Mazatlan is unique in Mexico as this is a working town that also has a high number of visitors. It also is incredibly active with numerous beaches, water adventures, and inland tours. So in Mazatlan, the hotels are as luxurious as they need to be considering you are there for the evening, and then off for all-day adventures into the Pacific sunset. Because of the proximity of the hotel to the beach, most hotels are more European in approach, maximizing the space and efficiency of each room with almost a Mediterranean flair.
El Cid Marina Beach Hotel: for those who like water
The Marina Beach Hotel has recently undergone some renovation and has added a new spa and fitness center. The attraction of this hotel is the close, separate buildings, and the proximity to the marina, beach and their private island. If you plan to fish, beach or take a sunset boat ride, hard to go wrong with the Marina Beach. The La Marina restaurant is the primary dining option on the property and serves a wide variety of seafood, traditional Mexican, and international cuisine.
The Pacific Palace: ideal Golden Zone springboard
The Pacific Palace opened in 2016 as the latest addition to the Palace Resorts, and is the epitome of European efficiency. The Junior suites all offer a private balcony and two spacious closets. For a small hotel, good food options with three restaurants including a sushi bar, and you can go from EP to all-inclusive. A heated infinity pool and Jacuzzi, as well as a fully equipped gym, round out the offerings. As there are four Palace Hotels in proximity, guests can roam and use the other properties.
Estrella Del Mar: quiet rejuvenation plus great golf
If it’s golf and beach, then the Estrella Del Mar is the best choice. About 15 minutes from the airport, this resort is away from it all and has four miles of private beach combined with the best golf course in Mazatlan. Lodging options range from one of the 47 recently renovated rooms, all with balconies to Condos with occasional homes for rent. While there are only two restaurants here, the menus are diverse, and the food is stellar. EP only, no all-inclusive. The resort is also a turtle sanctuary, and every few nights guest get to aid in releasing the baby turtles into the ocean.
El Moro: adult beach oasis
If you want to go from room to pool to the beach and then back to pool, the El Moro, part of the El Cid properties is the ticket. The tower set up assures that every room gets a great view of the ocean and close-in islands. The main adult pool is right outside the door, and features unique seating, a large hot tub with a stunning ocean view, and pool options for socializing. As this hotel is connected to two other El Cid properties, you can dine at any of the sister properties. The two closest restaurants are La Conchita, with both covered and beach dining, and La Cascada, featuring traditional Mexican and some Spanish dishes.
Casa Lucila: historical luxury
If your calling is a small hotel right next to the historic district, then Casa Lucila is the bed-down ticket. This hotel features eight distinct rooms, all with most of the finishing materials from Italy, so quite a departure from most Mexican properties. Sit on the balcony, watch the strollers and walkers along the boardwalk, all 21 kilometers, the longest in Mexico. The Fernando Jazz Bar serves all three meals in intimate, European elegance.
Neil Wolkodoff is a travel writer from Denver, Colorado, USA. He covers golf, dining, activities and accommodations from the luxury and unique perspective.
Did you enjoy this article?
Receive similar content direct to your inbox.
Subscribe!
Subscribe today to get our weekly newsletter! You don’t want to miss out!