My Honest Review of Grand Velas Riviera Maya: The Ultimate Luxury All-Inclusive Wedding Resort in Mexico by Diana
If you’re a bride looking for a luxury all-inclusive resort in Mexico that delivers exceptional service, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking wedding venues, look no further than Grand Velas Riviera Maya.
My husband and I stayed here for our 7-year anniversary, and as a destination wedding travel advisor, I couldn’t wait to experience it firsthand. It’s one of the most talked-about resorts in the Riviera Maya, and yes, it completely lives up to the hype.
Arrival: Five-Star Luxury From the Moment You Drive In
From the moment you approach the gates, you know you’ve entered a different level of all-inclusive. Your car glides over a waterway to reach the main entrance (a dramatic first impression) before winding through lush jungle roads until you reach your section of the property.
Grand Velas sits on over 80 acres and is divided into three luxury sections:
Grand Class – Adults-only, oceanfront, and ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or romantic destination weddings.
Ambassador – Family-friendly, oceanfront, with spacious suites and family-oriented amenities.
Zen Grand – A jungle-immersed, family-friendly escape with a spa-like vibe (not oceanfront).
Our Suite: Grand Class Oceanfront Plunge Pool
We stayed in a Grand Class Oceanfront Plunge Pool Suite, and it might just be one of the best rooms I’ve ever stayed in. Floor-to-ceiling views of the Caribbean, a private plunge pool, a spa-style bathroom, and space to truly spread out.
Service is where Grand Velas really shines… our butler Jessica was just a text away, making sure every detail was taken care of. This is the level of personalized attention brides love when planning a wedding week.
Dining: Michelin-Star All-Inclusive Experience
If you’re searching for a resort with the best food in Riviera Maya, this is it. Grand Velas is home to Cocina de Autor, the only Michelin-starred restaurant at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico… a bucket-list dining experience you need to reserve in advance.
Our 11-course tasting menu with cocktail pairings was unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. Each dish was plated beautifully, the flavors were creative yet balanced, and by the end we were happily full. This elevated culinary approach is what sets Grand Velas apart for brides who want their wedding menu to impress their guests.
Wedding Venues: Options for Every Style of Bride
Whether you want a beachfront ceremony, lush garden backdrop, or chic modern ballroom, Grand Velas has it all. Here’s a look at some of the stunning wedding venues available:
Zen Garden: Ceremony up to 700 guests, reception up to 700
Zen Pool: Ceremony up to 100 guests
Virgen de Guadalupe Chapel: Catholic ceremonies for 143 guests
Ocean Terrace: Ocean-view ceremony up to 260 guests
Grand Class Beach: Intimate beachfront ceremonies up to 40 guests
Convention Center: Large receptions up to 1000 guests
White Ballroom, Chaka Garden: Perfect for smaller, intimate weddings
Grand Class Deck: Ceremony up to 100 guests
(L-R): Zen Garden, Zen Pool and Virgen de Guadalupe Chapel
(L-R): Ocean Terrace, Grand Class Beach and Convention Center
(L-R): Grand Class Deck, White Ballroom and Chaka Garden
I even had the chance to see a wedding being set up at the Grand Class Deck, and it was simply magical.. exactly the type of scene brides envision for their dream destination wedding.
Amenities & Activities
Brides and guests will love:
Adults-only infinity pool with a swim-up bar (perfect for pre/post wedding relaxation).
Chic lounge and bar that’s open until 2 AM, ideal for after-parties.
Amazing gym located at the Ambassador lobby, with plenty of machines and free weights.
Lots of activities for guests that they can sign up for each day.
While we couldn’t enjoy the beach due to the seaweed season and a passing storm, it’s known for its beauty outside of sargassum months.
Why This Resort Is Perfect for Destination Weddings
Grand Velas Riviera Maya is ideal for brides who want:
Upscale, five-diamond luxury with all-inclusive convenience.
World-class food and drinks to impress wedding guests.
Bespoke wedding venues for any guest count or style.
Flawless service with a dedicated wedding team and butlers.
Final Thoughts
I give Grand Velas Riviera Maya a 10/10 for luxury, service, and dining. Yes, it’s one of the pricier all-inclusive resorts, but it’s worth every penny for the experience you get… especially for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration like a wedding.
If you’re a bride planning a destination wedding in Mexico and want to wow your guests with an unforgettable event, this resort should be at the top of your list.
