Street cred: It’s all about location

From the moment I landed at the airport and took the quick 20-minute ride to Marival Distinct All-Suites & World Spa I felt like I’d slipped into a private world. The resort is tucked away in a lush garden-like property, yet still just a short stroll to the golden sand of Nuevo Vallarta’s beach. It strikes a rare balance between serenity and convenience. It’s far enough from the bustle of town to feel peaceful, but close enough for a quick trip into local shops or nightlife if you want a change of pace. My arrival felt effortless and the warm breeze, palm trees and soft rustle of waves made the resort’s setting instantly feel like a slice of paradise.

Who hangs here: Is this hotel for you?

This spot seems perfect for families or couples looking for a laid-back, spacious, all-inclusive escape. The resort caters well to groups of various sizes, from single travelers to extended families, thanks to its range of suites and villas. If you’re traveling with kids, there’s enough space and amenities, like splash pads, a wading pool, kids club, to keep younger ones entertained. On the other hand, if you’re after a wild, non-stop party vibe, this isn’t it. The atmosphere here is tranquil, relaxing and low-key. It’s small enough to feel intimate, but large enough to put everything you need within easy reach.

The straight goods: What’s in the room?

The accommodations are a highlight. I stayed in a suite that felt more like a cozy private residence than a hotel room. Residences come with full kitchens (stove, microwave, fridge), a dining area, living room, in-unit washer/dryer, and—in larger suites or penthouses—terraces or balconies, sometimes with stunning ocean views. The bed is ultra-comfortable with pillow-top mattresses and a “pillow menu” for extra comfort. Bathrooms included plush robes, slippers and all necessary toiletries. There was daily housekeeping and nightly turndown service.

Whether you’re staying solo, as a couple or with family, the rooms feel roomy, well-appointed and genuinely comfortable, perfect for relaxing between beach and pool sessions.

Good eats: Cocktails and cuisine

The dining and drink options at Marival Distinct were genuinely impressive. There are multiple restaurants, from beachfront to poolside to rooftop, serving everything from gourmet buffet to à la carte dinners, international cuisine, fusion dishes and fine wines. My favorites were the beachfront restaurant and the rooftop Insú Sky Bar, which offers an infinity pool and cocktails with a view that makes sunset feel cinematic. Whether lounging by the pool with a margarita, grabbing cocktails at the bar after dinner, or booking a romantic beachfront dinner, the options felt flexible and indulgent.

Kudos to the mixologists who consistently created exceptional, tasty cocktails throughout my stay. I also appreciated that the all-inclusive plan truly felt inclusive and covered meals, snacks and drinks.

Bragging rights: What else has it got?

Beyond rooms and food, the resort spoiled me with amenities. There are five outdoor pools, a private beach club and even transport to a sister resort if you want more variety. Fitness lovers will appreciate the gym. For ultimate relaxation, the full-service spa, Mélange World Spa, offers massages, hydrotherapy, steam baths and more—a global wellness experience inspired by traditions from Bali, India, Japan and Mexico. For families, there are kids’ amenities, and for guests wanting nightlife or extra buzz, there is easy transport to sister properties as needed.

A few of our favorite things: What stood out?

There were many, but the sheer size and layout of the suites—the kitchen, laundry facilities and living space—made us feel more like houseguests than hotel guests. I appreciated the vibe, which was calm with uncrowded pools and quiet common areas. It’s a break from the super-sized busy, hectic resorts. I found myself in the evenings at the rooftop infinity pool and bar, where I could sip cocktails while watching the sunset from up there. I never grew tired of the food and drink options. They felt generous—both in-room and in restaurants/bars. When you go, do plan on a spa day. Indulge in a deep-tissue massage followed by steam, sauna and hydrotherapy. It will deepen that on-vacation feeling.

Parting shot: If we could change one thing

If I could change one thing about Marival Distinct, it would be to give a little more consistency and transparency around dining—particularly in peak times. On a couple of occasions, I found that only one or two restaurant options were open. Also, for a resort that emphasizes spacious suites and premium comfort, providing basic supplies like laundry detergent or dish soap (when in-unit washers/dryers are available) would be a thoughtful touch.

If I were reduced to a one-line verdict: Marival Distinct is the kind of resort you go to when you want comfort, space, calm and a bit of luxury—especially if you’re traveling with family or in a group. It delivers a relaxed, high-quality getaway where you can actually rest and unplug.

(Photos courtesy of Accor Hotels & Resorts)