Hey guys! Planning a trip to Cabo San Lucas and wondering if the Riu Palace is the right choice for you? You've come to the right place! This Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas reviews will dive deep into what this all-inclusive resort has to offer, covering everything from the rooms and restaurants to the pools and overall vibe. We'll break down the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between, so you can make an informed decision and have an amazing vacation.

First Impressions: What to Expect

Alright, let's start with the first impressions. The Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas definitely has that wow factor when you first arrive. The lobby is grand and spacious, with high ceilings and elegant décor. Check-in is usually pretty smooth, and the staff is generally friendly and welcoming. You'll be greeted with a refreshing drink, which is always a nice touch after a long journey. The resort itself is quite large, but it's well-maintained and easy to navigate. You'll find multiple pools, restaurants, and bars scattered throughout the property, so there's always something to do or somewhere to relax. One thing to keep in mind is that this resort can get pretty lively, especially during peak season. If you're looking for a quiet, secluded getaway, this might not be the best choice. However, if you're up for a fun and energetic atmosphere, you'll definitely feel right at home. The location is also a major plus, as it's right on Medano Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in Cabo. This means you'll have easy access to all sorts of water activities, restaurants, and bars. Plus, the views of the iconic El Arco rock formation are simply breathtaking. So, overall, the first impressions are pretty positive. The resort is beautiful, the staff is friendly, and the location is unbeatable. But let's dig a little deeper and see what else the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas has to offer.

Accommodation: Rooms and Suites

Let's talk about the rooms and suites at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas. After all, a comfortable and relaxing space is essential for any good vacation. The rooms here are generally well-appointed and spacious, with a variety of options to choose from. You can opt for a standard room with a garden or ocean view, or upgrade to a suite for extra space and amenities. Many rooms feature a balcony or terrace, perfect for enjoying the stunning views of the Sea of Cortez. Inside, you'll find comfortable beds, a sitting area, and a well-stocked mini-bar. Yes, that's right, the mini-bar is included in your all-inclusive package and is replenished regularly! The bathrooms are clean and modern, with a shower or bathtub, depending on the room type. One thing to note is that some of the rooms can feel a bit dated in terms of décor. While they are well-maintained, they might not have the most modern design elements. However, the comfort and functionality are definitely there. If you're looking for a truly luxurious experience, consider booking one of the suites. These offer extra space, separate living areas, and often come with upgraded amenities. Some suites even have their own private Jacuzzi on the balcony. Regardless of which room type you choose, you can expect a comfortable and relaxing stay at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas. The rooms are clean, well-equipped, and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Just keep in mind that some of the décor might be a bit dated, but the overall experience is still very positive.

Dining: Restaurants and Bars

Foodies, listen up! One of the biggest perks of an all-inclusive resort is the unlimited access to food and drinks. The Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate. From casual buffet-style restaurants to elegant à la carte dining, there's something for everyone. The main buffet restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide selection of international dishes. You'll find everything from fresh salads and seafood to pasta and grilled meats. The themed nights are especially fun, with different cuisines featured each evening. For a more formal dining experience, you can choose from several à la carte restaurants. There's a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, and a Mexican restaurant. Reservations are required for these restaurants, so be sure to book in advance. The food quality at the à la carte restaurants is generally very good, with fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes. The bars at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas are also a highlight. You'll find several bars located throughout the resort, including swim-up bars in the pools and a sports bar. The bartenders are friendly and skilled, and they can whip up just about any cocktail you can imagine. The drinks are included in your all-inclusive package, so you can indulge in as many margaritas and piña coladas as your heart desires. One thing to keep in mind is that the quality of the drinks can vary depending on the bar. Some bars use top-shelf liquor, while others use more generic brands. If you have a preference, be sure to ask the bartender. Overall, the dining experience at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is a definite plus. The variety of restaurants and bars ensures that you'll never go hungry or thirsty. Just be sure to make reservations for the à la carte restaurants and be aware of the different liquor options at the bars.

Pools and Activities: Fun in the Sun

When it comes to pools and activities, the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas has you covered. With multiple pools, a swim-up bar, and a variety of activities to choose from, you'll never be bored. The main pool is the hub of activity, with music, games, and plenty of space to lounge in the sun. If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, you can head to one of the quieter pools. There's even a kids' pool for the little ones. The swim-up bar is a popular spot, where you can grab a refreshing drink without ever leaving the water. The bartenders are always happy to serve you, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. In addition to the pools, the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of activities for guests of all ages. There's a fitness center, a spa, and a kids' club. You can also participate in water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The resort also has a daily activities program with games, contests, and dance lessons. In the evenings, there's live music and shows in the theater. The entertainment is generally pretty good, with a variety of acts to keep you entertained. One thing to note is that the pools can get crowded, especially during peak season. If you want to snag a good spot, you'll need to get there early. Also, some of the activities require reservations, so be sure to book in advance. Overall, the pools and activities at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas are a major draw. There's something for everyone, whether you want to relax by the pool, participate in water sports, or enjoy live entertainment. Just be prepared for crowds and be sure to make reservations for activities that require them.

Beach Access: Medano Beach

One of the biggest advantages of the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is its prime location on Medano Beach. This is the most popular beach in Cabo San Lucas, and for good reason. The sand is soft and golden, the water is calm and swimmable, and the views are simply stunning. From the beach, you can see the iconic El Arco rock formation, which is a must-see attraction in Cabo. The Riu Palace has its own section of Medano Beach, with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests to use. The beach is also lined with restaurants and bars, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. You can also participate in a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. One thing to keep in mind is that Medano Beach can get crowded, especially during peak season. There are also vendors selling souvenirs and offering massages, which can be a bit persistent at times. However, the convenience of having direct access to such a beautiful beach is well worth it. You can spend your days swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing and enjoying the views. In the evenings, the beach comes alive with bonfires, music, and dancing. It's a great place to experience the vibrant nightlife of Cabo San Lucas. Overall, the beach access at the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is a major selling point. The location on Medano Beach is unbeatable, and the convenience of having everything you need right at your fingertips makes for a truly memorable vacation.

Overall Vibe: Who is This Resort For?

So, what's the overall vibe of the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas? And who is this resort really for? Well, to put it simply, this resort is all about fun and energy. It's a lively place with a social atmosphere, perfect for those who want to be in the middle of the action. If you're looking for a quiet, secluded getaway, this might not be the best choice. But if you're up for a good time, you'll definitely feel right at home. The Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is popular with couples, families, and groups of friends. It's a great place to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday or anniversary. The resort caters to a wide range of ages, with activities and amenities for everyone. However, it's worth noting that this resort can get pretty rowdy at times, especially around the pool and swim-up bar. If you're sensitive to noise or prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, you might want to consider a different resort. Overall, the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is a fun and energetic resort that's perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the action. It's a great choice for couples, families, and groups of friends who are looking for a memorable vacation. Just be prepared for crowds and noise, especially during peak season.

Pros and Cons: A Quick Recap

Alright, let's wrap things up with a quick recap of the pros and cons of the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas. This will give you a clear overview of what to expect and help you decide if this resort is the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Prime Location: Situated right on Medano Beach, with easy access to water activities, restaurants, and bars.
• All-Inclusive: Unlimited food and drinks, including à la carte restaurants and well-stocked mini-bars.
• Multiple Pools: Several pools to choose from, including a swim-up bar and a kids' pool.
• Activities and Entertainment: Daily activities program, live music, and shows in the theater.
• Friendly Staff: Generally friendly and welcoming staff who are always happy to help.

Cons:

• Can Get Crowded: Pools and beach can get crowded, especially during peak season.
• Dated Décor: Some of the rooms can feel a bit dated in terms of décor.
• Variable Drink Quality: Quality of drinks can vary depending on the bar.
• Can Be Noisy: Resort can get rowdy at times, especially around the pool and swim-up bar.
• Persistent Vendors: Vendors on the beach can be a bit persistent.

Final Verdict: Is Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas Worth It?

So, is the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas worth it? In my opinion, absolutely, if you know what to expect. This resort offers a great value for the price, with its all-inclusive package, prime location, and variety of activities and amenities. It's a perfect choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action and don't mind a bit of noise and crowds. However, if you're looking for a quiet, secluded getaway, you might want to consider a different resort. Overall, the Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas is a solid choice for a fun and memorable vacation in Cabo. Just be sure to do your research, read the reviews, and know what to expect before you book. And most importantly, have a fantastic time!