Grand Velas Riviera MayavsEl Taj Oceanfront & Beachside Condos Hotel
Both properties are rated very highly by reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, Grand Velas Riviera Maya scores significantly better than El Taj Oceanfront & Beachside Condos Hotel. Grand Velas Riviera Maya comes in at #3 in Playa del Carmen with recommendations from 8 publications like Lonely Planet, Condé Nast Traveler and Star Service.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Carretera Cancun Tulum Km. 62, Municipio de Solidaridad, Quintana Roo, Playa del Carmen 77710
From $961/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
Jetsetter
"All-inclusive resort near Playa Del Carmen with luxurious accommodations for family, business and romantic vacationers." Full review
Oyster
All-Inclusive
"The Grand Velas -- set on over 80 acres of mangroves that meet a postcard-perfect beach of white sand and turquoise waters -- is one of Riviera Maya’s most sophisticated properties." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"The activities desk will arrange an excursion to the Rio Secreto, a recently discovered underground river and cave system (four-hour trips from $69)." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"At this "modern, beautifully designed beachfront all-inclusive," the light-blue and turquoise exterior reflects the waterfront setting, while the curved architecture mimics the waves." Full review
Star Service
"This hotel posts some of the highest all-inclusive rates to be found along the Riviera Maya. That many of its guests are happy to pay is indicative of the quality that runs throughout this over-the-top resort." Full review
Afar Magazine
"The AAA Five-Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya features 491 spacious suites boasting sweeping views of the shimmering Caribbean Sea or lush jungle vegetation." Full review
The Telegraph
9.0
"This resort is a true goliath with 531 rooms spread across a 200-acre beachside plot, six restaurants, two huge gyms and seven bars." Full review
Frommer's
"Wows guests with award-winning restaurants, an outstanding spa, and suites worthy of a world-class hotel...the jungle setting adds a sense of peaceful seclusion." Full review
Lonely Planet
"The mother of all beach resorts, the sprawling Grand Velas boasts one of the best spas on the coast; an azure, free-form infinity pool... and the list goes on." Full review
El Taj Oceanfront & Beachside Condos Hotel
Privada 1 Norte, Mza. 35, Lt. 1, # 238, Col. Centro., Playa del Carmen 77710
From $168/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
Star Service
"For self-catering guests who want to make the scene at Playa del Carmen, this is one of the best options, and the chef’s kitchens and oversized accommodations create value, especially for families. " Full review
Oyster
Kid-Friendly
"Considered one of the area’s best hotels, with a private beach... modern gym, and several excellent restaurants, as well as gorgeous rooms, all with private balconies and a full kitchen." Full review
Jetsetter
"Balinese-inspired condos on and off Playa del Carmen’s white beach, with long-stay amenities and tropical gardens." Full review
Fodor's
"This pair of curvaceous buildings contains stylish condo rentals with luxurious furnishings imported from Bali." Full review