Rating8.0
Rating7.9
Rating8.1A genuinely strong activity list, with most options included. Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and windsurfing all available from the beach. Three tennis courts, archery, pickleball, and a fitness center. The Barcy Kids Club for ages 5-12 runs 9 AM - 5 PM. Cooking classes are included — a popular option for guests who want to learn basic Mexican techniques. Golf at the adjacent Palma Real Course is extra charge but walkable from the property.
Large family pool with hydromassage area, 8 AM - 8 PM. Poolside loungers and beverage service. Gets crowded from 10 AM - 3 PM in peak season. Towel-reserved chairs are the earliest morning frustration.
Second large family pool. Slightly less crowded than Pool 1 in the afternoon when the swim-up bar draws the crowd to Pool 3.
The busiest and most social pool. Swim-up bar with cocktails and fresh juices. The afternoon energy here is lively — the right choice if you want a party pool atmosphere.
Separate quiet pool with its own swim-up bar. The most peaceful daytime space on the property. Worth claiming a lounger early if you prefer calm over activity.
Shallow, safe, dedicated kids' area. Parents can see the pool from nearby loungers.
A wide, sandy beach with generally gentle wave action — one of the calmer beaches in Ixtapa, which makes it appropriate for families. The resort provides complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and towel service. Beverage service reaches the beach. Non-motorized water sports available from the beach sports station. Current is mild; conditions are typically swimmable for adults and children. Sargassum seaweed is occasional but not a chronic problem here compared to the Caribbean coast.
Included. El Palmar beach has calm enough conditions for beginners. Available from the beach sports desk.
Included. The gentle waves on El Palmar make this more accessible than at surf-oriented beaches.
Included. Best snorkeling is actually off Ixtapa Island (a 10-minute boat ride, extra charge) rather than El Palmar, but the included equipment lets you explore the nearshore.
Included. Conditions at Playa Quieta nearby are better for wind; El Palmar is fine for beginners.
Three courts, included. Available during the day. Popular morning activity.
Included. Organized sessions and free play available. The beach volleyball court draws regular pickup games.
Included. Organized sessions and free play available. The beach volleyball court draws regular pickup games.
Included — increasingly popular sport, and the resort's inclusion of it is ahead of most all-inclusives in Ixtapa.
Included — unusual for an all-inclusive. A good activity for kids 10+ and adults who want something different.
Ages 5-12, 9 AM - 5 PM. Arts, crafts, games, movies, mini aerobics. Consistently praised by families.
Included. Mexican cuisine focus — participants make tamales, guacamole, or salsas depending on the day. Book at the activities desk on arrival.
Included, air-conditioned, 6 AM - 10 PM, ages 16+. Better-equipped than average for the property's tier.
Extra charge. The adjacent Palma Real Golf Course is genuinely walkable — one of the clearest golf conveniences of any Mexican all-inclusive.
Ixtapa Island boat trips (good snorkeling), dolphin encounters, and Zihuatanejo market tours available through the tour desk. Extra charge.
Ages 5-12, 9 AM - 5 PM. Arts, crafts, games, movies, mini aerobics. Consistently praised by families.
Enjoy a variety of daily entertainment programs designed to delight the whole family.
Broadway and Mexican Party themed shows are the best nights. General variety shows are inconsistent.
Dance the night away at the on-site disco, Sanca Bar Nightclub, offering a lively evening atmosphere.
Showcase your singing talents with fun karaoke sessions, perfect for an entertaining night with friends and family.
Included. Mexican cuisine focus — participants make tamales, guacamole, or salsas depending on the day. Book at the activities desk on arrival.
Experience the thrill of motorized water sports like jet skiing or explore underwater wonders with scuba diving, available nearby for an additional fee.
Embark on an exciting deep-sea fishing adventure to catch local game fish, available for an extra cost.
Extra charge. The adjacent Palma Real Golf Course is genuinely walkable — one of the clearest golf conveniences of any Mexican all-inclusive.
Professional babysitting services are available to care for younger children, allowing parents to enjoy an evening out, for an additional charge.
Ixtapa Island boat trips (good snorkeling), dolphin encounters, and Zihuatanejo market tours available through the tour desk. Extra charge.