This property has one of the most dramatic architecture styles; its like that Toyota Scion boxy car...you either love it or hate it.
The hotel claimed to be sold out on our arrival, negating the possibility for a room upgrade. I say 'claimed' because my sister was running a medical conference there and she had already gotten some of her preferred doctors to get their rooms juggled around, with no status. Not a major deal, as our room was well-sized and a perfect sweeping view of the beach. I just would have preferred the Front Desk to be straight with me!!
A small problem with the magnetic key not working was handled promptly and nicely.
The hotel layout is extremely curious, nothing is in a straight line, all the pathways are quite circuitous, some might say scenic. Again, not a big deal nor a complaint. Just give yourself at least 5-7 minutes to get from the beach to your room, despite what looks like a 45 second staight line walk!!!
The food at the pool restaurant was quite tasty, fresh and well-portioned. The margaraitas hovered around $10 for lots of booze in a 16 ounce cup. Considering that the Westin is 20 minutes to either of the local towns, they can charge pretty much whatever they want to their captive audience. I'm not surprised nor critical of this situation...just be prepared with alot of money or stock up at a local grocery store.
The sushi restaurant I regret to say, was indeed a rip-off; it crossed the line from very expensive but justified like the other food outlets there, to just plain rip-off...$14 for a spicy tuna roll!!!!! Sorry for the rant.
The lounge chairs seem to have an informal 'you put your towl there, it's yours' policy, so get there early for prime space. The pools were well-sized. The beach is gorgeous and long, but the waves can be tricky, so tread cautiously, if at all.
There are two tennis courts if you can figure out how to get to the roof!! There is miniature golf off the beach.
Going south 20 minutes to Cabo is your basic Ixtapa/Cancun crowd and vibe. Going north to San Jose is more a Puerta Vallarta rustic experience. I vote north!!!
I personally prefer my hotels to be a part of the area that they are located (like Puerta Vallarta), or at least within a few minute drive (like Cancun), so that I'm so much a hostage of the hotel property and can get a better local flavor. But as a strictly resort property, I think the Westin holds its own.
Review submitted by Steve B.
Posted at May 19, 2007 2:55 PM