Embarc Zihuatanejo

Situated along the beach, with rooms and facilities built into the adjacent hillside, Embarc Zihuatanejo is a relaxing property with stellar views over the bay. Guests check in at the spacious, open-air lobby with stunning vistas, and as it's a pathway between features, the thatched-roof reception area is often buzzing with couples and families. Lots of local, colorful style is found throughout, including semi-rustic wood furniture, pebble accents in showers and water features, and charming painted tiles. Travelers can spread out on the small, private beach area, at the two infinity pools overlooking the ocean -- which are often occupies by playing children -- or at the two eateries. Being a multi-level hotel, there are lots of steps to navigate, but there are free golf cart rides available, and the resulting views from higher vantage points are gorgeous.

The hotel is built into a hill, on a well-trafficked road that runs along Playa La Ropa and into Zihuatanejo. While the road receives steady traffic, the Embarc Zihuatanejo is situated down a hill away from the road to minimize noise -- though complaints of noise still happen occasionally. Depending on where they're located on the hill, rooms are between a two- and five-minute walk down stairs to the hotel’s private beach area along Playa La Ropa. The popular boardwalk, Paseo del Pescador, is a 15-minute walk from the hotel and features beach clubs, restaurants, and shops; while the bustling downtown Zihuatanejo is a 20-minute walk or seven-minute drive away. The busy resort town, Ixtapa, is a 20-minute drive from the hotel, where travelers can find the Ixtapa Golf Course, Marina Ixtapa, and the start of the 12-mile Ciclopista -- a popular bike path. Guests should allow 20 minutes by car to reach Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo Airport. 

Ranging from Studios to three-bedroom units, rooms are spacious and done in a local style that's not quite modern, though charming. Terra-cotta floors with pebble accents, rustic wood furniture -- sometimes painted green or purple -- cushioned concrete benches with colorful throw pillows, and heavy wooden shutters are found throughout. Artwork from local artists, painted ceilings or shower walls, and lovely painted tiles add more pops of color. All rooms have furnished outdoor spaces -- some with plunge pools and handwoven hammocks -- and most have beautiful vistas over the ocean. Also standard are kitchenettes or full kitchens, with modern appliances and dishware made in Guadalajara. Flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, dining tables, sitting areas, and coffeemakers come standard. Laundry rooms are on each floor and free to use.

Bathrooms are well-appointed with pebble-floored showers, free toiletries, and hairdryers, plus some units have outdoor showers. Note that some past guests have occasionally complained of noise issues. Additionally, those with mobility issues may want to request a hotel lower on the hill, though golf cart shuttle rides are available for free.

Embarc Zihuatanejo offers plenty of features to keep both kids and adults busy. Certainly the highlight is the private beachfront area lined with cushioned loungers and umbrellas. Massages can also take place here. For additional sunbathing, there are two lovely infinity pools with moderately sized terraces, a handful of cushioned lounge chairs, and pool toys. Situated between the two pools are the poolside restaurant and bar, Surf Club, which serves casual grill fare such as burgers, quesadillas, and salads for lunch in a rustic setting. Acopio is the main restaurant that has an elegant menu of traditional Mexican cuisine for breakfast and dinner. The open-air space provides stunning view of Zihuatanejo Bay. 

While the hotel is situated up a hill, free golf cart shuttle service is available for free to get around the property. A laundry room is situated on each floor of all the buildings for guests to use free of charge. Wellness options, however, are a bit limited, consisting of a small fitness center with limited cardio machines and free weights and bay views. Spa services are available upon request, plus there are massage vendors in the immediate area. A daily activity board is located by the front desk, detailing water sports, yoga, and fishing trips available -- most for a fee. 

A small shop is located in the center of the hotel and has beach items, sundries, and snacks. Public spaces have furnished terraces and a lending library. Wi-Fi and parking are both free.