Riu Palace Riviera Maya

Set in upmarket district of Playa del Carmen, the Riu Palace Riviera Maya is an upscale, all-inclusive resort set on a pristine section of beach. The hotel presents a Las Vegas casino glamor and glitz and balances it out perfectly with the hacienda-style architecture and massive gardens.

Located in the Playacar resort area, the complex is shared with five other classy hotels from the Riu chain. Walk along the beach to downtown Playa del Carmen, where plenty of bars, restaurants, and retail shop await. Cancun is an hour or more north and makes for a perfect day trip, as does Xel-Ha and Xcaret parks, the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza.

The 400 rooms at the Riu Palace are traditional hacienda-style with furnished balconies and views of the gardens or courtyard. Guests can choose from Junior Suites, Suites and Whirlpool Bath Suites. Every room is spacious with separate sitting areas and large beds. As guests upgrade, space becomes larger and more luxurious amenities are added. Coffeemakers, liquor dispensers, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and more are included in all stays.

Sparkling turquoise water and the gorgeous white-sand beach is a main draw for guests. A huge ocean-view pool offers over 13,500 square feet of space with a swim-up bar and built-in tables and seats. There are tons of activities throughout the day, including beach sports, pool games, and evening entertainment. There is also a kids’ club, a spacious fitness center along with a relaxing spa with unique treatments are also available for guest use.

Six restaurants, four bars, and 24-hour room service give guests an array of dining options and they can also dine at any Riu resort in the complex.