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
Sani Asterias
Pros
53–59 suites means the pool, beach, and spa are used by a fraction of the guests typical at larger resort hotels — a genuinely low-density experience
The Michelin-starred Over Water Restaurant is a dining format unavailable at almost all all-inclusive resort properties in the Mediterranean
Private beach exclusive to Asterias guests — not shared with Sani Beach's 392 rooms or Sani Club's 253 rooms
Full access to the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre, Chelsea FC Football Academy, PADI dive school, and 20–40 resort-wide dining venues via Dine Around
The 1,000-acre ecological reserve provides forest trails, birdwatching, and guided runs that distinguish Sani from urban-adjacent resorts
Cons
Operates on bed-and-breakfast, half-board, or full-board — not all-inclusive; beverages are additional at every venue and are a notable ongoing expense
The Dine Around program has per-meal credit limits — review the credit allowances before arrival to understand what will cost extra
Kids' clubs, crèche sessions, and most sports academy programs carry additional charges beyond the room rate
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has more dining venues, while Sani Asterias offers more activities.
