Tivoli Marina Portimão

This apartment-style hotel is spread out over three low-rise buildings, and has a low-key vibe that's par for the course in the Algarve. The reception area is housed in a beige circular structure with a porte cochere out front. Inside, the two-story lobby area is open and bright. It's decorated with bamboo and wooden tribal and tiki objects against a white backdrop for a beachy, exotic atmosphere, though the overall effect is dated. Cushioned sofas and chairs provide places for guests to hang out, and the bar on the second floor looks down onto the space. Outdoor spaces, including the playground, kids' pool, and main pool, are in the center of the property. This area can get quite lively in the warmer months, but it's quiet in the off-season. With its location along the marina and near the beach, this property appeals to all types of guests, including cyclists, mature couples, groups, and families. 

This hotel is located in the resort area of Portimao, next to the lively strip along Praia da Rocha and the marina. It's surrounded by numerous restaurants, bars, pubs, and shops, and there are several golf courses in the area as well. Although it's only a five-minute walk to Praia da Rocha, the area is quiet and the hotel has a fabulous view over the village of Ferragudo, across the river. A free hotel shuttle takes guests anywhere within the resort and to Praia da Rocha, and the hotel also is close to public transportation, including a water taxi. The medieval Fort of Santa Catarina can be reached in 15 minutes on foot, and the Portimao Museum is a five-minute drive. Faro Airport is about an hour's drive away, and the Lisbon Airport is about two-and-a-half hours away by car. 

This property offers studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, divided into three buildings: the Marina Sun, Marina Deck, and Marina Beach. Decor in all is simple and a bit dated, with tile floors, white walls, light-colored wood and wicker furniture, and neutral color schemes. The heavy, striped drapery and bland modern art work together to contribute to the out-of-fashion effect, though overall the style is pleasant enough for a few nights' rest near the beach. All apartments come with kitchenettes that include microwaves, mini-fridges, cook tops, and sinks. Dishes, cookware, and silverware are provided. The one- and two-bedroom apartments have separate living and sleeping areas, plus a dining area. Other standard amenities include kettles for tea and coffee, safes, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi isn't free in rooms and there's a refundable deposit for using safes. Bathrooms have tiled shower/tub combos, hairdryers, toiletries, and bidets. Sliding glass doors lead to a furnished balcony or terrace, some with nice views of the marina. 

This hotel offers a predictable number of features that most mid-range properties in the area also have, though it's lacking a spa or indoor pool. One of three outdoor pools, the huge main pool is rectangular and suitable for swimming laps. It is surrounded by a wide pool deck lined with lounge chairs and straw umbrellas. Palm trees add to the ambiance, and a few daybeds are available on the grassy lawn. A smaller kids' pool and playground with swing set and slide are adjacent. The Marina Sun building has a smaller, quieter pool.

Deck Bar and Restaurant serves all meals in a sunny, light-filled space with a tile floor, wooden tables, deck chairs, and beautiful views of the marina and River Arade. Guests can also dine on the terrace in warmer months. The chic bar area with white sofas and chairs is open only in summer. There's also a snack bar by the pool in the warmer months. Breakfast is only included with some rates.

The spacious, light-filled fitness center offers cardio and weight-training machines, as well as free weights, exercise balls, and beautiful views of the marina through large windows. There's also a nice playground for kids. A couple of computers and printers are set up in a corner of the bar for guests to use. The hotel's events spaces can accommodate up to 150 people for business or social gatherings. A free shuttle runs to the beach. Wi-Fi is free in public areas and meeting spaces, but requires a fee in the rooms.