Velas Resorts has long enjoyed a reputation as one of Mexico’s most prominent upscale all-inclusive hoteliers. And the company’s newest property, Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos, expands its offerings in one of Mexico’s top beach destinations, with a new format designed to appeal to a distinct demographic.
Opened earlier this year, Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos is the company’s third in Los Cabos, as well as the sole adults-only all-inclusive property in its portfolio in the destination. It offers a smaller, more intimate scale than the nearby Grand Velas Los Cabos while maintaining the brand’s dedication to luxury, design and outstanding service.
I recently spent three relaxing nights at the new property and was wowed as soon as I entered the handsomely designed reception area, which is graced with an eye-catching view of the Pacific Ocean. The view only got better when I arrived at my accommodations: a Sunrise King Suite that measured an impressive 988 square feet, with decor bathed in soothing cream tones that fostered a sense of relaxed luxury. The large balcony, which featured a plunge pool and fire pit, proved to be an ideal place to relax and enjoy the water views.
A Suite at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos
Credit: 2024 Velas ResortsAdditional noteworthy features included a spacious living area — complete with a dining area, a well-stocked minibar (with everything included) and lots of comfortable seating and workspaces — and a bathroom equipped with Molton Brown bath amenities and a high-tech Dyson hair dryer, as well as a walk-in closet, a bathtub and a separate shower, where the handheld showerhead provides vitamin C-infused water.
Another nice touch: Regardless of room category, bottles of wine and mezcal await all arriving guests in their room.
Public Areas and On-Site Features
Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos has just 79 guestrooms and suites, and that small footprint makes the property a pleasure to stroll and explore. I found the pool area an especially inviting place to de-stress, with an array of chaise lounge seating facing a spectacular infinity pool that’s decorated with colorful tiles. Just beyond the pool lies the beach, where hotel staff pamper guests with drinks and snacks. (The beach — along with multiple beachfront terraces and indoor spaces — provides picturesque options for destinations weddings and other celebrations.)
One of my most indulgent experiences took place at SE Spa, which opened in February and is located adjacent to a verdant courtyard garden. The spa features clean lines, a sizable hydrotherapy area and a decidedly relaxing vibe; I enjoyed an “ice and fire” massage with both warm and chilled stones. Nearby, the well-equipped fitness center is open 24 hours.
Loto Robata Grill features menu items with Japanese influence.
Credit: 2024 Velas ResortsEnticing Flavors
Food and drink are big draws for guests at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos, thanks to the property’s diverse and sophisticated menus — as well as the fact that guests can also dine at Grand Velas Los Cabos.
On my first evening, I savored the delectable cuisine at Loto Robata Grill, where two Michelin-star chef Sidney Schutte fuses Japanese traditions with contemporary influences. I loved the expertly prepared skewers of beef, shellfish, octopus and vegetables. After dinner, my palate experienced yet another treat during a chocolate-tasting session that paired gourmet chocolates with spirits.
For lunch, I nibbled on tasty tacos at Roca Snack & Bar, the open-air beachfront restaurant. And every morning was a delight at Del Mar, which offers both indoor and outdoor seating and hosts a large breakfast buffet.
Another lovely venue is Agave Tasting Room, where I sampled a variety of Mexican wines accompanied by fresh cheeses; the weekly tasting experience is included in room rates.
Nearby Velas Properties Provide Additional Options
During my stay, I also spent time at the hotelier’s two other Los Cabos properties — Mar del Cabo by Velas Resorts and Grand Velas Los Cabos — both of which are conveniently located within walking distance (or a quick golf cart ride away).
Guests at Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos, in fact, are able to make dinner reservations — included as part of their room rate — at the AAA Five Diamond-awarded Grand Velas Los Cabos. I enjoyed two exquisite meals there: a sumptuous dinner at upscale Italian restaurant Lucca, and a fantastic, multicourse tasting menu at the stylish Cocina de Autor, which serves beautifully presented seasonal fare.
Additional dinner options at Grand Velas Los Cabos are offered at Frida, which specializes in gourmet Mexican food; Velas 10, where steak and grilled cuisine are among the specialties; and Piaf, an elegant, French-themed venue. While Grand Velas Boutique Hotel Los Cabos is a smaller, adults-only property, Grand Velas Los Cabos is family-friendly and has features that appeal to all ages, so the two hotels complement each other well.
Mar del Cabo by Velas Resorts is the company's only European Plan hotel.
Credit: 2024 Velas ResortsI also enjoyed a bountiful breakfast at Mar del Cabo by Velas Resorts, the company’s only European Plan hotel. This 48-room property, set partially in a building that dates to the 1950s, offers a charmingly colorful ambience, with lots of beautiful bougainvillea and Mexican decor. Mar del Cabo is a pet-friendly hotel and is restricted to guests age 16 or over; each of its rooms and suites offers a unique layout.
Now, with three properties in Los Cabos, the Velas Resorts portfolio caters to an even wider array of travelers looking for a postcard-perfect place in the sun.
