One of our hotels to watch in 2024, Riu Palace Aquarelle has opened its doors as of May 4. A new build located on Falmouth, Jamaica’s White Bay Beach, this all-inclusive resort is perched on a shore as soft as the sugar the region was once known for, placing guests close to the action of the historical city—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—while taking advantage of ocean views sweeter than even the rum punch savored on the beach or beside the pool.

THE BASICS

As the first RIU hotel in the area—and the greenest RIU property in Jamaica—Riu Palace Aquarelle brings its own spin to the well-known “As you like it” experience, offering:

• An eco-friendly set-up, with nearly 800 solar panels to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions
• 700+ junior suites and suites, including connecting and swim-up options, the latter found on upper floors, with the pool on the terrace
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Three general-use swimming pools, plus a children´s pool with water slides
• Four à la carte restaurants and a buffet with a jerk grill station
• All-day snack options such as Capuchino Pâtisserie, where you can always grab a scoop or two of ice cream for a refreshing treat, and jerk grill Pepe’s Food
• The RiuLand kids club, giving vacationers ages 4 – 7 and 8 – 12 a fun place to play, create, and make friends under the supervision of trained staff
• Stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking for less time on the sand and more time in the water
• Daytime and nighttime entertainment, from live music and shows to family-friendly games

With something for everyone and everything included, families, friends, and couples can make the most of their time together doing what they like—just as RIU intended.

THE EXTRAS

Introduced by RIU Hotels & Resorts a few years ago, the Splash Water World aquatic park has quickly become a favorite of guests. Making its latest appearance at Riu Palace Aquarelle, the park is open six days a week and free for all guests. Providing the perfect way to cool off while staying active, it’s a great option for families looking for extra entertainment right on site, at no extra cost.

Of course, rather than splash-filled thrills, some prefer a little more serenity with their getaway. Renova Wellness Centre—where you’ll also find the fitness center—provides optional massages, body treatments, and steam room sessions to those ready for relaxation.

Where this resort is sure to shine, however, is with weddings. Five Wedding Collections let nuptial couples exchange vows how they please, whether on the beach or in the garden, with simple décor or full glamor.  

THE AREA

Riu Palace Aquarelle makes it so that you never need to leave the grounds, but with so much happening so close by, it’d be a shame not to venture out and explore.

Golfers who want to see the best of Jamaica can do so on the green. Four courses are a quick drive or half-day venture away: the Negril Hills Golf Club; Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Golf Club; Cinnamon Golf Club at historic—and supposedly haunted—Rose Hall; and Half Moon Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and rated one of the top 100 courses in the world by Today’s Golfer.

Rated highly by nature lovers and scientists alike, the Luminous Lagoon is another highlight. Connecting Falmouth to Trelawny, it was once used to transport goods, but now its fame comes from within the waters: tiny dinoflagellates that illuminate the lagoon. Nighttime boat excursions with Amstar™ let you bask in the glow of a brilliant phenomenon.

If your interests lie more in manmade treasures, Falmouth’s markets, Georgian buildings, and Jamaica Heritage Trail get at the heart of local culture and history.

Jamaica has been long beloved by all-inclusive vacationers for its beautiful beaches—especially stunning at sunset—and “no problem” hospitality, from the vibrant buzz of Montego Bay to the Capital of Casual, Negril, to the natural beauty of Ocho Rios. But with Riu Palace Aquarelle making its debut, we’re placing Falmouth firmly on our list of locales to explore … and leave us wanting more.

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