RIU Palace Bávaro - My Review After a 3-Day Stay
If you are considering the RIU Palace Bavaro for your next trip to Punta Cana, you might be wondering if this massive resort lives up to the hype.
In this guide, I’m skipping the picture-perfect website photos to give you the unfiltered truth. I’ll break down whether the facilities justify the price, how well the resort balances its party zones with family areas, and, most importantly, reveal the service issues that almost no one warns you about before booking.
If you want an honest opinion to ensure you make the right choice for your vacation, keep reading.
Let Start with a Hotel Tour on YouTube
Don’t worry about the language, the video includes an English audio track.
English isn’t my first language, but I hope it helps.
1. My Quick Take on the RIU Palace Bávaro (8.7 out of 10)
If you don't have time to read the full review, here is my summary: the RIU Palace Bávaro has gone from being “just another hotel” to becoming a true entertainment beast following its renovation.
It is the perfect resort for both families and groups of friends if you are looking for constant action: you have a huge water park (Splash Water World) integrated right into the hotel, adult pool parties with a DJ, dancers, lots of foam, and young people from the chain's 3 RIU hotels (5 minutes away by shuttle), plus family areas, all in the same complex without them disturbing each other.
What I liked most was the quality of its renovated facilities and, surprisingly, dinner at the Steakhouse: the Rib Eye we tried there was on a level far superior to a standard “all-inclusive.”
Plus, the beach is very beautiful, full of palm trees, and has that Caribbean vibe you are looking for in Punta Cana.
The big “but”? The service at the main buffet. I encountered unenthusiastic staff and treatment that sometimes left a lot to be desired (finishing breakfast without being served coffee isn't acceptable at a 5-star hotel).
In conclusion, it is a winning option if you prioritize modern facilities, aquatic fun, and a good beach, and you are willing to overlook waiter service that needs improvement at breakfast.
2. Pros and Cons of the RIU Palace Bávaro Hotel
✅ Total renovation: It doesn't look like the same hotel. You can really tell everything is new (late 2024): modern common areas, bright rooms, and zero “old” smell.
✅ 360º Fun: The concept works. You have Splash Water World (top-tier slides) to release adrenaline and the RIU Party for adult partying, all in the same complex but without disturbing each other.
✅ The Steakhouse: Honorable mention for this restaurant. The Rib Eye we tried was a 10 out of 10, super tender and way above the average for a typical hotel à la carte restaurant.
✅ “Friends & Family” Rooms: Finally, a hotel that thinks about large groups. Having rooms with 3 Queen beds or larger and plenty of space is a luxury so you don't have to pay for two separate rooms.
✅ The Beach: It is Bávaro in its purest form. Lots of palm trees, white sand, and that postcard turquoise color. Plus, being a large resort, there is plenty of sandy beach area.
❌ The buffet service: This is where they drop the ball. I noticed a lack of enthusiasm from the waiters and a lack of attention (having to “chase down” coffee in the morning brings down the experience; you are in a 5-star hotel, not a roadside motel).
❌ Not for “unplugging” in silence: It is a huge resort, with music, kids, and parties. If you are looking for absolute silence and Zen peace, you are going to get overwhelmed. It is a hotel for living it up, not for meditating.
MY HONEST ADVICE
In the Caribbean, prices vary a lot between agencies and websites. Sometimes the difference is huge.
Same hotel, same room. Prices can vary by $100+ / night depending on where you book.
3. RIU Palace Bávaro Map Explained
When arriving at such a big resort, sometimes they give you a map and you're just as confused as before. That's why I've marked the key zones in this photo so you understand how to get around the complex and where the real action is.
Red Zone (click here to read more)
Red Zone (The Main Hotel): This is the heart of the resort. Here you'll find the standard rooms, restaurants, and main pools (a huge family one and another with a bit more entertainment and a swim-up bar). It's a very beautiful area, full of palm trees and well-kept gardens.
Black Circle
Black Circle (Elite Club / Adults Only): Inside the red zone, I marked this specific area. These are the buildings and pool exclusive to adults or Elite guests. If you're looking for total tranquility without kids, this is your haven inside the hotel.
1 Splash
“1 Splash” (Splash Water World): On the map, it might look like it's “at the ends of the earth,” but don't panic. Walking from the lobby, it is literally 3 minutes. It's a short and pleasant walk, so don't let that stop you from going.
Red Left Circle
Red Circle (Bottom Left – RIU Party): This is where the famous themed parties with DJs, foam, and neon lights are held. It's set apart from the rooms (which is appreciated for getting some rest) and is the meeting point if you're looking for day partying. (They take you there by bus every 10 minutes).
Yellow Triangle
Yellow Triangle (Nightclub): If you're into the nightlife scene, the complex's nightclub is located here. It takes about 5 minutes to walk from the main area of the Palace Bávaro.
Green Zone
Green Zone (Other Hotels): To the sides, you have the other RIU chain hotels (like the RIU Palace Punta Cana or the RIU Bambu). It's good to know this to get your bearings, although you'll mainly spend your time in the red zone and the entertainment zone.
In summary: Everything is “close at hand.” You have tranquility and the beach in the Red Zone, and if you want adrenaline or partying, you just have to walk a few minutes toward the Water Park and RIU Party area.
4. The Pools (9/10): Will They Be Packed Like Others?
Being such a big resort, I was worried the pools would be full of people and a bit overwhelming. Luckily, the RIU Palace Bávaro has very well-differentiated water zones. Depending on how you wake up that day, you can choose between four very different vibes:
- The Big Family Pool: It is huge, pretty, and surrounded by palm trees and lounge chairs. It’s the typical lagoon-style pool where you can have a calm swim or just hang out peacefully with the kids.
- The “Action” Pool (Activities): If you see a water polo goal or people moving to the beat of the music, you’re in the right place. It’s where the entertainment team sets up water aerobics, games, and matches. If you’re looking for action and want to meet people, this is your spot.
- The Swim-Up Bar: A classic that can’t be missed. It is the social pool par excellence, where you can order your favorite cocktail without getting out of the water. It’s usually lively, but the atmosphere is just good vibes.
- The Elite Club Zone (Adults Only): If you’ve booked this category (or in the exclusive villa area), you have access to a private pool. It’s a whole other world: here there is no shouting, no games, and no kids jumping around. It is the perfect refuge if you need a few hours of peace and quiet with more premium drink service.
My advice: If you are traveling with family, the main pool is perfect for spending the day. But if you are going with friends and want some excitement, head straight to the activities pool or the swim-up bar.
5. The Splash Water Park (9.5/10): A 3-Min Walk
If you’re coming with kids (or if you’re an adult young at heart, like me), this is the crown jewel of the RIU Palace Bávaro. Unlike other resorts where the water park is “in the middle of nowhere” and you have to wait for a shuttle, here Splash Water World is integrated right into the complex. As I mentioned on the map, it is literally a 3-minute walk from the lobby.
What will you find here? It’s not your typical “sad” slide with no speed or excitement. It’s a real water park with top-level attractions:
- For the brave: You have speed slides like the Kamikaze and Body Whirl (the enclosed ones that spin around) where you pick up quite a bit of speed. If you like adrenaline, you’re going to go down a few times.
- For the little ones: There is a separate kids' pool with jets, tipping water buckets, and mini slides. It’s perfect because it’s shallow, and parents can keep watch from the surrounding lounge chairs.
What I liked most: Since it is exclusive to RIU guests, I didn’t notice excessive lines (something rare at hotel water parks). There is also a snack and drink bar inside the area, so you can spend the whole afternoon there.
A heads-up: If you like strong thrills, be careful with your back on the faster slides (you can feel some of the joints a bit when going down fast). I spent the whole trip going down shirtless (almost 2 whole months) and it’s nothing that will ruin the fun, but I recommend you wear a T-shirt.
6. RIU Party and Nightclub(10/10): The Best Pool Parties in Punta Cana?
If you're into the party scene, I have good news: the RIU Palace Bávaro is in a whole other league. We aren't talking about typical hotel entertainment with a portable speaker by the pool; here, they have a full-blown festival set up.
RIU Party: The Main Event In the zone I marked on the map (the red circle), they have a dedicated venue with a stage, professional sound, dancers, and foam cannons across several pools. Themed parties are organized several times a week (White Party, Neon Party, Jungle Party…), and the best part is that guests from all the local RIU hotels come together, so a youthful atmosphere is pretty much guaranteed. Rest up the day before because the party goes from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
How to get there? Although it's inside the complex, buses run every 10 minutes to take you back and forth, so you don't have to walk in the sun if you don't want to.
The best part: Since it is in an area separate from the guest room buildings, if you want to take a nap or rest that day, you don't hear a thing. You have the party when you want it, and silence when you need it.
Pacha Nightclub: For Night Owls If you still have energy after dinner and drinks, the Pacha nightclub is right there (the yellow triangle on the map). It's about a 5-minute walk from the lobby. Cover charge and drinks are included, so you don't have to spend extra. It's not an Ibiza mega-club, but it fits the bill perfectly for dancing for a while and having a drink without leaving the resort in a multicultural and safe environment.
In summary: It is the perfect hotel if you want to combine relaxing beach days with moments of controlled “wild fun,” without having to take taxis or leave the grounds.
7. Dining(8.5/10): Is the Food as Good as the Fun?
This is where the hotel has its biggest contrast. On one hand, the food quality has improved significantly after the renovation, and there are dishes you don't expect at an “all-inclusive.” On the other hand, the service at the main buffet sometimes brings down the experience.
À la carte Restaurants (The Best): Here, they really outdid themselves. Unlike other hotels where the themed restaurant is just “buffet food plated prettily,” here it is next level.
- The Steakhouse: It was my undisputed favorite. The Rib Eye we tried was a 10 out of 10, tender and with a real charcoal-grilled flavor. If you are a carnivore, you are going to try every cut of meat.
- The Italian: The appetizers and variety are very good, although I have to tell you the truth: the pasta was a little soft for my taste (it wasn't al dente).
- Krystal (Fusion): It is the most elegant option, ideal for a romantic dinner.
The Main Buffet: The food is varied and high quality (good cold cuts, fresh fruits, live cooking stations). The problem is the service: as I told you in the summary, the waiters are overwhelmed or unenthusiastic. Getting them to serve you a coffee at breakfast can become a “mission impossible,” and at a 5-star hotel, that is frustrating.
New Feature: The Food Court This is something new after the renovation, and I thought it was a total hit. It is a snack zone with different stalls: you have pizzas, woks, tacos, burgers… Everything is fast and close at hand. Perfect for that moment when you are at the pool and get hungry, but you don't want to get dressed to go to the buffet.
For the Sweet Tooths (“Capuchino” Pastry Shop and Ice Cream Parlor): If you like sweets, you are in trouble. They have an ice cream parlor and coffee shop with display cases full of cakes and confectionery sweets of very good quality. None of those dry industrial desserts; here they are very tasty.
In summary: You are going to eat quite well (especially the meat and sweets), but arm yourself with patience with the buffet waiters or try to serve yourself drinks if you see they are taking too long.
8. Renovated and Spacious Rooms (9/10)
If you had seen old photos of the RIU Palace Bávaro with dark furniture and purple colonial decor, erase them from your mind. After the 2024 renovation, the rooms have done a complete 180-degree turn: they are now modern, bright, and feature neutral colors that give a real sense of cleanliness and spaciousness.
What I liked most: We stayed in a family room and the sense of space is real. The beds are very comfortable and have several pillows, which is much appreciated after being active all day. Plus, the soundproofing is quite good; despite being a hotel with a lot of life, you can sleep well.
Key points to highlight:
- The liquor dispenser (A RIU Classic): If you’ve never been to a RIU, this will surprise you. You have 4 bottles of liquor (rum, vodka, whiskey, gin) hanging on the wall with a dispenser to serve yourself whenever you want, plus a minibar that is restocked daily with beers and sodas. Truly all-inclusive.
- “Friends & Family” Rooms: This is one of the big new features. They have created rooms with 3 Queen beds (no uncomfortable sofa beds), ideal if you are traveling with kids or a group of friends and don't want to pay for two separate rooms.
- Elite Club: Is it worth it? If you are looking for a plus, these rooms have better views (many are oceanfront), premium liquors in the dispenser, and access to exclusive areas. If you are going as a couple and value the view, it might pay off; if you are going as a family to “hit the pool hard,” the standard room is more than enough.
In summary: They aren't luxury rooms with marble everywhere, but they are new, functional, and very comfortable. They fit the bill perfectly for a 5-star vacation hotel where you are going to spend little time in the room.
9. A Beach Paradise(9/10): With Coconut Trees Right Down to the Water
If you're coming to Punta Cana looking for that perfect photo for Instagram, you're going to get it here. The hotel is located in the Arena Gorda area (part of Playa Bávaro), and for me, it is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the entire Dominican Republic.
What makes it special: Unlike other modern hotels where you have to fight over a plastic umbrella, here you have a forest of coconut trees that reaches almost to the shoreline. This means you have plenty of natural shade. There's nothing like lying under a palm tree with the sea breeze, as long as a coconut doesn't fall on you—just kidding, I've never seen a coconut fall.
The sand and water: The sand is white, fine, and doesn't burn (important if you're barefoot). The water is usually calm and has that intense turquoise blue color, ideal for kids to swim safely.
For Walkers: If you're one of those people who can't sit still on a towel, this stretch is perfect. You can walk along the shore, passing in front of the other RIU hotels and checking out the vibe of the area.
Sargassum (The Reality): This is nature and it depends on the season, but I have to say that the hotel team runs the tractor early to clean it up. During my stay, the beach was kept quite clean and well-maintained.
In summary: It is a wide beach, full of life, with lots of natural shade, and perfect for both swimming and walking. It won't disappoint you.
10. Conclusion (8.7/10): Is the RIU Palace Bávaro Worth It?
After my stay, it's clear to me: the late 2024 renovation has worked wonders for it. The RIU Palace Bávaro has stopped being “just another hotel” to become an entertainment machine that is very hard to beat in terms of value for money if activity is what you're looking for.
It’s a resort that makes it very easy for you to relax: you have new, spacious rooms (the 3-bed setup is great), an integrated water park you can walk to, and dining options that, except for the service, surprise you with their quality.
I’m still dreaming about that Rib Eye from the Steakhouse.
Is it a perfect 5-star hotel? No. The waiter service at the buffet needs to improve a lot to be on par with the facilities. But if you are able to overlook them taking a while to bring your coffee and focus on enjoying the beach, the slides, and the parties, I assure you you're going to have an incredible vacation.
11. Who do I recommend it for?
It is for you if:
- You are traveling as a family: Your kids (teens or little ones) are going to live at Splash Water World and you’ll be able to rest on the beach.
- Groups of friends: The 3-bed rooms and the RIU Parties are the perfect combo for having a good time without spending on two rooms.
- Action lovers: If you get bored being on a lounge chair all day and need slides, a gym, parties, and movement.
It is NOT for you if:
- You are looking for luxury and exclusive service: If for you a 5-star means the waiter reads your mind and serves you instantly, here you are going to get frustrated.
- Honeymoon Couples (Relax Plan): Although it has adult zones, there is too much activity at the resort. For that, you're better off going to another one from my list of the best adult hotels in Punta Cana. (insert link to the list, will be published).
12. My Personal Ratings: A total of 8.7 out of 10.
You can download the PDF with our travel notes and ratings for RIU Palace Bávaro, or simply check the rating table below.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Room | |
| Cleanliness | 10 |
| Pillow & Mattress | 9.5 |
| Bathroom | 7.5 |
| Food & Beverage | |
| Breakfast | 7 |
| Lunch | 8 |
| Dinner | 8.5 |
| All-Inclusive | 8 |
| Facilities | |
| Pool | 9 |
| Facilities for Adults | 8.5 |
| Facilities for Kids | 9.5 |
| Staff | 6.5 |
| Beach | 9 |
| Extra | |
| Pool Party | 10 |
| Very Aesthetic | 10 |
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