Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit vs Sun Palace Cancun
Velas Resorts vs Palace Hotels — Side-by-side resort comparison
Key Metrics
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Sun Palace Cancun |
|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 9.8 | 9.0 |
| Star Rating | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Room Count | 267 | 263 |
| Restaurants | 8 | 4 |
| Pools | 4 | 4 |
| Year Opened | 2003 | 1990 |
| Year Renovated | 2015 | 2020 |
Features
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Sun Palace Cancun |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Sun Palace Cancun |
|---|---|---|
| Total Venues | 9 | 10 |
| Included | 9 | 10 |
| Extra Charge | 0 | 0 |
Room Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Sun Palace Cancun |
|---|---|---|
| Room Categories | 12 | 5 |
| Suite Categories | 11 | 4 |
Activities Comparison
| Metric | Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit | Sun Palace Cancun |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 23 | 33 |
| Included | 21 | 17 |
| Extra Charge | 2 | 16 |
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
Sun Palace Cancun
Pros
- Double whirlpool tubs in every suite as standard — not as a paid upgrade — is a genuine differentiator for the couples-focused market.
- 143 suites keeps the property intimate: no poolside competition for chairs, no crowded buffet lines, no fighting for restaurant tables.
- The 2020 renovation means rooms are in good shape — updated interiors make a meaningful quality difference compared to properties that haven't renovated since opening.
- Fuego breakfast as an à la carte alternative to the buffet is a practical hack that regulars recommend.
Cons
- The international buffet (Aurora) for breakfast and lunch is the weakest dining option — inconsistent temperature and variety.
- Palace Elite sales presentations can be intrusive during the stay — decline politely but firmly if not interested.
- Spa treatments are expensive without resort credits — factor this into the total cost calculation before assuming the spa is a practical option.
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 Sun Palace Cancun has more dining venues, while Sun Palace Cancun offers more activities.