At this point, Mexico isn’t a destination. It’s a lifestyle choice. When winter starts getting disrespectful, my brain immediately goes, “You know what solves this?” Warm water, unlimited tequila, and absolutely no responsibilities.
That’s how I ended up back at RIU Caribe Cancun. I had been here two years ago for a 50th birthday, remembered having a great time, and figured, why overthink it? Sometimes you don’t need an adventure. You need a place that just works.
RIU Caribe is that place.
Location and First Impressions
It’s tucked right into Cancun’s Hotel Zone, right on the water, close enough to everything without feeling like spring break exploded on your balcony. Check-in was smooth. No chaos, no confusion, no 47 wristband explanations. They hand you a drink almost immediately, which is how you know you’re in the right building.
The property itself is big but not overwhelming. You can wander, but you’re never lost. That’s underrated when you’ve been drinking since noon.
Swim-Out Room Life
I booked a swim-out room, and yes, it’s exactly as dangerous as it sounds. Roll out of bed, slide open the door, and you’re in water within seconds. You tell yourself you’ll just dip your feet. That’s a lie you tell every morning.
For roughly $2,000 including flights, this setup is honestly absurd value. The room was clean, modern, cold when needed, and the bed was solid enough that I didn’t wake up angry at it.
Pro move: grab champagne or spirits at duty free. The bar is included, but sometimes you want to sit on your patio like a retired millionaire and sip quietly.
Pools and the Beach
There are technically four pools, but let’s be honest, three matter.
The main pool is lively and social.
The pool bar infinity pool is where adults emotionally peak.
The quiet pool is for recovery, contemplation, and pretending you’re hydrated.
The beach is right there, clean and well-maintained. Yes, seaweed exists. No, it didn’t ruin anything. If seaweed is a dealbreaker for you, just stay home and stare at your sink.
Verdict on the Resort
RIU Caribe doesn’t try to impress you with nonsense. It just delivers. No stress, no drama, no surprises.
Read Part 2: Eating at RIU Caribe Cancun
Read Part 3: RIU Caribe Pool Parties and Entertainment
As always, what do I know? I’m just a fat guy from Brooklyn trying to survive, one martini at a time. If you want more Top 10s steakhouses, burgers, restaurants, you name it, click the words and keep going.