Family-friendly resort in Mazatlan. Classic, Green.
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Traveler Insights(198 discussions)
El Cid Granada positions itself as the quieter, more refined corner of the El Cid Mazatlan resort complex, and it largely delivers on that promise. The property has the feel of a country club rather than a traditional all-inclusive - manicured gardens, a calm pool atmosphere, and a pace that feels unhurried. The real selling point is the ecosystem you're buying into: access to all four El Cid properties via shuttle means your options for dining, pools, and beach expand well beyond what's physically on the Granada's grounds. For golfers, the adjacent El Cid Golf & Country Club being included in the all-inclusive rate is a genuine standout value that few resorts anywhere can match.
The dining situation rewards guests who explore. The Granada's own a la carte options span Italian, Argentinian, Japanese, and Mexican cuisines, and the breakfast buffet consistently earns top marks. The kids club and teens club setup is well-organized, making this a solid family pick in a destination that's often overlooked in favor of the Cancun corridor. The nightly entertainment and access to the El Cid complex's nightclub gives families and adults the flexibility to have active evenings without leaving the brand. The major practical friction is that beach days require the shuttle to El Cid Castilla, which is easy enough but means the Granada is better suited to guests who don't need sand and water as their primary daily activity.
El Cid Granada makes the most sense for golfers, families, and travelers who want Mazatlan's Old Pacific Mexico character without the full party-resort energy. It competes favorably with mid-tier all-inclusives on price, though paid Wi-Fi and the dated infrastructure in some areas hold it back from a higher tier. If you want the best version of the El Cid experience and beach is your priority, El Cid Marina or El Cid El Moro may serve you better - but for a quiet, golf-anchored retreat with strong food variety, the Granada delivers solid value.
Pros
- +Multi-property access across all El Cid Mazatlan properties via free shuttle means you get the full resort complex experience - pools, beach, restaurants - not just what's on-site
- +Adjacent El Cid Golf & Country Club is widely considered Mazatlan's best course, with green fees included in the all-inclusive rate - a real value add for golfers
- +Kids club serves ages 4 to 12 with food included, and a separate teens club for 13 to 17, making it genuinely family-friendly compared to smaller all-inclusive properties
- +Quiet, garden-like atmosphere that feels like a country club retreat rather than a loud party resort - pool areas are consistently described as peaceful with plenty of loungers
- +Buffet breakfast receives consistently strong praise, particularly the egg station and fresh variety - a solid way to start every day without fighting crowds
- +Access to El Cid Castilla Beach Resort's sprawling pool complex and direct beachfront gives guests a full beach experience the Granada itself doesn't have on-site
- +Strong value positioning compared to Los Cabos or Cancun equivalents - Mazatlan all-inclusive rates run significantly lower for comparable amenity levels
- +Nightclub and nightly entertainment options mean you can transition from relaxed family days to a more lively evening without leaving the El Cid complex
Cons
- −El Cid Granada is the oldest of the four El Cid Mazatlan properties and age shows in certain areas - some hallways, rooms, and common areas feel noticeably dated and in need of renovation
- −The Granada itself has no direct beach access - guests must take the shuttle to El Cid Castilla to reach the beachfront, which is a 5 to 10 minute ride but adds friction to beach days
- −Wifi is paid rather than complimentary, which is a frustrating omission at any all-inclusive resort in 2024 and draws consistent complaints from guests
- −The pool on-site at the Granada is modest in size compared to sister properties - guests expecting a resort-style pool scene will need to shuttle to El Cid Castilla
- −Afternoon music at the pool area starting around 4pm has been reported as loud enough to disrupt guests who prefer a consistently quiet atmosphere
- −The all-inclusive model requires understanding that specialty restaurant access and kids club fees (350 to 500 pesos depending on hours) involve additional costs not always clear at booking
- −Mazatlan as a destination attracts less international tourism traffic than Cancun or Los Cabos, meaning fewer direct flight options and higher travel costs from many US and Canadian cities
- −Some guests report the shuttle schedule between properties doesn't run frequently enough, particularly in the late evening when returning from beach or entertainment at sister resorts
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Google Rating
Google Reviews
“We had an amazing stay here at El CID Granada. The staff was fantastic, the food was great, and the location was central with lots of things to do in the area. A special shout out Rocio and Fabian at the El Patio restaurant for the great service each...”
“El Patio one the best Restaurants at El Moro, El Cid in Mazatlan!!! The food and service are exceptional!!! The atmosphere is pleasant and romantic. We give 5 stars to our server, Adan de Jesus! Adan was so friendly and attentive! Adan made our exper...”
“Really enjoyed our stay at El Cid. Always have a great time. Shout out to Fabian at El Patio, Manuel at Marina Restaurant, Jorge at El Moro pool and both short and tall Carlos at Granada front desk! They all made our stay memorable!”