves Punta Cana |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 19 |
| Included | 9 | 19 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Iberostar Waves Punta Cana |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 7 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 2 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Iberostar Waves Punta Cana |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 24 |
| Included | 21 | 17 |
| 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
Iberostar Waves Punta Cana
Pros
- Coral restoration laboratory is a genuinely unique resort feature — not a tank display but a working scientific facility
- P.B. Dye golf course on the property, not a shuttle ride away
- Blue Flag beach is among the best in Punta Cana, consistently well-maintained
- Star Camp covers three distinct age groups (4-7, 8-12, 13-17) with programming tailored to each
Cons
- 1997 build with 2003 renovation — rooms are noticeably dated compared to newer Punta Cana competitors
- Sargassum seaweed is an uncontrollable variable from May through September
- Specialty restaurant reservations are first-come; guests who don't book on arrival day may find popular venues fully booked
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Iberostar Waves Punta Cana is the larger property, while Iberostar Waves Punta Cana has more dining venues, while Iberostar Waves Punta Cana offers more activities.