TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

I initially booked at the El CID Granada but they put us at the Castilla. We were looking forward to the mini suite with a fridge and other amenities. When I came here the first time, there was lots of loungers on the beach to use. This time, there wasn't as many and you had to be at the beach early to secure a spot. Breakfast are good. They have lots to choose from and the omelette bar is great. Staff are very friendly. I think we came to realize that all inclusive is not necessarily for us as we really like to check things out and eat at some restaurants outside the resorts. Drinks are not the greatest but they are free. We bought beers from the store to bring on the beach. It's a convenient spot but not sure we'll stay again. We might try Playa Mazatlán ne t Time which is also located in the Golden Zone. Lots of stuff to do here compared to Cerritos beach where the Riu is located. We do love Mazatlán and we'll definitely be back.

we did the Elite package and were very happy overall! Clean rooms, beds were good. and access to all the restaurants that were affiliated with the El Cid Castilla. Big Rave to Fabian, one of the many servers we meet at the breakfast buffet (and other restaurants shifts) but definitely our favorite. He bent over hand and foot, not that we were needy, LOL, to make sure to accommodate us with whatever we needed. Always with a smile, a good laugh and lovely conversation! I miss him already! The resort was very nice with lots of pools, pool activity and access to drinks and food, no matter what time of day. So many pool areas to choose from. The rooms were comfortable, and the staff were pleasant for the most part. Not sure if we were there on an off time for the room cleaning or because we are cleaner than some, but all they did was after 3 days was tidy the covers on the beds, sheets were still all rumpled, empty the garbage and that was it. No cleaning of the sinks, tub or toilet and the floor was still left with whatever hair or dust was there when we came back.. and then had to wait for hours to get any kind of towels we needed and could not get face cloths for some reason. Made us feel like they grabbed the tip and did as little as possible not seeing what they left behind. So we just did not bother with room cleaning after that. The variety of buffets and menus at all the restaurants was nice and some better than others, and if we had more days we would have chosen certain ones over again. We would stay there again. The Elite Club staff were very nice and answered all our questions and very courteous!

Pool concierge goes over and above his duties to ensure our stay and pool experience the best it can possibly be. A real asset to the resort.

We went to El Cid last week as a family of four with a 19 year old and 22 year old. The resort is very much an older crowd (60-80 years apprx). There is not much to do in the evenings and the shows are very low-brow. They are also held in the dining hall which we found quite odd. Overall grounds are clean and inviting. Food was really good throughout our stay. Plenty of water available to drink. Pros: -nice room -daily maid service -beautiful ocean view with patio -FOOD IS GOOD!!! -lots of restaurants to choose from with the Elite plan, not sure about regular plan -can use multiple pools as well -bar service at the pool was very good -gym is large but on other side of the road -free shuttle to take you to Marina location. Cons: -on a busy street, can hear traffic from your room -service was ok, but not great. I didn't find most of the breakfast staff to be very friendly, but one at the evening restaurant was very nice. Overall didn't feel as inviting as other resorts I have stayed at. -drink options seemed limited compared to other resorts -no nightlife at all; not much to do on site I would not stay here again just because I prefer more of the jungle vibe of Mayan Riveria; but if you like an urban location then this is great. Definitely a clean, nice resort with good food and beach that you can swim in. Elite club probably worth the money- they had real alcohol that you can help yourself to between 9am-9pm, and easy to grab bottle of water or beer from the fridge without having to go the bar. Staff in elite club was VERY friendly and welcoming. -

We had been to Mazatlan multiple times, but first time in this hotel. We received elite package which was amazing as it gave you access to all the restaurants. Our favorite was LA Concha and we received Fantastic service from Nein Saizar. He was very friendly and attentive with all our needs.