Hotel Joya

Hotel Joya is a smart city hotel that still packs a bit of seaside relaxation into its city location. It's a mostly modern hotel, with a business-like finish inside, though keep in mind that some areas are looking a bit tired. The lobby is a bright, functional space with some sofa seating, and stairs lead down to the bar and pool deck. That's where you'll find the bulk of the hotel's daytime activity, including entertainment and the cafe. On the whole, the hotel has a pleasant, laid-back atmosphere, and there's a constant stream of guests -- mostly couples and families -- flowing through the common areas.

Hotel Joya is set on leafy Calle Islandia on the edge of Benidorm's downtown, a 10-minute to Levante Beach. There are a few shops and eateries along the road, and more along the main thoroughfare, Avinguda Alfonso Purchades, which is a few minutes away on foot. This is a pleasant part of the city, and pretty Aiguara Park is less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel. It's about the same to downtown shopping and dining. Guests who don't mind exploring on foot can stroll to the Old Town in about 15 minutes and on to the quieter Poniente Beach in about 20. Attractions farther afield include Terra Mitica theme park and Aqualandia water park, both about a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Alicante's airport is a 40-minute drive from the property, depending on traffic.  

Rooms are basic, but perfectly adequate for travelers who will be outside in the sun during the majority of their stay. They're bright, with French doors opening onto furnished balconies. Decor is simple -- think: white walls and pine furniture, some with a bright feature wall. Single, Twin, and Triple configurations are available, and extra beds are on hand for additional children. Rooms feature flat-screen TVs and wardrobes, and that's about it. There's no air-conditioning, which is pretty common in lower-grade hotels in the city, and in-room Wi-Fi sadly costs extra. Bathrooms are simply decorated with pale gray marbled tiles. They include shower/tub combos with shower curtains, pump products, and hairdryers.

Despite its mid-range status, there are a decent number of features on offer at Hotel Joya. It has a buffet restaurant that's open for breakfast and evening meals. It's worth noting that this is Spanish Benidorm and not the touristy western end of the city, so the food is more authentic. You won't find an English fry-up here. Despite its central location, the outdoor pool has a secluded feel -- it's on a lower level from the main lobby, and well-landscaped with palms and trees around. There's a whirlpool at one end, and a shaded kids' pool that's separate from the main pool. During high season, a small outdoor bar operates, and there's a poolside cafe with a well-received snack menu. Entertainment is provided all year, and there's a kids' club during the summer months. Also on the lower level is an entertainment room with a pool table and other games, plus a guest PC and meeting/event space. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, and available in-room for a fee.