I have returned to this hotel numerous times through the years because of the staff, the food and the overall comfort. The beach is excellent, the staff very courteous and they have always treated me as if I were part of their family. I have watched the improvements through the years and they have really made an effort to accomodate the guests. The all-inclusive is the best price around for all the options you have. The recent remodel in 2011 turned out very nice. They are currently building an adults only pool (should be done by Mar. 2013) and a new theater for their evening shows put on by the activities staff.
I highly recommend giving this property a try.

My spouse and I recently spent a week at the Occidental Grand Nuevo Vallarta with 8 other family members . We had a great time ! The hotel has had a recent reno/upgrade and the rooms were awesome!
Our room had a king size bed and it was very comfortable.
The food was only OK which is typical of most all inclusives. The real standout was the staff! Miguel and Elisabeth at the front desk were very courteous and efficient, Gaby at the pool was super as were Benji,Eduardo and Oscar at the bar. Eric in the buffet dinning room was also a real standout. I have been to lots of all inclusives over the years and the staff here were top notch. Thanks guys!
We did notice that some days the pool was overloaded.

Went in July, which of course is hot and humid ! Rain every night, but the days were nice and sunny. Only the one pool which was a little on the small side, and very warm - but even the ocean was warm. Stayed in a ground floor room facing the tennis courts , nice to have a small patio - only the ground floor has them. Hallways were really noisy, kids running up and down them in the late evenings. Drinks were good, service in restaurants was ok - but then hotel was very busy and not enough staff. Liked the Mexican ala carte the best.

We stayed October 20 to 27 and were very happy with our stay. Rooms were very nice and clean. Food was excellent. Our waiter, Eric, was fantastic. He made sure we had everything we needed and went out of his way to ensure one of our party got some special items she required. Other staff were friendly and helpful. Beach and pool were very nice and the waiters made sure we were always well supplied with refreshments. A great experience.