Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Secrets 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 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 | 485 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 11 |
| Pools | 4 | 7 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 2022 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | — |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets 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 Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 19 |
| Included | 9 | 19 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Secrets 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 Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 33 |
| Included | 21 | 26 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 7 |
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 Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton
Pros
- Three man-made cenotes are a genuinely distinctive pool feature — not replicated at most Riviera Maya all-inclusives.
- The Gypsy speakeasy adds an evening destination with actual character — more interesting than a standard resort nightclub.
- Hilton Honors points earning and the Sip, Savor & See program add value for brand-affiliated travelers.
- The 2022 opening means rooms are still in good condition with contemporary finishes.
Cons
- Drinks are reported as potentially watered down — ask for top-shelf brands by name rather than accepting the default pour.
- Beach quality is limited by anti-algae barriers that are common to the area but disappoint guests expecting open-ocean Caribbean conditions.
- Lounger competition at the main pools is real during peak occupancy — 8 AM arrival is required for preferred positioning.
Summary
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has a higher guest rating, while Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton has more restaurants, while Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton is the larger property, while Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton has more dining venues, while Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, by AMR Collection, an All-Inclusive Resort by Hilton offers more activities.