The Riu Palace Tropical Bay Hotel is located on the west side of the island of Jamaica, surrounded by the Caribbean waters of Bloody Bay, on the beachfront in Negril. Recently reopened after a renovation, its architecture is done in Victorian style. The hotel has a laid-back ambiance that attracts families, business people and couples.

When entering the Riu Palace Tropical Bay Hotel's open-air lobby, guests walk through trim, landscaped gardens. The rooms are large, with natural light from expansive windows, and have all the tech amenities. The décor is minimalist, with muted brown and teak accents; all rooms have either a terrace or balcony.

Cocktails rule at the Reggae lounge bar, The Sun swim-up bar, the Cubano Lobby Bar and the Plaza Bar. New dining venues include Krystal, with fusion cuisine, Rimini for Italian and and Hakuchi rounds out the global offerings with Japanese food. In addition there's the Bloody Bay Poolside Grill and Steakhouse. There are also theme nights at The Negril buffet restaurant. Reservations are required for all specialty restaurants.

Plenty of activities are included in the all-inclusive package. There are two swimming pools and a children's pool, snorkeling, sailing, diving, an introductory scuba lesson in the pool, two tennis courts, on-site shopping, and a game room equipped with slot machines. At night, visitors can choose between live music, shows, or dancing at the Pacha disco at Riu Negril, where Riu Tropical Bay guests have access. The resort's Renova Spa has a full menu of massages and facials as well.