PUERTO VALLARTA — Located just a few hundred metres apart, two longstanding Velas properties in Puerto Vallarta cater to different types of travellers, while both deliver the same sense of style and distinction.

A little more than 35 years ago, Velas Vallarta opened in Puerto Vallarta, marking the first chapter in what would become a prestigious collection of resorts known for, among other things, exceptional service and gastronomy. A few years later, Casa Velas opened just a short walk from the group’s first hotel.

Both properties are about five minutes by car from the airport, within walking distance of the marina and roughly 15 minutes by car from Puerto Vallarta’s historic centre.

Although both belong to the same hotel group, which now includes seven properties in Mexico, they cater to distinct yet complementary markets – a bit like comparing a family beachfront villa with an intimate adults-only hacienda. So which one should travellers choose? It depends on the kind of experience they are looking for.

VELAS VALLARTA: BY THE SEA

It’s only fitting to start where the Velas story began, in 1992.

Home to one of the most beautiful gardens in Puerto Vallarta, Velas Vallarta stretches along the beachfront in a large U-shaped building surrounding a lush tropical landscape filled with a wide variety of trees and plants, koi ponds, iguanas and peacocks – an exotic touch that adds plenty of charm.

The overall effect is reminiscent of a botanical garden and contributes to the property’s peaceful atmosphere. There is also a remarkable sense of space, particularly compared with more densely built traditional resorts.

A STANDOUT BEACH

Unlike several Puerto Vallarta hotels where beaches can be narrow or rocky, Velas Vallarta fronts a long, wide stretch of sand that is ideal for swimming, walking and watching the sunset.

Two large pools, connected by an attractive waterway crossed by small bridges, sit at the heart of the property beneath palm trees and surrounded by colourful flowers. Guests of all ages can easily move between the beach and pool depending on their mood.

AN UPSCALE FAMILY RESORT

Velas Vallarta is considered an upscale family property and is one of Puerto Vallarta’s stronger options in this category.

A wide range of complimentary activities is available for families looking for a peaceful atmosphere rather than a party-focused resort, while a kids club gives younger guests a dedicated place to play under the supervision of attentive staff.

The resort offers eight categories of spacious rooms and suites, plus an impressive presidential suite that feels more like a luxury oceanfront condo.

Rooms and suites are large, functional and exceptionally comfortable, including the plush bedding, and many feature full kitchens.

Balconies are often expansive, while large windows allow plenty of natural light to fill the rooms, with views over the lush grounds or the Pacific Ocean.

More recently, Velas Vallarta introduced its Grandparents Getaway package, created for multigenerational families. The experience includes a dinner in a tipi set up on the beach beneath the stars, a family pickleball clinic, dance classes, art workshops and a reserved table for the entire family during the resort’s popular Sunday Mexican Fiesta.

CULINARY EXCELLENCE

Dining is a major reason many travellers choose Velas resorts, and both Velas Vallarta and Casa Velas live up to the group’s culinary reputation.

At Velas Vallarta, the main restaurant, Andrea, serves cuisine well above what is typically found at a family all-inclusive resort, with an emphasis on local ingredients and Mexican flavours.

Each year, the restaurant also showcases chefs from other Velas properties during an increasingly popular culinary event. This year’s edition, Esencia de Frida, featured a series of impressive gastronomic presentations.

Beachfront restaurant La Ribera is being completely rebuilt this fall. In the meantime, guests can still order breakfast or other meals to their rooms, with the all-inclusive plan allowing them to dine in without additional charges.

Resaturant La Rivera, Velas Vallarta

IMMERSION IN MEXICAN CULTURE

Velas Vallarta regularly organizes activities highlighting local traditions, including food, handicrafts and, at certain times of the year, ceremonies inspired by Huichol culture.

During a recent stay, one such ceremony took place on the evening of the summer solstice.

The resort also offers seaside massages, giving guests the chance to unwind beneath a tent facing the Pacific while taking in the scent of the ocean, the sound of waves and the salty sea air.

In short, Velas Vallarta is well suited to families, travellers who want to stay directly on the beach and guests looking for spacious suites, an elegant yet lively atmosphere and strong dining throughout their stay.

CASA VELAS: BY THE GARDEN

Casa Velas is an adults-only oasis with just 80 suites, offering a much more intimate experience than a large all-inclusive resort.

With its romantic hacienda décor, colonial architecture, immaculate gardens, koi ponds and interior courtyards, Casa Velas has a calm, serene and elegant atmosphere.

While high service standards are part of the Velas DNA, the small number of rooms allows for an especially attentive level of service. Guest reviews frequently highlight the staff as one of the hotel’s greatest strengths.

Once again, cuisine is a defining part of the experience. Emiliano restaurant is considered one of the better dining options among Puerto Vallarta’s all-inclusive resorts, with frequently changing menus that showcase regional ingredients, many sourced from the hotel’s own organic garden.

Although Casa Velas is not directly on the beach, guests receive privileged access to Táu Beach Club, with complimentary shuttle service, a pool, restaurant and beach service.

For relaxation, guests can enjoy a charming spa, hydrotherapy, yoga, massages, suites with private plunge pools and nearby golf at Marina Vallarta.

Casa Velas guests can also dine at Velas Vallarta’s restaurants and use its facilities, significantly expanding the range of dining and activities available during a stay.

WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?

Ultimately, both properties share the Velas Group DNA, known for hospitality, high service standards and fine cuisine.

The biggest difference comes down to the type of vacation guests are seeking: Velas Vallarta embraces family holidays in a lush tropical beachfront setting, while Casa Velas offers the understated sophistication of an adults-only boutique hotel.

Casa Velas is therefore especially well suited to couples, honeymooners and travellers looking for peace, privacy and highly personalized service.

It is a rare comparison where there really is no wrong choice. Either way, guests are likely to leave happy.

This article originally ran in Profession Voyages, Travelweek Group’s French-language travel trade news source. Gary Lawrence is Editor-in-Chief of Profession Voyages.