"Pre-Arrival
We booked two rooms through TUI and emailed the hotel beforehand to request that they be together. The response was quick and courteous, and we were happy to find our rooms right next to each other on arrival.
Arrival
Check-in was very efficient. We were promptly given key cards, WiFi details, pool towels, a beach shuttle timetable, and restaurant opening hours. The staff were polite, spoke multiple languages and wished my daughter a happy birthday — such thoughtful little touches make a big difference!
Rooms
Our two rooms on the 5th floor were spacious and comfortable. We had booked one single and one double but were pleasantly surprised to receive two doubles. Our rooms overlooked Amadores Bay, and being out of direct sun meant they stayed cool without needing the air conditioning constantly. The patio doors had two locking points and could be left slightly open for fresh air.
Corridors were quiet with the rattle of wheels from the cleaning trolley the only thing we really heard.
Everything was spotless, well-maintained, and there was plenty of storage and USB sockets for charging. The hotel provides lovely-smelling body wash and a hairdryer, so no need to pack your own. The safety deposit box was located in the wardrobe, with plenty of space for suitcases. A kettle and mini fridge also provided. WiFi was freely available throughout the hotel.
Restaurants
We enjoyed breakfast and dinner at the main buffet restaurant, Amadores, and lunch at Sea Breeze. As with many all-inclusive buffets, the atmosphere can feel a bit like a school canteen, but there was a good variety of food catering for vegetarians and allergies. Some dishes were lukewarm, but since you can watch chefs cooking the dishes, you can easily choose freshly cooked, hot food.
The waiting staff were polite and attentive, clearing plates and serving coffee and water. Most other drinks were self-serve. Communication was easy, even if not all staff spoke all languages. The team clearly wanted guests to enjoy their stay, which really showed.
Pools
Although described as heated, the pools felt a little chilly at first but soon became refreshingly comfortable. No inflatables are allowed. For wheelchair users, there is lift access to, what we felt was, the quieter lower pool on the 10th floor, which has plenty of sunbeds without the need to reserve early.
The livelier area, where the entertainment team tend to be, and the Emerald Bar are on the 11th floor. The RiuClub for children, with a smaller pool and water features, is on the 12th floor — note that pushchairs need to be carried up steps or via a steep driveway.
Pool towels are available for exchange from 9am to 2pm.
Shop
Useful for anything you’ve forgotten and a small selection of souvenirs if you don’t want to leave the hotel. It’s on the 6th floor - accessible from the lift on the Puerto Rico side of the hotel. Otherwise, the Europa Center is approx 10 mins walk away and includes a mini market.
Entertainment
A big thank you to Robert, Max, Ricky, Gabriel, Thomas, and the entire entertainment team! Your energy, kindness, and ability to engage everyone — while respecting those who prefer to relax quietly — made our holiday memorable. The team speaks multiple languages, which was great for making sure everyone felt included, despite what some reviews suggest. The majority of evening shows were fantastic and the Friday Riu Party is definitely worth booking. If you didn’t want to watch the shows, there is still plenty of places to sit and enjoy a drink on an evening.
Out & About
The shuttle bus is a great way to get down to the beach, especially since the hotel is situated quite high up. We also enjoyed walking into Puerto Rico and taking water taxis to nearby towns like Arguineguín and Puerto Morgan. Palmitos Park and Sioux City are fun day trips. Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. Reception staff will call on your behalf.
Fellow Guests
We noticed some issues with poor manners and hygiene, which was disappointing. We’re all there to enjoy ourselves. Restaurant staff are not babysitters — please supervise your children and respect shared spaces. A simple “thank you” goes a long way with staff who work hard to make your stay enjoyable and to fellow guests. Also, please don’t eat directly from serving trays and always wash your hands after using the restroom or sneezing. Some reviews mention illness, and I don’t think it’s through any fault of the hotel itself having witnessed some guest behaviour.
Other Info
Transfer time from the airport is about 40 minutes.
Summary
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Riu Vistamar and would happily recommend it to others. We look forward to visiting again!"
