Fodor's Expert Review Solmar Resort

The sandy colored Solmar sits against the rocks at Land's End facing the surging Pacific. The all-suite accommodations are simple but clean, and are done in a Mexico–Santa Fe style. The oldest rooms have gorgeous ocean views, and you literally feel the waves breaking on the nearby beach. Time-share units (also used as hotel rooms) have kitchenettes and a private pool area. The all-inclusive plan gives access to three restaurants and a bar. The surf here is far too dangerous for swimming, but don't miss a stroll along the wide strip of beach. The Solmar's sportfishing service is a longtime local favorite, and a small spa adds to the attraction.

room

Suites offer balcony or patio views, comfortable bedding and appointments, and cozy décor highlighted by Mexican artwork and artisanal furnishings. The dining set chairs, for example, are all handmade in the mainland state of Michoacán.

Kitchenette appliances include a two-burner stove, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and blender.

bathroom

The colorfully tiled bathrooms reflect the 1970s era aesthetic, with wooden louvered cabinets that look to have been sourced from a vintage motorsailer.

Hair dryers are a standard amenity.

lobby

Solmar Resort’s lobby is substantially less impressive than that at Grand Solmar, a mere 20 or so yards away. The cool, air-conditioned interior is largely given over to a check-in area and desks for concierge and other services, but fresh flowers and old wood furnishings give it a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

pool

Chaise lounges line the perimeter of the two large pools, and a beachfront area is set aside for nightly theme parties, often featuring bonfires and live music.

spa

Beachside cabañas are constructed Baja style with palo de arco walls and palapa roofs, providing plenty of ventilation for the cool ocean breezes. Relaxing massages headline the available treatments and therapies.

gym

There is no gym at Solmar Resort, but guests are welcome to use the facilities at the neighboring Playa Grande Resort.

dining

Breakfast and lunch specialties at Tejaban include the house omelet with ham, cheese, chorizo, and serrano chile peppers, as well as Mexican comfort food favorites like burritos, tacos, and fajitas. El Trebol excels at deli sandwiches, and the poolside Sushi Factory is the go-to stop for freshly caught local seafood.

El Trebol serves excellent pork ribs in BBQ sauce.

drinking

Grab a submerged stool at the swim-up Pool Bar, where burgers are BLTs provide ballast between rounds of salt-rimmed margaritas.