A day at the beach doesn’t get much better than at the Viceroy Zihuatanejo, Mexico. The 46-room, casita-style resort sprawls out along 600 feet of powdery sand on Playa La Ropa, one of Zihuatanejo’s top beaches. And it’s one of the best beachfront resorts in Zihuatanjo, known for its beach palapa experience.
Thatched palapas are spaced wide apart at the water’s edge. Sturdy daybeds are covered with thick cushions, and beach butlers offer towels, neck pillows and, for children, toys in a basket. Beside each cabana, a wooden table and chairs in the sand, shaded by tall palm trees, is set with china and silver. For toddlers, the beach butler will even bring high chairs. When it’s time for lunch, guests can dine on grilled seafood and wine in their swimsuits and then plop right back down on their daybeds afterward.
Clients’ beach time will be even more carefree if they book one of the ground-level beachfront suites. These one- and two-bedroom suites (sized from 700 to 1,100 square feet) have spacious terraces with prime ocean views, shallow outdoor plunge pools and hammocks. We noticed a family with wee ones splashing in their beachfront pool, building sand castles, napping on their daybeds and eating lunch and snacks — each activity just steps away from the other. Parents in particular will love the freedom to read a book or converse while the kids play safely nearby.
Formerly known as the Tides Zihuatanejo, the property was rebranded by the Viceroy Hotel Group in 2012. It’s a favorite with multi-generational family groups who return year after year.
The Viceroy suits couples as well. We arrived to find a straw beach bag, hats and flower blossoms on our king-size bed. And we loved spreading out in our open-plan lagoon suite with its creamy stone floors and high wood-beamed ceilings. Overlooking a man-made lagoon fringed by palm trees, it featured a blue-tiled plunge pool outside — delicious for cooling off during Zihua’s steamy afternoons. The large stone bathroom with a rainshower was also very practical with plenty of racks for hanging wet bathing suits and towels.
Another special touch that is a hit with guests is the daily complimentary tray of coffee, tea and warm baked croissants delivered each morning to your room at a time of your choice. The resort also offers free in-room Wi-Fi access, two lit tennis courts and the services of an in-resident tennis pro instructor, cooking classes, a spa, two pools and two beachfront restaurants.
The Details
Viceroy Zihuatanejowww.viceroyhotels.com
