Best Family Hotels in Pacific Coast

Although its secluded location on the northern edge of town may pose a challenge for some sightseers, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort spares its guests from the crowded beaches and noisy surroundings of Mazatlan's Golden Zone. The 20-acre, palm tree-laden property faces the Pacific Ocean and features a sprawling pool with prime coastal views. The resort's 378 suites and villas also offer striking vistas from their private balconies and terraces. Accommodations also feature kitchenettes, satellite TVs and Wi-Fi access. Some guests note that the room decor feels a little dated, but overall, recent visitors were pleased with their accommodations; for the best views, travelers recommend booking a room on one of the upper floors. Another bonus: Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay offers an all-inclusive optional rate that covers meals and drinks at any of the on-site restaurants and bars (and shuttle service to sister property Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán), plus a variety of daily activities, including Spanish lessons and guided hikes. However, a rejuvenating massage at The Armonia Spa at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay will cost extra.

This 259-room property is Hilton's first all-inclusive resort in Mexico. And according to recent guests, this Puerto Vallarta-based Hilton outpost deserves high marks. The spacious guest rooms and suites are decorated in crisp whites with lime green accents, and feature 250-thread-count linens, LCD TVs and balconies. The only downside, according to some previous visitors, is that in-suite wireless internet access costs an additional fee (though it's free in the lobby). The on-site restaurants and two bars (not including a separate snack bar) also impress, but guests especially love unwinding at the O West Sunset Lounge, an adults-only rooftop bar where you can sip martinis, swim in the infinity pool and marvel at the panoramic views of Banderas Bay. And if you're traveling with younger guests, the main pool and beach are family-friendly. Or you can always leave the little ones at the Kids Club while you spend the afternoon getting pampered at Ki Spa. And thanks to its family ties, if you're a Hilton Honors loyalty member, you can collect or redeem points for choosing to stay here.

Sprawling across 40 lush cliffside acres overlooking Acapulco Bay, Las Brisas Acapulco boasts spectacular views and an atmosphere that is both romantic and kid-friendly. All casitas (bungalow-style guest rooms) include a semi-private or private plunge pool, a secluded terrace and complimentary sweet rolls and coffee delivered every morning. Venture to the resort's private beach club and you'll have your pick of two saltwater tide pools overlooking the scenic bay or a large freshwater pool with a swim-up bar. While you're sipping tropical libations poolside, the kids can have some fun of their own with Little Angels Club. Children ages 4 to 12 can play team games, build sandcastles or burn off some energy on the playground. And when it's time to fuel up, you can grab a table at one of three hotel restaurants. If you're celebrating a special occasion, you can also arrange for a private candlelit dinner in your casita.

Set along the crowded sands of Playa Condesa in Acapulco, Mexico, the Fiesta Americana Villas Acapulco makes an ideal getaway for visitors looking to stay in the heart of the city. However, with this prime location comes a rollicking night scene and constant street traffic. Recent guests suggest requesting an ocean-facing room on one of the upper floors for more peace and quiet. All guest rooms at this Fiesta Americana property come equipped with standard amenities, like air conditioning, minibars, cable TVs, Wi-Fi access (for an extra fee) and private balconies, but past lodgers recommend booking a junior suite for a little more space to sprawl out. And if your room doesn't come with a spectacular ocean view, head to one of the three pools and gaze across Acapulco Bay while you savor refreshing drinks and small bites. Meanwhile, kids can enjoy organized activities at the Fiesta Kids Club, as well as water sports. Afterward, cap off your day together at one of the hotel's three restaurants or check out the Condesa food scene.

"Grand" is certainly an apt way to describe this Punta Diamante outpost. With an 18-hole, par 72 golf course; decadent Brio Spa massages, facials and body treatments; and 10 restaurants and bars, The Grand Mayan Acapulco offers plenty of space to spread out. Rooms are equipped with spacious bathtubs, LCD TVs and generous balconies. The guest rooms are consistently praised by visitors for their comfort and cleanliness. According to recent guests, another crowd-pleaser is the tranquil pool area. A hit with kids and adults alike, the pool offers spectacular views of the beach (sans the pushy vendors). Plus, The Grand Mayan Acapulco offers plenty of entertainment for the whole gang with activities like snorkeling, kayaking and nature tours, not to mention a designated kids club for guests ages 5 to 12. Still, though guests were equally satisfied with the varied selection of menu offerings and high-quality service at the on-site restaurants, they do bemoan the high prices.