Review: Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle

When Riu Resorts opened Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle in May 2024, the 753-room all-inclusive resort paved the way for the ultimate family and group vacations. Meanwhile, its location on White Bay Beach in the historic town of Falmouth, Jamaica — 22 miles from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport — offers a convenient transition for international travelers.

Upon entering the sweeping lobby of this five-star resort — dotted with soothing Caribbean decor and comfortable amenities — I was immediately impressed by the welcoming personal greeting I received. The warm hospitality, combined with excellent service, would be the hallmark of my stay.

Check-in was quick, and as my porter, Juan, walked me to the bank of elevators en route to my room, I stopped at Capuchino to scan the popular sweet spot for coffee, tea, ice cream and freshly baked pastries. Across the lobby, Daiquiri bar — which offers a lengthy list of specialty cocktails, wine and beer — already had a late-morning crowd. Both are open daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Rooms and Suites

My comfortable accommodations at Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle included a private, oceanview patio furnished with comfortable deck chairs. Two double beds assured sweet dreams, while a sofa, small desk and large flatscreen satellite television and free Wi-Fi access were added bonuses. The large bathroom with walk-in shower, hair-dryer, bathrobe and complimentary toiletries promised yet more creature comforts. A coffee bar and small fridge stocked with water, beer and soft drinks complemented the liquor dispenser hanging on the wall containing bottles of vodka, whiskey, rum and gin. This unusual alcoholic “perk” is included in all rooms and suites.

Other rooming options — 90% with partial or ocean views — include king-size suites, family rooms with connecting rooms and adult-only (18 years or older) swim-up junior suites, nine of which are uniquely placed on an upper level, ensuring total privacy. Additional king-size suites with a lounge, rotating television and freestanding tub are a special draw.

Dining

A selection of restaurants offering varied options makes it difficult to choose where to start, but for the sake of research, I tried them all.

The main restaurant, White Bay, features an extensive buffet with live cooking stations, including a jerk station for all three meals. Kyoto showcases Asian cuisine, Krystal is the place for gourmet dining and Steakhouse serves succulent steaks and seafood options. Napoli, with its bountiful appetizer buffet combined with tasty Italian specialties (including a must-have decadent tiramisu), captured my taste buds.

At each dining venue, waitstaff introduced themselves by name, and the service was exceptional. Paper menus have been replaced by QR codes at the specialty restaurants, requiring clients to select their appetizer, entree and dessert at the start of their order.

Pepe’s, the jerk-style grill, offers tangy Jamaican specialties, and I was never at a loss for snacks and drinks at the bustling Marley and Kingston swim-up bars throughout the day. Lighter fare and cold drinks are offered at the 24-hour American Country sports bar.

Activities

A big draw of Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle includes its four pools, one of which is dedicated to kids ages 4 to 12 and features waterslides and a small splash park. Kids program RiuLand divides small guests by age, treating them to a host of beach or pool activities, as well as indoor crafts and board games.

Always looking for some poolside fun, I ventured into the adult Splash Water World and treated myself to exhilarating rides down the slides before heading to one of the main pools to indulge in energetic water aerobics, followed by a rousing foam party to the beat of loud, invigorating music.

Throughout the day, outdoor exercise activities are offered outdoors at RiuFit near the pool, while a fully equipped gym and a volleyball court promise more workout opportunities. For a different kind of workout, shoppers will love the two boutiques selling clothing and souvenirs for the whole family.

After my rigorous pool activities, I headed to the welcoming Renova Spa, where I was treated to a soothing facial and relaxing massage. A few minutes in the steam room, followed by a cold-water plunge, completed my relaxing experience. An on-site beauty parlor and nail salon offer a full slate of services, as well.

When finished, I walked to the beach to check out the expansive menu of free activities offered at the ScubaCaribe watersports center, such as paddleboarding, kayaking and more. For an additional fee, guests can take scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing lessons and choose from a host of themed daytime and evening cruises.

When night falls, the outdoor stage is set for vibrant, live entertainment sure to delight all ages — providing the perfect finale to a very satisfying day.