The Riviera Maya may be famous for its host of five-star experiences, and for being a place where guests can live out their wildest, most luxurious fantasies, yet surprisingly, Mexico’s top rated all-inclusive hotel cannot be found anywhere along Cancun’s upscale Hotel Zone, nor Tulum’s tourist-packed beachfront. Instead, it’s the Pacific Coast that takes the crown.
Although it has historically been considered a budget destination for Americans, Mexico re-emerged from the Covid pandemic a leader in luxury travel. Previously, Americans would opt for the best reviewed, yet most affordable resort when planning a vacation abroad. Now, they are looking to splurge after being confined at home for well over two years.
While there are numerous options to choose from, perhaps this is where they should be considering for a potential winter getaway:
Cabo San Lucas Is Home To Mexico’s Number One Resort
As rated by TripAdvisor, the number one hotel in Mexico is Grand Velas Los Cabos, where guests are met with ‘spacious’ pools, fine dining, a spa and fitness center, and ‘outstanding service throughout’. In fact, when it comes to the latter category, it beats other tried-and-true holiday faves, such as Cancun’s Hyatt Zilara and Secrets Maroma.
The extended top ten can be seen below:
- 1. Grand Velas Los Cabos – San Jose del Cabo
- 2. Beloved Playa Mujeres – Playa Mujeres
- 3. Palmaia – The House of AiA – Playa Mujeres
- 4. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – Nuevo Vallarta
- 5. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun – Playa Maroma
- 6. Le Blanc Spa Resort – Cancun
- 7. Casa Velas – Puerto Vallarta
- 8. Hyatt Zilara – Cancun
- 9. Sun Palace – Cancun
- 10. Marival District Luxury Residences – Nuevo Vallarta
Property Gets Rave Reviews On TripAdvisor
On the booking platform, the Grand Velas has amassed 1430 reviews so far, 1370 of which fall within the ‘excellent’ classification. A further 48 travelers have categorized the property as ‘very good’, 10 as ‘average’, and only 2 as ‘poor’ or ‘terrible’. In general, guests are particularly impressed with the service, with TripAdvisor member ‘Sara H’ describing it as ‘top-notch’.
According to Sara, they had an incredible concierge who went ‘above and beyond’ to make sure her family’s stay was ‘perfect’; another unidentified guest commended the professionalism of their hotel concierge, who was constantly in touch via WhatsApp to ensure they were well-looked after, and arranged all reservations and tours.
The hotel itself takes pride in its ‘warm hospitality’, defining luxury as having access to the ‘best’, curated by the best talent. Among the hotel’s many accolades, it has been awarded a 5 Diamonds status by the AAA, due to its extensive list of amenities, privileged location in Cabo San Lucas’ Corredor Turistico, and architectural style.
An Impressive List Of Amenities And Cabo’s Most Incredible Spa
From beautiful suites with private terraces facing the Sea of Cortez, to multi-tiered infinity pools and a well-developed wellness center, this resort has thought of everything ‘so travelers don’t have to’, as TripAdvisor notes. When it comes to food, they are welcome to savor a ten-course ‘tasting menu’ concocted by a two-star Michelin chef and his ‘master’ Sommelier.
The hotel’s SE Spa itself is a tourist attraction in its own right, and a powerful asset now that Los Cabos has been named the country’s capital of wellness. The relaxation center combines all the latest self-care technology with Mexico’s own traditional treatments, including the ‘much acclaimed’ seven step war journey.
We can definitely see why it was nicknamed Cabo’s ‘aquatic paradise‘ by Forbes. For ultimate relaxation, the spa even allows guests to undergo treatment from their own suite, daily, from 10 am to 7 pm, though this is only available from August through November, in the low season. 24-hour advance reservation is required.
How Much Is A Week At The Grand Velas?
This winter, non-refundable rates for an Ambassador Suite Ocean View, accommodating up to 3 or 2 adults, and 2 children, start at USD 1406, all-inclusive. When opting for a refundable option, you can expect to pay an extra USD 74. On average, a six-night, seven-day sejour at the Grand Velas will cost roughly USD 8880 between mid and late January 2023.
If you’re looking to further enhance your glamorous vacation, you can now fly to Cabo in style, like celebrities do, booking a seat on a semi-private jet leaving from Los Angeles or Dallas. Contrary to popular belief, it is incredibly affordable for the level of luxury offered, with one-way tickets averaging USD 599:
- Two checked bags for free
- Faster boarding and passport control
- In-flight snacks and beverages
- High-speed internet
