Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort
Velas Resorts vs Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 8.2 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | 327 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 6 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 2024 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2018 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 12 |
| Included | 9 | 11 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 1 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 9 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 6 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 25 |
| Included | 21 | 19 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 6 |
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
Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort
Pros
- Under 10 minutes from Puerto Vallarta airport — the most convenient transfer time of any Marriott all-inclusive in Mexico.
- The Sea Turtle Rescue Program participation is a culturally and ecologically specific activity available only during nesting season.
- The Ceviche & Tequila Bar with 180+ tequilas is a serious regional spirits program, not a decorative bar feature.
- Walking distance to Marina Vallarta's restaurants, marina, and Thursday farmer's market provides genuine off-property options without a taxi.
Cons
- A daily resort fee is charged on top of the all-inclusive rate — confirm the full daily cost at booking.
- Pickleball courts now carry a separate daily fee beyond the resort fee — bring your own rackets and expect the extra charge.
- Additional work planned through late 2025 — some areas may be in renovation during your stay.
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort is the larger property, while Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort has more dining venues, while Marriott Puerto Vallarta, An All-Inclusive Resort offers more activities.