Riu Palace Costa Rica All Inclusive

The resort is a beautiful place to stay, with great food and exceptional restaurants. However, one concern is the resort’s policy of allowing public access to the beachfront area. This made it difficult to fully enjoy peaceful sunset walks, as the presence of market vendors and tour agents was quite intrusive. Additionally, the numerous tents and makeshift shades set up along the shore detracted from the otherwise scenic atmosphere.

I read the bad reviews and gave this resort the benefit of the doubt—but I really wish I had listened. As someone who’s stayed at multiple Riu Palace locations, this one does not meet the usual standard. Honestly, it felt more like a 2-star experience. If this is your first time at a Riu, please don’t let this resort be your only impression—the others I’ve stayed at have been far better in both service and quality. The food was a major disappointment. Long lines for restaurants, limited variety, and poor quality. My group ended up going to bed hungry multiple nights. And I’m not a picky eater—I'm flexible and usually easy to please—but this was rough. Thankfully, we found a local spot called Monkey Bar, which had amazing food and great service. Highly recommend venturing out if you want a good meal. On the plus side, drinks were strong and well made, and the bakery items were actually quite good. The shows were hit or miss, but the female dancers were excellent. Rooms were just okay—nothing terrible, but nothing great either. To top it off, I lost my work laptop during the NexusTours transfer, and when I asked the front desk to review security cameras, I was told that wasn’t possible. No real help was offered. Really disappointing overall, especially from a brand I’ve trusted for years.

The most honest review... The hotel needs serious updating the facilities are a bit dated. You will have to go to the front desk 8x cause your key will stop working. If you don't get to the restaurants at 5:15 good luck eating at anything but the buffet. The food is very average or below. Massage services offered by the hotel are ridiculous when you can get an hour for $45 on the beach. Overall the beach is nice water is not as blue as some of the other places close by. With a lot of updating this hotel can get back to 4 stars but as of now this is a 3 star resort. The staff is very welcoming and they word hard and keeping the place as clean as they can... the water park is small and fun with 5 slides... Monkeys are right on the beach by the trees. Go to Costa Rica and make memories that will last forever. You will have fun here but have proper expectations.