Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan Beach Resort

From the wrought iron entry gates to the two-tone stucco exterior to the thatched roofs, the overall architecture and decor provide a clear sense of place that draws on the coastal Spanish-colonial vibe of Mazatlan. This is an older resort, and everything from the hotel's multicolored tiling to the chunky faux-antique furniture in the lobby all feel a touch overdone. Details like small fountains and wood-beam ceilings add a bit of charm, and there are plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces for everyone to mingle. The resort is well-kept and clean, and pleases most of the guests who pass through the property.  The hotel offers two distinct vibes -- both tied to the massive outdoor pool and beach areas. Couples seeking a quiet, relaxed place to kick back are found around the smaller Pueblito Pool. Families and partiers looking for activities can head to the larger Pueblo Pool, which has a livelier vibe that can get loud in high season. In any case, this is a big and busy property that fits the bill for most vacationers in town to enjoy an all-inclusive getaway. 

The hotel’s location at the far northern edge of Mazatlan gives the immediate area a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s convenient to a number of restaurants, shops, and services, most of which are about a five to 10-minute walk down the road that runs parallel to the beach. However, the majority of the city’s most popular attractions require a 10-minute pulmonia ride to access, including the heart of the touristy Golden Zone. Guests seeking a change of pace from the city's tourist haunts can reach the historical buildings and beautiful cathedrals of Old Mazatlan via a 25-minute cab ride south. The hotel runs a paid shuttle to and from Mazatlan International Airport (MZT). However, taxi and private shuttle services are ubiquitous and typically less expensive. Rental cars are also available in the airport terminal. However, due to the state of Sinaloa’s ongoing crime issues, tourists are strongly cautioned against driving outside of the city.

Rooms here are clean and everything is well-kept.

Entry-level Junior Suites have 575-square-foot (53-square-meter), open-concept floor plans with dedicated sleeping, dining, and living areas. Luxury Suites step up to 750 square feet (70 square meters) in a traditional suite-style layout that includes a separate bedroom. Flagship Master Suites upgrade further to include more spacious floor plans and wider balconies with the best water views on the property. Standard amenities include well-equipped kitchenettes (with refrigerators, electric stovetops, microwaves, and sinks), flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and filtered water. In-room Wi-Fi is only available via an expensive daily plan.

Like their respective rooms, bathrooms are clean and relatively spacious. All rooms include spacious vanities and shower/tub combos plus a simple selection of toiletries.

The hotel lies on a long, beautiful stretch of Playa Gaviotas beach. Due to its relatively secluded location outside the busiest part of the Golden Zone, it feels semi-private. However, given the public nature of Mexico’s beaches, hawkers and tchotchke peddlers can still be bothersome. Dozens of palapas and lounge chairs offer plenty of seating, and their placement ensures guests will rarely ever feel crowded. Motorized and non-motorized water-sports equipment are available from a number of vendors, but are not included with the hotel's rates.

Restaurants and food get solid marks from most guests at the resort. The main dining space, Las Palomas, is located in a casual indoor/outdoor space adjacent to the pool. Breakfast is served a la carte and buffet-style, while dinner is strictly a la carte. Both feature a mix of local Mexican and Western fare. Immediately adjacent the beach, Cilantro’s offers lunch and dinner service in a beautiful, open-air, thatched-roof space with stunning sea views. The hotel’s most formal restaurant, Angelo’s, provides a dinner-only menu of traditional Northern Italian food amid an elegant, piano bar-style atmosphere. All-inclusive rates are available.

The hotel has two pools with distinct vibes. The larger, family-friendly Pueblo Pool is used primarily for activities, making it loud and lively with music, games, and water sports happening throughout the day. In contrast, the smaller Pueblito Pool is relaxed, quieter, and more adult-centric. Both pools feature hot tubs, lovely sea views, and plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for shade. Both have adjacent snack and liquor bars.

The spa and a gym are both situated in a cramped, standalone building that feels like an afterthought. Guests are welcome to use the facilities at the nearby sister property -- Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay -- which are better. Both self- and valet parking are free in a secure off-street lot. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby and most common areas. However, many guests complain of frequent slowdowns and difficulty connecting.