Now you mention pets. My 2 overnight recommendations would be ideal for you. You might find something nice on the outskirts of Mazatlan but after 2 days of driving, we liked the oceanfront location of Los Arcos. Coming from the north, exit the Cuota at the first mention of a Mazatlan exit, then proceed south, go around the marina and go a couple miles, then take a right off that road to the first road off the beach. Los Arcos is there.