Located on the serene shores of Mazatlán, El Cid Marina Beach Resort offers an inviting mix of comfort, elegance, and relaxation. This resort is part of the larger El Cid complex and offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative compared to some of the busier spots in the region. If you’re planning a vacation to Mazatlán and want a mix of beachfront relaxation and charming Mexican hospitality, here’s what you can expect from a visit to El Cid Marina Beach Resort.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
El Cid Marina Beach Resort has a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The resort boasts a more tranquil environment compared to the larger, busier properties in the area, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation. With its marina views, lush gardens, and two large pools, it feels like a secluded paradise. Guests are greeted by friendly staff, who are eager to ensure a pleasant stay. The resort is designed to be a serene retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of Mazatlán’s city center, though it is only a short shuttle ride away from the more energetic parts of town.
Rooms and Accommodations
El Cid Marina Beach Resort offers a range of spacious rooms and suites, all thoughtfully designed to provide guests with comfort and convenience. Each room features modern amenities while retaining a charming coastal decor that reflects the beauty of Mazatlán. Here are the main types of accommodations available:
1. Studio Suites:
The Studio Suites are perfect for couples or small families. These rooms feature a kitchenette, a spacious living area, and a private balcony or terrace with either a pool, marina, or garden view. The decor is casual and cozy, with warm colors and Mexican-inspired accents.
2. One-Bedroom Suites:
For more space, the One-Bedroom Suites are ideal for families or groups of friends. These suites come with a separate bedroom, a large living room, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchenette. The balcony or terrace offers panoramic views of the marina or pools, making for a great spot to enjoy the sunset.
3. Two-Bedroom Suites:
For larger families or groups, the Two-Bedroom Suites offer even more space and comfort. These suites include two full bathrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and a large balcony. The decor is modern and fresh, with local art and design touches that make it feel like a home away from home.
Decor:
The decor throughout the resort’s rooms features a coastal theme, with soft blues, whites, and tropical greens to reflect the seaside surroundings. Wood furnishings and subtle Mexican-inspired accents add a touch of local charm without being overbearing.
Dining and Restaurant Options
El Cid Marina Beach Resort offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate, whether you prefer casual poolside snacks or fine dining experiences. There’s something for everyone, from local Mexican flavors to international dishes.
1. La Marina Restaurant:
Overlooking the picturesque marina, this is the resort’s premier dining venue. La Marina specializes in fresh seafood and international cuisine, with a focus on Mediterranean and Mexican fusion. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, with indoor and outdoor seating options that allow guests to take in the stunning marina views. Guests rave about the fresh seafood options, with dishes like grilled lobster, shrimp fajitas, and ceviche being fan favorites.
2. La Marina Bar:
Adjacent to the restaurant is the La Marina Bar, which offers an extensive cocktail menu, fine wines, and local beers. It’s the perfect place to relax with a drink in hand while watching boats sail in and out of the marina.
3. La Marina Poolside Snack Bar:
For more casual dining, the poolside snack bar offers a selection of burgers, tacos, nachos, and refreshing cocktails. This is the perfect spot to grab a bite without leaving the comfort of the pool.
4. El Calypso Snack Bar:
Located near one of the pools, this snack bar offers light meals and beverages, making it easy to fuel up in between sunbathing and swimming. Guests love the quick service and tasty options like quesadillas, wraps, and fresh fruit cocktails.
Onsite Amenities and Activities
1. Pools and Beach Access:
One of the highlights of El Cid Marina Beach Resort is its two large, sparkling pools, both of which have swim-up bars. One of the pools features an expansive sun deck with plenty of loungers and shaded areas, while the other has a unique feature: a small cliff for jumping into the pool. Guests particularly enjoy the tropical, lagoon-style pool with its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views.
For beach lovers, the resort offers a private beach area accessible via a short water taxi ride. The beach is peaceful and less crowded than the public beaches, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
2. Marina:
As the name suggests, El Cid Marina Beach Resort is situated right on the marina, offering guests stunning views of luxury yachts and fishing boats. If you’re interested in fishing, sailing, or boat tours, you can arrange excursions directly from the marina, making it a convenient option for nautical enthusiasts.
3. Spa Services:
Although the resort doesn’t have a full spa on site, guests can book massages and treatments in outdoor cabanas by the beach or poolside. For those wanting a full spa experience, the sister property, El Cid El Moro, offers a full-service spa just a short shuttle ride away.
4. Fitness Center:
There is a small fitness center available for guests who want to stay active during their vacation. While it’s not a large facility, it includes all the essential equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights.
5. Kids’ Club:
Families with children will appreciate the resort’s Kids’ Club, which offers a variety of supervised activities for younger guests, including arts and crafts, games, and pool activities. The friendly staff ensures kids have a fun, engaging experience, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their time at the resort.
6. Golf and Tennis:
Guests have access to the nearby El Cid Golf & Country Club, which features an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, and additional fitness facilities.
7. Gift Shop:
There is a small gift shop on-site where guests can purchase souvenirs, snacks, and essential items. It’s convenient for picking up anything you may have forgotten to pack, as well as local handicrafts and gifts.
What Guests Love
- Beautiful Marina Views: Guests consistently rave about the stunning marina views, which can be enjoyed from many of the rooms, the restaurant, and the pool area. The relaxing atmosphere of the marina, combined with the luxury of the yachts and boats, adds a touch of elegance to the stay.
- Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Many guests appreciate that El Cid Marina Beach Resort offers a more peaceful, laid-back experience compared to the busier resorts in the area. The private beach and spacious pools create a relaxing environment where guests can unwind.
- Friendly Staff and Service: The attentive and friendly staff receive high marks from visitors, with many guests mentioning how helpful and accommodating the team is. From check-in to poolside service, the staff go out of their way to ensure a great stay.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Families love the spacious rooms, Kids’ Club, and family-friendly atmosphere at the resort. The wide range of activities means there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
What Could Be Improved
- Distance from City Center: While the resort’s secluded location is a plus for some, it can feel a bit removed from Mazatlán’s main attractions for others. Although the resort offers a shuttle service to the city center, guests who want to explore the area more thoroughly may find the distance slightly inconvenient.
- Aging Facilities in Some Areas: While most guests have a fantastic experience, some have noted that certain parts of the resort, like furniture in the rooms or poolside facilities, are starting to show signs of wear and tear. Guests have mentioned that updates in these areas could improve the overall experience.
- Limited Dining Options: Although the on-site restaurants are praised for their quality, some guests feel that the dining options are somewhat limited, particularly for those staying for an extended period. However, the shuttle to nearby El Cid resorts provides access to more dining venues.