Fodor's Expert Review Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa

Though this colonial-style building is not ocean-side, most rooms have a pleasant view of the cloverleaf-shaped pool and the yacht-filled marina. In 2013, this property became all-inclusive, and a year later many rooms (on the sides of the building) were renovated with a nautical motif in hues of blue and red with anchor-print bedding and miniature replicas of sailboats and lighthouses on display. Standard rooms have two queen beds, and suites have huge patios, Jacuzzi tubs, a living room, and full kitchen. The hotel is on the Golden Zone walkway adjacent to the Puerto Paraíso Mall, meaning guests have direct access to the boardwalk through a private gate.

room

Since a redesign following Hurricane Odile in 2014, Marina Fiesta’s 155 suites have a distinctly nautical theme, with accents like anchor shaped clocks and decorative sailboats and lighthouses. This feels appropriate given the marina setting, and nothing has been sacrificed in the way of comfort; accommodations continue to feature king or queen beds, kitchens or kitchenettes, and private balconies.

bathroom

Hair dryers and hotel branded toiletries are among the standard bathroom amenities.

lobby

The large, airy lobby reflects a traditional Mexican sensibility crossed with a bit of yacht club chic: wrought iron chandeliers and religious iconography at one end of the spectrum, red and blue hued couches and upholstered chairs on the other.

pool

The primary pool area (there are two total) offers gorgeous views of the Cabo San Lucas Marina and the luxury villas that cling to hillsides in the city’s exclusive Pedregal enclave. It’s also home to a palapa, which shades the breakfast dining tables and swim-up cocktail bar. The smaller pool is sportier, with a volleyball net for friendly competitions, as well as its own swim-up bar.

spa

The on-site spa has a Roman feel, with statues and wall painted frescoes. A full range of European style massages and therapies are offered, and a spacious treatment room has been reserved for romantic couples’ options.

gym

How many fitness centers showcase 180-degree views of a yacht-filled marina and the half-mile Land’s End headland? The answer is one; this one. Universal style weight machines are overseen by the on-site personal trainer, and air-conditioning keeps guests from breaking a sweat.

dining

All-inclusive options are predominantly found just off-property, along what is called the Marina Golden Zone: a picturesque stretch of restaurants set along the broad boardwalk promenade that parallels the marina. These include seafood focused specialties at Imomo and Baja Lobster Company (branded as The Oyster Bar from noon to 5 p.m.); Italian cuisine at Presto; Mexican dishes at Los Deseos; and comfort food at the pirate-themed Jack’s and sports bar Golden Legends.

Guests are issued a key to a private gate that offers a shortcut from the property to the Marina Golden Zone restaurants.

drinking

The lobby based La Tequila Bar provides a tasty introduction to the national spirit. For margaritas, swim up service is available at La Palapa.