Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres

The all-inclusive Riu Palace Costa Mujeres sits on attractive grounds dotted with palm trees, pretty water features, and lovely sea views. Opened in late 2018, Hotel Riu Palace is a great choice for couples and families alike – and a “no spring-breakers” policy means that it’s a relatively tranquil atmosphere. Still, the free-flowing booze guarantees that things won't be too sedate.

Contemporary interiors pop with color – the sunlit lobby, for example, is dotted with funky red chairs and red planters sprouting greenery. Other spaces have the same kind of sleek, contemporary style brightened by touches of bright color, plus wall-to-wall windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer lovely views. It's a lot fresher than some other Riu properties that we've visited in Mexico.

Guests tend to spend most of their time outdoors, and there are lots of lovely sunny or shady spots to relax in. The beach is particularly beautiful at the Riu Palace Costa Mujeres.

The Riu Palace Costa Mujeres is located in the Playa Mujeres region, a bit secluded from other properties. There’s not much nearby or within walking distance besides next-door sister property Riu Dunamar. Cancun’s Hotel Zone and downtown are about a 35-minute drive from the Riu Palace Costa Mujeres, while the airport can be reached in around 45 minutes.

Riu Palace Costa Mujeres rooms come in several configurations, ranging from Junior Suites to Swim-Out Junior Suites with direct pool access. They’re all spacious and inviting, with stylish contemporary decor that includes colorful leafy patterns (curtains, pillows, bed throws) that pop against blonde wood floors and sleek white and brown wood furnishings. Abstract art adds more liveliness, and sitting areas feature cherry red sofas (Suites swap the red for blue hues), plus they have tables and chairs. All rooms open onto private, furnished balconies that have either sea or partial sea views (or overlook the grounds).

Deep soaking tubs are set right in the rooms, which can pose privacy issues for some guests. The open-plan bathrooms mean that the sinks (double sinks in all rooms) are not separated from the bedroom areas either, nor are the walk-in rainfall showers (though they do feature frosted glass doors). Toilets are in separate rooms. Bathrooms also feature hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and are stocked with toiletries.

Rooms are well equipped in terms of amenities, with fully stocked minibars, tea/coffee-making facilities, and even premium liquor dispensers (can include brands like Smirnoff, Bacardi, and Jose Cuervo). Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi.

The Riu Palace Costa Mujeres all-inclusive package covers all food and drink around the clock, including room service and meals in most a la carte restaurants. However, only buffet starters and desserts are covered in the Italian and Mexican restaurants. All drinks are included, including in-room minibars and liquor dispensers.

Kids' club access is part of the all-inclusive rates here, as is the gym (fitness classes too), plus guests have access to neighboring Hotel Riu Dunamar’s water park and Pacha nightclub. The wet area of the spa is free, though you'll pay extra for treatments and massages. Kayaking, catamaran, and snorkeling equipment is included, as is an intro scuba diving lesson.

There’s a variety of choice when it comes to Riu Palace Costa Mujeres dining menus, with six different restaurants to choose from. The main buffet-style restaurant features show-cooking stations. There are several themed restaurants as well, offering Japanese, Mexican, and Italian fare, plus a steakhouse. A poolside snack bar and grill is also available. Five bars include a lobby bar, two lounges, and a poolside bar, plus there’s a pastry shop and ice cream parlor.

The Riu Palace Costa Mujeres sits on a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach that’s dotted with tall palms and lined with loungers. It’s a lovely place to while away some time, plus there’s a beach volleyball court here and guests can use the kayaks, catamarans, and snorkeling equipment. For an alternative, the five pools spread across the grounds are all attractive, with roomy pool decks edged in pretty greenery and palms and lined with lots of loungers. Two of the pools have swim-up bars and in-water loungers.

The hotel’s Renova Spa offers a variety of treatments like facials and massages (treatments cost extra), plus it has a beauty salon with hair services. The spa’s thermal area includes saunas, steam baths, and two relaxation baths. There’s also a fitness center. The thermal area and fitness center (plus classes) are included in rates at Riu Palace Costa Mujeres.

Daily entertainment includes nightly shows on the open-air stage. Those seeking some nightlife can head to Pacha nightclub at the next-door sister hotel (free entrance). Other features here include a kids’ club that caters to two different age groups (4 to 7 and 8 to 12), plus access to next-door hotel’s water park. Wi-Fi is free throughout.