HOTEL RIU SANTA FE, Cabo San Lucas

The resort sits on a beautiful, wide beach, but swimming is generally not recommended due to strong waves and dangerous rip currents; it is best suited for experienced swimmers on calmer days. The famous Medano Beach, where swimming is safer, is a 20-minute walk along the shore. The marina area, offering many dining and shopping options, is just a few minutes away by a very affordable Uber ride. The resort grounds are large, requiring significant walking to get between buildings, restaurants, and the beach.

Rooms are generally large and clean, with comfortable beds, tiled floors, and a furnished balcony or terrace. All rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, a safe, and a stocked mini-bar with beer, soda, water, and a liquor dispenser. Bathrooms have showers. Villa 8 and some rooms in other buildings have a more modern feel, while some older rooms may feel dated and can have a musty or mildew smell, particularly if located on lower floors. The biggest drawback is the lack of elevators in most buildings; only Building 7 has an elevator, so guests with mobility issues should request a room there or on a ground floor. Noise can be an issue, especially in villas near the Riu Party area, with loud music and late-night noise from hallways.

The all-inclusive plan includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at several venues. The main buffets offer extensive selections for all meals, including made-to-order omelets, grilled meats, salads, and a range of international dishes. Themed restaurants include a steakhouse, Italian, Mexican/La Mision, Asian/Japanese, and an American cafe. While the food is generally good for a large resort, quality can be inconsistent, and the buffet menu tends to be repetitive. The themed restaurants do not take reservations; guests must line up from around 5:30 PM to secure a table for dinner, and popular ones can fill up quickly. The American cafe is frequently cited as a highlight. Snack bars by the pool serve lighter options. The Italian restaurant is open for dinner and receives high marks.

The resort offers a tremendous variety of pools. The main pools near the beach are lively, hosting pool games, foam parties, and featuring swim-up bars. There are quieter adults-only pools with beautiful infinity views for a more relaxed atmosphere. The children's area includes a dedicated pool, a water park with slides, and a kids' club. A spa and wellness center offers massages and a Turkish bath. The fitness center is available for guests. For sports enthusiasts, there are tennis courts. Evening entertainment includes nightly shows, theme parties, and a nightclub on the property. The beach itself is scenic but rarely swimmable due to strong waves.

Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout the resort. The front desk and concierge service are available 24 hours. The Riu app is very useful for communicating with the hotel, requesting items like extra towels or water, and managing some services. Many staff members provide friendly and attentive service, especially in the restaurants and bars. Luggage storage is available for early arrivals or late departures, allowing continued use of the facilities. The resort also offers a shuttle service (booked separately) and is wheelchair accessible. The main pain point is the lack of elevators; only one building is equipped, which is a significant issue for guests with limited mobility or those with strollers.