Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Occidental Tamarindo
Velas Resorts vs Occidental Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Occidental Tamarindo |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 6.4 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 3.5 |
| Room Count | 267 | — |
| Restaurants | 8 | 4 |
| Pools | 4 | 2 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | — |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2010 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Occidental Tamarindo |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Occidental Tamarindo |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 6 |
| Included | 9 | 6 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Occidental Tamarindo |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 3 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 2 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Occidental Tamarindo |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 23 |
| Included | 21 | 13 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 10 |
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
Occidental Tamarindo
Pros
- The only all-inclusive in Tamarindo — you get structured meal convenience in a town with genuine character outside the resort gates
- Playa Langosta is a surf beach with direct access and no vendors — unusually relaxed beach atmosphere
- Live music at La Tortuga Lobby Bar most evenings is a consistent highlight
- Staff service is frequently praised as attentive and friendly
- Duplex and Master Suite room categories offer genuinely spacious two-floor layouts
Cons
- Recurring mildew and musty odors in some rooms — pack a room freshener or request a room change promptly
- Wi-Fi costs approximately USD 12 per day and is not included in the all-inclusive rate — unusual for 2024
- The beach frontage directly in front of the resort is rocky, not suitable for casual swimming
- No swim-up bar despite a large pool — a notable absence for guests expecting one
- Limited shaded areas around the pool — midday sun exposure without shade options
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more dining venues.