Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife

Occupying two towers in a quiet area overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is a good luxury pick for those seeking a relaxing vacation with many entertainment options. The vibe is fun and lively, and the brand’s signature rock theme can be found in rooms and common spaces. A sculpture of the sign of the horns and a glittery golden wall greet guests by the main entrance, while lyrics by famous bands and glass cabinets with rock star memorabilia decorate the light, spacious lobby. The design, however, is somewhat more understated than at other Hard Rock properties, due to a lighter palette, huge windows and skylights, and clean-lined furniture with subtle nods at the wilder rock years. 

The outdoors is pleasant, with several pools and access to a tiny black-sand beach. There is music around the pools during the day, and some guests have found the hotel to be overrun with kids. However, there are also adults-only areas for those seeking a quieter spot, and the child-friendly areas -- including the kids’ clubs and the playgrounds -- are set slightly away from the rest of the common spaces. 

Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is located in a quiet coastal area in Adeje, home to a number of other large hotels and a few casual restaurants and shops. While there isn’t much to do or see in the immediate area, and the beaches around are just tiny stretches of black sand and volcanic rock, the property offers easy road access to livelier areas, such as Costa Adeje -- a 15-minute drive away -- and Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, each about 20 minutes south of the hotel. The Teide volcano park, complete with a cable car, an astronomical observatory, and hiking trails, can be reached in about an hour by car. Tenerife Sur International Airport is a 25-minute drive away, while the drive to Tenerife Norte International Airport takes just over an hour from the hotel.  

The hotel’s 365 rooms and 259 suites are spread over two tall buildings: the Nirvana and Oasis towers. Decor is stylish across the board, with a punk-rock theme that includes black and red lacquer furniture, studs on walls, and metallic accents on lamps, beds, and wallpaper. Crushed velvet and furry pillows add texture against the clean-lined desks, backlit headboards, and nightstands. Starting at 377 square feet, rooms are large and have enough space for at least a small sitting area with a single sofa bed. Open bathrooms with big sink areas in the middle of the room make them feel even bigger. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer resort views in Silver units or sea views in Gold and Platinum, but not all rooms have balconies. 

Standard amenities are modern and upscale, consisting of 43-inch flat-screen TVs, USB ports, iPhone docks, electric kettles, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Suites add Nespresso machines and turndown service. Upgrades to Rock Royalty Suites come with a wide range of great perks, including private check-in; free access to the spa and an exclusive lounge with freebies such as breakfast, evening drinks and snacks, and a library; access to a private area in the Nirvana pool; premium liquor brands in rooms; and pillow menus. Sleek bathrooms feature double sinks, rainfall showers, and separate toilet cabins. Suites are outfitted with jetted tubs. 

The Hard Rock offers an excellent array of features. The heart of the action during the day is around the three pools, which include two family-friendly ones and a smaller one for children. Underwater loungers, spacious decks with palm trees, and swim-up bars make pools inviting. There is music around the pools during the day, and the entertainment program -- which includes fitness classes, competitions, and games -- keeps the atmosphere upbeat and fun. The Eden Pool has an adults-only area for those seeking a more peaceful atmosphere. 

Dining options are varied and well-regarded at the Hard Rock. The main restaurant, Sessions, offers a big buffet for breakfast and dinner. While the morning meal gets consistently good reviews, the dinner spread is a tad underwhelming for some guests. Additionally, the hotel features a number of a la carte restaurants, including a steakhouse, a Japanese eatery with teppanyaki tables and sushi, a Spanish tapas bar, a Tex-Mex sports bar, and a coffee shop. The pool bars serve up drinks and snacks along with light bites. In the evening, the rooftop lounge offers live music and cocktails. Room service is available 24/7.

The spa is cozy and relaxing, and offers a hydrotherapy area, a solid treatment menu, and indoor and outdoor areas. The gym is equipped with cardio and strength-training machines, and there are some weekly classes on offer as well. Yoga videos and gear are available on request and free of charge in rooms. The hotel also features extensive event space, and three kids’ club for children as young as six months. Small pets are welcome for a fee that includes bowls, beds, blankets, and toys.