Hotel Agua Beach

While its typical '70s architecture and old-fashioned awning date the property from the street, once inside Hotel Agua Beach the mood certainly shifts to something a little more 21st century. Thanks to a 2014 renovation, most of the property has been updated, starting with a bright and modern lobby area that combines smart contemporary seating with back-lit glass paneling and black-and-white photo murals of the island. Most of the hotels public areas surround reception. The front garden pool is overlooked by the restaurant and a bar extends to the street front terrace. In addition to the main building, there's an annex to the side, which houses some of the guest rooms and includes a roof terrace and gardens with sea views. An adult-only policy means the atmosphere is relaxing, and there's the added personal touch of an independent family-run hotel. Clientele hail almost exclusively from the United Kingdom, and leans towards older couples. 

The hotel features a prime location overlooking one of three sandy beaches in the popular resort of Palmanova on the southwest coast of Majorca. There are numerous bars, restaurants, and shops within a short stroll. Many businesses cater specifically to the overwhelmingly British holidaymakers who descend on Majorca each year. The wild nightlife of neighboring Magaluf is just about a five-minute cab journey. The charming cobbled streets of Palma's Old Town are about a 30-minute drive away, and Palma de Mallorca Airport is around the same distance.

The hotel has 137 rooms, all of which benefitted from the 2014 renovation. They now have a bright, modern feel that combines wood-effect flooring, simple contemporary furnishings, and back-lit wood paneling. Twin beds are often pushed together to make a double bed. Doors open out to terraces or balconies furnished with rattan seating; around half offer side or direct sea views. The rest overlook the neighboring golf course and hills beyond. 

Amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with a couple of English channels), coffee- and tea-making facilities, and mini-fridges; safes are available for a fee. In-room Wi-Fi is free of charge, though speed and reliability can vary. The hotel's two suites also add iPod docks, separate lounges with extra TVs, and leather sofa beds, plus whirlpool tubs and double balconies with top floor sea views. Bathrooms are clean and modern. These have either walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and simple toiletries. 

A decent buffet breakfast of hot and cold items is served in the hotel's bright and spacious dining room, and is always included in the rate. A half-board option is also available and covers the buffet dinner. Though reports suggest the food is good, variety can be limited. There's also a bar that opens to a sea-view terrace where guests can order from an a la carte tapas menu. Evening entertainment is provided most nights in the form of live music. The hotel's swimming pool has a teak wood terrace with a dozen or so loungers, though it's often in the shade. However, guests can take a glass elevator to a large rooftop terrace which includes a small garden, whirlpool tub, daybeds, and sea views. There's also free use of an on-site gym and free parking, which can fill up quickly. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.