Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana review: What can you really expect if you stay (2023)

Hotel class:Classy

The white ornate spire Riu Palace Punta Cana has a grand design inspired by British and Spanish colonial Caribbean architecture. Inside, the feeling of colonialism continues in the lobby, mixed with sophisticated, contemporary elements. White angular columns stand out against the shiny anthracite floors, while suede-like modular ottomans in neutral hues are offset by bold golden accents. Patterned colored glass leads the eye upwards. The room feels like it might once have been filled with historical significance, but the hotel was actually built in 2006. Major renovations in 2018 added luxurious touches and a fresher, more modern design throughout.

As eye-catching as the interior may be, the grounds are definitely a highlight here, especially the stunning pool complex. Well-manicured gardens with abundant lawns and dozens of palm trees embrace an enormous terracotta-tiled deck, complete with several beautiful pools, tons of sunbeds and umbrellas, and a lively pool bar overlooking the resort's beautiful beach.

The Riu guests run the gamut in terms of age, but the clientele is almost exclusively European. Families with children fit in just as well as young groups of friends and honeymooners. The property feels large enough for everyone to carve out their own space. This is not the place for young revelers, but it is not completely devoid of fun. The pool's swim-up bar sees a lot of action during the day, and there's always some sort of lively activity on the beach, plus live music and shows in the evenings.

All of the Riu Palace Punta Cana's 612 rooms are junior suites and suites that have at least one small sitting area equipped with a sofa bed. The rooms were completely renovated in spring 2018 and have a fresh feel with wood-like floors, white walls and beige pillows and bed runners. Dark wood furniture is a nod to the hotel's colonial architecture, but while it's not as modern as furniture found in other indoor spaces, it's not dated either. Large sliding glass doors open onto balconies furnished with at least a couple of chairs, many with pool, garden and side sea views. Junior suites start at 377 square feet and offer ample storage space, making them comfortable even at capacity. The bedroom area is separated from the living room by a wall made of wooden slats, which does not offer full privacy. The 721-square-foot suites add walk-in closets and larger living areas.

All rooms are equipped with a large flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a coffee machine and a safe. Minibars are stocked with soft drinks, water and beer and are refilled daily for free. Alcohol dispensers are also available in all units. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout the property. The bathrooms are modern and clean and have walk-in rain showers, double sinks and large backlit mirrors. There are also toiletries and hairdryers, as well as magnifying mirrors.

This Riu Palace Punta Cana is located along a beautiful white sand beach with calm, warm water, minimal seaweed and dozens of sun loungers placed in the sun or under palm trees. It can get crowded in high season. Non-motorized water sports are available for free on site, and there are kiosks operated by a third party that offer additional options for a fee.

Like the beach, Rius' pool complex is impressive. The massive water playground has built-in sun loungers, several hot tubs and a pool bar, along with three large pools and a children's pool. A daily entertainment program of water aerobics, Zumba, games and competitions keeps adults and teenagers busy, while the Kids' Club offers activities for children under 12, along with a paddling pool. Young guests also get access to Splash Water World, which is located in the Riu complex and offers a variety of water features and six water slides.

Although there is not a full spa on site, guests over 18 years of age have access to the Renova Spa, a pleasant wellness center located next doorHotel Riu Palace Bavaro. Body treatments, massages, facials, and hair and nail treatments are all available for a fee. Palace Punta Cana's fitness center is small but bright and modern, with cardio and weight training machines and large flat-screen TVs. Golfers can find a number of courses in the area, including the 18-hole Punta Blanca Golf Club, at which guests receive a discount.

Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana is a 24-hour all-inclusive resort, which means that all food and beverages are available free of charge, including buffet and a la carte meals, snacks, sweets, hot and cold drinks and cocktails. Unlimited drinks include local and imported brands. The only drinks not included are those served in the nightclub.

The property's main restaurant is Isabella, a large international buffet open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The spread is good and themed nights add variety. Breakfast includes egg and pancake stations, sparkling wine and fresh fruit.

In addition, the hotel offers six a la carte options, including Mexican, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, fusion and a steakhouse. The Spanish and Italian restaurants offer buffet starters and a la carte starters and desserts. Dinner reservations are required and room service is available 24/7. Guests also have access to a number of restaurants at other properties in the Riu complex.