Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas
Adults-only resort in Cancun. Classic, Bay View.
Atmosphere
Amenities
Traveler Insights(1,420 discussions)
Riu Palace Las Americas occupies one of the best locations in Cancun - right at Punta Cancun, where the Hotel Zone narrows and you can see both the lagoon and the Caribbean at once. As the flagship adults-only Riu Palace property in the area, it carries an air of understated elegance: the red and gold decor, the dress code at specialty restaurants, and the no-kids policy all contribute to a vibe that is genuinely more grown-up than the party resorts nearby. Couples and travelers in their 30s and older consistently enjoy it most, particularly for anniversary or honeymoon trips. The Riu brand's strength is reliability and consistency across food, entertainment, and service, and that holds here.
The food situation is solid if not exceptional. The main buffet is well-stocked with diverse options, and the a la carte restaurants - Japanese, Italian, Mexican, and the steakhouse - are popular enough that getting reservations takes planning. The swim-up bar pool gets the most social energy during the day, while the other two pools cater to those who want to actually read a book in peace. One persistent issue that comes up in traveler feedback is a musty smell in some rooms and hallways, apparently a long-running maintenance problem. The beach itself is the weakest link - rocky entry points make it less enjoyable for swimming compared to some competitors further down the strip, though the Hotel Zone's beach conditions vary widely depending on the season.
This resort is well-suited to adults who want a convenient Cancun base without sacrificing comfort or atmosphere. The location is unbeatable for anyone who wants to actually leave the resort - you can walk to restaurants, malls, and nightlife, or hop the short ferry to Isla Mujeres for a day trip. If you compare it dollar-for-dollar against newer Cancun adults-only options like Atelier or the upper Hyatt properties, it sits in the mid-luxury range. It is better than the budget Rius and worse than the ultra-premium all-inclusives, which is exactly what most travelers seem to want when they book it.
Pros
- +Prime Punta Cancun location in the heart of the Hotel Zone puts you within a 5-minute walk of shopping malls, restaurants, and the ferry to Isla Mujeres
- +Adults-only policy creates a quiet, couples-focused atmosphere that travelers describe as a refreshing contrast to the spring breaker scene at nearby resorts
- +Three pools including one with a swim-up bar and hydromassage area, all well-maintained and not overcrowded compared to family-friendly competitors
- +Access to nearby Riu resorts for dining and entertainment variety - your wristband gets you into multiple properties along the strip
- +Buffet and themed restaurant offerings cover Japanese, Italian, Mexican, and fusion cuisine with live cooking stations at breakfast praised specifically
- +Regal red and gold decor in the common areas and most of the 372 suites have balconies, many with direct ocean views of the Caribbean
- +Nightclub on-site with RiuLive entertainment program means late-night options without leaving the property
- +Renova Spa, fitness center, and sauna are well-equipped and included in the rate, which travelers appreciate compared to resorts that charge resort fees for gym access
Cons
- −A persistent musty or moldy smell in certain rooms and hallways is one of the most frequently mentioned complaints, with some guests describing it as present from the moment you enter the lobby
- −Rooms are noticeably dated in decor and fixtures - only 2 electrical outlets per room is a specific and commonly mentioned frustration for modern travelers
- −Some bars close as early as 6pm, which creates a dead zone in the evening before the nightclub opens - guests describe an awkward gap in available social spaces
- −The beach directly in front of the property has rocks in the water that make entry and swimming less pleasant than Caribbean beaches at other Cancun properties
- −Specialty restaurant reservation system can be frustrating, with popular venues filling up quickly and inconsistent enforcement of the reservation process
- −The property is not the newest Riu Palace and shows its age in ways that travelers notice when comparing it to newer competitors in the same price range
- −Service inconsistencies in room cleanliness have been reported, with some guests noting that housekeeping quality varies widely depending on which staff member is assigned
- −Timeshare solicitations at check-in and during breakfast invitations to nearby properties are a recurring complaint that disrupts the relaxed atmosphere
Common Questions
Google Rating
Google Reviews
“This hotel was one of the best all inclusive stays I have been to. The staff are what makes this place exceptional. Miguel was always fun and energetic with poolside activities and Fidel and Abu were top notch servers at the lobby bar. We made so man...”
“This was our first trip to an all inclusive in Cancun and RPLA was everything we hoped it would be. The room was lovely and well-appointed. I loved the large shower and the huge walk-in closet. The service at the restaurants and bars was excellent an...”
“This hotel resort was really perfect for my recent vacation. I had originally booked at their sister resort, Riu Cancun, but quickly realized the vibe was not what I was looking for. I walked next door to the Palace Las Americas and they were able to...”