Away from the bustle of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the secluded Riu Dunamar is one of the newest resorts in the Cancun area, opened in 2017; along with its new neighbor Riu Palace Costa Mujeres (opened 2018), it offers a much more tranquil atmosphere than the other four Riu properties in Cancun, which are all older. The Riu Caribe (B2) and Riu Palace Peninsula (Baa2) resorts are adjacent to one another on the north end of the Hotel Zone and the Riu Cancun (B1) and Riu Palace Las Americas (Ba2) are even closer to the middle of the action, just steps from Cancun’s best nightlife. The Riu Dunamar, however, is well north of all of that, up on Playa Mujeres, and caters well to couples looking to relax. The food is mostly underwhelming (with just so-so on-site dining variety), the beach isn’t quite as strong as most in the Hotel Zone, and the swimming pools are a little on the small side by Riu beach resort standards; but the property offers contemporary interiors, a water park with a few big water slides, a quiet beach with plenty of palm trees and lounge chairs, a sleek fitness center, and a good swim-up bar. The rooms are modern and clean, but they’re fairly basic for the price range. On-site water sports include jet skiing, sailing, scuba diving, and kayaking. Otherwise, activities are limited, but the ferry to Isla Mujeres is a short taxi ride away.
Guests returning to the U.S. can take the COVID-19 antigen test on-site. There is no additional cost for all adults and children. This service is available at all Riu resorts in Mexico (except Riu Plaza Guadalajara), Jamaica, Aruba, and Punta Cana and is provided by an accredited medical testing lab that complies with the requirements of the CDC. Test results are received within 72 hours prior to departure, as required by the CDC. In the event of a positive test, Riu Hotels will provide an extension of up to 10 days at no cost.