The hotel zone and Esmerelda K beach areas are about 10-20 minutes south of town (by car) right on the ocean. The hotel zone itself is roughly divided into three different areas. The North, located up near the ruins, is the quiet, romantic area. The chic Middle has the beach clubs, restaurants and most of the nightlife. And the South and “Esmerelda K ” areas are very family-friendly and boast wide sandy beaches.