Sunset Beach Club

As Costa del Sol resorts go, the Sunset Beach Club is at the top of many travelers' lists. Is it particularly chic and modern? No. Do some areas need a little TLC? Yes. But the upbeat vibe throughout the property, including an excellent entertainment program and plenty of options to stay busy without ever leaving the hotel, are a major draw and make it a destination in its own right. Common areas are lively throughout, with kids making joyful noise and plenty of couples and groups of friends as well (many of whom are from the U.K.). As mentioned, decor is nothing about which to write a soliloquy, but the common spaces feature plenty of granite, marble, and dark wood accents throughout. The lobby's style does bely it's beachside location, and looks more like a modern office building entrance, while the aqua and yellow tile floor in the buffet restaurant is downright outdated. Other venues, like the Panorama Bar, offer a nod to the Old World, with a coffered ceiling, marble floors, and woven rugs. Sea views are a highlight here, along with several outdoor pools, all of which can be busy.

The Sunset Beach Club is just across the street from the beach in the Torrequebrada area of Benalmadena, along Spain's Costa del Sol. There are a few underwhelming dining options in the area, mostly limited to fast food, but to see anything of interest beyond the beach guests will need a car. The popular Torrequebrada Golf Club is a five-minute drive from the resort, as are downtown Benalmadena, the marina area, and Parque de la Paloma. Tivoli World and Sea Life Benalmadena, both family favorites, are a 10-minute drive from the hotel, while more mature guests can experience a slice of traditional Spanish life in Pueblo de Benalmadena, the historic old town; it's 10 minutes away by car. The Malaga Airport is a 20-minute drive. 

Like many of the resorts lining Spain's coast, these rooms are aimed at mid-budget families, and the rooms reflect that. They have a homey level of style and comfort, but certainly won't win any design awards. That fact aside, they are much nicer than many of the woefully dated resorts in the area. Handsome gray marble floors drive the value here up a notch, and there is simple light wood furniture throughout the apartments creating a homey ambience. Seating consists of overstuffed love seats and chairs in attractive charcoal hues, and wall art is faded and generic, whether it's abstract or floral. Beds are topped with patterned bedspreads that aren't the sharpest we've seen, though Junior Suites have more attractive duvets, and all apartments have full kitchens with coffeemakers, ovens, microwaves, stovetops, mini-fridges, and toasters. Additionally, each apartment has a furnished balcony, many with excellent sea views. Some larger apartments have iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs, and full-size refrigerators while others have tube-style TVs. Bathrooms are a bit dated, with tan marble walls and floors, bathtub/shower combos, and generic toiletries. Some more modern units have walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. Free Wi-Fi is only available in the suites; guests needing Wi-Fi in other rooms must pay. Guests should be aware that certain rooms pick up noise from the on-site entertainment into the night, and the use of safes incurs a charge.

The hotel's massive pool complex holds four pools overall, including two free-form outdoor pools with plenty of lounge seating and exceptional sea views. Two kids' pools are within the area as well, including one that resembles a splash pad. A poolside bar with snacks and drinks is also available. The hot buffet breakfast (included with some packages) is served at The Oasis Restaurant in addition to a la carte international cuisine for lunch and dinner; live music is offered nightly. Tapas, sandwiches, cocktails, and beer are offered at the Luna Beach Club, located on the beach, a five-minute walk from the hotel. Snacks plus cocktails and beer are offered at the four on-site bars in addition to great live shows, but some restaurants and bars are only open in the summer. Self-catering, bed-and-breakfast, and half-board options are available.A full range of cardio and weight machines are available at Boyd’s Fitness Center, as are massages, exercise classes, and a sauna. Unfortunately, use of the fitness center costs extra. A large supermarket, hair and beauty salon, and PADI diving school are also available. Kid-friendly amenities include several kids' clubs for teens and small children in addition to an outdoor playground and a game room with arcade games, Ping-Pong, and air hockey. Daily activities are offered for adults as well. Wi-Fi is free in public areas and suites.