Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria

... but it still needs a lot of work. I'am sorry, that's the truth. I hope that my opinion can help make it better.

Just finished a week’s stay at the Riu Palace Santa Maria, and it did not disappoint! The rooms were spotless and cleaned to a high standard everyday, with the mini bar fridge being restocked every other day. Our aircon was perfect and there was an iron and ironing board in every room. There are plenty of pools and it was never a problem to find sunbeds. Beach towels are provided by the hotel. Swap them for fresh whenever you need. The lifeguards at the water slides take safety very seriously - which was reassuring & meant that everyone behaved themselves… whilst having fun at the same time. The beach is like paradise - with lifeguards patrolling all day (finishing at 5pm). We saw the biggest starfish one afternoon on the beach, and a lifeguard swam out and took it back to deeper waters, which was lovely to see. There are a variety of restaurants to cater for everyone - including 4 specialist restaurants, which you can enjoy multiple times during your stay, but must be booked through the app. The buffet had lots of great choices at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the food was always cooked & presented to a very high standard. The waitresses who prepare and clear your tables are always so friendly and will get to know you and your family as your stay progresses if you sit in the same area each day. The Riu entrainment team are absolutely fantastic - we enjoyed the aqua entertainment each day, and if we didn’t want to join in anything, they would happily leave you to relax. There was plenty to keep you entertained throughout the day and night, but also plenty of quiet time too if that’s your preference. During the evening the hotel provided plenty of great entertainment & shows. There was something for everyone. A huge shout out to the staff manning the coffee bar - they literally do not stop from sunrise to sunset and beyond! The coffee was always made to perfection and the hot chocolate & cakes were delicious! There are locals who work along the beach - they are happy to help and offer you local knowledge, such as where to find the turtles in the evening and they offer some great deals on days out. We booked a postcards of Sal tour with Daniel Tours (under the palm tree directly on the beach outside the hotel). It was definitely a highlight of our trip - we had a driver who stayed with our bags in the car and a guide who took us everywhere, taking photos of our day, and he sent them to us at the end - capturing moments that we wouldn’t have got without him. Santa Maria town is literally a 20 minute walk down the main road - very different vibes at night time to the day time- we really enjoyed the street performances in the evening! Taxis are always available immediately, just ask at reception - and charge around €5 for the drive to town. Staff at the hotel work tirelessly throughout the day - engaging with you if you want them to, and leaving you alone if you prefer. This was a holiday to remember and a destination that we will definitely return to again.