Hi Sol, thank you so much for what is undoubtedly the BEST and most comprehensive review of this property. Within the first 10 seconds I was like: "Yup, I like this guy."
We were at the Riu Palace nearly ten years ago, looks like some things have changed for the better; especially as it relates to having things to do other then drink! Since neither my husband or I do this, we found ourselves often looking for things to do that didn't involve that activity. Yes, the place was definitely clean, and beautiful, but lining up for the restaurants is certainly something that we didn't enjoy doing. It was a once-in-a-lifetime stay at a beautiful resort.
I have not given a ten yet, although in hindsight I should have given the RIU in Costa Rica a 10 and maybe the one in Cabo a 9. I'm a little stingy on my ratings!
Thank you so much, I’ve read so many negative reviews about this property but I’m guess those were from before the overhaul. Your review makes me comfortable that this RIU is just as good as the others I’ve visited. Great Job! About to change my hotel for my visit in January.
I find that everywhere I want to go, there is so many negative reviews. I am almost scared to show up expecting so many horrors. I find most places are better than the negative reviews, although there will always be some. Enjoy and let me know what you thought.
We are going with a group of other adult couples. We all booked the swim-out rooms but now I’m wondering if ocean view will be obscured by the privacy walls. In your opinion, would a higher up ocean view room be better?
Great review. We are going to Cabo in September with our 2-year old daughter, would you recommend Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas for a FAMILY kind of a resort? or is there any other resort in Cabo better for a 2-year old to enjoy? Thanks.
WE JUST RETURNED FROM THE RIU ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT. WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE. THE FOOD WAS GREAT AND THE STAFF WERE EXCELLENT. THE RECREATION STAFF WERE AMAZING ESPECIALLY ADRIANNA WHO WAS GREAT WITH WATER VOLLEY BALL AND LOOKING AFTER THE LITTLE KIDS. JUST A SUPER RESORT.
Thanks for the review. Looking at booking the newest Riu Palace Baja California. Could you tell if it was being built on the beach? Or back from the ocean likme the Santa Fe?
Our travel agent told us you can swim in the ocean and they were recently there. Is it true you can’t ever swim in ocean because I would definitely book the resort but we definitely want to be able to go in ocean. Thank you
Going to Riu in June with our 11 year old son. I love beaches and was wondering is the beach hard to swim in and are there any beaches you can? Also, we booked 2 excursions. the doombuggies and the glass bottom boat to the arch and lovers beach. Do you have any thoughts or feedback on that?
We used to go to bays around Cabo that were meant for swimming. Santa Maria bay was always our favourite.. Did the glass bottom boat years ago, maybe not as picturesque as the Caribbean but I enjoyed it. Lovers beach is just cool because you get to see the arch up close. Enjoy.
Great, great video! Thanks so much, you've definitely sealed the deal for my friends and I. We WILL be going there in a couple of months thanks to you. Your details were very thorough, I just wanted to ask one more time about the ocean. Most people say the undertow down there is strong, but being that my friends and I are "football player sized", do you think it'd be a problem? We LOVE the ocean!
It is UNLIKELY you will swim outside your resort. Scary. There are bays and beaches to go to with much better and safer results. It I am on a vacation and want to swim in the ocean, I am NOT going to Cabo!
From a surfer and someone who has been going to Cabo for 30+ years.....It depends on the time of year you go. In spring, summer and fall the beach normally has huge shore break and unless you are an accomplished ocean swimmer with fins there is no way. In the winter you may have a chance to have calmer surf. You can walk on the beach about half a mile to the west and the ocean is much calmer and suitable for swimming.
While I have not been going for as many years as you, we started in the early 90s with slowpitch tournaments in San Jose Del Cabo, and of the 15 or so times I have been there, only once have we been able to swim outside our hotel. We used to go to Santa Maria bay if we wanted to swim.
I meant to respond earlier, thanks again for your tips! We DID go in the ocean quickly but I kept picturing your video as I went in, so it was quick, very very quick! Lol....but we survived!
Thank you for this review. We're going next month for the very first time in Mexico! Question about tipping, which currency is better, dollars or pesos? And how much is a decent tip?
A dollar here or there for the bartenders, we usually tipped about $5 per family for dinner, and about the same for the maids. Not sure what others do but seemed to be appreciated. I don't think it matters USD or pesos, I have used both.
I am heading here in October, is all the alcohol free to drink as much as you'd like? i like to drink a lot on vacation like 15 drinks a night is it all free with all inclusive package?
Headed to Riu with my wife and two teenage daughters at the end of May. Can you elaborate on tipping? I know it's not required but I like to reward good service, just not sure the proper amounts, etc., at an all inclusive. Thanks!
It's hard to know how much to tip. For breakfast and lunch we usually did a couple of bucks, for dinner around 5, and around the bar a buck or two every round or two. Maids around $3 to $5 per day based on how well the room was cleaned. If they forgot something like towels (seems to be a common problem in Mexico) then I would reduce it and leave a note. Talking to the employees over the years they are good with this as a percentage of the people never tip. I sometime do a bit more for those that really deserve it. I remember one year in Playa Del Carmen we tipped our waiter $10 per meal and gave a $20 tip on the last day because he made our trip. We usually end up spending about $25 per day as a family.
You will have to check the RIU website as well as the Mexican entry requirements. They seem like they are changing weekly. Enjoy your trip, I'm jealous!
How do I find out more about the cooking classes? We are going in 3 days. do you recommend taking a bus to todos santos or renting a car? Any and all information will be greatly appreciated. Thank you
The cooking class was one event during the daily activities. I would never rent a car in Mexico, thats just my opinion - too many things can go wrong., I would go by bus or cab, thats the best way to get around.
No you cannot. If you stay at the Palace you can go to the Santa Fe, but not the other way around. The Santa Fe is very nice as well. See my review, although a lot shorter.
@@scott6421 Yes, you can go to the Santa Fe anytime if you stay at the Palace. If your younger and a partier, I would stay at the Santa Fe. I enjoyed myself at both places but with kids I found the Palace a better fit.
I havent been to either, but my dad just booked a room at the Palace bc it looks nicer and has higher ratings...ive read reviews that said Santa Fe is right next to the Palace and you can use the pool/waterslides there whenever you want, which is nice
Out of the 5 times we have been to Cabo for at least a week each time, I think we have seen swimmers about 5 times during those 40 days. Not very often!
If you plan on staying at the resort the entire time and rarely go out, there's no need to exchange money. They love the us dollar there for tips and the exhchange rate doesn't help you since you may get a bad rate. If you have a credit card with no foreign exchange rates, you can use that for vallarta adventures or places like costco or walmart (although no need when you're at an all inclusive.)
we are wanting to go here at the end of february. i have seen at other resorts lots of 'hidden' fees. did you find this one had those? what's the cheapest transportation from the airport, btw. thank you
Our bill at the end was $0. We didn't go for Spa treatments, and everything else was covered. I did not experience any hidden fees, nor have I at any of the resorts I have visited. Good luck and enjoy. If you are a RIUCLASS member, transportation is included, just ask and sign up for it. If not I would just get a taxi at the airport or shop online for a private transfer. Often you can find them cheaper than a taxi.
@@Crysis33100 we are thinking about going to this resort with 3 kids who like to play the beach. We never swim in the beach water, but we go in with them and maybe look for seashells. I would assume if it they go in knee deep with an adult, hopefully it is safe. Obviously, if not then we will just play in the pool.
As long as you have an adult bracelet you can get into the gym. Having said that, my children have been going to the gym for years as teens without a problem. I think it's more about your attitude while in there than your actual age. I would ask if its a major concern.
dylan tyt He is WAY talking the people up because of how beautiful and relaxing the trip is. The employees are constantly confused just seem to put it plain and simple-uneducated. In America the workers would be college students looking for extra money. The Mexicans make it their entire life...and are still constantly confused.. it’s not an obligation for them to know English I understand, by I know Spanish lol...still no help! Be ready to find everything out by yourself
Ohhh this is such informative and interesting video. Thank you for sharing.
this was an amazing review - filmed so well and so many great pointers...subscribing now!!!!
Hi Sol, thank you so much for what is undoubtedly the BEST and most comprehensive review of this property. Within the first 10 seconds I was like: "Yup, I like this guy."
Thanks, you made my day!
We were at the Riu Palace nearly ten years ago, looks like some things have changed for the better; especially as it relates to having things to do other then drink! Since neither my husband or I do this, we found ourselves often looking for things to do that didn't involve that activity. Yes, the place was definitely clean, and beautiful, but lining up for the restaurants is certainly something that we didn't enjoy doing. It was a once-in-a-lifetime stay at a beautiful resort.
Thanks so much for this video. We are going there in June, so very helpful!
Extremely well done review. Going in April. Very excited.
I went there in October 2022 it was awesome and amazing. I loved everything the palace was gorgeous. My rating is 10 out of 10.♥️♥️
I have not given a ten yet, although in hindsight I should have given the RIU in Costa Rica a 10 and maybe the one in Cabo a 9. I'm a little stingy on my ratings!
Hermoso video ! Ya quiero ir
Gracias, deberías ir y disfrutar.
The most well-done review video I've seen so far.
Thanks, I appreciate the time to post this, you made my day.
Thanks, you made my day!
Thank you so much, I’ve read so many negative reviews about this property but I’m guess those were from before the overhaul. Your review makes me comfortable that this RIU is just as good as the others I’ve visited. Great Job! About to change my hotel for my visit in January.
Be interesting what you think Let me know when you get back
I find that everywhere I want to go, there is so many negative reviews. I am almost scared to show up expecting so many horrors. I find most places are better than the negative reviews, although there will always be some. Enjoy and let me know what you thought.
Great review, best one I've found for this hotel
Thorough review ,well done
I can’t wait to go here :D
Thank you for this great video! Going in June for a friend's wedding! :) PS. We always tip even if it's already included.
Vlada Kay how was your trip? Was everything you expected? Or not so much
You are good people. We always tip as well.
I love that place
Great review
Mr Haha a
We are going with a group of other adult couples. We all booked the swim-out rooms but now I’m wondering if ocean view will be obscured by the privacy walls. In your opinion, would a higher up ocean view room be better?
Thanks for this, very helpful
No problem, thanks for watching!
Great video
Great review. We are going to Cabo in September with our 2-year old daughter, would you recommend Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas for a FAMILY kind of a resort? or is there any other resort in Cabo better for a 2-year old to enjoy? Thanks.
Hi great video, is it worth the upgrade from the Santa Fe to the cabo san Lukas?
Nice video .thats way .I am liked and subscribed too.good work
Garden view vs partial sea view Jr room- any suggestions? total 300 USD difference for 11 nights
WE JUST RETURNED FROM THE RIU ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT. WHAT AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE. THE FOOD WAS GREAT AND THE STAFF WERE EXCELLENT. THE RECREATION STAFF WERE AMAZING ESPECIALLY ADRIANNA WHO WAS GREAT WITH WATER VOLLEY BALL AND LOOKING AFTER THE LITTLE KIDS. JUST A SUPER RESORT.
We had such a great time as well. What an awesome location!
Glad you loved it!
Do you remember which restaurant it was that had the steak and lobster ?
Thanks for the review. Looking at booking the newest Riu Palace Baja California. Could you tell if it was being built on the beach? Or back from the ocean likme the Santa Fe?
Sorry, no idea. They were just clearing when we were there last.
Is the beach white sand? In description on Riu web site it says white sandy beach. In your video it looks brown?? Color of sand important. Thank you
I stayed here. 5 stars all the way. Treat you like a king
Our travel agent told us you can swim in the ocean and they were recently there. Is it true you can’t ever swim in ocean because I would definitely book the resort but we definitely want to be able to go in ocean. Thank you
Going to Riu in June with our 11 year old son. I love beaches and was wondering is the beach hard to swim in and are there any beaches you can? Also, we booked 2 excursions. the doombuggies and the glass bottom boat to the arch and lovers beach. Do you have any thoughts or feedback on that?
We used to go to bays around Cabo that were meant for swimming. Santa Maria bay was always our favourite.. Did the glass bottom boat years ago, maybe not as picturesque as the Caribbean but I enjoyed it. Lovers beach is just cool because you get to see the arch up close. Enjoy.
Great video! what camera are you using? Please let me know thanks
I'm using my DSLR - Canon 70D. Thanks for the like!
Canon 70D and the Osmo for dolly shots.
The hotel pics have slides for kids did you see them were they good
Great, great video! Thanks so much, you've definitely sealed the deal for my friends and I. We WILL be going there in a couple of months thanks to you. Your details were very thorough, I just wanted to ask one more time about the ocean. Most people say the undertow down there is strong, but being that my friends and I are "football player sized", do you think it'd be a problem? We LOVE the ocean!
Awesome, I can't wait to go back!
It is UNLIKELY you will swim outside your resort. Scary. There are bays and beaches to go to with much better and safer results. It I am on a vacation and want to swim in the ocean, I am NOT going to Cabo!
From a surfer and someone who has been going to Cabo for 30+ years.....It depends on the time of year you go. In spring, summer and fall the beach normally has huge shore break and unless you are an accomplished ocean swimmer with fins there is no way. In the winter you may have a chance to have calmer surf. You can walk on the beach about half a mile to the west and the ocean is much calmer and suitable for swimming.
While I have not been going for as many years as you, we started in the early 90s with slowpitch tournaments in San Jose Del Cabo, and of the 15 or so times I have been there, only once have we been able to swim outside our hotel. We used to go to Santa Maria bay if we wanted to swim.
I meant to respond earlier, thanks again for your tips! We DID go in the ocean quickly but I kept picturing your video as I went in, so it was quick, very very quick! Lol....but we survived!
Do you know whether or not you can swim after the pools close in the swim up suites?
I have no idea, but you could email the hotel as they got back to me within 24 hours.
The RIU Palace in Cancun was very good also. Thx for the informations.
Thank you for this review. We're going next month for the very first time in Mexico! Question about tipping, which currency is better, dollars or pesos? And how much is a decent tip?
A dollar here or there for the bartenders, we usually tipped about $5 per family for dinner, and about the same for the maids. Not sure what others do but seemed to be appreciated. I don't think it matters USD or pesos, I have used both.
@@Crysis33100 Thank you! Much appreciated :)
I am heading here in October, is all the alcohol free to drink as much as you'd like? i like to drink a lot on vacation like 15 drinks a night is it all free with all inclusive package?
As much as you want, 30 if you can handle it. Thats why there is so many people stumbling around.
Is the ocean safe to swim? I’ve heard horror stories about Cabo’s waters. Thanks
Worthy Info.
Nice! and I get the inference!
Headed to Riu with my wife and two teenage daughters at the end of May. Can you elaborate on tipping? I know it's not required but I like to reward good service, just not sure the proper amounts, etc., at an all inclusive. Thanks!
It's hard to know how much to tip. For breakfast and lunch we usually did a couple of bucks, for dinner around 5, and around the bar a buck or two every round or two. Maids around $3 to $5 per day based on how well the room was cleaned. If they forgot something like towels (seems to be a common problem in Mexico) then I would reduce it and leave a note. Talking to the employees over the years they are good with this as a percentage of the people never tip. I sometime do a bit more for those that really deserve it. I remember one year in Playa Del Carmen we tipped our waiter $10 per meal and gave a $20 tip on the last day because he made our trip. We usually end up spending about $25 per day as a family.
Thank you. Easiest way to get to the palace from the airport?
They provide a transfer for staying at the Palace, or you can always grab a taxi.
Have you been to Secrets in Cabo? If so how would you compare the two resorts?
I have not.
Where can I see your review for the riu santa fe?
Just search Riu Santa Fe Solworthy and it will come up. Thanks for watching.
We are planning on going here mid July, are you aware of any closures due to Covid?
You will have to check the RIU website as well as the Mexican entry requirements. They seem like they are changing weekly. Enjoy your trip, I'm jealous!
How do I find out more about the cooking classes? We are going in 3 days. do you recommend taking a bus to todos santos or renting a car? Any and all information will be greatly appreciated. Thank you
The cooking class was one event during the daily activities. I would never rent a car in Mexico, thats just my opinion - too many things can go wrong., I would go by bus or cab, thats the best way to get around.
sorry for the late reply, personally I would never rent a car in Mexico but all my bus trips have been without incident.
The cooking classes was part of the daily activities. They had it only once while we were there.
Cooking classes were part of the daily activities. Enjoy!
Question... if you stay at the Santa Fe Riu next door.. can you use the Riu Palace pools? have drinks and buffet at the Palace?
No you cannot. If you stay at the Palace you can go to the Santa Fe, but not the other way around. The Santa Fe is very nice as well. See my review, although a lot shorter.
@@Crysis33100 but if you stay at the palace you can also go to the Santa Fe Poolpartys right? Pink,White,Jungle and Neon?
@@scott6421 Yes, you can go to the Santa Fe anytime if you stay at the Palace. If your younger and a partier, I would stay at the Santa Fe. I enjoyed myself at both places but with kids I found the Palace a better fit.
What has been the best place in Cabo you have stayed?
Rui Palace hands down.
If you were to go again would you prefer the palace or just the riu Santa fe?
I havent been to either, but my dad just booked a room at the Palace bc it looks nicer and has higher ratings...ive read reviews that said Santa Fe is right next to the Palace and you can use the pool/waterslides there whenever you want, which is nice
I think that if I wanted more of a party atmosphere and lower budget, then the Santa Fe, but quieter and slightly more upscale is the Palace.
Hi, is the beach swimmable at any time? Thank you
Out of the 5 times we have been to Cabo for at least a week each time, I think we have seen swimmers about 5 times during those 40 days. Not very often!
If you plan on staying at the resort the entire time and rarely go out, there's no need to exchange money. They love the us dollar there for tips and the exhchange rate doesn't help you since you may get a bad rate. If you have a credit card with no foreign exchange rates, you can use that for vallarta adventures or places like costco or walmart (although no need when you're at an all inclusive.)
hi!!! one question? this hotel has a room service??
Yes it did
Great review is there a water park for the kids?
Small pools but no water park.
RUI Santa Fe next door has a small water park, and you have access to it by staying at the RUI Palace.
we are wanting to go here at the end of february. i have seen at other resorts lots of 'hidden' fees. did you find this one had those? what's the cheapest transportation from the airport, btw. thank you
Our bill at the end was $0. We didn't go for Spa treatments, and everything else was covered. I did not experience any hidden fees, nor have I at any of the resorts I have visited. Good luck and enjoy. If you are a RIUCLASS member, transportation is included, just ask and sign up for it. If not I would just get a taxi at the airport or shop online for a private transfer. Often you can find them cheaper than a taxi.
Thank you for this video i just booked here with the swim up room if anyone has videos of swim up let me know please
The swim up rooms are surrounded by a separate/smaller pool. They are in no way connected to the main pool. Enjoy!
How as the beach? Is it safe to go knee deep in to cool off?
I would say fine for that. Lots of undertow and wild surf. Years ago it was lucky my buddy didn't break his back while boogie boarding.
@@Crysis33100 we are thinking about going to this resort with 3 kids who like to play the beach. We never swim in the beach water, but we go in with them and maybe look for seashells. I would assume if it they go in knee deep with an adult, hopefully it is safe. Obviously, if not then we will just play in the pool.
The red flag is out most days, and when small children get near the water the lifeguard usually yells to be careful. My words exactly, BE CAREFUL.
My question how much for a night stay ???
The various like crazy. We spent about $80 per person per night but this was in the off-season summer.
I varies so much the time of year. Family of 4 from 300 to 500 USD per night (about). We always go when its a deal.
How old do u have to be to go to the gym?
As long as you have an adult bracelet you can get into the gym. Having said that, my children have been going to the gym for years as teens without a problem. I think it's more about your attitude while in there than your actual age. I would ask if its a major concern.
Sorry for the late reply. You need an adult bracelet, but they rarely check.
Truely all-inclusive? Besides tips, do you have to pay for anything?
Nothing at all. What are you thinking you have to pay? If you are a RIU Class member, even pickup at the airport is free.
We paid for nothing extra. Our bill at the end for extras was $0
Why does It look empty ?
Maybe because it was summer? Not as busy as say spring break. The Sante Fe was definitely busier and more lively.
solWORTHY I will be there on June can you go back and forth between hotels im staying in the palace
solWORTHY who do I ask if I need some cocaine ?
Someone other than me!
@@oz311 Yes, you can!
You sound very tight with your money.
Yes I am. I work hard for my money and like to get value when I travel. Hopefully I don't sound too cheap!
Lmfao says he answers all questions yet there are so many questions months old unanswered.
I may have missed one or two, but if YOU have a question I will answer it. Thanks 4 watching.
I hear Trump wanna build a skyscraper there.
dylan tyt
He is WAY talking the people up because of how beautiful and relaxing the trip is. The employees are constantly confused just seem to put it plain and simple-uneducated. In America the workers would be college students looking for extra money. The Mexicans make it their entire life...and are still constantly confused.. it’s not an obligation for them to know English I understand, by I know Spanish lol...still no help! Be ready to find everything out by yourself