The Palms Resort Of Mazatlan

At first glance, things here might be a nice step up from the area's other mid-range resorts. A large stone fountain at the entrance, a lobby water feature, and copious use of marble and dark wood in the common areas all sound sharp on paper. However, aging 20th-century design elements -- a bland, monochromatic exterior, decades-old rattan and wicker seating, and severely faded artwork -- do little to make this hotel feel modern or resort-like. While the beach can be pretty, it's limited by high-tide cycles, and so the relaxed waterfront pool terrace instead serves as the hotel’s only real social hub. It can get a bit noisy around the pools. Given the resort’s affordable rates, though, the mostly local crowd who stay here don’t seem to mind much. Otherwise, expect to see couples from the U.S. and Canada during the winter months.

The hotel is situated north of the popular Golden Zone, surrounded by plenty of other hotels and resorts. Numerous restaurants, bars, and shops are within a 10-minute walk north. However, the district’s most popular attractions and dining opportunities are 15 minutes away on foot. Guests looking for a change of scenery from the resort-heavy district will find the charming cathedrals, markets, and squares of historical Old Mazatlan just 20 minutes away by pulmonia.The nearest airport -- Mazatlan International (MZT) -- is more than 40 minutes away by car. A handful of rental car counters in the airport terminal provide affordable weekly rates compared to Mexico’s other tourist destinations. However, the state of Sinaloa’s ongoing drug crime continues to be an issue. Travelers are strongly encouraged to use taxis or private shuttles buses for transportation to/from the airport.

The style throughout most of the rooms here blend old and new elements, though the overall impression is dated and a bit underwhelming. Red tile flooring, marble countertops, and decorative wall niches all seem like nice-enough decorative details. However, the drab rattan furniture and seating are dated and reveal the hotel’s true age. Add to that old patterned bedspreads, dated upholstery, and out-of-place country-style paintings on the walls, and things here feel past their prime.On the plus side, each of the three room categories is spacious, with more square footage than a typical three-pearl hotel. Entry-level Standard Rooms (available with either a single king bed or two double beds) offer 410 square feet (38 square meters) that include a small dining area and a mini-fridge. Superior Rooms have identical floor plans, but upgrade to a fancier decor in the bedrooms, plus a kitchenette with a sink and a microwave. Flagship Suites feature 720-square-foot (67-square-meter) floor plans that include two bathrooms and dedicated living and dining areas with island counters. Every category includes a private balcony with either a mountain or ocean view. Standard amenities include air-conditioning and free bottled water (though the latter is limited to just one bottle daily). We found the free Wi-Fi to be fast throughout the property, including in the rooms. Several previous guests have noted that the beds are hard.Bathrooms are clad in marble and stone on the floors, sink, showers. Walk-in shower stalls and generic bath products are standard in every category.

The wide pool terrace serves as an excellent centerpiece for the property. It seamlessly blends the pool, beach, and open-air Oasis Restaurant/Bar into one large, upbeat space. A single row of plastic lounge chairs rings the area, however, they are literally touching one another, making for a crowded poolside experience. There's also a lack of poolside shade.The hotel’s main restaurant, Las Islas, has casual indoor and alfresco dining. The all-day menus consist of typical Western and Mexican fare. The multilevel Oasis Restaurant/Bar is surrounded by the outdoor pool and serves snacks and liquor via a proper dining area and a swim-up bar. A basic lobby cafe has specialty coffee drinks and light breakfast fare each morning and becomes a full bar later in the day.The beach area is tiny by any standards, but especially so given the hotel’s size. Seating for only a dozen guests is available via a few chairs and palapas adequately spread out across the sand. Unfortunately, the space doesn’t allow for much else -- there are no facilities or water sports of any kind. At high tide, the usable space is almost cut in half.Wellness amenities include a tiny gym with lovely water views but only a handful of dated machines. Paid, in-room spa services are also available. Free self-parking is provided in a secure, off-street lot. Wi-Fi is likewise free in all common areas, including the pool.