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 St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort
Pros
The peninsula location genuinely delivers 360-degree ocean views — this is not a marketing exaggeration
Pigeon Island Beach's sheltered mile-long stretch is one of the calmest, most swimmable resort beaches in St. Lucia
Overwater bungalows with glass floors above the Caribbean Sea provide a Maldives-equivalent experience at a fraction of the distance and cost
Included PADI certification is globally rare — even full courses are complimentary
Gordon's on the Pier is one of the most dramatically sited resort restaurants in the Caribbean — a meal here is a genuine experience
Cons
The 1.5–2 hour transfer from Hewanorra (UVF) is the most significant practical drawback — factor this into arrival and departure day planning
Gordon's on the Pier seats a limited number of guests; securing a reservation requires going to the restaurant desk immediately upon arrival
Shade for pool loungers is limited — arriving early to claim covered spots is necessary during high season
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort has more restaurants, while Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort is the larger property, while Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort has more dining venues, while Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort offers more activities.
Room quality in some categories is described as adequate but not outstanding — the beach and experience compensate but rooms themselves don't always match the price point
