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Immerse yourself in the best of Caribbean luxury, at the Riu Palace Punta Cana, an exquisite, all-inclusive, oasis on the East coast of the Dominican Republic, set on a 26-kilometer stretch of fine, light-colored sand and clear turquoise waters of Playa Arena Gorda. As part of the prestigious Riu Palace collection, the Riu Palace Punta Cana offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and sophistication. Originally built in 2006 and expansively renovated in 2018, this resort boasts 676 spacious and modern suites with a king-size bed and a private balcony or terrace, offering a tranquil retreat where guests can unwind after a day of adventure or relaxation. Guests at Riu Palace Punta Cana also enjoy access to the extensive facilities at Riu Bambu and Riu Palace Bavaro. Conveniently located just a 32-minute drive (25 km) from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), taxi fare ranges from $35 to $50 USD. Most of our vacation packages include airport transfers, with these details clearly outlined in each package.
Riu Palace Punta Cana is more than just a place to stay; it is a destination filled with endless possibilities. The resort's four pools, including a magnificent infinity pool that offers breathtaking ocean views, are perfect for both relaxation and recreation. Families will appreciate the children's pool with slides, and Splash Water World, open 6 days a week, providing hours of entertainment for the whole family. Just steps away from the resort, the expansive Playa Arena Gorda beach awaits, where guests can unwind on sun loungers, take leisurely strolls along the 26-kilometer stretch of fine sand, or dive into the crystal-clear waters for a range of water sports, including snorkeling, windsurfing, and kayaking. Younger guests will find delight at the RiuLand Kids' Club, designed for children aged 4-12, while adults can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the #RiuParty events held several times a week. For those seeking active pursuits, the resort offers group fitness activities in the RiuFit area, three tennis courts, and a gym. For a touch of indulgence, the Renova Spa provides a variety of treatments, including massages, beauty services, and a steam bath, ensuring that every guest feels pampered and rejuvenated.
Dining at Riu Palace Punta Cana is a gourmet experience, with a buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with five à la carte restaurants offering a diverse array of international cuisines. Guests can also enjoy a selection of beverages and snacks from five bars, including a coffee bar and ice cream parlor, available at any time of day. The resort's 24-hour room service ensures that your culinary cravings are always satisfied. As the sun sets, the resort comes alive with entertainment. Whether you choose to enjoy live music, vibrant shows, or dance the night away at the Pacha discotheque, the evening options are endless.
The natural beauty of Arena Gorda Beach enhances the allure of Riu Palace Punta Cana. This wide, long stretch of soft sand is perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the stunning views. While the beach is generally free of significant obstructions, seasonal seaweed may occasionally wash ashore, particularly from late spring to early autumn. However, the resort's dedicated staff maintains the beach year-round, ensuring a pleasant experience for all guests.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a vibrant nightlife, Riu Palace Punta Cana offers an all-inclusive paradise that caters to your every need. Experience the pinnacle of luxury and make memories that will last a lifetime at this extraordinary resort. With its unparalleled amenities, stunning location, and impeccable service, Riu Palace Punta Cana is more than just a destination—it’s a dream come true.
Distance from Airport:
25 km from the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
Average Drive Time from Airport:
Thirty-two-minute drive to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
verage Taxi Fare from Airport:
$35-50 USD from the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
Closest Convenience Store:
There is a convenience store and gift shop on site.
Voltage:
The voltage at the Riu Palace Punta Cana is 110V at a frequency of 60 Hz. You need a power plug adapter in Dominican Republic for sockets type A. A universal adapter that allows you to change the pins is a great investment for any avid traveler.
ATMs:
There is no ATM on-site.
Riu Palace Punta Cana Pictures and Video - click to enlarge images or play videos
Important Travel Information for Riu Palace Punta Cana
Transit Time
20
Number Of Rooms
676
Number Of Pools
3
Golf
Nearby
Beach Front
On The Beach
Year Built
2006
Child From
4 Years (48 Months)
Child To
12 Years (144 Months)
Kids Program
Yes
International Bar
Yes
Swim-up Bar
1
Spa
Yes
Weddings
Yes
Fitness Room
YES
High Low Rise
Lowrise
Star Rating (optional)
4.5
Address 1
Playa De Arena Gorda
Address 2
Punta Cana
Region
Punta Cana
Country
Dominican Republic
Phone Number
+1 809 687 4242
Fax Number
+1 809-687-7878
Renovated
2018
Casino
On_site
Latitude
18.720225
Longitude
-68.455617
Verified Tripcentral Customer Reviews
Rating4.2★★★★+(52)
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserFantastic Resort
Everything about this report was absolutely fantastic and the staff was incredible. No complaints at all. Only iffy thing was room service food but you can definitely go to the buffet and sports bar for any snacks.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserFantastic resort
the Riu Palace Punta Cana is a great place to stay for families, singles and couples of all ages, friendly helpful staff great variety of food and drinks, great beach and pools, lounge chairs and shade if you want it. My wife and I just came back and would love to go again.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserBeautiful Resort
Beautiful hotel, service was great. Food was delicious. But unless you wanna be around 1 million children, this is not your place. The the people that vacation there are absolutely terrible! Very rude! not friendly at all. Was very disappointed. not to mention that I picked up a parasite there as well so I was sick the whole time. Maybe I'm not the right person to be leaving this review lol
I am not recommending this hotel at all. My room was dirty and falling apart with the bad smell of mould
The food wasn’t good at all, not at the Buffet and not in Resturant
The service was great people were helpful. The only problem they don’t speak English well only Spanish so it was hard to communicate with them. They tried to understand what we want, but not successfully.
Location5/5
Value1/5
Food1/5
Beach5/5
Rooms1/5
Service5/5
★★★★Tony -
Verified PurchaserGood Resort
The room we got (3113) was fantastic. However, the beach area had no palapa’s and the chairs were horribly old and disgusting. On this basis we stayed around the pool. Cleanliness around the pool areas was less than desirable.
The beach itself was great.
The food and drinks were very good.
The service and staff were excellent.
Location5/5
Value4/5
Food5/5
Beach3/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Jewels -
Verified PurchaserResort was great
To many March breakers they did advertise no March breakers but some how they figure a way around it. Everything else was great. Great beach great Food great service. Entertainment needs some work was to far to go for rui party
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Cormil -
Verified PurchaserBeautiful Resort
Nothing bad to say about this resort --- staff very friendly; food excellent ( if you dislike the food here, then you have a problem ); rooms clean and bar fridge replenished daily; disregard the negative reviews;; this was our second time at this resort in as many years --- would definitely go back again;; can't go wrong with a Riu resort...only negative I have to say has nothing to do with the resort --- main pool --- people sitting on the stairs to pool entrance and many do not move and also this is a pool and not a football field--lots of younger people throwing balls and some hitting people---they should put a stop to this.
The resort was so manicured and beautiful,the cleanliness of rooms entire resort and the abundance of the food selection was overwhelming. I would definitely revisit this resort. The staff you couldn't of asked for anything more even if there was a language barrier at times,but all good, beach was perfect,over all the Palace oppose to sister resorts would be the closest to a 5 star and value
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGreat experience
We spent 7 days at Riu palace. We had an excellent experience on most fronts including:room, service (Cleaning, front desk, courtousey desk etc.). I had arranged for a parcel to be delivered . It was waiting for me upon arrival. We had to call our insurance company and see a doctor. Reina at the service desk made it seemless. The Dr actually came to pick us up from the hotel to the clinic . Bar, restaurant and entertainment staff was amazing.foor at the buffets was excellent. We had higher expectations from the a la cart restaurant, so we were not impressed with the food there. (Embience and service were good, but the food was below standard).
Lastly, we went in August and there was much seaweed which was only cleaned once every couple of days.
All in all, I would definitely come back.
★★★★★Cormil -
Verified PurchaserRiu: Second to None !
Room cleanliness; food adequate and I had no problem finding food I liked; bar service excellent; friendly staff; beautiful resort.
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My boyfriend and I recently stayed at the palace punta Cana and I have nothing but amazing things to say! The hotel is extremely clean and beautiful, there are a selection of pools and the food is absolutely amazing! If you are ok with loud club like noise, we highly recommend going to Coco Bongos! It’s approx $100 US per person (depending on how many are going in your group you can usually negotiate) and that includes the bus ride there and back, a pass to get in and unlimited alcohol! The show is absolutely incredible! Lots of entertainment in the area as you are able to go to the other resorts. There is a huge water park approx 12 minute walk from the palace. It was incredible. Make sure you bring US money only as they prefer that and if you are look in for an ATM while staying it is located at the casino down the street which only opens at 7pm. That will give you US money. Another ATM I located by the shops close to the report (beside the chocolate store) but only gives Dominican pesos. Five stars for me!
The resort has been renovated to three pools where one pool is full of the usual young drinkers and a fun volleyball pool and one large crowded pool. Summertime is packed and the resort seemed overly crowded. Literally bumping into people trying to get your food.
Many choices for food which was nice. However I came down with food poisoning and COVID-19 at this resort. The rooms were not cleaned very well and there was no time in between the previous occupants. A bit of a concern with COVID-19 being still an issue. Time in- between new guests arriving should still be happening.Cleanings staff left bleach cloth on husbands clothes which discoloured them.
Food hygiene needs to be improved too. I saw a raw sushi cart being transported from one of the kitchens to another kitchen in the middle of the day in high heat. These are all ways people can get sick. Raw meat/ seafood should be covered and cooled. Food safety 101.
Most of the staff we’re great. Some of the bar staff at the beach bar we’re not overly friendly when we spoke English. Spanish-speaking guests seem to get preference over other guests. But most of staff seemed lovely! Especially front desk Jesus!
Great grounds , excellent pool service , enthusiastic staff always ready to please. Very enjoyable holiday. We really enjoyed that you could walk several kilometres up and down the beach from our location.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserAmazing Resort
This resort exceeded our expectations. Although large, the layout is well thought out and all the restaurants, stages and live music were in the same area which made it more social. The beach was wide with ample chairs and numerous palm trees for shade. We’ve been to a lot of beaches and this was the best! The water is a bit rough along this stretch but still turquoise and easy to swim in with no coral. They cleaned up the seaweed every morning. You could walk for miles in both directions. Entertainment was ok, some very good. Would have liked to have more music and dancing at night and not so much ‘dead’ time after dinner when people are waiting for live music or even a DJ. Would definitely go back again.
Great way to escape the covid insanity of North America. Very nice resort with excellent staff. Staff all vaccinated and masked . Masking required in food areas but otherwise normal life there. Grounds beautifully kept and good food selection. I have stayed at the Bavaro and Bambo, and of the 5 resorts on this property this is the nicest. We stayed on the top floor as to get ocean views. Excellent beach that is great for families. Definitly recommend this resort and I would return.
We loved everything, the grounds, the beach with natural shed under the palm trees, the food, the outdoor restaurants, the specious rooms with high ceiling, with a big flat TV, everything working like a clock amazing service, everything was resolved in literally no time, a lot of facilities for old people, the tennis club coaches especially Christian and the day entertaining especially Jaime, the dance teacher. We had awn wonderful stay !
Enjoyed everything. The resort is beautiful and well kept.The beach is great wilth lots of beautiful palm trees. Staff very polite and helpful. There were many good food choices and drinks. I was impressed by the continual care and maintenance of the beach washrooms.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food3/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGreat resorr
Grounds are beautiful. Very interesting majestic architecture. Rooms are spacious and feel very new. Bathrooms are great same feel as in 4 Seasons hotel. 3 Pools all clean and comfortable for small kids. Beach is white sand with lots of activities. A lot of entertainers working for both adults and kids. Breathtakin shows and live music at night. Food is solid quality but lacks the high end feel. Out of all RIU hotels in Punta Cana this is the nicest.
Location5/5
Value4/5
Food3/5
Beach5/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserOur hello and thanks for all of your employers.
hotel well organized clean and beautiful .
suite cleaner were very polite and did a good job.
dinning was a nice and good .
employers who are serving in dinning area .after serving they gather at one place
and making fun of each others and speaking loudly.
while dinning room should be a little quite but they did a excellent serve .
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★Joachim4205 -
Verified PurchaserMajestic Hotel
It is a majestic hotel serviced by fantastic hospitality staff; very friendly and hardworking. The main reception hall (my favorite place to "hang out") is beautifully architected and designed and the grounds are well maintained.
While the food and drinks were varied, I found the food too salty and most cocktail drinks too sweet. Wine was decent and beer (Presidente) was good.
Location4/5
Value4/5
Food3/5
Beach3/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGreat Resort!
Awesome and clean resort with nice luxury touches in rooms. Great food options and friendly staff. Small pools and nice beach area. Yoga near the beach and small but fine gym near the lobby. Love the cafe and dessert bar in the Lobby.
Greetings:
We were very pleased to revisit the Rio Palace Punta Cana which has been beautifully renovated. The 3 new pools were amazing. We were very pleased to reconnect with staff we got to know during 5 previous visits. The facility overall is extremely well maintained and all staff wonderfully helpful. Looking forward to a future visit.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★Private -
Verified PurchaserAverage resort
Was excited coming into the hotel. Lobby was nicely decorated and airy, check-in staff was great. Disappointed in our room. Although it was spacious, cleanliness could have been better. Floor needed to be swept, bed only had one sheet (stains) and four pillows. It took 4 days and many requests before we got extra blankets. The bathroom had been recently renovated but looked rushed. Good thing about bath was great water pressure, rain shower and double vanity. Our balcony faced the parking lot which was a disappointment. Don't rely on cleaning staff, not very good. The grounds well kept, beach / pool fantastic (wake up early and reserve a chair with your towel). Buffet was good, didn't care for the a la carte Steakhouse. No entertainment unless your a child. They played kid games and videos on the stage / big screen until 930pm every night. Then a two person singing group played..no English music. It was annoying being constantly disturbed by people trying to sell their wares on the grounds. Do not take the Santo Domingo bus tour..it cost 106.00 per person and was a 13hr bus trip from hell. This was our first and last trip to the Dominican.
★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserOK resort, nothing special
The hotel is clean, friendly, however we don’t think is a 5 star hotel. Second time to Riu (previously went to Riu Palace Los Cabo), but we will never go to any Riu chain again. I would rate this a 4 star hotel.
Other than most of the staff don’t speak English, we found there is only a few drinks and food to choose from. Unless you don’t care what you eat and drink, this resort is probably would be a god choice. There is nothing special or bad about this resort!
All specialty restaurants is not worth to try, the main buffet is better. Don’t waste your time, go to the buffet (breakfast and dinner) and find Sandy. He will be your best friend and he will make you stay memorable, he will do the best to feel you home.
Also, many thanks for the bartenders working around the pool and theatre area! They are working really hard to serve you a drink! Maybe because of the management pushing them too hard, but it is amazing to see them running around. They will serve you in no time! It is not the bartenders fault, not to serve you a nice brandy or cognac, or a good drink after dinner. Riu just doesn’t have it. We been places in Mexico and Cuba, and we always had premium drinks, even in 4 or 4.5 star hotels. Unless you are whiskey lover, and all you care is to get hammered, don’t go to Riu.
It is a 4 star nothing special resort!
Again, thanks to Sandy at main buffet!
All was very good except room wasn't replenished with bottled water, consequently got travellers sickness on 2nd last day of vacation. Other than that it was very good. Would only recommend if assurance of safe water was made.
Location5/5
Value4/5
Food5/5
Beach4/5
Rooms4/5
Service2/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGreat place!
Riu Palace Punta Cana is a fabulous resort! Everything about the Resort is first class. The most amazing part, was the service which I have not seen at other resorts for many years now. Apart from the weather which nobody can control, we had a great time at Riu Palace.
I selected this resort as had been to one in Jamaica as was pleased. While the hotel is older
it was majestic. The rooms were older looking but everything was very clean. The first room was musty but moved to another room
facing pool and was happy with that. The Jacuzzi didnt work but with in minutes of mentioning this to Sunwing rep it was repaired immediately. Pool small but spent most time on beach. Ocean rough most days but the beach spectacular. Food was great and presentation amazing.
Never got sick. Lots of choices. Only down side too much salt used in everything. I would definitely book with Riu again. Perhaps
next time adults only. When looking at other hotels I think this was by far one of the best choices and other guests agreed.
This is one of the best resorts I've been too in Punta Cana the resort is very well layed out for a compact resort .The food was excellent with a very good variety every night.The service was by far the best service i have ever had on any other resort I've been too .The staff was very friendly and went out of their way too make everyone happy.
The grounds were very clean .
Entertainment was very good
Rooms were very clean and every thing worked well
beach was very nice lots of beach loungers
Location4/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGood resort
Good hotel for the money. Good beach area great staff. The pool is terrible way to small for the amount of people. Water is never crystal clear in any of the riu ressot pools I have stayed at. Construction was our view from the room. This should have been mentioned.
Location4/5
Value4/5
Food4/5
Beach1/5
Rooms3/5
Service5/5
★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserNot bad but likely won't be returning
Travellers info: Me, 40's female traveling with parents who are in late 70's. Parents have been here many times in past but due to some health problems could not go last 2 years. We flew out of Toronto.
Flight (Sunwing): We flew with Elite Plus and sat in first row. I know the review is for the resort but I thought this was important to note. The plane's seats are the most narrow seats I have ever encountered and I have travelled a lot. I could not believe it. Elite Plus and regular seats were all the same. I don't know if you are a bigger person if it would be big enough and we could not lift the center 'arms' either. Food is purchase only. They did provide a drink (soft drink, water...).
Resort: The set up of the Riu Palace Punta Cana is very nice! the grounds are lovely as well. Most staff are very friendly but you can tell they all want your tips. It adds up, so just something to be aware of. There are a few souvenir shops behind the towel pickup location. Wifi reception was a bonus. Could connect almost anywhere most of the time. The main negative was the NOISE. I could not believe how noisy people are, kids and adults yelling through the halls, moving furniture etc in the unit above us.. just at the wrong times for us.. but just no respect for others. Parents cannot sleep well and so this was very annoying especially at 2 in the morning! One night two ladies were chatting up a storm on the balcony next to us for hours and we were inside, all doors closed and we could hear everything. The music by the pool is EXTREMELY loud in the afternoon when the entertainment staff go full force with activities by the pool.
Pool: as noted, very loud and very crowded. I never went in because people seem to be in there all the time with their drinks and never leave. No thanks! There is no quiet pool location at this resort like some others. Lots of kids at this resort as well so be prepared.
Beach: Natural shade created by the beautiful Palm Trees, no huts. Didn't have a problem finding chairs on the beach. The water itself was not for me. But that's just me. LOL. It was wavy, murky and COLD. I much preferred the crystal clear calm waters of Varadero or St. Maarten.
Food: Lots of variety but none of us found the food to have any flavour. But we may not have chosen the right things? At lunch we ate at the restaurant by the beach which is beautiful however the food is outside around the flies etc... I did not like that but it seems to be the way these resorts are. I wish they would come up with covered clear glass cabinets for the food like they have the ice cream in. Ice cream by the way is delicious in the Caribbean! the orange/pineapple is my fav! had it everyday. Can't comment on the other restaurants as we only ate in the buffetts.
Overall - I doubt I would go back here.
Hand down the best resort ive been to in the Dominican Republic.
The buffet had a great selection of foods for all Entertainment and staff were very friendly and entertaining . I would highly recommend RIU to all my friends and family
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★★Private -
Verified PurchaserGreat Resort with some
Our vacation at this resort was great! We had a great vacation -- amazing service, the people are friendly, and lots of food and drink.....you didn't even have to get off your lawn chair (either at the beach or the pool), and you were served!
For such a big resort, it was well maintained, kept clean (dining, lounging, and bathroom areas, including the grounds). The food was excellent.....there is something for all types, so try all the restaurants. We went to the Japanese, Italian, the Steakhouse, and the buffet. We didn't have to reserve to go to the a la carte restaurants and we could go as many times as we wanted....so we took advantage of that. We have no complaints in that regard.
Our room was not up to our standard (for what we paid) - it had a very bad smell and we overlooked the next resort and street and parking lot and the noise (evening entertainment) from the other resort was annoying. And, horns blowing early in the morning (4:00ish). And, when we asked to be moved, they wanted to charge us another $35 US / night (that's $245.00 US or $318.5 CAN)....for something we thought we had already paid for. We felt our demands were not met by Trip Central and doubt we will book a trip through them again. As we spoke to several other couples, everyone had a cheaper rate and they all had the nicer rooms.
One thing you will find at this resort, is that the rooms have a very bad smell - like a musky basement smell and you can't seem to get rid of it. But, the rooms were otherwise roomy, very clean, and up-to-date.
The nightly entertainment was not the greatest. In fact, one night people were walking out.....we didn't go to two of them.
The daily activities were only around the pool from what we could see or understand. We had 3 days of severe wind, etc., and no activities were planned because of it -- there should be an alternate plan (due to weather) -- these could be planned in the main lounge area or something so that we (the guests) have something to do (take it indoors). I didn't want to go up to my room because I had no view and it smelled. There was also the smell of sewer backup from outside in our room.
One thing I would recommend with this resort is get rid of the vendors on the beach.....every two minutes they were bugging you. When I want to relax, I don't need someone coming up to me, whistling and trying to sell me stuff. For such a big resort and such a great distance on the beach, I recommend the Riu create a 'beach shop area' - set up tables, etc., for these 'outside' vendors.....they are walking around in that heat with all of their products/materials - unreal, and not pleasant to see when I want to relax! Put them all in one area, let the guests go to them if they want to buy something - quit bugging the guests. As for me, I just let on I was sleeping or something.....I was there to simply relax and unwind.
There was never a shortage of beach lounge chairs on the beach or at the pool. And, no shortage of towels either.
I can't say enough about our Hotel and Resort. The travel agent had put in the comments when booking that it was our 25 year anniversary and they upgraded us to a beautiful honeymoon suite. Stellar service and staff all around. The hotel grounds and rooms were extremely clean.....never any garbage anywhere. I can honestly say one of the best vacations...
Oh ya,food was out of this world. There were always a huge variety all the time.
Although not as modern as other Riu hotels, this hotel is quite nice, very clean and well maintained. The food at the buffets was excellent with a great variety to chose from. The 'Ã la carte' restaurants were also excellent with no need to make reservations which is often a problem with other hotels. We managed to eat at all 5 restaurants during our stay. I would highly recommend other hotels to follow suit i.e. no reservations. The reservation process is often problematic and, as a result, travellers are limited to one or two restaurants during their stay. Thank you to Riu Palace Punta Cana for making this change.
The grounds, public areas, the beach ... all very very good.
Bravo to the Riu Palace Punta Cana for an enjoyable week.
The hotel was immaculate and the service staff were all friendly and welcoming! The food was good especially the buffet. Love the beach activities and nightlife entertainment. Would definitely return with family/friends!
Location5/5
Value4/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★★★★Dc1234 -
Verified PurchaserNot that great
It was ok smelly rooms no towels half the time no water bottles in room had to ask them everyday. Carpets dirty people were very friendly all of them can,t say nothing about them food was terrable no taste about fifty of us got sick from the fish we talked to someone on the resort told us that they go fishing leave the fish in the boat not on ice in the sun all day that is why people get sick.
Location3/5
Value5/5
Food1/5
Beach4/5
Rooms1/5
Service5/5
★★★★Nana5plus1 -
Verified PurchaserGreat resort with outstanding service.
Although as many people have stated the rooms could do with an update especially bedding and furniture. I thought the size and amenities of the room was grest. We were in room 2127 which was close to the beach as we had requested. The room was always spotless with beautiful towel art every day. The beach was gorgeous lots of chairs. The pool was loud and really not our style but we were happy to be at the beach anyway. The staff at this resort is it's best asset.
You want to go on vacation to a High Class Resort without breaking the bank, this is the resort of your dreams. Best resort thus far since our history of travels. The people, the service, all impeccable, awesome and amazing. Everyone is always eager to assist you, especially the servers at the Main and Beach buffets's were awesome and attentive. The food, what can I say, Awesome and the cocktails, whatever you heart desires. My favorite place was the Bavaro Beach with the turquoise / blue ocean water, this was sanctuary. Have to say there was wind at the beach everyday, but this did not bother me because when you are seeking the attention of the sun, you definitely need some cooling off. The rooms were good and very clean. The only thing that I found negative was the week we were there, the hotel was booked solid and the availabilty of seats in the dining room and out in the La Plaza, were very limited. I must say, everyone has to visit the El La Carte Krystial, the best ever Beef Tender Loin you will ever eat, every bite was mouth watering.
Loved the Resort!
Sandra & Carlos Reis
Riu Palace Punta Cana is a very beautiful resort. Its grounds and main lobby are fantastic. Rooms are a bit dated, but clean and nicely decorated. I would say that moldy smell can be sensed at first when one goes into the room, but it is not strong and quickly disappears once the air conditioner turned on. There is very good Internet connection in the lobby, and even at times in rooms! Mainly late at night. Staff, in general, is accommodating and polite. Food is very good. Also, this resort offers very nice entertaining at night.
★★★★Guyzoun -
Verified PurchaserFrom 4 1/2* to 3 1/2* resort
The Riu Palace is a very nice resort with a fantastic spanish architecture and decor. Our room was facing the pool side. It was very nice with just a tad of smell in our room which was very clean on a daily basis. Plenty of bottle of water, pops and beer in our fridge. The buffet food was very very repetitive. The pools are small (Easter crowd) and have started to show their wear and tear; as the resort. The Italian restaurant was excellent, Sushi were great at the Japanese restaurant but the service was horrible for the main course. Beach is awesome ! Overall it is a
good resort !
We were there in Feb 2015 for two weeks. This is a wonderful old resort, getting a bit long in the tooth but that is it`s charm. The staff are absolutely wonderful and attentive and treated us with great respect. The grounds are beautifully kept and the rooms and public areas are very clean. The rooms and dining room need an update but it would be a shame to redo the the whole resort. The beach is one of the best and the service at the beach and pool was wonderful. Great place to relax and people watch. No complaints about the food or drink. Would definitely go again.
Just returned from Riu Palace PC. Flights going and coming with Sunwing were both delayed on departure and arrival. Arrived at resort, had reserved a superior junior suite (absolutely no difference from the junior suite inside the room). I would have assumed the location in the resort made the difference re: superior, but no. Had to negotiate/$$ to get a better location closer to the beach. There are no views of the ocean from any room so if that is a priority, not the place for you.
Excited so we immediately went from the room to the beach. Last minute decided to put valuables in the safe in both rooms (had 2 rooms). Good thing we did!! Came back about 2 hrs later and luggage in both rooms had been rifled through. I reported this to the front desk. They said the manager would call. Waited. Called again and they put me through to security. Security said they would have the manager call. Still waiting for that..... Bad start!
Food- A la cartes no good. Buffet excellent and they change it up each day. Steak house (restaurant by the ocean) serves lunch buffet which is nice. One of us became quite ill, both ends and thought it was likely the food. Who knows, could be a combination of sun, food, alcohol.
Clientele in the 70's or families with young children. Very few if any university age group. Even not too many 30, 40, 50 year olds. Riu Bambu next door a much more exciting group and better shows.
Beach staff were very good and entertaining. A big shout out to Franklin, Gasolina and the yeyeyeye girl!! You guys are great! The beach is beautiful. We went on an afternoon snorkeling trip through the beach guys related to the Riu, $39 per person and well worth it!
The bathroom in one of our rooms was flooded twice by the room above. The water came pouring in both times through the bathroom roof. When we got angry with them they fixed it properly the second time. Just a hassle.
The front desk staff are less than helpful, don't really care. They make promises but don't follow through. This is not in the best interest of the resort and wanting people to return.
If you have not travelled much or been to all inclusive, you would likely think this hotel is great. We have traveled a fair bit and I would not rate this hotel as a 5 star. There are much better places to go and get your mney's worth. We will not return.
Went with a group of 5 from Jan.31 to Mar.7 Everything was perfect.Weather in the 30 degree range,food was excellent.The RIU complex was nice,able to visit other sister hotels.Plus the beach was great and able to walk for as long as you wanted.I recommend this hotel to anyone.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★Tracy bear -
Verified PurchaserGreat Resort
The hotel is beautiful, clean and very close to the beach. The staff were excellent with us and we would stay again! All reviews you read is always based on the individual, I feel people are extremely picky and complain to much when posting a review. Massage on the beach was amazing . Book your stay you won't be disappointed!
Location5/5
Value4/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★Aunty Sana -
Verified PurchaserBeautiful 1st tropical vacation resort
I am 52 years old & finally got to go on my "very first" tropical vacation. I got remarried in October 2014 & this was our honeymoon celebration. What an amazing resort to choose! Riu Palace Punta Cana was beautiful. The staff were all so friendly, helpful and kind whether it be by the pool, restaurants, buffets, room service. We never had one rude person. Always treated with respect. Also the daily entertainment for vacationers to participate in was so much fun and I sure won't forget Coco Loco. He sure got everyone involved. The best part was the nightly music in the courtyard. It sure put me in my happy place. "Thank You Riu Punta Cana" for making my first tropical vacation a memorable.
★★★★★Moe b -
Verified PurchaserAmazing clean resort
We had a wonderful time. The accommodations and the clean grounds were beautiful.The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. The food at the buffets was excellent and the restaurants were also good.
Thanks for a great week.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food5/5
Beach5/5
Rooms5/5
Service5/5
★★★★Car 54 where are you -
Verified PurchaserA very beautiful resort
Anywhere along the Punta Cana beach is outstanding. The rooms are very clean, modern, colourful, made of local stone material and show very little wear. The maids were very hard working. Mosquitos seemed to like the bathrooms. Plumbing in the bathroom tubs and showers is poorly done. The grounds and gardens are picturesque. The building itself - bars, restaurants, patios and walk ways are very well cared for and impressive. The pool is very large and made of very colourful mosaic tiles, but some tiles have come off creating a sharp edges that could cut your feet. The workers are very friendly and become even more friendly with a $1 tip. The buffet is very standard with other Riu hotels. There is tremendous variety but there is the constant problem of keeping things warm yet not dry the food out ie fish, beef, pork, shrimp. Careful of the sushi as a number of people were sick after eating this. The a la carte restaurants are good but seem to be more concerned with the presentation. The quality of the a la carte food is good but the quantity is lacking a bit if you are hungry. The steak house steak was very large but sadly very under cooked. Although not the hotel's problem or doing, transfer to and from the hotel to the airport was very frustrating and time consuming far beyond what it needs to be. A $40 taxi ride is well worth the price. The transfer agents certainly run on Dominican time. The Riu Bambu next door is a better bang for your buck. The rooms are not as nicely appointed, but how long are you in your room?
★★★★★Dogbuck -
Verified PurchaserRiu Palace Punta Cana - Love it!
Just returned Dec.11 2014 ... seven days! Great Hotel... Beautiful Beach! This was a return holiday , we were there Mar. 2012 for a daughter's wedding! ( we actually witnessed two weddings under the gazebo @ the beach while we were there!) Love this resort, food was very good. Stick to the buffets, although you have options for onsite restaurants. They were just okay. The staff always kind & friendly. Daytime activities, if interested. But they did not hound you. Same staff returning for evening activities to greet you! Evening activities were good, professional groups coming in to entertain. The evening layout is really neat, before & after dinner... you have a huge area to sit & listen to music... dancing. Service is EXCELLENT here. They serve you drinks... on you... as soon as your glass is empty! Beach is beautiful, lots of chairs! As well as the pool... but you know the rules! ...get down & reserve your favorite spot with towels! Very few vendors on beach bugging you! But there... if you want a hat, sunglasses, cigars or cheap jewelry ! shops on site for souvenirs, nice jewelry store in Lobby. Ten minute walk to Harrison's Caribbean Jewelry for higher end stuff ( 14kt yellow/white gold) ... I know ... cause it was my Birthday!!! Favorite staff ... for a second time in a row! RAUL ...he has been there eight years! As you walk into the main buffet area... Turn to your left ... far wall ... Raul & staff will look after you! Rooms were very nice, they will smell a little musty when you arrive. DON'T WORRY ... crank the fan & get the air on high for the whole week! Beds are hard... oh well ... lots of pillows! Fully stocked fridges every day, Only beer... Presidente! very good... Wine sucks here... I was bummed cause I LOVE wine.... white is drinkable, as long as it is really cold...I always kept a bottle in our fridge... they will give you a bottle anywhere... just ask... Lots of hot water & lots of fresh towels! Cleaning staff speak very little English. We were top floor ... facing the court ( I recommend this) I think we were 3109 ? Rooms kept very clean.... they are very handy with towel art!! All in all ... great trip .... but travelers ... wee bit of advice... You are on Holidays, these staff members ARE not your servants.... TIP .... I we took 120 one dollar bills .... We left $5 UNDER a pillow each day, and $1 INSIDE the fridge. Someone cleans your room ... another stocks your fridge daily. We tipped at the bars, restaurants... after you leave your table, after a meal... leave a buck or two!! They remember you... sit in the same areas The only rudeness we saw was from other TRAVELERS ... Great Place ... will return!
The hotel was great loved it!!!. The staff were very accommodating. We arrived and were put in a room facing a brick wall. Went down to the desk and asked that our room be changed. With a very small fee that changed our room to face the garden. What at beautiful site.
Location5/5
Value5/5
Food4/5
Beach5/5
Rooms4/5
Service5/5
★★★Traveller25 -
Verified PurchaserDisappointed
We just returned from a 7 day stay at the Riu Palace Punta Cana
Everything about this hotel was average at best. Food & restaurants were disappointing. The grounds were well kept. Both myself & husband got sick even though we used only bottled water for everything including brushing our teeth, as told when we arrived.
Location3/5
Value3/5
Food2/5
Beach4/5
Rooms3/5
Service3/5
★★★Busy -
Verified PurchaserNot the Riu Palace experience I heard or expected
Resort was lovely. However the rooms were damp; slippery floors, sheets felt wet every night. Rooms are outdated and can use an upgrade.
Disappointed that at the Disco you had to pay for drinks. This is a first.
At check out no one helped with our bags or asked how was our stay.
Location3/5
Value2/5
Food3/5
Beach3/5
Rooms2/5
Service3/5
★★★★Alexander -
Verified PurchaserGood resort but could easily be amazing!
Im writing on behalf of my parents and basing this review on everything they told me. The biggest concern was the elevator was broken, so if you stayed on the last floor...good luck. Everything else was what you paid for, it is what you make it. Also it seemed like a big party place.
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