We loved our time at Hyatt Ziva. We researched quite a bit to find the perfect an all-inclusive resort on the beach for our family and we were happy with our choice!
The property is beautiful with stylish, thoughtful architecture that frames ocean views, even a mature tree and has gorgeous infinity pools that allow you to sit on a lounge chair barely in the pool and enjoy the view. Very secure gated entry. The beach is private and easily accessible and the staff goes above and beyond to make your experience wonderful. Our three year old daughter is still talking about Okimy, the activities director, who would take a knee each time he saw her coming and say “Sweden, I love you forever!” He made the experience so fun for all of us. Jesus and others did a fantastic job taking care of us at Blaze, the seafood and steak restaurant. Blaze has killer sunsets and ocean views! We loved breakfast offerings at VivaZ buffet with the authentic mexican dishes and plenty of american staples with delicious twists. Try their healthy green drink (juice and veg blend) - yummy. The outdoor seating also has lovely pool, ocean and garden views. Overall the food was decent - what you’d expect from an all inclusive. The only restaurant we didn’t love was Melanzane (italian) but maybe it was just the menu and setting that night. It was patio dining only which was drab and the food was unfortunately drab also. PureZa and Casa Grande were closed for Covid. They switch the menu at Blaze a bit nightly to offer more variety and since the views are amazing we opted to dine there the most. Room service was also great.
Highly recommend the Club Tower - its the newest section of the resort and the hot tub suite is worth the splurge. The balcony with hot tub has incredible ocean and sunset views. Rooms are stylish and comfortable. Robes and slippers upon request. The kids club was closed (and quite a distance from the main hotel and pools) but they did pool side activities and sand castles etc which were great. The spa is a must - it has private hot pools in a beautiful setting overlooking the ocean (go an hour before your treatment!) and our therapists were fantastic.
For a great excursion and some culture I recommend an easy waterfall hike and some beach time at Yelapa (30 min boat ride away). Be sure to get delicious pie from the “pie lady” who has been selling pies for years along the beach! Also worth leaving the resort one night for dinner at La Palapa (7 min cab ride). A historic restaurant on the beach with gourmet, delicious food.
We also love Garza Blanca (fairly close by) for a more VIP experience in a more lush setting with slightly better food...but their beach is smaller, rocky and not as convenient for the added price. If you want the beach and want to hear the ocean waves crashing at night from your room Hyatt is better - Garza has some road noise from their rooms. Garza seems to attract higher-end clientele / older couples while Hyatt seems to cater more to hyatt points members, friend getaways, gay couples and drinkers. Garza is quieter, more romantic while Hyatt seems more active and upbeat but romantic as well...you can rent a private candlelit cabana on the beach for a romantic dinner.
Hyatt Ziva is a fantastic escape - even in January when it gets cooler at night!