The Corralejo Beach Hotel

The hotel’s signature color, a bold neon-green that’s spotted on the hotel’s balconies and in its staff’s uniforms, separates this property from the more traditional hotels in the area that lean heavily on earthy, sunburnt colors. It’s a hue that broadcasts a more contemporary approach to the typical beachfront hotel. The heart of the hotel is the sundeck and pool -- a feature that isn’t a given in a hotel this size and in this location, just off the main street of Corralejo. But the pool scene is remarkably tranquil and devoid of the loud music and animation that takes place at other properties. A separate pool for the apartment units gives these guests an even quieter place to take a dip, often with kids in tow. But with a central location, many guests spend their days on the small beach out front or exploring the town. Corralejo Beach is billed as an upscale resort, which has led to some disappointment from past guests who rightly find the facilities, rooms, and food decidedly mid-range.

Location is a major reason to stay at this property. The hotel skirts the shoreline, with one exit leading directly out to the area's beachfront promenade. A small sandy beach is right next to the hotel. The other side of the hotel faces the town’s main commercial street, which is chockfull of shops, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and entertainment. A grocery store is a minute's walk away (helpful when stocking the kitchens or kitchenettes of the units). Be aware that the hotel's entrance is on a block that's closed to traffic, and past travelers have complained that taxis and tour buses can't pull up to the door and they're left negotiating their luggage for this last stretch. The larger sand-dune beaches of Corralejo (the Grandes Playas) are nine minutes away by car. The airport is a 41-minute drive away.

Guest rooms at Corralejo Beach aren't fancy, but they're streamlined with a refreshing contemporary look. Glossy wood-laminate floors and furniture in a dark, Espresso-colored finish give a modern backdrop. Squishy red or orange upholstered sofa beds and couches provide a restful place to collapse after a day of strolling. Amenities include safes, electric kettles with tea and coffee supplies, and air-conditioning (not a given as many hotels in the area simply rely on fans). Flat-screen TVs are provided as well, although they’re a small, older model. All rooms include kitchenettes with mini-fridges, burners, microwaves, and dishware. They also include furnished balconies either facing the street or the pool (which tends to be quieter). Simple beige-tile bathrooms have walk-in showers and a few have bidets. All come equipped with toiletries and hairdryers.

Overall, rooms run small compared with other hotels in the area, and even the balconies leave little room for more than a set of chairs and a petite glass-topped table. Suites add a bit more square footage and divide out the bedrooms from the living rooms. However, the most spacious option, which many families opt for, are the hotel's apartment units, which add massive kitchens with full-sized appliances including fridges, ovens, dishwashers, even washing machines. They're also positioned in the best spot, facing the ocean. Their show-stopping feature is the rooftop terraces with incredible sea views that unfold in front of a pair of loungers. These units get access to the second pool that's just for apartment guests as well.

Unfortunately, despite the contemporary look of these rooms and apartments, there are some minor signs of wear, such as stained tile grout and doors that stick. 

Hotel THe Corralego has a robust number of features, especially for a small hotel with a central location. The action tends to center on the hotel’s two pools, one for the rooms and another, small pool for apartment guests that has a kiddy section -- a welcome addition as many of the apartments are booked by families. A poolside bar provides drinks, and an on-site restaurant serves all meals. Breakfast is included in room rates, but not in apartment rates. Some packages include other meals as well, although food on the whole gets mixed reviews.

The hotel also has a gym specializing in functional fitness and a massage center that does massage treatments exclusively. A pool table, dartboard, and lending library provide other diversions. There’s a small meeting room available, and two computer workstations are in the lobby for guests’ use. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Families can request cribs or babysitting services, for a fee. Underground parking is available for a fee, though spaces are limited, and bikes are available for rent. Staff can assist with booking rental cars, excursions, or airport transfers, among other services.