Azul Ixtapa All Inclusive Beach Resort ConventionC

We’ve already spent six days here and have another week to go, and I still can’t understand why the dog area gets the best ocean-view tables at breakfast. Four tables are set aside for dogs and their owners, while the rest of us have to sit farther back. Not one of those tables has had a customer during our first six days, but we aren’t allowed to use them. Apparently you need to bring a dog, love dogs, bark, be a dog, or maybe “identify” as one to sit there. It boggles my mind that dogs get priority over vacationers who want an ocean view.

Our group of 16 had a perfect week, and I really can’t think of anything negative to say. Everyone was so friendly, the food was excellent, and the coffee bar was spectacular. Azul grand also gives you access to both hotels. Marta was funny and very friendly, Ever always served amazing drinks with a smile, and Isabel made fantastic towel displays for us.

We usually go to the Club Med in Ixtapa, but it was closed for renovation. Compared with other places we’ve stayed in Mexico at this price, this resort felt lower quality. It’s aging, and the common spaces seem too small for the number of rooms. Our biggest frustration was that there were no open water activities during our whole stay because the resort said it had red flags. The resort next door, which shares Playa Linda, had a yellow flag and was running activities, so the explanation felt convenient. The food and beverage staff were the best part. They were friendly and very helpful. The bar setup was much less impressive. Until 11 a.m., the only way to get juice or bottled water was with a meal at a restaurant. On Saturday, once the upper bar opened, the line was 15 people deep for one bartender. The rooms could be improved with a small investment. Our Deluxe king had just one usable plug, the balcony had no chairs or table despite the extra charge, and some local artwork would make the room feel less like a hospital. A minifridge could also cut down on lines at the overcrowded bars. Unless the resort makes some major changes, I wouldn’t recommend it for a destination vacation.

The service was excellent and the staff were amazing. The food was incredible too. Chef Ricardo worked around my wife’s gluten allergy, and what he made with chef Irene was outstanding and delicious.