Let’s talk about planning your escape to Royalton Riviera—because there’s a lot to love, and a few things you’ll definitely want to know ahead of time. I’ve stayed at Royalton Riviera Cancun four times, and every trip taught me something new. This post is everything I wish someone had told me before my first visit.

Whether you’re a first-timer or you’re debating an upgrade, here’s your no-BS guide to booking smarter and checking in like a pro.

🧳 Booking the Right Room: Here’s the Tea

I’ve stayed in both the Diamond Club and the Hideaway (adults-only) section. If you’re into peace, pampering, and fewer splashy cannonballs next to your margarita, book Hideaway. And if your budget allows, go Diamond Club inside that section. You get better service, more perks, and private everything.

Even in the main section, the Royalton Riviera Diamond Club comes with VIP extras. Think: private check-in, butler service, better beach chairs, and room upgrades. It’s worth it.

Hideaway Diamond Club Room At The Royalton Riviera 2018.
My Birthday Balloons in Our Messy Suite (2018)

🛏️ Room Tip You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner: The Rooftop Trick

Here’s something no one tells you:
If you book a Luxury Suite with a Balcony Jacuzzi and end up on the top floor, you could score one of the Royalton Riviera rooftop terrace suites.

It’s not an official category—it’s a layout thing. These rooms come with a private rooftop deck that makes you feel like you own the place. On one trip, I found this out by accident. Since then, I’ve booked smart and gotten one every time.

Rooftop Terrace 2018 Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Our Rooftop Terrace (2018)

💡 Pro Tip: Use the Room Selector Tool

After you book and the reservation is processed (about 3–5 days), Royalton lets you use a paid room selector tool. For around $116 USD, you can pick your exact room, building, and floor.

If you want a rooftop, this is how you get it. Look for the top-floor rooms in your category, and look for the little stairs in the photo—that’s your jackpot.

Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

🚐 Getting There: Book Private Transport

The first time I went, I didn’t do private transport. Huge mistake. We stopped at three other resorts before finally getting to Royalton Riviera. It took nearly an hour.

Now I book private transfers through Amstar (not sponsored, just reliable). It’s faster, easier, and more relaxing. You’ll be in your swimsuit sipping something cold before the shared shuttle even unloads.

🌴 First Impressions: Check-In Vibes

My first check-in at Royalton Riviera felt like a dream. I stepped off the shuttle and a clipboard guy said my name before I even spoke. He walked me past the crowd and into a cool, dimly lit lounge. I got a cold towel, a welcome drink, snacks, and a personal check-in.

They asked about food allergies, showed me restaurant menus, and even had a pillow menu. I felt like Beyoncé.

Second time? Not the same. Still nice, just busier. The Diamond Club lounge was crowded. No welcome towel. No personal vibe. We met our butler and went to our room. It wasn’t a bad experience—it just didn’t have the ✨magic✨ of the first trip.

Lesson: The section you book can really shape your first impression.

Royalton Diamond Club Section
Sunrise View From Royalton Riviera Diamond Club Room 5415

🧠 Quick Booking Tips

Hideaway section is chef’s kiss if you’re kid-free

Book early for the best shot at a rooftop terrace

Use the room selector tool—it’s worth it

Diamond Club = better everything

Private transfers > shared shuttles

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➡️ Up Next: My Royalton Room Tour + Rooftop Secrets

Want to see what those rooftop rooms actually look like? Spoiler: I basically moved in.
👉 Click here for the full room tour + rooftop guide