Grand Velas Riviera Maya Hotel Review: Our Readers Rate This Mexico All-inclusive Resort As One of the Best in the World — and It Has a Michelin-starred Restaurant and an Incredible Spa
"Set on over 200 acres between Cancun and Tulum, this sprawling all-inclusive resort blends old-world elegance with first-class luxury and remarkably personalized service. Guests stay in one of three distinct "classes": an adults-only Grand Class with private plunge pools and a Michelin-starred tasting restaurant led by Chef Nahúm Velasco; an Ambassador section geared to families with large, connecting suites and an expansive multi-level pool; and Zen, a secluded, nature-facing enclave with jungle surroundings and its own cenote and calming pool. Suites are very large (roughly 1,270–3,000 sq ft) and come with daily-replenished customizable mini-fridges, pillow menus, marble bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs, and a personal concierge reachable by text; higher-tier Governor and Presidential suites add perks like private transport and housekeeping. Dining is a standout — from casual cafés and beachside options to specialty restaurants (Asian-fusion, Italian, French) and the resort’s Michelin-starred Cocina de Autor — with memorable dishes such as the short-rib mole and inventive conceptual plates included at no extra cost; each area also has signature bars, swim-up bars, and curated tastings. The spa features an extensive guided hydro circuit called the Water Ceremony and treatments incorporating indigenous techniques (for example, a cactus-flower Paak’am massage), while activities range from non-motorized water sports and two gyms to kids and teens clubs and unique local excursions arranged by concierge. Service is notably attentive (beach/pool concierges, a baby concierge for infants, and proactive daily activity suggestions), and the property emphasizes accessibility and sustainability through ADA rooms, ramps and beach-access measures, solar panels, desalination for landscaping, recycling outreach, a sea turtle protection program, and a new bee sanctuary." - Taylor McIntyre Taylor McIntyre Taylor McIntyre is a senior visual editor at Dotdash Meredith, working on Travel + Leisure and TripSavvy. Her work has been featured in ArchitecturalDigest.com, Touring Bird, Port Magazine, StyleCaster, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
