Acuario Sol

Acuario Sol's self-catering setups get a hotel feel from communal pools and dining areas, and a quiet street divides the property's two halves. Both tote Lanzarote's signature greens-on-whites, and flowering bougainvillea framing wrought iron make for a traditional welcome at Sol I. Housing the lobby, this more-shaded block is smaller, but quieter. Families often choose Sol II for its larger pool and on-site dining. A mostly British and European crowd come here to bask in the sun without breaking the bank. Plentiful loungers around immaculate pools offer just that, and palms here brave refreshing (though sometimes overwhelming) breezes. Daily cleaning keeps terraces spotless, although equally hands-on "pool police" can leave families disgruntled. Arm floaties are as far as wiggle room stretches for the "no inflatables" rule, and chaining of loungers between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. sets a firm tone, although breakfast until 1 p.m. relaxes things. 

Acuario Sol offers the best of both worlds. Its quiet street receives little traffic or noise from Puerto del Carmen's strip, a five-minute walk, and this seafront stretch is packed with bars and restaurants. Beaches from here are a 10-minute walk in either direction, with Playa Grande to the West, and Playa Pocillos to the East. The Old Town harbor is 20 minutes on foot, and smaller streets here are great to wander. A mini-market is across the street from Sol I, although nine-minute walks to a HiperDino offer more variety. The main Puerto del Carmen bus station is a half-hour walk, but busses from the waterfront are closer. Timanfaya National Park's dormant volcanoes are a 20-minute drive. Taxis from Lanzarote Airport are cheap, since drives take six minutes.

Apartments are basic in terms of decor and amenities, but they're bright. One-bedroom units measure 377 square feet (35 square meters), while two-bedroom apartments are 592 square feet (55 square meter) and can sleep five. Guests can expect white tile floors, simple wood furniture -- some with granite accents -- and bright-red L-shaped sofas under nautical photography. Flat-screen TVs (some with USB ports) are available, but remotes require deposits, and there are fees for safes, fans, air-conditioning units, and Wi-Fi. Kitchens are sufficient for minimal cooking, as they lack ovens and microwaves. They do have large fridge/freezers, coffeemakers, toasters, electric kettles, and stovetops, plus kitchenware. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, although temperamental hot water can be an annoyance. Housekeeping every other day keeps apartments clean, but towel and linen changes can be irregular. Hairdryers are provided, but not toiletries. Small furnished balconies in Sol II overlook the pool, while derelict street views in Sol I are less pleasant, and balconies here get less sun. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. Note, there are no elevators, and higher floors are accessed by steep stairs. 

Pools aren't heated, but there are two for guests to choose from. Yellow loungers alongside umbrellas overlook the smaller freeform pool at Sol I, where things are quieter. Sol II is busier, but it offers more: Its larger pool gets a kiddy counterpart, although inflatables aren't permitted. Spacious terraces have loungers that are readily available, until they're chained away in the early evening. Sol II's poolside snack bar has an outdoor terrace, and sit-up stools around the paneled indoor bar. Cooked breakfasts are served until late, alongside all-day omelettes, sandwiches, and snacks. The bar's beer and spirits are popular during daily happy hour. Weekly all-you-can-eat barbecue nights, curry-themed Fridays, and quiz nights liven up the otherwise tranquil atmosphere. Reception offers secure luggage storage and a scale, plus a guest PC. Note that the front desk is not staffed 24/7. There are no laundry or fitness facilities. Parking in front of the hotel is free, and Wi-Fi is free in common areas.