10-minute airport transfer from Puerto Vallarta airport — the fastest of any Nuevo Vallarta resort and meaningful when traveling with family luggage
December 2025 full renovation means all rooms and facilities are in current condition — no dated sections
Seven pools split between swim-up bar, relaxation, and sports designations give genuine choice of atmosphere
Three-bedroom family room configuration is unusual in Riu's portfolio and useful for extended families
Cons
Buffet food quality is inconsistently reviewed — dishes described as bland or watery appear across multiple reviews, not just individual complaints
Gym quality has been noted as lagging behind the rest of the renovation — worth checking on arrival if fitness is a priority
The beach is public in Mexico; vendors and independent operators approach resort guests
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa
Pros
Pink Gin Beach is genuinely calm and swimmable — sheltered cove geometry prevents the choppy surf that affects more exposed Caribbean beaches.
Ten restaurants for 257 rooms is a high ratio, resulting in shorter waits and more consistent kitchen quality than larger Sandals properties.
Five-minute airport transfer is among the shortest in the Sandals chain — no long bus rides after a redeye.
SkyPool suites with private infinity plunge pools are architecturally distinctive and not replicated at most other properties.
PADI scuba diving up to two dives/day is included — at $80–100 per dive externally, this adds real value for certified divers.
The property's smaller, quieter personality makes it work well for couples who want intimacy over high-energy activity.
Cons
The Sandals app reservation system is unreliable — restaurants show as fully booked while tables are available, and closures go unannounced.
"Partial ocean view" and even some "ocean view" rooms deliver disappointing sightlines — verify the specific building and floor before booking.
Summary
Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has a higher guest rating, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more restaurants, while Hotel Riu Jalisco is the larger property, while Hotel Riu Jalisco has more dining venues, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa offers more activities.
Butler Elite categories represent a meaningful price jump; the value is clearest for guests who actually use 24-hour room service and prefer to delegate planning.
Beach lounger availability at the South Seas pool requires early claiming (pre-8:30 AM on busy weeks) — not ideal for late risers.
Older sections of the property show maintenance wear relative to the newer Italian village buildings.
