Fodor's Expert Review Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort

Small domes and barrel tile roofs top eight buildings at this lovely, hacienda-style resort in the Cabo Del Sol development. Make your way past tiered fountains to the rooms with wrought iron and wood furnishing, Mexican textiles, and terra-cotta floors. The whirlpool tubs and large balconies with ocean views take the hotel beyond chain standards. Standard rooms have either two double beds or one queen, with ocean or garden views. Huge, luxurious pools are surrounded by palms and all the chaise lounges guests need. The 450-yard beach is beautiful, and sometimes the sea in this sheltered cove is calm enough for a swim.

room

Rooms are clean, comfortable, and largely contemporary, with colorful accents and spectacular terrace views of the Sea of Cortés.

bathroom

Hand-painted sink and shower tiles liven up the bathrooms, which also include decadent touches like enormous mirrors and over-sized bathtubs.

lobby

The lobby sets the tone for Sheraton’s colonial style Hacienda del Mar property, with exquisitely detailed period furnishings arrayed between patterned floors and a wood-beamed ceiling, and lighting from wall-mounted sconces augmented by candle filled wrought iron candelabras.

pool

Pleasures at the five resort pools range from infinity edge views of the Sea of Cortés to kid-friendly waterfalls and waterslides.

The beach fronts swimmable waters, and snorkel and fins are available from the activities desk.

spa

Massages are among the many relaxing treatments and therapies at Sheraton’s Cactus Spa. Invigorating amenities and facilities such as sauna, steam room, and hot and cold plunge pools are also available.

The newlyweds package pairs couples’ massages with glasses of sparkling wine.

gym

Treadmills, ellipticals, and other cardio focused machines headline the options at the on-site fitness center.

dining

Hacienda del Mar’s on-site dining options rival any resort collection in the area. Pitahayas has been the star attraction for two decades, thanks to chef Volker Romeike’s innovative Pan-Pacific fusions; but the steaks and seafood at De Cortez are also superb, as are the traditional Mexican specialties at Girasoles de la Hacienda. Lighter fare is available at Las Sirenas, with Tomatoes focusing on Mediterranean dishes.

drinking

Bar La Suerte is a stylish stop for pre or postprandial cocktails, Delfines Bar offers tropical themed pooside refreshments, and the Sports Bar is de rigeur for beer and billiards.