Huichol and Cora cultural integration with 100% locally sourced design materials gives the resort genuine regional character
Pacific coast conditions enable surfing and bodyboarding unavailable at Caribbean all-inclusives
Climate-controlled Aqua Fun water park operates comfortably even on the hottest afternoons
Two-level infinity pool is one of the largest and most distinctive pool designs among Pacific Mexico resorts
Cons
Some rooms show maintenance issues and signs of age — review specific room categories before booking and request recently refreshed units
80 km from Puerto Vallarta airport means a 45-minute minimum transfer — longer than Riviera Maya alternatives for most North American travelers
Pacific beach conditions are choppier in afternoons than Caribbean equivalents — morning beach time is more reliably swimmable
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 Iberostar Selection Playa Mita is the larger property, while Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa has more dining venues, while Iberostar Selection Playa Mita 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.
