The Palms Resort of Mazatlan

We've stayed at The Palms before, and I think we've found our new Mazatlan getaway. This time was much, much better, and we're planning to return in April and again in summer. We don't need an ocean-view room since we don't spend our trips indoors. We just wanted a comfortable bed and the basics: TV channels in English, a working hot shower, mini fridge, chairs, a table, and enough outlets for our gadgets. The simple pool won us over. The infinity edge is lovely, and the new decks and pavers really improved the area. There are plenty of loungers, a swim-up bar we didn't try, and great ocean views, especially at sunset. Mazatlan has some of the best sunsets, right up there with La Paz and Vallarta, Mexico. I was happy to relax, nap, and enjoy being there. Pool service was surprisingly good, and we had plenty of drinks. The pool servers were staff from Panama restaurant. They weren't exactly typical bar or pool servers and could use more personality, but they were polite and did what they could. Most seemed to be in their early twenties. We ate at Panama restaurant throughout the day so we wouldn't have to change out of our swimsuits and drive into town. We tried carne asada burritos, fries, sushi rolls, aquachiles, yakimeshi rice, chilaquiles, pancakes, and beef and chicken soup. The food tasted good and was reasonably priced, though nothing was award-winning. I didn't care for the very thick green sauce on the chilaquiles, and the tasty pancakes fell apart like crumb cake. There are lots of dishes and appetizers, plus tempting desserts. We tried apple pies, croissants, cheesecake, and Mexican jello. There are plenty of servers, and it's usually packed in the morning and afternoon, so don't come hungry. The rooms and the rest of the resort were clean. Our economy room wasn't especially updated or trendy, but that didn't bother us. The lawns and plants outside were neatly maintained. The lobby staff were friendly and polite, but nobody could tell us where the spa and salon were or why they were missing. We didn't have time to wait, so we walked about ten minutes to another spa. The lobby should take down the spa and salon sign. A few ideas that wouldn't affect my rating: the lobby could feel more welcoming and brighter, with a more visible check-in desk and some plants, flowers, candles, or color around the seating area. The fountain out front could use a more attractive light display, and clearing away the shrubs would show it off better. Painting the old exterior bricks and adding more palm trees at the entrance would also help the resort match its beautiful pool deck and its name.

We've stayed at The Palms several times and have always been pleased. It's right by the beach, with great views, nice pools, and a swim-up bar. It's a classic hotel, maybe less fancy than some, but a great fit if you want the beach, pool, and restaurant close at hand. The rates for a beachfront spot are super, one of our best travel values.

I had a bad experience this time, though I've stayed at The Palms before and used to overlook the old building and construction because of the view. Plenty of other hotels have a similar view, as I found out. My dad was visiting for one day to pick up some things, but the staff wouldn't let him past the lobby unless we paid 400 pesos, even though he wouldn't stay overnight or use the pool. I asked the front desk to show me where that was in the policy, and they refused. It isn't written there. They wouldn't work with me at all. The only pleasant staff we met were the cleaners, who swept my room and brought fresh towels each day. The room needs cleaning and updating. The pictures show the condition of the walls. There were broken sinks or equipment, the A/C wouldn't go below 70 degrees without stopping, and the vents badly need cleaning. The sheer blinds were missing, and the furniture needs replacing. The views are nice and Panama restaurant is in the building, but the staff were also very unfriendly.

It's a beautiful place, but watch out for the many birds around. They might steal from you.