Rating8.4
Rating8.0
Rating8.1Adults OnlyGood
Based on 3.7k reviews
Exceptional Staff
Guests consistently laud the hotel's staff for their friendly, attentive, and helpful service, contributing significantly to a positive stay.
Pristine Property
The resort is widely praised for its high standards of cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and beautiful, modern design, from common areas to guest rooms.
Diverse Gastronomy
The food and drink offerings, including buffets and themed restaurants, receive strong positive feedback for their quality, variety, and the inclusion of premium liquor brands.
Prime Beachfront Location
The resort's direct access to El Médano beach, known for its swimmable waters and views of El Arco, is a major highlight for guests seeking sun and sea.
Vibrant Pool Scene
The four outdoor swimming pools, especially those with swim-up bars, are popular for their lively atmosphere, ample space, and a fun social environment.
Sister Resort Perks
Guests highly value the complimentary access to amenities and entertainment at Riu Santa Fe and Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, including the popular Riu Pool Parties and Splash Water World.
Lively Atmosphere
The resort's vibrant, party-like atmosphere, particularly around the pools and during nightly entertainment, can be perceived as very loud by guests seeking a quieter, more relaxed vacation.
Beach Conditions
While generally considered swimmable, El Médano beach can sometimes experience red flags and high waves, which may occasionally limit ocean access for swimming.
Occasional Food Concerns
Despite generally positive dining reviews, some guests have expressed specific complaints about certain dishes or, in rare cases, reported instances of food poisoning from the buffet.
Room Noise
Guests may experience noise disturbances from hallways or adjacent balconies, especially late at night, suggesting careful room selection for those sensitive to noise.
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Ecostars Certification
One third-party certification
Ecostars
Travelers' Choice Award
RIU Hotels & Resorts collectively received 61 in 2023
TripAdvisor
El Médano is the specific reason to choose Riu Palace Baja California over other Cabo San Lucas all-inclusives. Most Cabo beaches — including the famous Medano Beach near Land's End — have powerful Pacific surf that makes swimming risky or impossible. El Médano's protected position produces genuinely swimmable water, and the resort has reserved beach space directly on it. This geographic advantage is the most honest reason to book here over a competitor.
The resort opened in 2018 and received an Elite Club upgrade in January 2024. The Elite Club adds a dedicated check-in, private lounge, exclusive pool, and enhanced room service — accessible through a room-category upgrade rather than requiring a separate booking. The Renova Spa distinguishes itself from comparable properties by specifying five treatment cabins including two double cabins for couples treatments, which is an uncommon detail in the all-inclusive category.
Complimentary access to Splash Water World and the Riu Pool Parties at the neighboring Riu Santa Fe is the third major draw. Guests who want a social, high-energy experience can access the party circuit without it dominating their primary property. It's a flexible arrangement — quiet resort days, party nights nearby.
Practically: 600+ rooms, 30–45 minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), adults-only (18+), four pools two with swim-up bars, heated in cooler months.