Best RIU Hotels & Resorts in Cancun

Perched atop the narrow islet that constitutes the Hotel Zone, Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula sits a bit farther from the airport than some of Cancun's other all-inclusive resorts. However, the half-hour airport transfer doesn't seem to bother recent travelers, who find this RIU property beautiful and spacious. Its 562 guest rooms feature hydro-massage bathtubs, satellite TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi and private balconies or terraces. The food at Hotel Riu's buffets and six a la carte restaurants also receives positive reviews; recent visitors cite the dishes as varied and tasty. The beach, however, is a bit rocky for some previous visitors' tastes; instead, head to one of Hotel Riu's four pools, which are lined with sun loungers.

Not to be confused with its sister property, Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula, Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas sits between the sparkling blue Caribbean and the calm waters of Nichupte Lagoon on the northern bend of Cancun's Hotel Zone. This all-inclusive resort's 350 plus suites are appointed with flat-screen satellite TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi and separate living areas. If your room doesn't feature an ocean view (though most afford excellent views), you can always gaze at the sea from a prime spot on the beach. But since past guests claim this RIU property's swath of sand is a little small, you'll want to stake out sandy real estate before it's all occupied. On the beach you'll have access to snorkeling and kayaking equipment, and at the pool you can try out an introductory scuba lesson. When hunger strikes, you can take advantage of 24-hour snacks and five restaurants, all of which are included in your package's cost. However, some guests do lament that the hotel's food lacks variety, so you may want to wander off the property grounds for a few meals.

The Hotel Riu Palace Costa Mujeres draws vacationers who want to enjoy a variety of activities and amenities without straying far from their accommodations. Situated 12 miles northeast of downtown Cancun, Mexico, in the exclusive Costa Mujeres community, this RIU outpost covers all kinds of indoor and outdoor pastimes in its all-inclusive rates. Travelers can participate in daily group fitness classes, attend live shows, swim in one of five pools, visit the kids club for age-appropriate games, or snorkel or kayak at the beach. Additionally, all guests enjoy unlimited drinks and meals at the resort's main buffet restaurant, plus five specialty eateries that serve everything from steakhouse classics to Italian- and Mexican-inspired dishes. Many past visitors appreciated the diverse selection of cuisines available here; however, several were not impressed with the food quality and warned that those with allergies and sensitivities may want to dine elsewhere. When it's time to relax, guests can pamper themselves at the on-site spa (charges apply for treatments) or unwind in one of 600 suites. Junior Suites (the property's standard accommodations) offer balconies or terraces, minibars, liquor dispensers, satellite TVs and double or king-sized beds. Suites with ocean views and adults-only suites with private pools are available as well.