We Have a New Compass for Choosing Hotels, Destinations, and Activities for Our Next Vacation
The 2026 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards have just been announced, recognizing each year the favorite attractions, destinations, hotels, and restaurants of travelers around the world. This year, the Velas Resorts family earned a special place in the rankings. We visited Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, and here’s why this all-inclusive resort deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit: Innovation and Lasting Excellence
Arriving at this all-inclusive resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast is an instant invitation to disconnect. The experience begins even before check-in, where guests are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine and a quick shoulder massage to help them leave the journey behind. From that moment on, comfort becomes the priority, where limitations disappear and the seemingly impossible becomes reality.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is much more than an all-inclusive resort. In fact, it pioneered the luxury all-inclusive concept at a time when the industry focused mainly on mass tourism with little personality. It opened its doors in 2002, and since then it has redefined expectations for this category through exceptional guest service, premium accommodations, a focus on wellness long before it became a trend, and more than two decades of continuous innovation without losing its essence.
Luxury, sophistication, tranquility, and unforgettable dining experiences are just a few of the qualities that captivate guests. These are complemented by the stunning scenery of Banderas Bay and the freedom to enjoy every experience without limitations.
Luxury and Relaxation Combined
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit features 267 newly renovated suites designed with a modern aesthetic. Wood finishes, marble surfaces, and a neutral color palette create an elegant atmosphere from the moment guests enter. Spacious layouts, a fully stocked minibar, and a pillow menu ensure maximum comfort, while private terraces offer views of either the lush gardens or the Pacific Ocean.
Guests seeking an elevated experience can choose a suite with a private terrace jacuzzi or the spacious Family Suite, offering 200 square meters of space for up to five guests. Every accommodation includes a 24-hour personal concierge dedicated to anticipating and fulfilling every need.
World-Class Dining Without Leaving the Resort
In addition to its two beachfront restaurants, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit allows guests to travel the world through its culinary offerings. Each evening, four specialty restaurants welcome diners with carefully crafted international cuisine:
- Frida – Traditional Mexican cuisine
- Sen Lin – Asian fusion
- Lucca – Mediterranean cuisine
- Piaf – French cuisine
Each restaurant serves both classic favorites—such as French onion soup, fresh pasta, and homemade mole—as well as signature dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients. Every venue also offers specially curated cocktails designed to complement the flavors of the menu.
After dinner, guests can continue the evening at Koi Lobby Bar, an elegant lounge serving classic cocktails, signature creations, fine wines, and premium spirits. Following the recommendations of the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit staff guarantees a memorable night.
The Ultimate All-Inclusive Experience
Imagine relaxing beside an infinity pool that appears to merge seamlessly with the ocean while sipping a refreshing drink from one of the beach bars and listening only to the breeze. That is everyday life at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, where tranquility takes center stage.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities throughout their stay, including:
- Pilates
- Yoga
- Pool Zumba
- Beach volleyball
- Tennis
- Table tennis
- And many more
Another highlight is Wellnessing Getaway, an annual wellness weekend dedicated to nurturing the body, mind, and spirit through yoga sessions, nutrition talks, Pilates classes, and guided meditation, offering guests the opportunity to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with themselves.
Travelers Have Spoken at the 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards
After discovering everything Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit has to offer, it’s easy to understand why it was recognized as one of the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the 2026 Travellers’ Choice Awards presented annually by Tripadvisor. What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that the rankings are based entirely on traveler reviews and ratings collected over a 12-month period, making the award a reflection of genuine guest experiences.
In addition to Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, several other Velas Resorts properties were also included in this year’s rankings.
Whether you choose another Velas Resorts property or Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit itself, you’re sure to enjoy a vacation filled with unforgettable memories.
All-inclusive suites at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit are available starting at MXN $17,253.
Source: foodandtravel
