Grand Velas Riviera Maya

We had a wonderful time at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. We were traveling as a family of 4 with two small kiddos. We enjoyed the quieter pool atmosphere at the Zen area of the resort. Pro tip, book your dinners in advance. We reserved them the day we got there and most of them were too late at night (8pm or later). I would recommend this resort and we plan to visit again!

Our family of 5 (kids 20-18-16) had a wonderful week here at Grand Velas. We’ve been to many all inclusive resorts, but this was hands down the best. The service was impeccable. Like truly amazing. We hit the adult pool every day, where Eduardo and his staff, including Daniel, Yasmin, Reyes, Michael, Angel, and others, were incredible. They were friendly, fun, got to know our names, our drinks, saved us spots in the morning… everything and anything we wanted, they were simply incredible. Our concierge, Jessica, was also amazing. She sought us out midweek to check in. She helped us book a very safe day trip to Playa del Carmen. Our daughters’ suite had a leaky ceiling, it was fully repaired within 30 minutes. Our safe battery went out, it was replaced in less than 30 minutes. Food was really outstanding all week as well. Service in the restaurants was outstanding. Really a great first class experience at our first trip to a Grand Velas property. Would not hesitate to book again. Highly recommend.

My child and I had a blessed time at Grand Velas in Riviera Maya. We came back tonight and my daughter did not want to leave the resort, I was also very sad. sit was out home for 6 days. Everything is just perfect there from the beautiful beach, pools, food, service and the concierge! Iza Soto my personal concierge as on top of everything, so helpful, discreet and sweet. We cannot wait to go back for Thanksgiving!.

The Grand Velas in Playa del Carmen did not disappoint. We were there for 6 nights and everything was perfection. Our personal concierge Jorge and Antonio were beyond helpful, always a step ahead of us. They sent us daily activity schedules and reminders of our reservations. Luz our server at the Zen pool was AMAZING. She was so friendly and attentive. Day after day she greeted us warmly and took care of our family. Do yourself a favor and book a spa treatment with a water ceremony. It was such an impressive spa with the best service I’ve ever had. Overall our family loved our entire stay and we can’t wait to return next year.

Our stay was from March 23-28, 2026 at the Zen garden suites. Pros: Peaceful and quiet stay at Zen gardens resort - not crowded and quiet. The rooms are large but dated. Family friendly - very family focused, child care is available, lots of activities for kids. Zen pool - the Ambassador pool is crowded and hard to find a spot after 9 am. Zen pool was a beautiful setting and kids could still have fun without being over crowded. Cons: Constantly felt hounded for tips. I’ve never felt like this before at an all inclusive. We stayed at Palamia (5 star hotel) last year (2025) and were not presented a check after each bar or restaurant trip and still left tips. They wouldn’t let you get up and leave without being presented a tab. Which was often wrong and not anything we ordered. Food and drinks - good but I’m surprised so many are impressed. We ate at Cocina de Autor - again it was good, but not like other Michelin restaurants we’ve had. I got a stomach bug during our visit after eating at Sen Lin (3/25/26) and likely have to be tested for E. coli poisoning if it doesn’t clear up. The drinks were super light in alcohol. I usually feel tipsy after a drink and I could drink three margaritas easily without feeling a buzz - which look, I get it as most people drink all day. I was only looking for just one strong drink. This is the biggest bummer - the beach!! Which is why we come to Mexico. It’s covered - and I mean covered in seaweed. Cleaning is impossible because there is so much. We only went to the beach one day and immediately turned around and stayed at the pool because the smell and inability to swim. Also, the rock structure and sand bags make it look a million times worse.