Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure
Velas Resorts vs Marival Resorts — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 9.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | — |
| Restaurants | 8 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 2025 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2017 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 17 |
| Included | 9 | 14 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 3 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 7 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 5 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 23 |
| Included | 21 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 3 |
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
Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure
Pros
- 300 yards of calm, protected bay beach with included non-motorized water sports — kayaks, windsurfers, boogie boards, and snorkeling — represents genuine beach-use value.
- The pirate-themed kids' pool with waterslides, rock climbing wall, and mini-golf give this property a broader family activity footprint than most Riviera Nayarit competitors.
- The Tranquil Pool with its no-music policy is a thoughtful design decision — a rare practical amenity in a family resort for adults who want to swim quietly.
Cons
- The specialty restaurant reservation system is the resort's biggest operational frustration — with 6 restaurants for 496 rooms, demand consistently exceeds availability.
- Main pool and main buffet dining room noise levels are frequently described as very high — the outdoor patio at Casa Bella and the Tranquil Pool are the practical alternatives.
- Room service carries an extra charge — not a standard all-inclusive inclusion here.
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Marival Emotions Resort & Suites Riviera Nayarit by Mercure has more dining venues.