Olas Altas Inn Hotel and Spa

In a part of town packed with big resorts and fraying budget hotels, the Olas Altas makes for a solid three-pearl option. Is it chic and trendy? No. But the decor in the rooms and common areas is bright and relatively modern, with a look that's familiar from most mid-range hotels around the world. Expect light tilework, pops of bright blue, and decorative murals that all add a little seaside flair to the lobby. However, it serves as little more than a place to check-in and move on to the surprising number of places to unwind or be entertained once inside the hotel. The combined restaurant and pool are the resort’s social hub, though the small space overcrowds quickly in peak season and can be loud. Like all of Mazatlan, the hotel's clientele depends on the time of year. Summer brings in local families and couples, while winter attracts American and Canadian adults looking to escape the bitter winter cold.

The property is situated on Avenida del Mar -- a busy beachfront road that connects many of Mazatlan’s tourist attractions. Dozens of restaurants, bars, and shops are within a five-minute walk of the property, and pulmonias (similar to golf carts) provide cheap, reliable taxi service to anywhere on the strip. Acuario Mazatlan is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, while La Gran Plaza Shopping Mall is a 10-minute drive. It's five minutes by car to Mazatlan's touristy Golden Zone, and 10 minutes by car to the city's historic zone. Expect a 35-minute drive to Mazatlan International Airport. Several brand-name agencies provide car rental service in the terminal and rates are inexpensive compared to other Mexican tourist destinations. However, Sinaloa’s notorious, sometimes violent, crime is still a concern. Travelers should look to licensed taxi service which is safer, plus cheap and readily available to/from the airport.

As of mid-2016, most rooms had been remodeled and feature bright decor. White tile floors, cream-colored walls, and bold bedding all contribute to a modern look that's accented by abstract art on the wall. It's all a bit generic, but entirely pleasant for a few days spent by the sea. Standard, Executive Suite, and High Tech Suite categories all feature one-room floor plans with square footage typical of most mid-range chain hotel rooms. The layouts allow for exactly enough space for one or two beds, a small dining table with chairs, and a functional work desk. Junior Suites and Master Suites have at least twice the square footage, with separate sleeping and living quarters. These higher-category rooms also have more polished decor, plus larger televisions and (optional) mini-fridges and hot tubs. Every room also features air-conditioning, coffeemakers, and private balconies with pool or ocean views. Tech amenities are as expected for a three-pearl property, including flat-screen TVs with mostly Spanish-language cable service and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms in most categories are small, with just enough room to move around. All rooms provide generic bath amenities and walk-in shower stalls, though fixtures are generally contemporary and include details like square vessel sinks. Noise can be an issue for those in rooms next to the busy road outside.

For a relatively small property, Olas Altas Inn packs a solid list of amenities into a modest footprint. The outdoor pool is clean, well-maintained, and features a waterslide and a swim-up bar. The atmosphere -- especially during high season -- is typically crowded and lively, bordering on rowdy. There are plenty of chairs and umbrellas available. However, it’s difficult for guests not to feel like they’re on top of one another.The adjacent Restaurant Bellamar is located in a bright, modern, casual space that offers views to the pool and sea. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all available a la carte with a menu that features typical Western dishes and traditional Mexican fare. A small, adjoining lounge offers seating for a dozen guests with a TV and a view of the pool. Full bar service -- including beer, wine, and cocktails -- is available. Room service is also available.The hotel’s rooftop spa feels secluded and worlds away from the hustle of the street below. A small, private, sea-facing balcony also has excellent beach views. Two covered hot tubs, a sauna, and a steam room round out the list of features and there's a roomy fitness center with a small selection of equipment for a basic workout. Parking and Wi-Fi are both free at the hotel.Unfortunately, the property is separated from the water by a busy road which makes for a lack of direct beach access. However, the public beach, Playa Norte, is across the street is one of the widest and most beautiful in Mazatlan.