Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Velas Resorts vs Secrets Resorts & Spas — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 8.4 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | 198 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 14 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 2021 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive | Yes | Yes |
| Adults Only | No | Yes |
| Beach Access | Yes | Yes |
| Spa | Yes | Yes |
| Kids Club | Yes | No |
Dining Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 24 |
| Included | 9 | 23 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 1 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 6 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 5 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 24 |
| Included | 21 | 20 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 4 |
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
Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Pros
- Butler service is genuinely responsive — guests report butlers memorizing drink preferences by day two and having them pre-set at pool chairs.
- Teodoro is one of the only AAA Five Diamond tasting menu restaurants inside any all-inclusive property in Mexico.
- The three man-made cenotes at adjacent Moxché are an unusual swim feature you won't find at most Riviera Maya resorts.
- No reservations required at most restaurants — walk-in to French, Italian, Mexican, and Asian à la carte any evening.
Cons
- The two-resort layout means some amenities require a walk or shuttle — particularly the Moxché pools and cenotes from the Impression wing.
- Teodoro, the flagship restaurant, carries a supplemental charge on top of the all-inclusive rate.
- The dress code (long pants, collared shirts) is enforced consistently at evening venues — pack accordingly or you will be turned away.
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton has more restaurants, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the larger property, while Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton has more dining venues, while Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton offers more activities.