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
Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa
Pros
Included PADI-certified scuba diving is genuinely rare at all-inclusive resorts — even certified divers who have dived elsewhere should take advantage
The 15,000 sq ft Mediterranean pool is one of the most impressive pool facilities in the Eastern Caribbean
Dickenson Bay's calm, clear water makes it one of the most reliably swimmable resort beaches in Antigua
The Rondoval circular suite rooms are architecturally unusual and distinctive — worth booking if the design appeals to you
Sandals' couples-only policy creates a meaningfully different atmosphere from mixed-demographic all-inclusives
Cons
Restaurant reservations for Kimonos and Eleanor's are effectively required but not always formally available — arriving at opening is the practical solution
Beach vendors at Dickenson Bay can be persistent — this is a known irritant and the resort manages it imperfectly
Some rooms show age-related wear despite ongoing renovations since 2020
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa is the larger property, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa offers more activities.
