Courtesy photo: Mazatlan Tourism Board

Mazatlán, the “Pearl of the Pacific,” long known for its endless beaches, deep sea fishing and mass-market accommodation now offers secluded luxury quarters. Sumptuous rooms may be hidden away in modernized historic landmarks or secreted to the top of 15-storey towers, positioned for memorable Mexican sunsets. With a little insider knowledge, those who prefer to be outside the limelight yet demand luxurious lodgings can be satiated. While some with a penchant for luxury come for the Angela Peralta Theater’s internationally acclaimed opera and theater, all will come back for Mazatlan’s smiling, topnotch service and charming vibe.

Casa Lucila Boutique Hotel Modern

Casa Lucila Boutique Hotel Modern

This boutique hotel with a rich history that includes John Wayne and Ernest Hemingway – who also sought to duck the public eye – offers elegant, minimalist room design. Nab a top-floor room to score immediate access to the roof-top infinity pool with romantic sunset views. Walk to the vibrant heart of the city, where almost 500 buildings are designated as national historic landmarks, for music and street art. The select, eight-room hotel is located on Mazatlán’s iconic Malecón, one of the longest boardwalks in the world. www.casalucila.com

El Cid Castilla Beach Hotel, Mazatlán

Party like a rock star in the Presidential Suite where you and seven of your best friends can listen to the surf on your huge private balcony, hang out in your own Jacuzzi or stretch out in the living room. The three-bedroom suite in the 15-storey tower has a bar, kitchenette, dining room and three marbled bathrooms. Put the children in El Cid’s Kids or Teens Club and take the complimentary shuttle to the nearby El Cid Golf and Country Club to swing the clubs or tennis rackets. www.elcid.com

Presidential Suite at El Cid Castilla Beach Hotel

Playa Mazatlán Beach Hotel

Courtesy photo: Mazatlan Tourism Board

The Pacifica Penthouse at this beachside hotel combines the ultimate in luxury – private rooftop infinity pool, split-level living room and full, granite-topped kitchen – with amazing ocean sunset views through its floor to ceiling glass windows. Other top-rated accommodation options include standard rooms, boutique rooms, and junior suites. The grounds are landscaped to perfection with pools, waterfalls, and cascades. Guests love the attentive staff and deluxe amenities such as dinner shows and entertainment. www.hotelplayamazatlan.com

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort and Spa

Master Suite Living Room

Luxurious junior and master suites provide a sanctuary for your spirit with private terraces and panoramic ocean views. Bodysurf in the bathtub-warm waves of the private Pacific Ocean beach or take some sun at one of the five pools, two with swim-up bars. Mazatlán’s only AAA Four Diamond resort was acknowledged by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the Top Resorts in Mexico (Western). www.pueblobonito.com

Private beach at Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort and Spa

Common to the travel industry, writer Stacey Wittig was hosted to Mazatlán. While that has not influenced this review, the writer believes in full disclosure.