Riu Palace Baja California, Cabo San Lucas {Review}

With Canadian winters getting colder and snowfall warnings in effect, there’s no better way to revitalize than to escape to Cabo San Lucas with Sunwing Vacations. That’s exactly what I did as temperatures dipped down and I was feeling sun-starved.

With a last minute booking, I threw together a bag and hopped onto my Sunwing Elite seat, flying direct from Vancouver, BC to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Lucky for me, I was headed to the brand new Riu Palace Baja California, exclusive to Sunwing. Can we say VIP?

After a short flight, I stepped off the plane in beautiful Cabo wearing my parka. I think everyone could tell that I needed some warmth and relaxation! Sunwing reps met me and took great care of me as they shuttled me to the hotel. It was really helpful that the Sunwing staff gave a variety of tips from health safety (don’t drink the water) and where you can find legitimate silver shopping to excursion options, where to surf and favourite restaurant spots. Once at the hotel, I was greeted with a welcome drink. Welcome to paradise Zahra…

The brand new all-inclusive Riu Palace Baja California is for guests aged 19 and over. There is 24-hour room service, an in-room liquor dispenser, six restaurants, a daily breakfast buffet, a cocktail lounge, a coffee bar, spa and gym amenities plus more. Rooms have amazing views and the service is great. There are four pools, 2 of which are infinity pools melting into the ocean vista. This property is next to its sister hotel the Riu Santa Fe, which is for all ages. When staying at the Riu Palace, you have access to the Santa Fe, including its nightclub, waterpark and pool parties!

EXCLUSIVE SUNWING EXCURSIONS

When you book Sunwing Vacations, you have the option of booking a variety of excursions. I tried a few for my very first visit to Cabo San Lucas.

Todos Santos

Take a guided tour to Todos Santos, one of Mexico’s Magical Villages. As it is a far distance away from the resort, I highly recommend taking the tour rather than renting a car. The town is full of art galleries, a museum, a beautiful church, amazing street tacos and quaint shops. Todos Santos is also where the infamous Hotel California is and where the Tropic of Cancer runs through.

Outback and Camel Safari

In the countryside, there is a Camel Sanctuary where you learn about the camels and even go on a short ride along the seashore.  After the ride, you head over to a Mexican desert house for an authentic meal, a presentation on making handmade tortillas and an authentic tequila tasting. Spoiler alert… most of us North Americans have been shooting our tequila wrong!

Land and Water Excursions

There are a variety of options to choose from. Our group went on a whale watching tour. We were lucky enough to see dolphins playing alongside also. We started our tour in the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean and travelled to where the ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. You’ll get a close look at the famous Lovers Beach, Divorce Beach and sunbathing seals. Back on land finish off your tour with a bit of shopping in town. 

SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS

The resort is home to 5 fine dining specialty restaurants. I didn’t have the chance to try them all, but they looked amazing. This foodie is sad to have missed trying the Italian and Steakhouse Restaurants. There just wasn’t enough time or room in my belly! I did some research and found the menu to look amazing and other guests were highly pleased with both.

Of my favourites, Krystal and the Japanese restaurant really stood out. The quality of food prep, use of fresh produce, flavour and creativity showed through. Riu Hotels have really stepped up the food game to offer decadent high-end dining.

GENERAL

The staff were all helpful and super friendly. An added bonus for travellers is that a majority of the staff you deal with also speak English. From the guests to the staff, the mood was upbeat and happy; making the experience that much better.

In addition to the four pools, the Riu Palace has a beach area set up for guests with lounge chairs. Usually, I am someone who loves to be in the ocean, but for the first time, you could not get me out of the pool! The pool area was a lot of fun. There are two swim-up bars and a Grill station for snacks. For me, the infinity pools and the view won my heart. Plus, it didn’t hurt that bar service came straight to me.

For an affordable all-inclusive getaway, I highly recommend checking out the exclusive travel packages from Sunwing at the Riu Baja California.

When there, I suggest that you wake up at least once if not more to catch the Cabo sunrise. Truthfully, I’m considering going back to the warmth and relaxation pretty soon.

Disclosure: This is a partnered post with Sunwing. I received complimentary flights and accommodations. However, all opinions and views on this post are 100% my own.