When it comes to Riu's, Riu Palaces are on the upper end. Riu Palace's will never measure up to more luxurious resorts. However, if you are more budget minded, this may fit your bill. Riu Palaces generally have a higher quality food, drinks, amenities, and service than their Riu Classic counterparts.
This article will be focusing on Riu Palace Kukulkan. I recently had the pleasure of staying here, and it did not disappoint! This is an adults only all inclusive resort that is located right in the middle of the hotel zone. You are right in front of, and have access to, the beach. This is also where the ocean water is at it’s most beautiful. You won’t believe how clear the water is until you see it! This is the type of water everybody pictures when they think of the Caribbean. In addition to the beach, you are also very close to lots of shopping, restaurants (if you wish to venture outside of the resort for a meal), and local attractions. This is the perfect place to be for a relaxing vacation if you don’t want to feel like you are in the middle of nowhere.
When you first walk into the lobby, you will find tall ceilings and wide open spaces. The lobby contains the “lobby bar” that includes PLENTY of seating. If you don’t want to go up to the bar to order, they have waiters that will come take your orders. Right behind the bar, is a little cafe with coffee drinks, pastries, and other types of snacks. Again, there is still plenty of seating on this side of the lobby as well. In the evenings, sometimes they would bring a special cart out where they made fancier drinks.
With around 400 rooms, this resort isn’t huge, but it does pack in quite a bit of entertainment. Since it is a Riu Palace, all rooms are considered suites, which means more space! You can get a courtyard view, partial sea view, sea view, or a full ocean front view. If you choose an Elite Club room, then it comes with extra amenities and premium room locations.
The room I stayed in was a Jr. Suite Courtyard View. My room had 2 double beds. When you first walk in there is closest space for storage. Past that, I found the minifridge, which had different sodas, beers, and water. On top of that, all rooms at this resort have liquor dispensers in the room (the difference is that the Elite rooms have the “higher quality” liquor). If you know anything about resorts in this area, a lot of them tend to have open concept bathroom areas. No need to worry here. The shower has a closed door (with LOTS of room), and the toilet is actually in a separate room next to the entrance, and it also has a closed door. There was a bathtub next to the sinks that was out in the open, but there was a curtain you can pull if you need privacy from your roommate.
As mentioned earlier, this resort isn’t huge, but they pack a lot in. You will find 4 swimming pools! Some were made for fun, and some were made to be more relaxing. One of them has a swim up bar with extra tables, so you can hang out, and enjoy your refreshments for as long as you need to. The outdoor area also has a stage where they have various performances. When I was there, they were celebrating Mexican Independence Day. They had some great singers and dancers to celebrate the culture of Mexico.
There are also plenty of choices for dining. There are 5 themed restaurants (Mexican, Japanese, Italian, Fusion, and Steakhouse) and a buffet. In addition to the main dining restaurants, there is a stand near the pools that offers quick foods. Then there is also the Lounge Bar (which is different from the Lobby Bar!). This bar is located on the first floor of the resort, and it also offers snacks. If you don’t want to leave your room, or you need a late night snack, this resort also provides 24 hour room service!
I didn’t spend much time in the gym or spa, but from what I saw, it looked nice. It wasn’t the fanciest spa area I’ve seen, but it fits the bill. If you spend a lot of time in the gym and/or spa, you won’t be lacking for one here!
If you are looking to do some snorkeling (because who isn’t in the Caribbean?), you are in luck! As of the time of this writing, snorkeling and kayaking are both included with your stay. Motorized sports are extra, however (which is typical for most all inclusives).
This resort has a little more of a lively vibe than a relaxing romantic vibe, but I wouldn’t consider it just a “party resort.” In fact, most of their themed parties are at other locations that you have to take a bus to. The bus is free, so if you are in the mood to let loose and party, it is a great option!
In summary, this is a great option for an adults only getaway, especially if you want are on somewhat of a budget. It is close to beautiful beach with clear blue/turquoise ocean water, it is close to down, there are plenty of options for food, and the overall atmosphere is lively, but it is not out of control.
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