Hola! Hi. That’s a hard one. Both places are really top notch and I think you will be happy with either one. The Villa del Parmar does have an all-inclusive option, if that is what you are wondering. All inclusive means just that. Everything is included…food, drinks, activities, rooms, shuttle, room service. Most people enjoy this experience for their first visit to Mexico because it is hassle free. Others find the all-inclusive make them feel like they are “herded cattle”. Both are very close to each other, on the same stretch of beach, both are a short walking distance into town. Both are beautiful and fun. I haven’t had any bad feedback from either and I’ve been doing this for years.

I have been to Both

The Riu Santa Fe is a great resort. Brand new, very clean, the people were very friendly as well.. A lot of people were complaining about the food and buffets, I found them to be great. Probably the only complaint I have was in regards to nightlife in the resort. The resort pretty much becomes deserted at about 10pm. The town of Cabo San Lucas is a great place if you want to get away from the resort at night. Its about a $10 cab ride from the hotel. I would definitely recommend this resort to anyone looking to have a good time. Cabo San Lucas is a great place, always warm, always friendly and always something to do.

I went on a 6 night stay to the Villa del Palmar in mid February. I arrived with my boyfriend and low expectations . I have to say it really isn’t that bad.
As we arrived the bell man helped us with our bags and took them directly to our junior suite, which for the money, is spacious and clean. It had a full kitchen which actually proved to be great for having our own happy hour on the deck and cooking the tuna we caught on our deep sea fishing trip. We continued down to the pool area where we were bombarded by the conceirge staff. After first ignoring them, they tracked us down to give us free drink coupons and invite us to listen to a time share speech at the villa del archo. If you listen to the speech you are eligible for the Gold card, which gives you 15% off all over the resort. We elected not to take her up on that offer, but enjoyed the free drinks anyway.
We did not get the all-inclusive package there and we were very glad. The food we did have there was good for burgers, pizza, and nachos, but the buffet dinners were accompanied by a vegas-style show and dried out food. A five minute walk down the beach there are several restaurants with great food and drinks, our favorite being The Office.
Overall, the resort is outdated, but not unbearable. The location is great and is close proximity to the town. You can bring your Costco card and get the same 15% discount without listening to the timeshare people. I would not recommend that spa or gym, as they are both in major need of renovation. I actually had a massage there and was so turned off by it canceled my other service on the spot. The staff at the spa would not take it off my bill, but the check out staff did without questions. Most of the staff was very friendly and accomodating. I dont know if i would stay there again without kids or a group of people. For a couples vacation I would skip the Villa del Palmar.

Have a Great time in Cabo!!