Hotel Almerimar

The scene at The Almerimar Hotel mostly consists of kids and families enjoying the public features of the property, so it can get crowded even though the pools, beach, and restaurants are expansive. Indoors, the massive lobby with an atrium roof is built with a courtyard style around a multi-tiered water fountain accented with green statues of a family. Inward facing balconies are decorated with hanging green ivy. Glass elevators are a cool touch. There are plenty of couches, wicker chairs, and tables where guests can relax. Outside, the grass looks patchy between the swimming pool area and rocky beach. A white pedestrian promenade leads down the coast.

The hotel is located directly on a somewhat rocky beach in a mostly residential neighborhood of Almeria. There are other nearby hotels much like Hotel Almerimar within walking distance down the beach, as well as a water sports rental shop. You won't find any shops or restaurants so those who want to explore should rent a car. Almerimar golf course is just behind the hotel and the Almeria airport is about a 40-minute drive away. Parking at the hotel is free.

There are 278 rooms and suites at Hotel Almerimar and each of them has basic decor, with neutral colors and pops of blue in the curtains and in abstract paintings hung on the walls. Floors are tiled. Though the rooms are on the smallish side, they are brightly lit and most have private balconies furnished with white plastic chairs and a small table. Upgrade to a Double Twin Room for a small living area with a sofa. Flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi are standard -- as is a mini-fridge with a few cold drinks. The bathrooms are nicely sized with shower/tub combos, double sinks, and semi-private water closets. While some rooms overlook the swimming pool and beach, others have views of the parking lot. Cleanliness and noise aren't issues here. Watch out for twin-size beds pushed together to make a double.

Hotel Almerimar is designed so that guests don't have to leave the property at all during their vacation, unless they want to explore. All-inclusive meal packages are available at the buffet style restaurant, and those that don't book meal options still get the free breakfast buffet. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available on the beach. There's a bar by the pool and in the lobby. The kids' pool is way nicer than the usual shallow circle found at other hotels. This one has slides and a fountain. A second pool includes twisty water slides and a palm tree planted island. There's a third pool indoors with two hot tubs where guests can relax after using the fitness center, sauna, or steam room -- though these facilities could use an upgrade. A beauty salon and event room are useful for weddings. Recreational facilities include tennis courts, worn looking squash courts, and an outdoor playground. There's an indoor kid's club and activities for little ones, tweens, and adults. Finally, the gift shop sells beach gear, newspapers, and gifts.