9 Best Hotels in Manzanillo, Mexico

Manzanillo's all-inclusive, all-suites hotel entry from this well-known Spanish hotel chain has grounds punctuated by cascades, fountains, and multi-tier lagoons. There's also a palapa restaurant at the ocean's edge. Each junior suite has marble floors, a balcony or terrace, a sofa bed, and a large tub with separate shower facilities. Corner suites have two bedrooms, a bath, a kitchen, and a dining room as well as a balcony with a plunge pool.

Every detail at this outlet of a trusted Mexican chain has been well planned—from the oversized arch windows and entry to the marble floors and dark-wood furniture—and the service is exceptional. Suites have a minimalist style and two or three bedrooms, so they're perfect for families. Note that the beach here has rough sand and a strong current; the water isn't suitable for swimming, but it's lovely to look at from the pool.

The classic appeal of this four-story, central hotel—frequently used in Mexican movies since its construction in 1944—extends from the stained-glass windows to the intricate curlicues of its brown woodwork to the tarnished little bell that sits on the receptionist's desk. Rooms are small but comfortable, and some include such architectural surprises as a split-level bathroom. The only downer is the artificial turf in the central courtyard. It's only a block from the waterfront zócalo, and the Wi-Fi in the restaurant usually works.

There's not much character in these blocks of basic motel-style rooms plunked down on the beach, but they're a good value, with cable TV, room service, and air-conditioning. The restaurant, El Marinero, as well as the buffet serve delicious Spanish, seafood, and Mexican fare. The hotel offers a variety of meal plans, or none at all. Ask to stay in the newer section (the cost is the same), where some standard rooms have ocean views and balconies. Marbella offers many Web-only specials.

Only one of the famous old iron keys and antique locks remain, but the vibe that permeates this bright-pink beachfront lodging is as special as ever. Hoteliers Lisa and Juan Martínez have carefully applied their personal touch to a place that has been a favorite with North Americans since 1957. The large, open-air living-dining-bar area has rustic walls and equipale (pigskin and wood) furnishings. Only a few rooms have balconies, but all have screened windows. There's an honor-system beer and soda bar. You'll find a real sense of community among staff and guests, around the pool and over the complimentary morning breakfast. You receive a slight discount if you opt for no air-conditioning, but you'll need it here.

The undulating roofs of the Moorish-style buildings glow pink in the afternoon sun. There's an almost hallucinogenic quality to the 15 acres of lacy palms, stylized geometric hedges, flamboyant orange-flowering trees, and white umbrellas on a small but virtually private beach. Las Hadas isn't as exclusive as it once was, but it still more than holds its own against the hotels that have followed it to Peninsula de Santiago. White-on-white room decoration (even the TVs are white) is elegant and understated, and accented by pleasing touches like driftwood lamps; polished marble, fine sheets, and plush towels appear in both standard rooms and suites. The Legazpi restaurant is one of the city's most exclusive. Las Hadas offers frequent Web-only discounts.

This all-inclusive 45 minutes north of Manzanillo is the kind of place where you might be tempted to stay for days without leaving the grounds. The major draw here is the lovely secluded bay with jungly mountain backdrop. You might catch a glimpse of turtles, dolphins, or whales while kayaking here or even just sitting on the beach. Things are in need of refurbishing; don't be surprised to see paint-chipped exteriors and furniture that's seen better days. Still, all rooms face the bay; the food is tasty; and there are activities for children, night shows, and a choice of water activities or tours.

For a white-stucco link in a hotel chain—admittedly a small Mexican chain—this resort manages to exude some real personality. The rooms are handsome, the number of activities is dizzying, and the location on La Audiencia is sweet. A poolside snack bar doubles as a midnight disco; before that, hit the predictable floor show or the lounge, where the piano man sings corny-but-cool Mexican and American standards. All rooms have balconies, but not all have views. Take a look before you bring up the luggage.

If you don't mind being near the beach, rather than on it, here's one of the most affordable hotels in Las Hadas Peninsula. Rooms in the Spanish-style villas are spacious and decorated simply with carved wooden furniture, and equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and toasters. Master suites are outfitted with more complete kitchens, a Jacuzzi, and a large seating area, and make a good option for a housekeeping holiday.