I stayed at this property and what i liked best:
1. Close to the surfing beach. it was right down the beach only short walk
2. Joes Oyster Bar: Its a great spot for a drink and dancing at night

Here are some videos:
Views from my suite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzG11GuaOks
Surfing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q0I9WGSlsg
More Surfing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7D3IQ6WigyU
Joes Oyster Bar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeaGIDU7hn0

this resort has the potential but we struggled with the service. when I asked where we could mail a postcard the front desk just said "don't know" and walked away. We found a post office less than a block from the resort! TVs are only in Spanish - the other resorts have Spanish and English channels. the kitchen lacked things like dish soap, sponge, dishtowels, knives. the WiFi worked intermittently. Service in the restaurant was spotty - three different people would try to take your order but then forget to bring your drinks. The absolute worse thing however, is Joes Oyster Bar. It blasts disco music until 4 or 5 am every night! No matter which room you sleep in you can't get away from the noise. If you want to party stay here, otherwise go to the Riu or El Rancho up north. Housekeepers did provide good service.

When we are in Mazatlan, one of our favourite initiatives is to walk along the Malecon. We stay in Old Town and walk north along the Malecon to the Ramada. It's our favourite morning task which allows to remain somewhat fit. We love to make our "reward" a stop at the Ramada Ocean Front Restaurant. It's always well staffed and has a great view. Early mornings are usually sparse of patrons. We recommend the coffe with Bailey's Irish Cream.

This resort used to be El Sabalos. It has been remodeled and freshened. The staff are helpful and friendly and the waiters at the pool are around but not hounding you constantly. Friends waited for us for two hours without being hasseled about having a different hotel band. Not so at their hotel ( El Cid Castilla). Waiters there were quite annoying. The beach is beautiful and more sheltered than hotels further north. Lots of shops and restaurants near.