At the far north end of the island at Playa Norte, ChiChi and Charlies (also called Cuxos) is just what the photos look like. Casual and clean, older but decent furniture, good bed, and gorgeous views of the ocean. Our junior suite (#9) had a huge patio with perfect views of the sunset. It’s an easy, albeit crowded, 10-15 minute walk from the ferry terminal. It’s mostly manageable with luggage, although the last little bit is sandy and uneven for a roller bag. If you can carry your bag for 100 yards, you’ll be ok. If you arrive more than a couple hours before 3pm check-in, there may not be anyone in the office. We left our bags behind the desk and went out for lunch with no problems. You have free access to the beach with umbrellas and lounge chairs and it’s a quick walk to the main pedestrian area of Hidalgo street.
My only caveat is that there is a very, very loud outdoor club directly next door to the south-west. Our room, being on that side of the hotel, got the music full blast until 2am. Noise-cancelling headphones playing white noise didn’t even completely drown it out. Now, if you are on the island to party, the music won’t matter. If you are a strong sleeper (like my husband), the music won’t matter. If you are like me and struggle to fall and stay asleep, don’t stay in junior suite #9 or on the southwest side of the hotel.