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.
Guests Warn
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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Awards & Recognition
Ecostars Certification
One third-party certification
Ecostars
Travelers' Choice Award
RIU Hotels & Resorts collectively received 61 in 2023
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.
Pros
+El Médano is one of the few swimmable beaches in Cabo San Lucas — a genuine geographic advantage over most Cabo all-inclusives.
+Complimentary Splash Water World and Riu Pool Parties at neighboring Riu Santa Fe expand entertainment without adding cost.
+Two swim-up bar pools — unusual generosity for a property of this size.
+Renova Spa with five treatment cabins including two double cabins for couples treatments.
+Elite Club upgrade provides a measurable service tier difference, not just a different room category.
Cons
−30–45 minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport — longer than some Cabo alternatives.
−Adults-only (18+) — not an option for families.
−Formal dress required at all specialty restaurants every evening.
Tips
The El Médano beach access is the main reason to choose this property — use it. Don't spend all day at the pool when the beach is the differentiator.
Elite Club pricing is worth checking: the private pool and lounge sometimes cost less to add than expected.
Couples treatments at the spa's double cabins should be booked on arrival day — these slots are the first to fill.
Splash Water World next door is worth one dedicated half-day, especially in the morning before peak heat.
FAQ
Is Hotel Riu Palace Baja California all-inclusive?
Yes, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is an all-inclusive resort. Most dining, drinks, and activities are included in your stay.
Is Hotel Riu Palace Baja California adults-only?
Yes, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is an adults-only resort, welcoming guests 18 and older.
How many restaurants does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California has 6 restaurants and dining venues.
How many pools does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California has 4 swimming pools.
How many rooms does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California has 650 rooms and suites.
What is the star rating of Hotel Riu Palace Baja California?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is a 5.0-star resort.
Where is Hotel Riu Palace Baja California located?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is located in Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico.
What resort chain is Hotel Riu Palace Baja California part of?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is part of Riu Hotels & Resorts.
Does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have a spa?
Yes, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California has an on-site spa. The Renova Spa has five treatment cabins including two double cabins — the couples massage setup is a specific amenity.
What's Included
Included in Your Stay
All meals, snacks, and beverages (local and imported premium brands).
American and buffet breakfasts with show cooking.
Themed dinners and à la carte specialty restaurants.
24-hour room service.
Complete spirits dispenser in rooms.
Minibar restocked daily with beer, soft drinks, and water.
Poolside drink service.
Access to the gym, steam bath, and whirlpool bath.
Daily entertainment, live music, and evening shows.
Complimentary access to Riu Pool Parties and Pachá nightclub at Riu Santa Fe.
Introductory scuba lesson in the pool.
Free WiFi throughout the hotel.
Access to facilities, restaurants, and entertainment at Riu Santa Fe and Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas.
Does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have beach access?
Yes, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California has beach access.
Does Hotel Riu Palace Baja California have a kids club?
No, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California does not have a kids club. It is an adults-only resort.
Is Hotel Riu Palace Baja California good for couples?
Yes, Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is an adults-only resort designed for couples and adult travelers seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
What's included at Hotel Riu Palace Baja California?
Hotel Riu Palace Baja California includes All meals, snacks, and beverages (local and imported premium brands)., American and buffet breakfasts with show cooking., Themed dinners and à la carte specialty restaurants., 24-hour room service., Complete spirits dispenser in rooms., and more.
What is the best room at Hotel Riu Palace Baja California?
The top room category at Hotel Riu Palace Baja California is the Junior Suite Connecting. Ideal for groups or families traveling together, the Junior Suite Connecting consists of two conjoined Junior Suites.
Rating8.4
Rating8.0
Rating8.1Adults Only