Hotel JS Alcudi-Mar

Renovations in 2016-17 gave Hotel JS Alcudi-Mar gave the property a mostly contemporary design, with a few remaining outdated furnishings. Most common areas have shiny marbly floors, beige walls with generic artwork, and up-to-date seating -- light-wood tables and a mix of lime-green and green midcentury modern chairs in the restaurant feel particularly fresh. However, some red patterned carpet and clashing old-fashioned coral couches in a hallway, and wood-and-metal furniture in rooms feels dated. Nonetheless, the outdoors is where the hotel really shines, housing a large pool divided by a bridge. Daily activities out here and nightly entertainment provide some buzz, though the vibe is largely relaxed and suitable for both families and couples on vacation. 

Only a two-minute walk from the golden-sand beach and Mediterranean sea, the hotel is ideally situated for travelers looking to lounge by the beach. That said, there is not much else in the town of Playa de Muro beyond some restaurants and shops dotted along the main road that runs parallel with the coast. Far more dining options, bars, and a water park can be found in Port d'Alcudia, a 10-minute drive away. The Parc Natural s’Albufera de Mallorca, a wetland area with miles of footpaths and cycle trails is a 20-minute walk away, or three minutes by car. Expect transfers to Palma de Mallorca Airport to take between 45 minutes and one hour by car.

The 216 rooms at the Hotel JS Alcudi-Mar are sizable and pleasant, outfitted in simple, contemporary decor that's a bit bland. Medium-tone wood furniture with metal accents feels outdated, as does the mustard-yellow linens and upholstery. Wood floors, attractive wall art, and breezy curtains are elegant. All units have furnished terraces with either ocean or nature reserve views. Most of the hotel’s rooms are doubles, which have two single beds pushed together, as well as an armchair and desk that doubles as a stand for the flat-screen TV. There are a few smaller Individual Rooms that have a single bed. Junior Suites have separate lounge areas with loveseats. Modern bathrooms have showers, magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, and toiletries. Also provided are closets with electronic safes (these require a fee), mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi, which is reportedly spotty.

The hotel offers an array of activities for both couples and families. The standout here is undoubtedly the big outdoor pool, which has a shallow section for kids, ample metal loungers, and a smattering of umbrellas. Off to one side is the snack bar that's open all day and has a kids' menu. Next to it is a stage where entertainment occurs at night in the high season, including live music and performances. Food at the main buffet restaurant receives positive reviews, serving regional and international cuisines for all three meals. Half-board rates are available. 

A spa has a hydrotherapy pool, Turkish bath, sauna, and treatment rooms for massages and wellness therapies. A small gym is equipped with a limited number of cardio and strength-training machines, and free weights. The hotel rents out bikes and hosts a bike workshop as well. Wi-Fi is free throughout. There's no parking lot, so guests with cars must find a spot on the street.