Hotel Riu Palace Pacifico

This recently renovated adults-only resort offers a truly memorable experience, distinguished by its impeccable cleanliness and elegant design, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Guests consistently highlight the attentive and friendly staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, alongside the excellent food quality and diverse dining options. The hotel's commitment to providing a tranquil environment makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic escape, adults desiring a peaceful retreat, and friends on a relaxing getaway. Many guests are repeat visitors, a testament to the consistently positive experiences. To enhance your visit, consider exploring the various themed dining options available each evening and take advantage of the readily available beach chairs for ultimate relaxation.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort features multiple pools, including a quiet area, a lively swim-up bar pool, and an activity pool, ensuring options for all preferences. While some guests found the pools to be too warm or noted their early closing time at 7 PM, there is generally ample availability of lounge chairs. The fitness center is available, though some guests found it small and noted issues with equipment or early opening hours. Guests appreciate the convenience of free Wi-Fi throughout the property, though some reported connectivity issues. Numerous bars are scattered across the resort, offering a wide selection of premium cocktails and bottled beer, with the lobby bar and sports bar receiving particular praise. Rooms are equipped with a well-stocked mini-bar and liquor dispensers, a popular amenity. The hotel also provides various entertainment and activities, including daily Riu Fit sessions, water sports, and highly-rated nightly shows, such as the Michael Jackson show.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the spotless cleanliness maintained throughout the resort, from the public areas to the guest rooms. The rooms are generally described as spacious and well-maintained, reflecting the recent renovations. Most guests found the beds comfortable and plush, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some noted the mattresses were too soft or sagged. Each room typically features a balcony, with many offering ocean views that enhance the overall experience. The mini-fridges are regularly stocked with beverages, and fresh towels are provided, often twice daily, including a convenient turn-down service. While the AC generally works well, some guests reported minor issues with hallway noise or sound from the nightly entertainment, depending on the room's location.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the resort is highly regarded, with the buffet receiving consistent praise for its excellent variety, quality, and freshness at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, often featuring themed nights. Most guests found the food delicious and top-notch, though a few mentioned it could be repetitive or lukewarm. The specialty restaurants are popular, with the Steakhouse being a favorite for its quality, despite often requiring long waits due to its first-come, first-served policy. The Italian restaurant and Krystal also received positive feedback for their menus. The Sports Bar offers convenient pub fare 24 hours a day. While room service is available, some guests found the menu limited or the options underwhelming. The bars offer a wide array of premium cocktails, bottled beer, and other beverages, with the espresso bar and daiquiri bar being notable additions.

Location & Accessibility
The resort boasts a central location in Nuevo Vallarta, making it easily accessible and approximately a 20-minute ride from the airport. Its direct beach access is a significant draw, offering a clean and walkable beach for guests to enjoy. The hotel is within walking distance of other Riu properties and the town of Bucerias, providing opportunities for exploration. While the beach is beautiful, some guests expressed concerns about the presence of vendors and smokers, as well as a general lack of shade unless opting for the Elite Club. Additionally, some guests noted slippery tiles near the pools leading to the beach, posing a safety concern. Taxis are readily available, though some guests experienced issues with Uber access directly to the lobby.

Staff & Service
The staff at the resort consistently receives overwhelming praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and helpfulness. Guests frequently highlight the excellent service provided across all departments, from the front desk to the restaurant and bar staff. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, setting a positive tone for the stay. Housekeeping is highly commended for maintaining spotless rooms and providing twice-daily towel service and mini-bar stocking. The attentive waiters and servers in the restaurants and by the pools are noted for their promptness and ability to remember drink preferences, enhancing the poolside service and beach service. The entertainment team is also frequently mentioned for being amazing, fun, and engaging, actively involving guests in daily activities and nightly shows.

Additional Information
The resort offers an Elite Club option, which provides benefits such as room upgrades, access to an exclusive lounge, dedicated beach cabanas, and the ability to make restaurant reservations, though some guests felt the added cost wasn't always justified. Guests can enjoy convenient beach massages offered by external vendors at a very reasonable price. A recurring concern among guests is the lack of restrooms conveniently located near the main pools and sports bar, requiring longer walks. The Riu app is available for various services, but its functionality can be hampered by occasional Wi-Fi issues. Some guests noted the pools close early at 7 PM, which can be inconvenient for evening swims. Additionally, several guests reported slippery floors around the pool areas, advising caution.