RIU Palace Bavaro in Punta Cana Reopens after Massive Refurb

RIU Hotels & Resorts has reopened Riu Palace Bavaro in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, following a “watershed refurbishment,” the hotel chain said in a release.

The 944-room hotel now offers a dedicated family area with various water and outdoor activities, a new Elite Club exclusive area, nine pools, and 32 food and beverage outlets – including a newly established food court. 

The renovation expanded the property into the adjacent plot, following Riu Naiboa’s demolition earlier this year. Riu Palace Bavaro has been updated to match the direction RIU is taking with all new builds and renovations, marked by “discreet décor in subtle and elegant tones combined with greater and better use of natural light.” 

Following the update, RIU Palace Bavaro is as attractive as ever for families, with 255 of the 944 rooms designed with families and groups of friends in mind. These rooms come with three beds and are located in the family area – located nearby amenities such as a mini splash park, pirate ship, games park, cinema, and multi-sports area. 

The Kids’ Club, also located in the family area, offers programming for three age groups. Young guests will be kept busy via the aforementioned activities, a recreational room, and even a cupcake-decorating station at RIU Art.   

In terms of dining options, guests have a diverse range of culinary styles to enjoy – from upscale gourmet food at Krystal to pizza and donuts from the new food court. 

Elite Club members are also getting more after the refurbishment. There will be 108 club-level rooms, allocated based on preferred locations and premium views. Of these rooms, 60 will also include a private pool.

Club-level guests have access to in-room aromatherapy, an exclusive pool, restaurant, and bar, priority check-in, guaranteed late check-out (until 1 pm), and priority reservations at themed restaurants. Elite Club members will also receive a welcome gift.

“Without doubt, this has been a significant innovation to what RIU offers in the destination which will allow its customers to try out various types of products from culturally-different cuisines,” said RIU.