Best Pool Hotels in Mazatlan

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.

El Cid certainly knows a thing or two about real estate: This resort overlooks Mazatlán's picturesque marina from its seat in the city's Golden Zone (Zona Dorada). Meanwhile, guests staying in one of El Cid's 204 standard, junior and one-bedroom suites sit within walking distance of the Pacific Ocean's shoreline. Standard suites feature traditional Mexican terra-cotta tile floors and Mediterranean-inspired decor, as well as satellite TVs and wireless Internet access, while larger accommodations also boast a balcony or patio. And though all rooms are appointed with kitchenettes, recent visitors highly recommend the all-inclusive dining plan that covers all meals at the on-site La Marina restaurant and a myriad of dining venues at the three other neighboring El Cid properties. When you're not eating or sleeping, lounge at one of El Cid's two pools (or El Cid's private sands) or partake in the hotel's abundant activities: You can play a round of golf, practice your tennis swing or relax with a massage at the El Cid Golf & Country Club. And if you're itching to get off the property grounds, the hotel can also arrange boat rides, fishing trips, jet skiing and a wealth of other water sports.

This all-inclusive resort in Mazatlan's Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) earns high praise for its superior customer service. And past visitors only have positive things to say about the appearance of the property. Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán's 247 suites feature kitchenettes, feather-top beds and private balconies or patios overlooking the ocean. But you won't want to spend all of your time indoors. Daytime activities range from cooking classes and Spanish seminars to nature preserve tours and aqua aerobics lessons. The property features two outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars and easy access to Old Mazatlán and other popular attractions. You can also hop on the complimentary hourly shuttle north to the resort's sister property, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, where you can enjoy a soothing massage or body treatment at The Armonia Spa. Although you will have to pay for spa treatments, you can rest easy knowing that meals, snacks and drinks at the resort's three on-site eateries, deli and coffee shop are covered by the property's optional all-inclusive package.

This 900-acre retreat is lauded for its seclusion – the resort sits along about 4 miles of serene sand in the gated Estrella del Mar community, which is just 22 miles south of Mazatlan. Visitors can expect a quiet, tranquil escape at this hotel, where many choose to soak in the rays or relax at Las Villas Spa with a soothing aromatherapy massage or replenishing seaweed body treatment. The rooms and suites all boast private balconies, plus satellite TVs, spacious tubs and Wi-Fi access. Golf lovers will enjoy the impeccably kept 18-hole Estrella del Mar Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., which recent guests say offers a superb layout. Other on-site activities include two on-site tennis courts, a turtle sanctuary (which guests can tour), as well as two pools and a fitness center. Meanwhile, the hotel's four dining venues showcase a variety of cuisine, though some visitors say the dishes left something to be desired.