Riu Is Opening Its New Family-Friendly Cancun All-Inclusive Resort Next Month — With Swim-Up  Rooms and a “Raised” Pool

The newest Riu all-inclusive in the Caribbean is coming to Cancun in a little over a month, Caribbean Journal has confirmed. 

The new Riu Ventura all-inclusive is now taking bookings for stays beginning on Dec. 25, according to the company’s Web site. That aligns with earlier company announcements of a December debut. 

That’s a bit later than what had been pegged as a Dec. 6 debut.

A “Raised” Pool

The new resort, set on Delphines Beach (Dolphin Beach) in the southern portion of the Cancun Hotel Zone, will have 700 rooms and will be anchored by what Riu is calling a “raised” pool with beach views — it’s sort of equal parts rooftop pool and infinity pool, just not on the actual roof (it’s on the sixth floor). 

Of course, it’s not the only pool — the Riu Ventura will have six pools in all. 

The food is about what you’d expect: a mix of buffet eateries, cocktail bars, cafes and international fare including culinary options from Mexico, Europe and Asia, with eight restaurants in total. 

This is a family-friendly hotel, with vacation options for kids and teens, water sports and endless programming, along with a dedicated kids pool with slides and the RIULand kids activity center.

Where You Actually Stay 

The rooms are a mix of double options and larger units, with wood floors and an earthy but minimalist aesthetic. 

Another boost for families? The “Friends and family room,” which is a far more spacious option. 

And yes, there are swim-up rooms (though they’re not bookable at the end of December), similarly set on a higher floor which is a cool departure from the typical ground-level swim-up option you get at most resorts. 

If you’re not traveling with your kids, there are adult options, including a Renova Spa and access to the raucous Riu Parties at the nearby Hotel Riu Caribe. 

It’s all part of what CEO Luis Riu says is a commitment to Mexico — and that’s not a surprise. Riu has nearly 30 resorts across the country, including what will now be nine in the Cancun area alone. 

Riu was one of the pioneers of all-inclusive, and the company has it down to a science. That means 24-hour al-inclusive and — yes — the brand’s legendary liquor dispensers in the rooms. 

Prices at the Riu Ventura 

Rates start at around $435.75 per night for a double room with a “lateral” sea view. For a double room with a full sea view, the price goes up to about $446.50 per night.