Arena Suites

The staff are what made Arena Suites feel so welcoming. Everyone was warm and kind, from the front desk with their local suggestions to housekeeping, who kept our suite spotless. We felt looked after like family the whole time. Getting around was easy too. Playa La Madera is just steps away, close enough for a swim within a minute of leaving the hotel, and Playa La Ropa is about a 10 minute cab ride. There are good local restaurants along the beach and in the neighborhood, while El Centro is an easy taxi ride or coastal walk for more shops and places to eat. It feels peaceful and tucked away while still being convenient. Our stay was comfortable and the hotel was clean and ideally placed. Muchisimas gracias a toda la familia de Arena Suites por una estancia especialmente comoda y alegre. We'd happily return.

The oceanfront setting and infinity pool are the big draws here, and waking up at 6am to swim just steps from the room was amazing. For the price, it felt like good value. Room 8 and its bathroom were clean, but very dated, with a 1990’s feel. The air conditioning worked well and was essential in 33° heat and 80% humidity. A fan wouldn't have cut it. We got the last room, right in front of the restaurant, and the smell of fried fish and oil was there 24/7. That was unpleasant whenever we were in the room. Also, watch the towels. We accidentally left one by the pool, and at checkout they tried to charge me for it. Another guest happened to walk by and told them she'd handed it to the staff. Being treated like I had stolen a towel was really uncomfortable.

Room 2 was a great deal for the price. You can see the sea from both the kitchen and the deck outside, and it made me wish I'd booked more nights. The Wi-Fi was fantastic, which helped since I needed to get some work done. The deck is also a nice spot to launch a drone for sea photos. I'll be back in Zihua.

The beds and pillows were comfortable, the room was spacious, and the staff were really nice. There's also a patio with an outdoor kitchen and fridge, though it's beside the pool so it isn't private. The place is eclectic and unusual, but be warned, there are lots of steps and the walk into town and around the neighborhood is very steep. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with a disability, limited mobility, or older guests. You'll definitely get a workout staying here.