in Sal, Cape Verde
Riu Palace Santa Maria
Updated 1 July 2026
- Baby
- Toddler
- Kid
- Teen
Riu's flagship on Sal is a polished, good-looking all-inclusive on the wide western sweep of Santa Maria beach, near the famous Ponta Preta point. You get the reliable Riu formula that families know well: the RiuLand kids club, generous buffets, a swim-up pool bar and a splash area for younger children, all with drinks and snacks included round the clock. It is a touch smarter than its sister Rius, which makes it a strong pick if you want all-inclusive ease with a bit more shine.
Our verdict
The pick for families who love the easy Riu formula but want the smartest rooms on Sal. Great all-inclusive value, just mind the breezier beach at this end.
The rooms
The most upscale of the Riu resorts on the island, with smart modern rooms and family rooms, most with a balcony or terrace. Family rooms sleep four, and the all-inclusive is genuinely all-day, drinks and snacks included.
At a glance
- Board
- All-inclusive, 24 hours
- Kids club
- RiuLand, included
- Beach
- Wide, near Ponta Preta
- Pools
- Main pool and splash area
How the KidProof Score works
Every hotel is rated on eight things families actually care about, then weighted by how much each one drives your choice. Room setup counts the most. The little touches break the ties.
Sleeps how many? Connecting rooms, family suites, a real extra bed?
Clean travel cot, high chair, bottle warmer, changing table, kit to borrow.
Shallow pool or paddling area, playground, kids club (free or paid).
Quick breakfast, kids menus, allergy options, snacks on hand.
Secured windows, protected corners, watched pool, well kept grounds.
Laundry, in-room fridge, stroller access, parking, reliable Wi-Fi.
Close to family attractions, easy transport, park tickets or access.
Welcome gift for the child, staff who talk to kids, themed rooms.
Why families love it
- Upscale Riu all-inclusive, drinks round the clock
- RiuLand kids club, included
- Wide beach near the Ponta Preta point
- Swim-up pool bar and splash area
🗓️A day here with kids
- 8:00
Buffet breakfast
Plenty of choice, easy for fussy eaters.
- 10:00
Pool and splash
Calmer than the sea at this windy end of the beach.
- 16:00
RiuLand club
Games while parents enjoy the swim-up bar.
- 18:00
Kite show on the beach
The wind drops a little as the light softens.
Family things to do nearby
Watch the kitesurfers
The windy Ponta Preta end is one of the world's kitesurf hotspots, a thrilling show for kids from the safety of your lounger.
RiuLand kids club
The familiar RiuLand programme runs crafts, games and a mini disco through the day.
Splash and main pool
A shallow splash area for little ones sits beside the big pool with its swim-up bar.
Is it right for your kids?
Baby
0 to 1 yr
Cots on request and a calm pool area, though the buffet-based all-inclusive means bringing your own baby-food kit.
Toddler
1 to 3 yrs
Stick to the shallow splash and main pool, as the sea here can be lively.
Kid
4 to 11 yrs
RiuLand, pools and the kite show make for happy, busy days at this age.
Teen
12 yrs and up
Teens will love the watersports and kitesurf scene right on the doorstep.
Plan your stay
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Live prices & availability
Stays near Praia de Santa Maria, Ponta Preta, Santa Maria, Sal, Cape Verde
We compare Booking, Expedia, Hotels.com and more so you book at the best price. Prices update in real time.
Parents also ask
Is the all-inclusive really 24 hours?
Yes, Riu is known for round-the-clock drinks and snacks alongside the main buffet meal times, which suits families with different schedules.
Is the sea safe for swimming here?
This western end near Ponta Preta is windier with more waves, great for kitesurfers but better to keep young children in the pools on breezy days.
How is it different from the other Rius?
The Palace is the smarter, more upscale option, with more refined rooms and dining than the sister Riu Funana and Riu Cabo Verde nearby.
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