Hotel Irma

Hotel Irma packs a handful of resort amenities into a small and charming package. The architecture is a bright example of classic Mexican design, from the stone arch entryways to the orange stucco walls to the brick-heavy lobby. Overall the hotel does feel slightly dated, though well kept, as it’s clear the staff takes maintenance seriously. The hotel’s entire social scene consists of two small pools and an open-air restaurant -- all of which offer stunning views of Zihuatanejo Bay. As the only on-site bar closes just after dinner, the property quickly grows quiet at night. The intimate nature and mid-range pricing attract equal numbers of local couples and vacationing families.

Hotel Irma is situated on a quiet, hillside street amid homes and other small hotels. The location is far enough removed from downtown Zihuatanejo to ensure privacy and a quiet atmosphere, yet still within a five-minute walk of restaurants and small shops. The nearest beach is accessible via a 10-minute walk down a long, steep staircase and across a boardwalk. The hotel’s location on the outside edge of Zihuatanejo Bay also ensures stunning water views from almost anywhere on the property.Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport is 30 minutes away by car. Given the compact nature of Zihuatanejo, car rental often isn’t necessary as most attractions and services are within walking distance. Like most area hotels, airport transportation is not offered by Hotel Irma. However, taxi service is readily available throughout town with affordable, zone-based rates on par with similar Mexican tourist destinations. Larger shuttles are ubiquitous and provide the most inexpensive transportation option for guests who don’t mind ridesharing.

Room decor mimics the hotel’s common areas, with a bright color scheme that includes orange stucco walls, terra-cotta flooring, and Mexican tile inlays. Pale orange and blue bed linens and curtains add a bit of seaside flair, but are undeniably reminiscent of the '90s. The bare walls and lack of additional furniture create a look and feel that’s sparse though charming in its simplicity.The hotel’s inventory is divided into only two room categories -- either Standard or Sea View. Both are available with a king-size bed or two double beds with identical floor plans. Room size is average relative to comparable three-pearl properties in the area. However, the addition of a private balcony in Sea View Rooms is a nice touch that helps the space feel larger than it is.For a mid-range property, in-room amenities are stripped down to the essentials. The only notable features are a small, tube television, air-conditioning, and a single bottle of water (additional bottles are available for purchase). The tiny wall safe is too small for even an iPad and best suited for passports, jewelry, or other small valuables. Wi-Fi is not available in guest rooms and unfortunately beds are firm and uncomfortable.Bathrooms in both room categories feature a split design. The sink and large counter are in the main body of the room while the toilet and stand-up shower stall are located in a separate cramped space.

As a small mid-range hotel, Hotel Irma lacks the typical amenities found in the area’s much larger all-inclusives. In particular, while the hotel is technically oceanfront, the nearest beach is only accessible via a ten-minute walk. However, a small, but lovely open-air restaurant and two outdoor pools (including an oceanfront infinity pool) serve as a simple, but beautiful centerpiece for the hotel.Las Naranjas Restaurant has a lovely open-air design that overlooks Zihuatanejo Bay. While the furniture, place settings, and menu are basic, the traditional decor, Mexican architectural flourishes, and stunning views make the space feel slightly classier than it is. The restaurant offers all-day dining with a Mexican-inspired menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is a mix of simple Western dishes with a bit of local flair while lunch and dinner are seafood-centric with entrees like fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled mahi-mahi. Room service is also available for a nominal fee.The hotel’s two small, clean pools are its most notable amenities. The main Infinity Pool provides panoramic views of Zihuatanejo Bay and is a particularly nice touch for such a small property. Every afternoon, guests pack the water to catch the area’s stunning sunsets. The aptly named Oval Pool provides enough overflow space for 69 rooms' worth of guests. While there is no dedicated poolside drink or snack service, the restaurant bar is only a staircase away.Hotel Irma’s sole wellness amenity is a small spa with lovely bay views. While only two rooms are available (one of which was a storage space during our visit), the spa offers a full menu of treatments including facials, as well as Swedish and deep tissue massage.The hotel’s cliffside location is a mixed blessing. At roughly 80 feet above the bay, the water views throughout the property are impressive. However, beach access requires a long walk down a steep, 100-step staircase to the water and an additional five-minute walk along a battered cement boardwalk.