The impressive Grand Velas Riviera Maya is located just minutes from the lively resort of Playa del Carmen on a stunning stretch of sandy beach. Divided into three areas, each focusing on something different and qunique; a Zen oriented ambiance, a family friendly environment and an exclusive area ideal for adults and families with teenagers. Each area provides elegant accommodation complimented by a stunning spa, high levels of service and a delicious selection of gourmet dining. The dining at Grand Velas Riviera Maya takes all-inclusive to the next level. From the buffet to formal a la carte dining, your taste buds will be in a culinary heaven with an all-inclusive like no other in the region.
Approx. 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport
On a beautiful stretch of stunning beach
A short distance from Playa Del Carmen with shops and bars
Surrounded by lush tropical Mayan jungle
4496 Reviews
90% of travellers recommended this hotel
Traveller ratings
Excellent
3806
Very Good
468
Average
125
Poor
60
Terrible
38
What to Expect
Sleep Quality
Location
Rooms
Service
Value
Cleanliness
Reviews
Dec 12, 2019
It's a great resort with a great service and security
Los Angeles, California
We stayed there for a week. The service and the place are great. It's just the AC is extremely high inside so the temperature between the inside and outside, made a lot of us sick when we got back. Other than that, LOVELy.
Dec 11, 2019
Amazing experience
I just spent 10 days at Grand Velas and I can’t rate it high enough. From the moment I got there the staff were amazing- friendly, helpful, caring- they went above and beyond. My room was incredible and the facilities first class- I’ve been totally spoilt and don’t think I’ll find anywhere else that meets their high standards. I’m so grateful for the care I was displayed and will never forget my stay 💜
Dec 11, 2019
Perfection
Boston, Massachusetts
I traveled to Grand Velas for nine nights for a conference. Every detail was a magical!
The resort is amazing. The rooms, I did a ground floor in Ambassador are huge, walk in closet, patio, huge bath with soaking tub and large walk in shower. Every amenity is there, with 2x day service.
The food is the best I’ve had in an all inclusive and all of it a zillion times better than our way more expensive Beaches Turks experience.
It is the nicest spa I’ve ever been to, with your own personal attendant that goes through the water journey caring for your every need.
I arrived with a crutch and they went above and beyond caring for me. Gerardo, Mauricio, Omar, Roberto among others greeted me by name, carried my bags, helped me around and were always there for rides around the property.
I traveled to more than 20 hotels across the world this year and this one wins. It was one of the only times I didn’t want to leave, and everyone at the Joe Dispenza conference felt the same.
I can’t wait to return and be bathed in the healing energy. If you are recovering or facing accessibility issues, they are the most compassionate.
I’ve never left a place with more authentic hugs and love in my heart.
Bravo! Five stars
Dec 10, 2019
AMAZING!!!
Gorgeous hotel! Amazing food but exceptional staff-especially Aaron Ortiz by the pool became our dear friend!! Wonderful wonderful week!!! Really really spectacular-all if our needs were met before we realized them lol
Dec 09, 2019
How Does it Keep Getting Even Better?!
Orlando, Florida
Amazing, as always!
We had the pleasure of spending ten nights at the Grand Velas over the Thanksgiving holiday. We are regular guests there and although we know what to expect, it seems like each trip is better than the last.
The hotel is as beautiful as the photos. Everything is of excellent quality, as if management has thoughtfully considered how to offer the best version of everything. From the place settings (Noritake china and Reidel stemware even in the casual buffet), to the linens, furniture, landscaping….everything you touch and everything you see is quality.
The resort itself is a dining destination. Although this is all-inclusive, the restaurants are all chef-driven and on par with dining in New York City or Europe. What makes the dining really stand out, even more, is the service. There’s no better way to start the day than breakfast in Azul. The buffet has a daily changing menu of Mexican specialties – I love knowing I’m in Mexico, as opposed to an Americanized resort. Although the buffet servings are made in small quantities at the moment, there is also a full menu for made-to-order breakfast. My husband loves their huevos rancheros, and our favorite server Felix and Chef Jaime made sure he had them every day (without even asking).
Other examples of the level of service in the restaurant include Piaf. My husband mentioned to our server Luis, that he loved the chef’s foie gras ravioli that wasn’t on the menu this time. Luis and his manager arranged for us to return a few nights later, and the chef prepared them just for us (gracias Chef Mario). And of course, the crown jewel of Grand Velas is Cocina de Autor. We have had the pleasure of knowing Chef Nahum Velasco for several years, and he always takes care of us. In fact, on our last meal there, he arranged for us to have a customized surprise tasting menu. Every dish on it was one that we had told him in the past that we loved – this can’t be a coincidence 😊 Gracias, Nahum. Service in Autor is like dining with family. Esteban, Alejandro, the wine steward Eduardo, manager Eduardo and hostess Marisol all deserve a special mention. You are each world-class, and we appreciate you all.
The spa at Grand Velas is one of our favorite areas. The Mayan water journey is worth a treatment itself, but even more special when included with a service. Although we stay at Ambassador, we enjoy using the Zen pool every day. The Zen pool is peaceful and surrounded by tropical landscaping. But the most special reason is service. One word: Oscar! Oscar is simply amazing. He treated us like we are celebrities. The whole Zen pool staff is wonderful, under Pedro’s management. Alfredo, Gabriel, and our new friend Juan all made sure we had fresh drinks, towels, water, etc. They cleaned our sunglasses and gave us cool towels. These guys are superstars.
Our suite at Grand Velas was in the Ambassador (family section). Although we are only a couple, we prefer to stay there for the view of the ocean and to be closer to the main pool for nighttime events and walks. The bed and linens are top quality and changed daily (if you wish, you can leave a card so they don’t). Service in the room is always on time and perfect – I know this was arranged by our concierge Marco, working in the background to make sure we had our preferences on everything from the pillows, to what kind of coffee we like (and mucha crema), to what time we like our room made up and turned down (I’m not hard to please, but I am very picky about that because we often spend time reading and enjoying our room).
It’s worth noting that we were there over Thanksgiving. The Grand Velas hosted a special Thanksgiving event, with an American style dinner. It was held in the large ballroom. The food and service were spectacular – I can only imagine what it is like to have a wedding there. Thanksgiving even included a magic show with multiple performers from around the world, a few of which were featured on Mexico’s Got Talent. But what really stood out to us over the holiday is that although the resort was at top capacity, service NEVER suffered. We did not have any issues getting a chair by the pool, a table in a restaurant, and the service was exactly the same as when we have been there with half the amount of people. The management runs everything like clockwork, there was simply more staff to accommodate everyone, and it was seamless.
Grand Velas, you continue to amaze us. Sr. Bordoli, Amy – thank you for running such a wonderful place, and for always making us feel like family. Hasta la proxima…
This blissful resort spa transports you to a world of well-being through a revolutionary hydrotherapy circuit including a clay room, ice room and experience pool. It's the perfect way to relax and unwind after a hot day in the sun and prepare yourself for that romantic night. For a high performance and physical workout head to one of the two fitness centres, Located in either Ambassador and Zen Grand Ambience
Resort Activities
Fringed by the Yucatan jungle, Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers a great range of activities which allow you to get back to nature. Explore the jungle on horseback, or zip-line through the trees or enjoy a wide range of water based sports including kayaking, scuba diving, sailing and snorkeling.
Weddings
However you picture your perfect day to be, at Hayes & Jarvis and Grand Velas Riviera Maya we will ensure everything down to the finest detail is taken care of and accommodated. So whether you want a stunning ocean front ceremony or a quiet and intimate service in the gardens, we will arrange the wedding that is perfect for you.
Zen Grand Suites offers are large and spacious and feature either a king-size bed or two queen-size beds. Set in the natural environment of the Riviera Maya jungle these suites provide an escapism and allow you to be at one with nature.
Zen Grand Suites offers either a king size bed or two queen size beds. Set in the natural environment of the Riviera Maya jungle at just five minutes from the Ambassador section. The suites over look the Riviera Maya jungle and have a private plunge pool on the balcony to sit back and relax and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Perfect for families looking for space and privacy, these large suites feature one bedroom with a king-size bed and a second room with two queen beds interconnecting. Explore as a family the Zen ambience and the peaceful Mayan jungle that surrounds you. With a host of family amenities including; baby concierge with bottles, sterilisers, cot and high-chair as well as special turndown service for kids including welcome pack with beach toys and an ecological tour with the unique "putting down roots" and planting your own tree and educating the importance of our environment.
A suite in the Ambassador section are perfect family suites with fantastic views over the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Featuring an inside Jacuzzi®, mini-bar and can come with one king-size bed or two doubles.
The Ambassador suite offers a one King or two Queen beds and includes the same amenities as the Ambassador Suite including dedicated check-in and check-out but these pool suites boast a plunge pool on the terrace with ocean front views.
The Grand Class Suites features a king size bed or two queen size beds. Experience the seductively intimate ambience of a private plunge pool on the terrace overlooking the blue waters of the Caribbean. For adults only, these suites are perfect for a romantic hideaway
The Cocina de Autor is the hotel's signature restaurant and offers a sensorial experience using extensive research of flavours and takes you on a gastronomic tour and showcasing the very best in Mexican and Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant only permits guests aged 16 years and above and gentlemen are required to wear collared shirt, trousers and closed shoes. Beach sandals, flip-flops and shorts are not permitted.
Sen Lin
A family friendly restaurant offering upscale Asian dining. Taking you on a culinary journey through the traditions of Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. Located in the Zen Grand Section - reservations are required. Gentlemen are required to wear collared shirt, trousers and closed shoes. Beach sandals, flip-flops and shorts are not permitted.
Chaká
Chaká is a casual, open-air restaurant set amidst the lush tropical jungle flora and fauna. The menu features a variety of organic, healthy international dishes. Located in the Zen Grand section. Open for breakfast and lunch only.
Azul
Casual all-day dining with panoramic ocean views, Azul offers international cuisine from the buffet. Enjoy open air dining on the terrace and is located in the Ambassador section.
Frida
This colourful Mexican restaurant is modelled after painter Frida Kahlo. Chef Ricardo de la Vega offers a fine dining Mexican experience with a modern twist. During dinner a mixologist will visit your table and will concoct a variety of seasonal margaritas. Gentlemen are required to wear collared shirt, trousers and closed shoes. Beach sandals, flip-flops and shorts are not permitted.
Board Basis Options
All Inclusive
Food: Breakfast, lunch and dinner a la carte or buffet at Bistro, Azul and Chaká restaurants. Dinner a la carte at five signature restaurants; Frida, Cocina de Autor, Piaf, Sen Lin and Lucca. Includes 24-hour gourmet room service.
Drink: In room mini-bar restocked daily, premium brand domestic and international beverages at Sky Bar, Piano Bar, Karaoke Bar, Sen Lin Bar, Koi Bar and Aqua Bars located throughout the resort.
Activities: Complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour personal concierge service, pool and beach service, kid's and teen's clubs with daily activities, gym and fitness classes, recreational activities including snorkeling and kayaks.
Grand Vela's exciting Kid's Club is an innovative program where children can play and learn through fun activities in a safe, friendly supervised environment. For children aged 4-12 years and is open daily from 09:00 - 22:45. Baby Concierge is at no additional charge and provides the VIP service for even the youngest in the family. Just let us know what you need from a range of items including; bottle steriliser, high chair, crib, baby bouncer and prams.
Grand Velas Teen's Club
This exclusive Teens Club is ultra-cool and the perfect place to hangout. This supervised club has a state of the art sound system blasting out the latest beats. The circular bar is the place where you can order your choice of non-alcoholic beverages. For teenagers aged 13-17.
What great way to experience the iconic fast paced Las Vegas strip, than with a relaxing stay in Mexico to help you recover. Experience the amazing shows, exciting roller coasters, fantastic shopping, luxury hotels, casinos and extensive bars and clubs...
Why not have the best of both worlds? Try this suggested multi centre holiday to New York and Riviera Maya, Mexico for the unforgettable opportunity to combine one of the world's most exciting cities with one of it's most beautiful...
4496 Reviews 
Traveller ratings
What to Expect
Reviews
It's a great resort with a great service and security
Los Angeles, California
Amazing experience
Perfection
Boston, Massachusetts
AMAZING!!!
How Does it Keep Getting Even Better?!
Orlando, Florida