Mazatlán has reawakened in recent years. Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, it had seemingly passed its prime after its heyday as a tourist destination in the 1950s. Countless humdrum tourist resorts emerged since, but significant renovations to its historic center, lighthouse and boardwalk changed everything, and these days, quality accommodation has started to blossom. Here are Culture Trip’s picks for the five best hotels in Mazatlán.
This spotless, eight-room boutique hotel in a refurbished historic building is the perfect base for visitors who prefer a more tranquil, intimate environment than most resorts in town. The decor throughout is modern, minimalist and elegant in an understated way. It’s a five-minute walk from the historic center and one block away from the beach. Its pool on the third floor faces the ocean and offers a panoramic view of the city. There is a restaurant on-site that serves gourmet meals throughout the day and a spa with moderately priced treatments.
Located in the historic center, this colonial-style hotel is in walking distance of the many bars and restaurants at iconic Plazuela Machado, as well as the beach. Each of the 20 spacious suites is named after a famous writer and has its own unique style. This boutique hotel’s most charming feature is the fountain in its central courtyard, providing a great place to read a book from its small library. While it’s not in the quietest part of town, it’s perfect for those wanting to experience a slice of Mexico away from the main tourist areas like the Golden Zone.
This 71-room beach resort is a world apart from the resorts at the touristy Golden Zone. It’s located within a residential compound that features a golf course, tennis courts and a fitness center. Also, besides golf, its main draw is the miles and miles of empty beach – free of vendors and anyone external to the compound. While the distance makes it hard to pop downtown for a stroll, its large pool and onsite activities, like horseback riding and yoga, can keep guests occupied for hours. As a bonus, there’s a turtle hatchling sanctuary nearby.
“Tropical luxury” comes to mind when describing Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay’s decor and impeccably well-maintained facilities. Guests can opt for all-inclusive plans to take full advantage of everything this large resort has to offer, at prices that are much cheaper than better-known destinations like Cancún and the Riviera Maya. The resort has two large swimming pools and sits in front of an attractive crescent-shaped beach. Its 345 rooms are all suites of varying categories and there are also villas available, which are recommended when traveling in a group.
Guests who really want to feel like they’re in Mexico and loathe nondescript furnishings should choose this Mexican hacienda hotel for their next vacation. You’ll see bright colors everywhere, from bedspreads and table runners to walls and patio umbrellas. The hotel operates as a B&B, offering cooked-to-order breakfast each morning, and also accepts four-legged members of the family. Guests can relax by the pool in the courtyard or in the cozy TV room that doubles as a library. Alternatively, the beach and downtown are only a short stroll away.
