Very nice vacation. Everything was very good, food, service, location, beach, room very clean. I have intentions to return and stay longer at least 10 -14 days, in future, when will be possible for my family.
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Kate -
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Riu Palace Costa Mujeres: Great resort
Had a week at Riu Palace Costa Mujeres in May 2026. Everything was great starting from smooth check-in ( all our requests were fulfilled without any problems). The food was great, we were eating mostly in buffet since it was easier to find options for our 9-year old son. The Pepe’s burger and hot dog spot at the pool area is great- freshly made burgers, hot dogs, fries every day from 11.30 am till 5 pm. We really enjoyed different special drinks made by bartender at the coffee/main bar area. Tho[... read more]se dinks were spot-on, every night they were making something different. Live piano and saxophone music players were absolutely amazing. There were great shows as well every night from 9 to 10 pm, il Divo show was especially amazing.
Water park with the slides is must-have for kids, very clean and very well supervised by lifeguards. Beach is stunning, wide, clean, lots of shade from palm trees. There was unfortunately waves and seaweed but that is problem for all the Caribbean destinations. But stuff is working non-stop to clean all the seaweed. Pools were great- very clean and well maintained. Room was very clean, mattresses are new and very comfortable as well as pillows. You can also request a privacy screen for your room because of the way it designed (the shower and sink area are exposed to the view from room, so not the greatest layout), but the privacy screen will do the job to keep it private.
We had only great experience with staff, everyone is very attentive, kind and making your stay smooth and enjoyable.
Resort is more quiet than Riu Dunamar (where they have lots of parties), which is great for families with kids.
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Bunny -
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Riu Guanacaste: Anazing resort
Hotel grounds were beautiful and the rooms were very nice. We didn’t like location of the original room we were in and they accommodated us with different rooms with no problem. For the most part the food was good especially at lunch and dinner but a bit repetitive. Breakfast was lacking a lot especially bacon. Service was good at the à la carts and the reception however, it at was terrible at the buffet. We had to wait a long time to even get coffee in the mornings and at times we had to get it[... read more] ourselves while the managers stood around. No service at the pool and the room sometimes was not cleaned properly, With all this being said I thought the resort was beautiful just needs some improvement as far as service. If not for the service I would give this resort 5 stars
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Private -
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Riu Emerald Bay: Awesome place for families
We loved our stay here!
A family with two adults and two kids. The food was great; the grounds were beautiful and the view spectacular. Not too busy in May and we always found a spot in the shade near the pools or the beaches. The grounds are quite large so there were very few lines for food or drinks. My kids had a blast on the on-site water park and had so much fun in the waves. You can't beat the sun setting over the ocean every single night.
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Ellie -
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Riu Tequila: The Best Ever!!!
Everything there was fabulous and I definitely would recommend the RIU Tequila to anyone. The staff, the lobby, the nightly entertainment, the restaurants, the beach. Definitely 5 star plus.
Will definitely book with the RIU wherever I travel in the future!!!
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Wayne -
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Riu Tequila: Best resort I've been too.
Advise: Transportation from the airport to the resort may present a problem. Make sure you are on the shuttle list, otherwise, it will cost in excess of $400.00 for transport to and from the airport. There is shuttle service to and from the beach or if you chose to walk it will take approx. 15 minutes. I should state that the shuttle airport/resort thing maybe an isolated event. The travel agent is working to to resolve the matter.
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Lisa&Marc -
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Riu Palace Costa Mujeres: Enjoyable 2 week stay, not sure if we'll return
All in all, the Riu Palace Costa Mujeres was a great resort. Will we return? Not sure. It’s approximately 45 minutes to an hour from the hotel zone and the city bus doesn’t go there. We were there for two weeks mid to end of April 2026. This was our 6th stay at a Riu resort, first time at a Palace. The perks of a Palace are worth booking at least once to give it a try but it comes at a cost. We noticed an upgrade in the alcohol brands and at the a la carte restaurants. The classic Riu’s were goo[... read more]d too. It all depends on how much money you want to spend.
We booked an ocean view (sea view) room (not Elite). The room was bright and roomy but too far from the beach. The ocean view rooms are located on the 4th floor above the lobby. We never heard people walking in the corridor and never heard anything from the rooms beside us for the entire stay. The ocean view from the spacious balcony was nice and we could see Isla Mujeres but that was it. No other scenery, just the ocean (which was beautiful). If we return, we would request a partial ocean view facing the hotel zone.
We had issues getting two clean facecloths multiple times during the first week. My husband requested more facecloths on the app, which housekeeping delivered quickly. Another time I submitted a request on the app for more hangers and two clean facecloths. Housekeeping dropped off one facecloth and no hangers. We ended up going to the front desk to tell them what was going on. This is also when I asked if there was anything that could be done for our uncomfortable mattress. I could feel the mattress springs against my bones. Housekeeping added a thick’ish mattress pad which helped some. It’s definitely time for the hotel to look into the condition of the mattresses and to replace them. The mattress we had at the Riu Caribe last year was perfect. A few days later I had to submit another request for facecloths on the app. This time I mentioned that there were two adults in the room and that we require two new facecloths each and every day. When we put our dirty linens on the floor to be replenished, I made sure to lay the facecloths on the floor separate from the towels so the housekeeper would clearly see that we needed two clean facecloths. We tipped well, every day! We didn’t have linen issues at a different Riu that we stayed at in 2025.
If kids annoy you, don’t go to this resort. I could comment on the parents not teaching their spoiled children right from wrong, but you know who you are. Enough said.
The sargassum was relentless. We’re beach people, we love the ocean. Out of the two weeks that we were there, we swam in the ocean less than 6 times. Very disappointing. Not the hotel’s fault. We’ll go to a different country next time. Beach loungers were always available. We wish there was more shade on the beach. The palm trees did a decent job but we had to move the lounge chairs to dodge the hot sun. We prefer palapas as they provide more consistent shade and protection. Watch out for palm tree roots in the sand. Be prepared to go up and down 75 steps each time you head to the beach or pools if you’re taking the stairs between the buffet and Square Garden/Cappuccino. We certainly got our steps and squats in over the two weeks.
The entertainment staff were phenomenal. We would say that this team of very hard workers are the best out of all the resorts that we’ve been to over the last 20 years. The Entertainment Supervisor Emmanuel deserves recognition for leading such a great team. He was very nice and personable. We played games on the beach lead by Kevin, Dehsi, Alexis Sexy Sexy, Rebecca and another gentleman (can’t recall his name). Hi Dehsi…we miss you already. The entertainment staff were very consistent in following the games on the schedule which was great compared to a different Riu. They played at the beach, by two different pools and by a small sandy area along the walkway at the end of the stairs. They also played bingo in the late afternoon by the adults only pool.
The buffet servers and chefs work hard. Everyone was very attentive. The first few days we sat in the open-air section but as the temperature got warmer, we ate inside the air-conditioned sections. We found that there were fewer screaming kids in the A/C areas. Rosario and her team were great as well as Jorge and Albert.
We only went to two of the a la carte restaurants, The Steakhouse and Krystal. We went to each a la carte four times over two weeks. The food and the servers were phenomenal. Parents…if you’re going to bring your children to an a la carte, please teach them some manners and stop pretending they’re not with you. Let them know that it’s not ok to scream and cry like they’re at a playground.
We went to Square Garden every night after supper. We always tried the mocktail of the day (with alcohol added) from the special cart. The servers are very talented. The specialty drinks were amazing. The bartenders Miguel, Andre, Mayu and Maya were entertaining and super nice to chat with. Miguel and Andre are the absolute best! We’ve never seen bartenders work as hard and efficient like they were. We were very impressed by them. We often sat in Isabel’s section. She’s an amazing server, always on the lookout if you need a refill and often checking if you’re OK or if you’d like some snacks. The staff from Square Garden made the most of our stay. They’re genuinely happy to be there and to be friendly with the guests.
We didn’t go to many of the shows. We went to the Monday night crazy show twice. It’s a 45-minute show which was extremely funny and entertaining. They do games with guests on the stage and karaoke.
The reception staff and the bell boys were very polite and accommodating. There’s nothing to do in the lobby except wait for your shuttle or sit and read or relax in the air conditioning. Lounge 24 is off of the lobby but you need make your own drinks. Good spot to grab a quick snack when everything else is closed.
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Emily -
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Riu Palace Costa Rica: Great resort
The palace resort does need up grades. But we did have a great time.
A large group can’t be taking over the pool area . We encountered the Red Hat Society Ladies -117 ladies. They were loud and disrespectful to other guests. This type of group needs to book a conference centre, not a resort . This group of ladies were out of control. Making me and my family uncomfortable.
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Private -
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Riu Flamingos: Ri-U, Not for Me
Ri-U?- Not for me
I start with saying I am a 40 something female solo traveler that has stayed at many resorts, so that may alter the review.
I had never stayed at a Riu before, and probably wouldn't again. However this was a recently renovated resort- no complaints about most of the cleanliness (often no toilet paper and sticky walk along pools), but for the most part they were doing their best to keep up. It was very busy and loud, but the staff seemed to do their best to follow the crow[... read more]d- although I didn't notice any poolside service- basically a serve yourself system, but no shortage of bars to be able to do that.
Cons:
-the food is mediocre at very best.
I looked forward to going home for fresh food-which I have never yearned for in Mexico before. Every meal every day is a very limited buffet and the same thing ad nauseum. Very dry and overcooked meats swimming in seed oil (I prefer animal based diet so this was disappointing, but not surprising) and cold. The life is sucked out of it so there's not an ounce of moisture to even keep it warm in a ceramic dish under a lamp.
-there are 5 restaurants and they rotate which ones are open - you CANNOT reserve. You must line up at 6pm and luck of the draw If they are full by the time you get your shot or you've wasted your hours. After 3 nights of standing in line BEFORE 6pm, I got a buzzer and was seated at 730pm one night, and 830pm the next time. Not worth it in my opinion, other than the cut of fat I was served was warmish-definetly not hot. (I only tried the Steakhouse as the others were either closed or the menu was not anything I would be interested in)
-not much for activities unless you are a child. Quite boring if you are into being entertained or taking classes. (The Fit instructor for stretching and such is great, I recommend doing those programs when offered)
-coffee machines are often down so if this is important to you (it was to me!) You'll be walking some loops to get some or find a cup
-there are 4 rectangular pools separated by lounge chairs, nothing exciting- none of them over 4ft and the water is super warm and unrefreshing. (I am 6ft tall so water just above my thighs is just annoying)
-smooth tiles everywhere- ridiculously slippery! Seen many falls, super hazardous
-the smell of their 'natural zen' chosen air freshners and soaps will overwhelmingly waft you in the face every time you open a bathroom door- to me it's disgusting, but that's a matter of preference to natural or unscented cleaners (also, if your coochie is sensitive, the toilet paper is bathed in it)
-speaking of toilets, whoever designed a square bowl gets a D- (it's very ?y)
-Big Brother is watching everywhere ?
PROS:
-if you have mobility issues, it would be convenient location because it's all one place, nothing to explore to find scenes or ramps (good non slip shoes are a must)
-as mentioned above, the Fit classes are decent (Arranza is a gem)
-it is newly renovated so still clean and in good shape
-you will never have trouble finding a lounge chair, there has to be over 1000. That's the view. Chairs. Everywhere.
-the sand is hot, the ocean is warm (this time of year), and conveniently located right outside the resort
-you can walk to Bucerias in under half an hour by following the path, it's quite pretty when you get to the end of the strip and into the garden
EXTRA INFO:
I don't drink and I don't do the night life, so not sure about alcohol or White party- it was very loud a few nights with young people drunk and screaming, but the shows themselves are pretty quiet- you have to sit under the stage or you can't barely hear at the back. (I'm ok with that!). Same shows must rotate the whole strip because I haven't been to this side since 2024, and the Grand Palladium in Punta Mita had the same ones.
If you enjoy lush scenery and greenery, great food, animals (who doesn't like a lizard to join you once in a while!) or hidden trails to enjoy some private zen and nature - this is not the resort for you.
If you are new to traveling, have kids, mobility issues, just wanna have a "good time"- Riu Jalisco might be your fit!
All in all, it was 'ok'. One of the cheaper getaways so I can see the appeal, But I wouldn't be in a rush to come back any time soon.
HEADS UP:
Pink tarp massages outside the resort are a little bit cheaper than the resorts ($500 pesos and Riu is $630)
It is an ok massage, I went twice and would have booked a third, except-
I can't prove it of course, but I am 99% sure my change purse was stolen there because I literally went from my room to the massage, and then it was gone. I unfortunately had quite a bit of money and my room key in it because the plan was to pay for 2 massages and grab a couple souvenirs before my last day.
The front desk manager said that was not uncommon occurrence.
-Taxi prices are exuberant!! Get someone to call you an In-drive or download APP and get picked up outside the gate. Literally ¼ of the price.
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Private -
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Riu Palace Las Americas: Amazing Resort
This hotel is very clean, staff very friendly, they are always going above and beyond
Food is very good all restaurants try to meet all requests
We have visited at least 16times various RIU it would be nice if they changed the menus
We have gotten to know many staff personally and they are tge best
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Private -
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Riu Lupita: Fun resort to visit
The people that run and work at the resort are the best. All very happy to assist you have a good time. The grounds are neat and tide and clean. All our meals were great, hot and fresh. Fun place to be for all ages. 10 out of 10
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Hannah -
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Riu Palace Bavaro: Could use improvement
Upon walking in the hotel the views were great. The room also looked great minus the minor panelling chips however, there were many mosquitoes as I don’t think there are any systems in place to deter them. Every night I killed at least 6. In addition to that our tissue box never got refilled once it was empty and I noticed that the soaps both in the room and public bathrooms did not get replaced either. A lot of my family ended up not feeling well by the end of our stay so I am not entirely sure[... read more] if it was the food or the bars but it was very unusual for all of us to experience similar symptoms. The pools/beach and entertainment were great
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Kumar -
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Riu Dunamar: Good resort
Hotel,the grounds,washroom and hotel rooms all very clean. Can always find something to eat at the buffet at breakfast, lunch and dinner. Has dinner at all the restaurants. Least favorite would be the Steakhouse. Pool side grill okay. Found all staff very friendly and helpful. The is not a easy walk. Seaweed is a problem, not pleasant for swimming. No place to shop or even vendors on the beach. Only the hotel shop. Transportation to and from the airport was very poor. No bus for us on arrival. [... read more] Close to 2 hour wait at the Cancun airport.
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Private -
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Riu Reggae: Wonderful Holiday
Almost everything about this resort is fantastic. The food was great including the presentation, the entertainment group was enthusiastic and amusing and the shows were wonderful although some were a bit too loud but still enjoyable. Our room was clean and the cleaning staff worked hard at keeping this standard. The beach is long... covering all 3 Riu resorts. Would recommend water shoes as there are areas in the ocean covered by weeds. But overall had a great time.
I do have 2 complaints tho[... read more]ugh and that is although this resort is 5 minutes from the airport it does mean that it is very noisy with the planes flying overhead quite often... especially on weekends. Loud enough that conversations need to be paused until the plane has passed.
And lastly, the tap water is not drinkable and water and bar fridge is only restocked every other day. Having said that, if water is required it is easy enough to get from the front desk. Just wish the water, was delivered every day.
Due to the close proximity to the airport and the accompanying noise I unfortunately would not recommend this resort. If that isn't a problem for you then you'll have a great time.
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Minnie -
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Riu Flamingos: Amazing resort
Just got back from a 2 week couples vacation The resort is so beautiful and clean loved everything ,especially the staff a few people that really stood out and went over and above for customer service was Vencinca at the buffet restaurant Luz at the beach towel exchange , Coral on the entertainment team and the bartenders at the la Cantina bar best bar and drinks there are only 2 things I would change that this resort first is bring reservation system back people don’t like standing inline for [... read more]an hour plus for dinner on their vacation and second one is having poolside waiters for getting drinks this is the first resort I’ve been too that doesn’t have it overall we had an excellent time the food here especially at the steakhouse and buffet is amazing
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Girls 2026 -
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Riu Playa Blanca: Wonderful Resort
This hotel was top notch. The staff was so pleasant and obliging. Always greeting with a smile and “Ola”.
Their hard work did not go unnoticed, especially the outside workers. Our rooms were so clean. The ground’s immaculate. Pools well looked after, all bar service amazing . Beautiful resort. Been to many resorts but by far the best food at this resort. A fantastic vacation for sure.
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Girls 2026 -
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Riu Playa Blanca: Wonderful Resort
This hotel was top notch. The staff was so pleasant and obliging. Always greeting with a smile and “Ola”.
Their hard work did not go unnoticed, especially the outside workers. Our rooms were so clean. The ground’s immaculate. Pools well looked after, all bar service amazing . Beautiful resort. Been to many resorts but by far the best food at this resort. A fantastic vacation for sure.
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Private -
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Riu Emerald Bay: RIU Emerald Bay
We would rate the hotel a 5 star! The hotel was excellent and always spotlessly clean, the staff amazing and always pleasant, happy and helpful and the food was great! The beach was very clean and the pools amazing!
Everything exceeded our expectations and we will definitely visit it again and recommend it to our friends!
Thank you!
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Boki905 -
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Riu Ocho Rios: Perfect for a family getaway!
My recent Sunwing vacation to RIU Ocho Rios in Jamaica was absolutely amazing from start to finish. The entire experience was smooth, enjoyable, and perfect for a family getaway.
Our flight out with WestJet went really well, and the free Wi-Fi was a huge bonus—it kept my 5-year-old happily entertained throughout the journey, which made a big difference.
When we arrived, the tour operator, Nexxus Tours, was ready and waiting for us. They quickly got us organized, onto a bus, and on our way [... read more]to the resort without any hassle.
A special thank you goes to Nekoda, also known as “Koko,” our host. He was incredible from the very beginning, taking great care of us and making sure we had the best possible experience. His kindness and attention truly stood out, and he left a lasting, positive impression on my 5-year-old. Thank you, Koko, for making our trip so special.
Our stay at the RIU was also excellent. The staff across the board—from check-in, to housekeeping, to the restaurant teams—were all friendly, welcoming, and a pleasure to interact with. The resort itself was clean, well-maintained, and very family-friendly.
Overall, I highly recommend this vacation. It was a wonderful experience, and we came home with great memories.
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CK BK -
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Riu Emerald Bay: Our Home Away From Home!
My husband and I love visiting the Riu Emerald Bay, it just feels like our second home! The staff are very welcoming, friendly and hard working, housekeeping never stops cleaning diligently and front desk staff are amazing and very accommodating, their knowledge of English truly inspiring. The hotel grounds are just beautiful and immaculately kept and the restaurants are numerous with plenty of choices for all tastes. Our room is always kept fresh and clean with welcoming little "towel animals" [... read more]to greet us every day. I would have to say the only real complaint we have is there are no English channels on television except for two news stations. Often, after a tough day on the beach and a delicious dinner, it would be nice to watch a movie on television in English to finish the evening. The televisions we have had here throughout the years we've been coming have their HDV ports damaged, so we were not able to use our firestick as a backup.