RIU Palace Riviera Maya

I’m a big fan of the Riu’s and this was my first stay at a Palace. They honestly are all the same and for the price difference, I wish I stayed somewhere cheaper. Having direct beach access was important to me but I didn’t end up swimming because of the seaweed. There is better options for the price point. However I very much enjoyed the food, drinks, spacious and clean rooms, helpful staff, live entertainment, and beautiful grounds. You also have access to the other Riu’s including the Tequila for the parties if you are there on a party day.

We stayed at this resort for 5 nights, June 26-July 1. Everything was absolutely wonderful; service was amazing, rooms were cleaned twice daily, the property was carefully maintained and spotless. The staff work so hard to keep everything clean, constantly mopping and wiping down tables and chairs. Everyone at the restaurants, bars, and coffee shop were always so kind and friendly, taking such good care of us - three adults and one 9 month old. I cannot say enough good things about the staff. We always tip, but they never made us feel like it was expected. I did notice that a lot of other travelers do not tip, which is a shame. You don’t have to, but you should for their wonderful service. Service at a major resort is a demanding job and they all do it with such grace.

Now onto the food. There are plenty of options. Some restaurants were better than others, and some dishes were better than others. But overall everything was amazing. Just try it all….you’re on vacation! The Don Rafael buffet was excellent; great options for breakfast and dinner. Exceptional items were the lamb chops and the stone crab claws. For my less adventurous travelers - their pizzas, burgers and hot dogs were great too. If you’re an American keep in mind that foods in other countries are clean and healthier than what we have at home. So breads and meats don’t make you feel sick. It’s clean! The lunch buffet by the pool (Chilis) is very good with tons of salad options, grilled fish, meats and more! There was a taco station and steaks too.

Now the beach - the water was great. Yes there was seaweed but unfortunately that’s nature so you just need to make the best of it. Just go past the seaweed then you’ll get to clear waters. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m sure seaweed will do your skin good. The hotel has people on it every day to help clear the area.

Lovely resort. We look forward to checking out their other locations. Muchos gracias!

I stayed at the Riu Palace for two weeks with my partner and we had a lovely trip. I had visited the hotel back in 2014 and in my opinion the standards are still on par. The rooms are a bit on the run down side and could do with a freshen up. However they were always clean and tidy, with plenty of mini bar items stocked up and very spacious. Sadly we had a room at the back of the hotel looking out onto building works, but it didnt really bother us.

What sets this hotel apart is the staff. I can’t thank German and Antonio at the pool bar enough for their amazing service. Proper branded spirits (including aperol spritz) and the cocktails were flowing! All of the staff work unbelievably hard. Another shout out to Estaban in the buffet, Luis, Carlos, Alba, Gabean - however they are all wonderful and a credit to the hotel. The Coffee bar is fabulous too.

The food is of a really good quality for an all inclusive. Lots of fresh and varied options everyday. We didnt personally use the a la carte restaurants much apart from the Italian once, but we loved the buffet options and were perfectly happy for the two weeks. Breakfast was great, loads of fresh fruit, and I enjoyed having an omlette made most days. I also really enjoyed the lunch options and having the options of Pepes by the pool was also great.

The pools are fabulous and well maintained. All of the grounds are immaculate. Yes there is seaweed at the beach, but thats just nature!! Once in after 2metres or so, you can swim no problem. I witnessed staff cleaning the seaweed at various points, mostly in the mornings.

The Riu Fit team and entertainment during the day is brilliant. I loved yoga with Ferando, volleyball, ‘crazy games’ etc - always lots going on!

I would definitely return to this hotel again!