Hotel Riu Dunamar: Cancun Mexico
The Riu Dunamar Cancun is a popular budget friendly all-inclusive resort located in the scenic Costa Mujeres area, just north of Cancun. It took us about 45 minutes from the Cancun airport, it is a newer developed part of Cancun, but because its location is a little further from city center the price drops significantly. But the amenities are far superior to most places I have stayed in Cancun proper. Offering a mix of luxury, comfort, and vibrant activities, it’s an excellent choice for families, couples, and groups looking to enjoy the best of the Caribbean.
Here is a review of the resort we visited for 4 nights and 5 days.
Airport Transportation
Transportation To and From the Airport
We arranged our airport transportation directly through RIU, and the entire process was easy and convenient. After arriving at the airport, we didn’t have to wait long—only about an hour—for our shuttle to be ready. While waiting, there were plenty of places to grab a drink, and I even visited the nearby grocery store to stock up on snacks for the room and our trip back home.
The ride to the resort took about an hour, as the RIU Dunamar is located further away from the main hub of downtown Cancun. Being a newer resort, it’s a bit more secluded, but we appreciated the peaceful location. The drive was smooth, and knowing our transportation was taken care of made the journey stress-free from start to finish.
Room Types
Junior Suite Room
The Riu Dunamar Cancun offers a variety of room types designed to cater to different needs. The standard rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring modern décor with Caribbean influences. They come equipped with a flat-screen TV, minibar, beverage dispenser, and a private balcony or terrace, offering either ocean or garden views. For those seeking more luxury, the Junior Suites provide extra space with a separate living area and upgraded amenities. The rooms are consistently praised for their cleanliness and comfort, ensuring a relaxing stay. The only downside to this was we were not able to get adjoining rooms, since we could not get adjoining rooms they upgraded us to two open view rooms which was amazing and I would take advantage of watching the sunrise every since morning it was so beautiful.
1. Double Room:
- Features: Spacious layout with a king-size bed or two double beds, a private balcony or terrace, air conditioning, ceiling fan, satellite TV, minibar, beverage dispenser, and a bathroom with a shower.
2. Double Room with Sea View:
- Features: Similar to the standard Double Room but with the added bonus of a sea view from the balcony or terrace.
3. Junior Suite:
- Features: Larger than the Double Room, this suite includes a king-size bed, a sofa in the living area, a private balcony or terrace, air conditioning, ceiling fan, satellite TV, minibar, beverage dispenser, and a bathroom with a shower or a bathtub.
4. Junior Suite with Sea View:
- Features: Offers the same amenities as the Junior Suite but with stunning views of the sea from the balcony or terrace. (This is the room we stayed in during our stay)
5. Family Room:
- Features: Designed for families, these rooms include a king-size bed and a sofa bed or two double beds and a sofa bed. The room also has a private balcony or terrace, air conditioning, ceiling fan, satellite TV, minibar, beverage dispenser, and a bathroom with a shower.
6. Suite with Sea View:
- Features: The most luxurious option, the Suite offers a king-size bed, a spacious living room with a sofa, a larger bathroom with a bathtub and separate shower, and a private balcony or terrace with panoramic sea views. This room type also includes premium amenities for an enhanced stay experience.
The Pools
The RIU Dunamar offers a variety of pools that cater to both relaxation and fun, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and groups alike. Here’s an overview of the different pool options at the resort:
1. Main Pool
The main pool at the RIU Dunamar is a central gathering spot, perfect for guests looking to soak up the sun or enjoy a refreshing swim. This large, multi-level pool features several sections, with plenty of space to relax on sun loungers around the deck. The surrounding palm trees and tropical landscaping give it a peaceful vibe, while the pool bar ensures you’re never far from a cool drink. It’s ideal for those who want to socialize or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. This is where you found out family most days - we ventured to the others but this was where we wanted to be if we were not in the kids area.
2. Infinity Pool
One of the most stunning features of the resort is its infinity pool, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean. This pool creates the perfect backdrop for relaxation, allowing guests to swim or float while gazing out at the Caribbean Sea. It’s a favorite spot for couples and adults seeking a more tranquil environment. The infinity pool also has its own bar service, making it easy to enjoy a cocktail while admiring the view.
3. Adults-Only Pool
For guests looking for a more serene and kid-free environment, the adults-only pool is the perfect spot. Located away from the busier family areas, this pool offers a quieter, more peaceful setting. With comfortable loungers, a pool bar, and a more relaxed ambiance, it’s the ideal place for adults to unwind and enjoy some calm time in the sun.
4. Children’s Pool
The children’s pool at the RIU Dunamar is specifically designed for younger guests, with shallow waters and playful features that make it a fun and safe place for kids to splash around. It’s conveniently located near the kids’ club and the water park, making it a hub of activity for families. The children’s pool includes mini slides and water fountains, providing hours of entertainment for the little ones.
5. Water Park Pool
Connected to the resort’s Splash Water World park, this pool is part of the larger water park complex. It’s a lively spot filled with water slides, splash zones, and play areas, perfect for thrill-seeking kids and families who want to experience water park fun right at the resort. The park has a variety of slides, including some more daring ones for older children and teens, as well as smaller slides for younger kids.
6. Jacuzzi Pool
For guests who prefer to relax in soothing waters, the resort also offers a jacuzzi pool, where you can unwind in warm, bubbling water. This pool is a great option after a day of exploring or swimming, providing the perfect place to relax your muscles and enjoy the serene environment.
With its diverse range of pool options, the RIU Dunamar ensures that every guest can find their perfect spot, whether it’s for a lively swim with family or a peaceful escape with ocean views. From thrilling water slides to quiet sunbathing areas, the pools at the RIU Dunamar offer something for everyone.
Restaurants
The culinary experience at the Riu Dunamar is diverse, with multiple dining options catering to a wide range of tastes. The main buffet restaurant, Isla Mujeres, serves a vast selection of international dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Everyday the food had a differnet theme for dinner and they would decorate the room in that theme. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were all good - not fantastic, not the best food I have ever had but it was always delicious and we always found food we enjoyed especially for being a buffet. For the classification of the resort the food was better than I expected. This is not a five star resort, so I went in with lower expectations of food and was very pleasantly surprised.
For those looking to try something different, the resort offers several specialty restaurants. Kulinarium is a gourmet restaurant that provides a more upscale dining experience, while Guacamole serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant setting. This was the best food on property and met all expectations of what you would want for a luxury dining experience. There's also Steakhouse, where guests can enjoy a hearty meal, and Bamboo, which offers Asian cuisine. The quality and variety of food across all restaurants is generally well-regarded, ensuring that guests won’t get bored of the dining options.
Recreation Activities
The Riu Dunamar boasts a variety of recreational activities to keep guests entertained throughout the day. The resort features five swimming pools, including a dedicated children’s pool and a pool with a swim-up bar. Water lovers can also take advantage of the beach, where you can try out kayaking, snorkeling, and other non-motorized water sports. For those who prefer to stay on land, the resort offers tennis courts, a fitness center, and beach volleyball. Organized activities like water aerobics, dance classes, and games ensure that there’s never a dull moment.
Kids Club
Kids Water Park
For families traveling with children, the RiuLand Kids Club is a standout feature. It caters to children aged 4-12, offering a variety of activities throughout the day, including arts and crafts, games, and treasure hunts. The club is staffed by trained professionals who ensure that kids are well taken care of and having fun, giving parents a chance to relax and enjoy some time on their own. The children’s pool with water slides is another favorite among younger guests. We went to the kids club 3 times before we realized that you nee to drop the kids off early because most of the time they are not in the kids club. They are literally running all over property doing activities. My kids were kind of happy they did not go because we really just relaxed on this vacation so it was not a big deal to have them the whole time.
Water Sports Center and RiuLand Kids Club!
One of the highlights of the RIU Dunamar is the expansive water park located near the kids' club area. This impressive water park features numerous attractions, including giant slides that provide thrills for children of all ages. Our kids loved the slides and went down them multiple times, laughing and splashing in the water. The park's design encourages fun and exploration, making it a fantastic spot for families to enjoy together.
Additionally, we were on a big multigenerational family trip with 4 families and there was always a Grandparent, Aunt or Uncle taking turns taking the kids to the pool or the beach or swimming. If we were vacationing alone as a family it would be different we would definitely have at least dropped the kids off one of the days to get a break during vacation to keep it more relaxing.
The Beach
The beach at the RIU Dunamar is a beautiful stretch of white sand with crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering the quintessential tropical paradise experience. Despite its somewhat secluded location, away from the busier main area of Cancún, the beach feels spacious and tranquil, perfect for relaxation and family fun. The resort provides plenty of loungers and shaded palapas, so finding a spot to unwind is never a problem, even during peak hours.
The water is warm and generally calm, ideal for swimming and wading, especially for younger children. The beach is also great for casual walks along the shore, and the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea make it a perfect backdrop for relaxation. While sargassum, a type of seaweed that sometimes washes ashore in Cancún, can be an issue, we found that the staff at RIU Dunamar did an excellent job maintaining the beach. Crews were out every day clearing away any seaweed, ensuring the beach was clean and enjoyable throughout our stay.
For those looking for activities, there are plenty of options, from kayaking and paddleboarding to beach volleyball. The atmosphere on the beach is peaceful but still lively enough to keep things interesting, with beach bars nearby for refreshing drinks and snacks.
Cancún, like many coastal destinations, has been dealing with an ongoing issue with sargassum, a type of seaweed that washes up on the shores in large quantities. This problem is particularly noticeable in the main area of Cancún, where the beaches can become overwhelmed by thick mats of seaweed, affecting the pristine views and swimming conditions.
However, at the RIU Dunamar, which is located further from the central tourist hub, we didn’t encounter as much sargassum. The resort's staff worked diligently, with crews out every day cleaning up the seaweed to keep the beach areas as clear and enjoyable as possible. The influx of sargassum is largely due to environmental changes, including shifts in ocean currents, water temperature, and increased nutrients in the water from agricultural runoff, which encourages its growth.
Nighttime Entertainment
When the sun sets, the Riu Dunamar comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. The resort hosts nightly shows that range from musical performances to acrobatic displays, providing entertainment for all ages. Pacha nightclub is the go-to spot for adults looking to dance and mingle, with a DJ playing a mix of popular hits. There’s also the Lounge Bar, where you can enjoy live music in a more relaxed atmosphere. For those looking for a quieter evening, there are several bars around the resort where you can enjoy a cocktail under the stars.
The Riu Dunamar Cancun also hosts two exciting themed parties that are major highlights of the resort's nighttime entertainment: the White Party and the Neon Party.
White Party
The White Party
The White Party is an elegant and vibrant event where guests are encouraged to dress in all white. Held outdoors under the stars, this party features live music, DJ performances, and an energetic atmosphere that makes it a must-attend event during your stay. The resort’s pool area or beach is often transformed with beautiful white décor, creating a chic and stylish ambiance. Guests can dance the night away or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere with a cocktail in hand. The White Party is perfect for those who want to experience a sophisticated yet fun night out without leaving the resort.
Neon Party
The Neon Party, on the other hand, is all about bright colors, glow sticks, and a high-energy vibe. Guests are encouraged to wear neon or brightly colored clothing that glows under black lights. The party space is illuminated with vibrant neon lights and features a DJ playing a mix of dance hits that keep the crowd moving. The resort provides glow-in-the-dark accessories, adding to the festive mood. This party is popular among younger guests and anyone who loves a fun, rave-like atmosphere. It’s an electrifying experience that offers a unique twist on traditional resort entertainment.
Both the White and Neon Parties are great opportunities to socialize, dance, and make lasting memories during your stay at the Riu Dunamar Cancun. I skipped the parties and stayed with out toddler and let’s be honest, I was wanting to relax. But my husband and the rest of the family went and they had a blast.
Mercado 28
If you're staying at RIU Dunamar and looking for a fun, authentic shopping experience in Cancun, Mercado 28 is a must-visit destination. Located about 45 minutes away in downtown Cancun, this bustling open-air market offers a vibrant and colorful atmosphere where you can dive into local culture, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy some local flavors.
What to Expect
Mercado 28 is one of the most famous markets in Cancun and is known for its wide variety of handicrafts, jewelry, clothing, and artwork. From hand-painted ceramics and Mexican blankets to silver jewelry and artisan-made leather goods, you'll find an impressive selection of items to take home. The market is also known for its haggling culture, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with the vendors for a better deal.
Local Craftsmanship
One of the standout aspects of Mercado 28 is the authentic Mexican craftsmanship. Many of the items sold here are handmade by local artisans, making it a great spot to pick up truly unique gifts. Whether you’re in the market for handwoven textiles, intricate Mayan-inspired masks, or colorful Talavera pottery, the variety ensures you’ll find something special.
Dining and Refreshments
While shopping, you can also take a break and enjoy some traditional Mexican food. Mercado 28 has small restaurants offering regional dishes like tacos, tamales, and empanadas. Don't forget to try a refreshing horchata or agua fresca to cool off after walking around the market.
A Cultural Experience
Beyond shopping, visiting Mercado 28 offers a deeper look into Cancun’s cultural side. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come together, and it's the perfect spot to interact with locals, learn about their crafts, and discover more about Mexican traditions.
How to Get There
From RIU Dunamar, you can reach Mercado 28 by taxi or uber - do not take public transportation. We chose to take an Uber for our trip, and it turned out to be a great decision. One of the biggest advantages was being able to follow the map in real-time, so we always knew exactly where we were and how close we were to our destination. The process was super easy, and I remember the ride being quite affordable compared to other transportation options. It made getting around simple and stress-free, especially since we didn’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with parking.
Tips for Visiting
Bring cash, as most vendors prefer pesos over credit cards.
Don’t forget to negotiate – it’s part of the experience.
Be prepared for a little friendly pressure from vendors; simply smile and move on if you're not interested.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the market is large and you'll be walking quite a bit.
Overall, Mercado 28 is an exciting stop during your Cancun vacation, offering a unique blend of shopping, culture, and a taste of local life. It's the perfect escape from the beach resorts and a great way to bring home a piece of Mexico.
Excursions
Xplor, located within the Xcaret adventure park complex in the Riviera Maya, is one of the most exhilarating excursions in the region. Perfect for adrenaline seekers, this natural adventure park is designed around the stunning landscapes of Mexico's jungle and cenotes, offering a variety of thrilling activities that take full advantage of the environment.
At Xplor, you can soar through the treetops on two of the highest zip-line circuits in Latin America, with panoramic views of the jungle below. For those who love water adventures, the underground river rafting experience allows you to paddle through mysterious, beautifully lit caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. You can also navigate amphibious vehicles through rugged jungle trails and caverns, experiencing the park’s landscape up close. Another standout attraction is the chance to swim in underground rivers, an otherworldly experience where crystal-clear water flows through ancient cave systems.
The park offers safety gear for all activities, making it suitable for adventurers of various skill levels. After a day of action-packed fun, Xplor provides a buffet with delicious food to refuel, included as part of your visit. Xplor is perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a day filled with adventure, natural beauty, and excitement.
Overall Experience
For a budget-friendly hotel in Mexico, the RIU Dunamar truly exceeded my expectations. While it may not be the Ritz or even a four-star Marriott, it stands out as one of the cleanest properties I’ve ever visited. As a Disney mom, I was genuinely surprised by the level of cleanliness—better than what you’d typically find at Walt Disney World! The staff was consistently seen trimming bushes and sweeping up debris, ensuring that everything was always in perfect order. Their dedication to maintaining the resort was evident and greatly appreciated.
The friendly staff went above and beyond to fulfill requests and answer any questions we had, making us feel welcome throughout our stay. It was the ideal resort for relaxing and enjoying family time without the pressure of a packed itinerary. If we were to return, I would still opt for four nights and five days, planning only one excursion and perhaps a trip to the local market; I genuinely loved everything we experienced.
The RIU Dunamar Cancun is a well-rounded resort that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to unwind by the pool, indulge in delicious dining, or engage in a variety of activities, you’ll find it all here. The friendly staff, excellent facilities, and stunning surroundings make it a top choice for a Caribbean getaway. Families will particularly appreciate the extensive offerings for children, while couples and groups can enjoy a diverse range of entertainment options and leisure activities.
Overall, our stay at RIU Dunamar was a memorable one, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a relaxing yet fun vacation.
Happy 50th Anniversary Kent and Cherry!
I hope you found this blog helpful and that you'll stick around for more insights on family travel and ways to keep the magic at home. If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, my blog primarily focuses on Disney, so be sure to check out our posts on the best times to visit and tips for skipping the lines at Disney. For additional family travel tips, explore our travel page , and if you’re interested in motherhood and fun family traditions, don’t miss that section as well. We’re thrilled to have you here!
