We just wrapped up two weeks at our favorite resort in the Zihu/Ixtapa area and it was amazing as usual.
We have been coming here for more than 25 years, stayed on the 20th floor with the Brisas Beach club deal, did not do all inclusive, and ate most of our dinners in Zihua. Your experience may vary.
CheckIn/CheckOut - this has been a pain point in the past but this time both were fast (not chain hotel in the US fast but still not bad)
Rooms - the rooms remain the same and are large with a seating area and short bench seat (could be a kids bed). Lots of drawer space and closet space with a safe in the closet. The beds are good and firm with a pillow top that worked well. Nice pillows and floating night stands on each side of the king beds. The cooling can be challenging in some rooms but ours was great with a silent ceiling fan. The balcony's are huge with two chairs, a table, and a hammock. The bathrooms are large with double sinks and a walk in shower with a bench and shower head and wand.
Beach - the beach is private with no vendors, music, or water sport sellers. The palapas are large and there are enough to minimize the need to wake up early to grab a spot. The water is clear, but the waves can be large. You need to be careful if they are. The lifeguards (Victor and Arturo) do a great job of watching people and warning about large waves inbound.
Pools - the pool area is above the beach and has 2 good-sized pools (1 adult only) and a smaller family and kids pool. The pools need some work on tile replacement but the lounge chairs are pretty new.
Food and Drink - we mostly eat our dinners in Zihua but had dinner at Bellavista (big buffet, decent menu, nice kabob). This is also the breakfast spot with a huge buffet. We ate once at Las Brisa's II (awesome setting, good service, and likely good food). We had two things that were not good, but heard from others that they enjoyed the food. The Beach menus is limited but had great burgers, quesadillas and guacamole. No food service at the pool, but a buffet and larger menus at the Solarium next to the pool. The Lobby Bar is a great place to watch the sunset and gather at night, but generally has no entertainment.
The Property - the resort is large and built on a hill so there are a lot of steps but elevators eliminate most of them. This is really not a great spot if you are mobility challenged. The place is beautiful and has kept its modern Aztec feel with amazing views framed by all of the openings.
The Staff. - to a person, the staff is great. They are friendly and helpful and all smiles. Be aware that most do not speak much English, but it is México. A few shout outs to some amazing people. Sergio at the beach is outstanding and does an amazing job of anticipating what you need. He really makes the beach special. In addition, Margurita and Naftani also do great job of keeping you comfortable. In the Lobby Bar, Rosario has been amazing since we have been coming here. She is great at making everyone feel welcome. Bladamir, Lidia, and Manuel all make you feel welcome by providing great service. Leslie, the Concierge has great suggestions and will take care of reservations and other requests for you. In the Beach Club, Victorino and Osanti are great.
If you want quiet relaxation in a comfortable older school setting, and are willing to do a little walking, this is your place. read more