Hotel Rockaway

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location directly across from Zicatela beach, offering immediate access to surfing and a vibrant atmosphere. Its signature feature is its ability to provide a lively, central experience while maintaining a comfortable and clean environment. Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness, comfortable rooms, attentive staff, excellent breakfast, and convenient access to nightlife and dining. It is an ideal choice for surfers and party-goers seeking an energetic environment. The hotel is also well-suited for families due to its amenities and safe feel, and couples looking for a lively escape. For a more restful stay, light sleepers should consider requesting rooms away from the main street to minimize noise from nearby clubs, and all guests are encouraged to take full advantage of the highly-rated complimentary breakfast.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features multiple pools, including a dedicated kids' pool and an adults' pool, which are frequently described as clean and pleasant, providing a refreshing escape. While many guests enjoy the warm water, some note that the number of sun loungers can be limited during peak times. A gym is available for guest use, though feedback suggests it is small and some equipment, such as a treadmill, may be out of order. Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, but its connectivity is often described as inconsistent or weak, particularly within the rooms, which can pose challenges for those needing reliable internet access. Rooms are equipped with refrigerators, and guests can request an iron and utilize complimentary beach and pool towels. The hotel also offers convenient water refill stations and has an elevator, though its functionality is occasionally reported as intermittent. Some rooms are also equipped with kitchenettes.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel for the cleanliness and overall comfort of its rooms, which are regularly maintained by daily housekeeping. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep, and many appreciate the spacious rooms, although some standard room types are noted to be on the smaller side. In-room amenities typically include efficient air conditioning and a TV, often with streaming capabilities like Netflix or YouTube. A significant recurring concern, however, is the noise levels, particularly in rooms facing the main street, where loud music from nearby clubs can extend late into the night. Some guests also report noise disturbances from the pool area or adjacent rooms. While bathrooms are generally clean, some guests have experienced issues such as low water pressure, lukewarm water, or occasional sewage smells. Additionally, some older rooms may show signs of mold or have loose fixtures.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a standout feature, consistently receiving high praise from guests. It is frequently described as delicious, varied, and substantial, offering multiple options such as hotcakes, eggs prepared to order, chilaquiles, and fresh fruit. Guests particularly appreciate the quality and the fact that meals are made to order rather than being a buffet. The on-site restaurant provides a convenient option for other meals and snacks, with accessible prices and a varied menu, though some guests find the food to be simple or average in taste. Service at the restaurant can sometimes be slow, especially during busy periods. Additionally, a bar is available, offering drinks at fair prices, allowing guests to relax and enjoy refreshments by the pool or in the common areas.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location directly across the street from Zicatela beach, making it an ideal choice for surfers and those seeking immediate beach access. It is centrally situated within a vibrant area, surrounded by a multitude of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shops, including convenience stores and pharmacies, ensuring guests have everything they need within easy reach. Taxis are readily available directly outside the hotel, providing convenient transportation. While Zicatela beach is renowned for its strong waves and is not always suitable for swimming, other swimmable beaches, such as Carrizalillo, are just a short taxi ride away. For guests arriving by car, parking is available on-site, though it is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which can be a consideration during peak seasons.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness, and helpfulness. Many guests highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests and ensure a pleasant stay. The reception process is generally smooth, contributing to a positive first impression, although a few guests have noted minor delays during check-in. Specific services that guests appreciate include the provision of beach towels, assistance with baggage, and the flexibility to remain on the premises after check-out, with access to showers, which is particularly convenient for those with later flights. While staff are quick to respond to guest concerns, some reviews indicate that issues are not always fully resolved on the initial attempt. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing excellent service is a recurring theme in guest feedback.

Additional Information
Guests considering a stay should be aware that rooms facing the main street can experience significant noise due to nearby nightlife and club music that often continues until early morning hours. The hotel may offer to move guests to quieter rooms located around the pool area if availability permits. A bracelet is required for all guests to identify them, a policy some find unnecessary. There is also a specific policy regarding lost or damaged room key fobs, with a notable fee charged for replacements. Some reviews mention ongoing repairs or construction either within the hotel or in the immediate vicinity, which can generate noise during daytime hours. Furthermore, the hotel features many stairs and uneven surfaces, which might present challenges for guests with mobility issues, and some reviews point out a lack of ramps for wheelchairs.