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
Bowling, laser tag, and trampoline park inside the resort solve the 'what do we do on a rainy day or at noon in August heat' problem that most all-inclusives can't answer
At 1,005 suites with 20+ dining venues (including Stay at 1, Play at 2 access to Royalton Riviera Cancun), variety doesn't become a problem on week-long stays
The indoor pool is a practical advantage that Cancun resort guests rarely think about until they need it
The Winery is genuinely unusual for an all-inclusive in Mexico — if wine is important to you, this is a meaningful differentiator
Cons
1,005 suites is a very large resort — main buffet and primary pools get crowded during peak season; this is not a resort for guests who value quiet or intimacy
Entertainment activities (bowling, laser tag, escape room) have limited capacity and sign-up fills on arrival day — late check-ins may miss availability for the week
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort has more restaurants, while Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort is the larger property, while Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort has more dining venues, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers more activities.
