H10 Costa Adeje Palace

Bathed in natural light, the hotel lobby -- located in the central part of the hotel -- has oversized windows and towering ceilings capped off by a striking slanted wooden roof. A wide staircase rimmed in blue tiles leads up to the mezzanine, where the front desk, the lobby bar, and the Privilege lounge are located. Loads of seating, from white wicker armchairs to green velvet couches, give guests a place to linger. The terra-cotta tiled floors and a small trickling fountain are looking a little tired. But the surrounding grounds are bursting with tropical greenery: towering palm trees, cacti, colorful bougainvillea, and manicured grass lawns. The U-shaped building was constructed perpendicular to the beach, which means that many rooms have partial views of the Atlantic but only a few rooms have full ocean views.

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, this property is a 10-minute walk from all the action. It offers direct access to La Enramada, a narrow, rocky beach that's not overly frequented by tourists or locals. The boardwalk -- which goes all the way to Los Cristianos beach -- starts here, but there aren’t many restaurants or bars in this section. But those looking to explore the neighborhood can find a number of restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. Playa del Duque, Costa Adeje’s best beach, is a 15-minute walk away, and the hotel offers free shuttle service to Las Américas. Famous Fañabé Beach -- known for its dark sand -- is a 12-minute bus ride away. Tenerife Sur Airport can be reached by car in 20 minutes.

The hotel's 467 guest rooms are split into two main categories: standard units and Junior Suites. All rooms are sunny and spacious with streamlined, contemporary furniture; laminate or cream-colored tile floors; and balconies furnished with charming wicker furniture. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, and air-conditioning, but Standard Double Rooms don’t have Nespresso machines (others do). The orange-and-white striped tiles in the bathrooms makes them feel a bit garish, but they're bright, clean, and outfitted with shower/tub combos. Some rooms have ground views, and many have partial ocean views. Privilege guests get a few extra perks, including iPod docks and pillow menus.

All the expected amenities of a beachside resort are on offer here, including large outdoor pools, several dining options, a spa, and a fitness center. The restaurants include buffet, Japanese, and a la carte options, but some guests have complained that the lunch and dinner menus are limited. Guests can treat themselves to body treatments and salon services in the homey spa. And a serene lap pool enclosed in a greenhouse gives a heated place to swim in winter. The modern -- if lightly equipped -- fitness center is directly adjacent to the pool. A kids’ club offers daily activities, a playground, and mini-disco at night. 

The hotel also features three bars, including a snack hut by the pool, and a piano bar with entertainment. Perhaps the best spot for a quiet drink at sunset is the beachside lounge, complete with Balinese beds, tables, and ocean views -- but it's only open for Privilege guests. Wi-Fi and free shuttle service to Las Américas beach are also available free of charge.