Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana

The white, ornately spired Riu Palace Punta Cana has a grand design inspired by British and Spanish colonial-era Caribbean architecture. Inside, the feeling of colonialism continues in the lobby, interspersed with sophisticated, contemporary elements. White angular columns stand out against the gleaming anthracite floors, while suede-like modular ottomans in neutral hues are offset by bold golden accents. Patterned stained glass leads the eye upward. The room feels as though it could have once been filled with historic importance, but the hotel was actually built in 2006. Major renovations in 2018 added luxe touches and a fresher, more modern design throughout.
As eye-catching as the interiors may be, the grounds are definitely a highlight here, in particular the stunning pool complex. Manicured gardens with ample lawns and dozens of palm trees hug a huge terra-cotta tile deck, complete with several beautiful pools, tons of loungers and umbrellas, and a lively swim-up bar set overlooking the resort’s pretty beach.
Riu guests run the gamut in terms of age, but the clientele is almost entirely European. Families with kids fit in just as well as young friend groups and honeymooners. The property feels large enough that everyone can carve out their own spot. This isn’t the place for young partiers, but it isn’t completely void of fun. The pool’s swim-up bar sees a good deal of daytime action, and there’s always some kind of lively activity occurring on the beach, plus live music and shows in the evenings.

Riu Palace Punta Cana is located in Bavaro, an area in Punta Cana known for great beaches and large resorts. About 30 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport, the hotel is situated at the end of a five-hotel complex -- make sure to stress Riu Palace Punta Cana to cab drivers or tour operators, as Riu Palace Macao, Riu Palace Bavaro, Hotel Riu Naiboa, and Hotel Riu Bambu are other Riu options nearby. Guests have access to most amenities and restaurants in the huge Riu resort complex, and the beach that fronts the properties is one of the nicest in the area -- think calm, clear blue water with minimal seaweed. There's not much outside of the complex's gates, but those looking to explore the local culture can drive about 10 minutes to the town of Friusa, which has a few restaurants and bars. There are also several golf courses within a short driving distance.

All of the Riu Palace Punta Cana’s 612 rooms are junior suites and suites that have at least a small sitting area outfitted with a sofa bed. Rooms were fully renovated in the spring of 2018 and have a fresh feel, with wood-like floors, white walls, and beige throw pillows and bed runners. Dark-wood furniture is a nod to the hotel’s colonial architecture, but while it’s not as contemporary as furnishings found in other indoor spaces, it isn’t dated either. Big sliding glass doors open to balconies furnished with at least a couple of chairs, and many offer 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 space by a wall made of wooden slats, which doesn’t offer full privacy. The 721-square-foot Suites add walk-in closets and bigger living areas.
All rooms are equipped with large flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, coffeemakers, and safes. Minibars are stocked with soda, water, and beer and refilled daily free of charge. Liquor dispensers are also available in all units. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout the property.  Bathrooms are modern and clean, and feature walk-in rainfall showers, double sinks, and large backlit mirrors. Toiletries and hairdryers are also provided, along with magnifying mirrors.

This Riu Palace Punta Cana is set along a beautiful white-sand beach with calm, warm water, minimal seaweed, and dozens of loungers placed in the sun or under palm trees. It can get crowded in the peak season. Non-motorized water sports are available free of charge on-site, and there are kiosks run by a third party offering additional options for a fee.
Like the beach, Riu’s pool complex is impressive. The massive aquatic playground has built-in sunbeds, several hot tubs, and a swim-up bar, along with three big pools and a kiddy splash area. A daily entertainment program with water aerobics, Zumba, games and competitions keep adults and teenagers busy, while the kids’ club offers activities for children under 12, along with a wading pool. Young guests also get access to Splash Water World, which is located within the Riu complex and offers a number of water features and six waterslides.
Although there is no full spa on-site, guests over 18 get access to Renova Spa, a pleasant wellness center located at the neighboring Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro. Body treatments, massages, facials, and hair and nail services are all available for a fee. The Palace Punta Cana’s fitness center is small but bright and modern, with cardio and strength-training machines, as well as large flat-screen TVs. Golfers can find a number of courses in the area, including the 18-hole Punta Blanca Golf Club, for which guests get discounted rates.

The Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana is a 24-hour all-inclusive resort, which means all food and drinks are available free of charge, including buffet and a la carte meals, snacks, sweets, hot and cold drinks, and cocktails. Unlimited beverages 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. Breakfasts include egg and pancake stations, sparkling wine, and fresh fruit.
Additionally, 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 entrees and desserts. Dinner reservations are mandatory, and room service is available 24/7. Guests also get access to a number of restaurants at other properties on the Riu complex.

The Riu Palace Punta Cana has five bars on its property, and countless others across the complex. The perennial favorite is the swim-up bar, a wildly popular spot for pool-bound adults. Daiquiri Lobby Bar is an extension of the reception area and offers a good selection of imported and local brands. Capuchino serves up hot and cold drinks, as well as ice cream and baked goods. In addition, guests can get free drinks at Rosario Lounge and the sports bar. Note that the only drinks not free under the all-inclusive rate are those served at the nightclub.