Is Royalton Riviera Cancun Worth It? A Detailed Resort Review

Royalton Riviera Cancun Review: All You Need To Know To Plan Your Stay Grand Goldman
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Planning a tropical getaway can be overwhelming, especially when trying to choose the perfect all-inclusive resort.

After my recent stay at the Royalton Riviera Cancun, I can confidently say this resort stands out from the rest. Located along Mexico's stunning Caribbean coastline, this luxurious all-inclusive resort offers an exceptional blend of comfort, entertainment, and service, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and groups alike.

The Royalton Riviera Cancun isn't just about its beautiful beaches—it's about creating memorable experiences. From gourmet dining at multiple on-site restaurants to premium accommodations with private balconies, every detail is crafted for relaxation and enjoyment. During my stay, I was particularly impressed by the level of attention to detail from the staff, ensuring that every guest feels pampered.

The resort features everything you could ask for, from a world-class spa and fitness center to lively evening entertainment and numerous pools with swim-up bars. Whether you're lounging by the beach, exploring nearby attractions like the Mayan ruins, or indulging in gourmet cuisine, there's something for everyone here.

If you're looking for a resort that offers both luxury and convenience, the Royalton Riviera Cancun should be at the top of your list. I’ll share more about my experience below, but trust me—you won’t be disappointed.


What to expect At the Royalton Cancun All-inclusive Resort?

 

Location and Arrival

Royalton Riviera Cancun Lobby - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Royalton Riviera Cancun entry  -  BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

The Royalton Riviera Cancun is located just 15 minutes from the Cancun International Airport. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by friendly staff who will assist you with your luggage and check-in. The lobby is spacious and modern, with plenty of seating areas and a bar.

Royalton Riviera Cancun LOBBY - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Royalton Riviera Cancun Lobby

Lobby bar  - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Lobby bar

Royalton Riviera Cancun Check in - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Check-in deck

Accommodations & Rooms

The resort offers 840 suites, including premium suites and Diamond Club™ sections. All suites feature the Royalton signature DreamBed™, a private balcony or terrace, and a Royalton Signature rain shower.

Other amenities include complimentary resort-wide high-speed Wi-Fi, USB charging stations, and satellite television with specialty channels. The Luxury Presidential Two Bedroom Suite is a great option for families, with two bedrooms and stunning views of the resort.

Room  - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Luxury Family Suite Ocean View - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Luxury family suite with ocean view - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

Luxury family suite with ocean view  -  BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

 

Luxury Family Suite with Ocean view and rooftop Pool

Luxury Family Suite with Ocean view and rooftop Pool - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM


Learn more

  • Can you negotiate all-inclusive resorts?
  • Why all-inclusive resorts are better? (Main benefits)
  • Can you order as much as you want at all-inclusive? (How it works)

  • Food & Dining

    Food and dining - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Room breakfast

     

    The Royalton Riviera Cancun offers 10 restaurants serving local and international cuisine. The resort also has 11 bars with a wide selection of specialty cocktails, and a range of international / local brand liquors, beers, and house wines.

    Gourmet marché buffet - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Gourmet marché buffet - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Gourmet marché buffet

    Restaurants

    1. Gourmet Marché (recommended): International buffet-style dining venue.
    2. Armadillo (recommended): Open-air Tex-Mex experience with delicious fajitas, quesadillas, and churros.
    3. Zen (recommended): Japanese restaurant popular for its teppanyaki show.
    4. Agave: Mexican cuisine with Mesoamerican cooking that fuses Old World Spanish recipes with a blend of European cuisines.
    5. Caribbean Grill (recommended): Signature à la carte steakhouse with premium, juicy steaks cooked to your preference.
    6. Grazie Italian Trattoria: Original Italian cuisine.
    7. Hunter Steakhouse (recommended): Steakhouse named after the owner of the Blue Diamond Resort brand.
    8. SCORE Sports Bar: Pub and grill with a fun environment to enjoy sports games.
    9. Dorado Seafood Grill (recommended): Elevated beachfront restaurant with fresh ceviche, smoothies, garden salads, and grilled seafood.
    10. Taj Indian Cuisine: Spicy indian cuisine.

    DIPS SWIM-UP BAR

    Dips swim up bar  -  BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

     

    Bars

    1. Lobby Bar (recommended): Modern bar that enlivens every stage of your stay. 10am - 12am
    2. Martini Mix: Stylish cocktail bar that is the perfect place to gather and enjoy a delicious martini before the nightly show. 10am - 12am
    3. Tides Beach Bar (recommended): Beachfront bar with panoramic sea views. 12am - 4:30pm, 6:30pm  - 10:30pm
    4. Diamond Club™ Lounge: Lounge for Diamond Club™ guests. 7am - 11pm
    5. XS Disco Bar (recommended): Nightclub with international music and a vibrant ambiance. 11pm - 2am
    6. Dips Swim-Up Bar (recommended): Pool bar where you can enjoy cocktails, mocktails, and more while staying comfortably cool in the water. 10am - 11pm
    7. Encore Swim-Up Bar: Swim-up bar where you can laze the day away on underwater stools. 10am - 6pm
    8. Chill Swim-Up Bar: Swim-up bar located at the Diamond Club™ main pool. 10am - 6pm
    9. Score Sports Bar and Lounge: Sports bar and lounge exclusive to Hideaway guests. 
    10. Dimaond Club Beach Bar: Bar on the resort's private beach, offering refreshments to diamond Club guests. 10am - 6pm
    11. Nautica beach Bar: Blissful and whimsical bar for a variety of drinks to sip throughout the day. 10am - 6pm

    Gourmet marché buffet fruits - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Gourmet marché fruits buffet

     

    The Gourmet Marché is an international buffet with a wide range of options, while the Caribbean Grill offers Caribbean-style dishes with panoramic ocean views. Other options include the Grazie Italian Trattoria, Hunter Steakhouse, and SCORE Sports Bar. All restaurants offer unlimited reservation-free dining, so you can dine whenever you like.


    Activities and Entertainment

     

    Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun Water Park

    Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun Water Park - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    The resort boasts one of the largest on-site water parks in the Caribbean, with 14 monster water slides, two lazy rivers, and splash pads for all ages. The water park is a great place for kids to have fun and cool off under the Riviera Cancun sun.


    Pools

    Pools - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    The Royalton Riviera Cancun resort has several pools, including seven at the main resort, two in Hideaway, and one in the Diamond Club area. There are four main pool areas, with lots of seating on loungers and day beds, making it easy to enjoy the pool all day long.

    pools - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    The resort also features a signature pool, a Diamond Club pool, a splash park, an infinity pool, a kid's pool, semi-private swim-out pools, and a Royalton beach.


    Learn more

  • How do you survive an All-inclusive Resort ?
  • Do All-inclusive Resorts water down Alcohol ?
  • Which Country has the Cheapest All-inclusive Resorts?


  • Clubhouse Kids Club

    Clubhouse kids club - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

    The Kids Club offers a supervised indoor play space for children ages 4 to 12, where they can make new friends, play games, relax and watch cartoons. The club also features an activity hub, Game Up, as well as a playground and water park for exciting afternoons. 

    Kids club - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Kids can participate in a variety of activities, including trampoline park, water slides, ping pong, cooking classes, dance classes, trivia games, aquatic Olympic competitions, aerobics classes, weight training, and indoor and outdoor theater.


    Sports, Gym and Fitness Facilities

    gym - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Guests can enjoy a variety of sports and activities, including beach volleyball and soccer, laser tag, bowling, trampoline park, and ping pong. There are also cooking classes, dance classes, trivia games, aquatic Olympic competitions, aerobics classes, and a Gym for weight training.


    The Royal Spa

    Royal Spa - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    Guests can indulge in a pampering spa treatment at The Royal Spa. It offers hydrotherapy and a modern fitness center with instructor-led classes.


    Nightly Entertainment

    Nightly entertainment - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

    There are also evening live performances at the open-air theater facing the pool. The resort offers bowling and laser tag for an additional fee.


    Casino del Mar

    Casino del Mar - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    The Casino del Mar is one of the many entertainment options available at the Royalton Riviera Cancun resort. Here are some details about the casino:

    • The casino is located on-site and is open to guests for an additional fee
    • Guests can try their luck at the slot machines, play European-style blackjack, or take their chances at the seven-person roulette tables
    • The lobby bar is located nearby, where guests can enjoy a celebratory cocktail after a thrilling evening at the casino.

    Tours and Excursions

    Tours and Excursions - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM

    If you're looking to explore the local area, the resort’s booking center offers a range of tours and excursions. Options include swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. You can also explore the local jungle with zip lining, amphibian vehicle rides, and visits to local cenotes.


    Beach

    Beach - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review


    Other activities at the resort include water sports, beach volleyball, cooking classes, and dance classes. Nightly entertainment includes live music, comedy, and shows in the theater.



    BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS  

     

    Royalton Riviera Cancun Review: Potential Drawbacks 


    Underwhelming beach

    Some guests have reported that the beach at the resort is not as nice as they expected. There is seagrass debris and darker water, which can be disappointing for those who were hoping for a pristine beach experience.

    Lack of shade by the pools

    Some guests have reported that there is not enough shade by the pools, which can make it uncomfortable to spend time there. Some guests even get up at 6 a.m. to snag loungers in the shade.

    Crowded during high season

    The Royalton Riviera Cancun is a large resort with 840 rooms and 11 pools, which can make it feel crowded during high season. Some guests have reported having to get up early to snag the best lounge chairs, and sometimes there are long lines at the reservation-free restaurants.

    Noise and party atmosphere

    While some guests enjoy the party atmosphere at the Royalton Riviera Cancun, others find it too noisy and overwhelming. This is something to consider if you are looking for a more relaxing vacation.

    It's worth noting that most guests have had positive experiences at the Royalton Riviera Cancun, and these complaints are not representative of everyone's stay. However, it's important to be aware of these points when considering a stay at the resort.


    Service Quality

    The Royalton Riviera Cancun is known for its service quality. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they go out of their way to make sure guests have a great experience. The resort also offers a 24-hour concierge service, so you can get assistance whenever you need it.

    Sunset aerial - Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - GRANDGOLDMAN.COM
    BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

     

    Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - FAQ


    Does Royalton Riviera Cancun have a lazy river?

    Yes, the Royalton Riviera Cancun has two lazy rivers.

    Is The Royalton a good hotel?

    Yes, the Royalton Riviera Cancun is a good hotel. It is a luxurious and modern resort that offers a great vacation experience for families and couples alike.

    Is Royalton a 5 star?

    Yes, the Royalton Riviera Cancun is a 5-star resort.

    Are pools heated at Royalton Riviera Cancun?

    There is no information available on whether the pools at Royalton Riviera Cancun are heated or not.

    How far is Royalton Riviera Cancun from the airport?

    The Royalton Riviera Cancun is about a 20-minute drive south of the Cancun airport.

    Does Royalton Cancun have a waterpark?

    Yes, the Royalton Riviera Cancun has a waterpark with two lazy rivers and fourteen exciting water slides. *** Reviews of royalton riviera cancun resort and spa, royalton riviera splash reviews, royalton riviera wedding reviews, tripadvisor royalton riviera cancun resort and spa.

    Royalton Riviera Cancun Review - Takeaway

    Overall, the Royalton Riviera Cancun is a good choice for travelers looking for a luxurious all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya. With its wide range of amenities and activities, there's something for everyone at this resort. 

    While there have been some issues with seaweed on the beach, the resort offers multiple pools and water activities to make up for it. With its excellent service quality and beautiful accommodations, the Royalton Riviera Cancun is a great option for your next vacation.

    BOOKING  |  EXPEDIA  |  HOTELS 

    Royalton Riviera Cancun Review: All You Need To Know To Plan Your Stay

     

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    Author

    Alicia Foster

    Alicia is a trailblazer in luxury travel and all-inclusive resorts. Armed with a master's degree in Tourism Management, she has not only explored the hidden gems of the Caribbean, but has also collaborated with renowned hospitality brands. Her words are a gold mine for choosing the perfect accommodation.

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