Hovima Santa Maria

As a large hotel with apartments, kid-friendly amenities, two pools, and competitive rates, Hovima Santa María mostly attracts families and couples on a budget. Amenities are overall basic and average, but the property is near the beach, and all units are equipped with kitchens, which adds value. Decor in common spaces is overall standard for a mid-range hotel (think: wicker couches and lots of wood accents) but the style in the rooms is mostly uninspired, with thin bedspreads and simple wood and iron furniture. The grounds are average, with almost inexistent green areas, and clay tiles in the pool deck. Still, the price is right, and the property has all the basics expected of a beach hotel. Sister property Hovima Panorama has dated decor, but lower rates and a nicer pool. 

The hotel is located in central Adeje, on the corner of a quiet residential street and an avenue lined with restaurants, bars and shops. Down the street are two great beaches, Puerto Colón -- with a wide array of water sports available -- and Fañabé, the largest stretch of sand in this part of the island. There is another shopping and dining strip and a bus stop an eight-minute walk away. Playa del Duque, Los Cristianos, Las Américas, and La Caleta beaches can all be reached in under 10 minutes by car. Those who prefer to use public transportation can take a bus to all of the area’s main beaches. Tenerife Sur Airport can be reached by car in 15 minutes, and by bus in under an hour.

The property has two main room types: studios and one-bedroom apartments. All units have fully equipped kitchenettes with mini-fridges, microwaves, cooktops, electric kettles, toasters, and all the basic utensils needed to make meals. A few units have undergone partial renovations and feature newer kitchens with washers and ovens. Decor is similar in all rooms, with blue and yellow couches, thin yellow bedspreads, and simple wood and iron furniture. Amenities are overall basic, with ceiling fans instead of air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and electronic safes and Wi-Fi for a fee. All rooms have furnished balconies, and a few have ocean views.

The hotel has basic features, many of them catering to families. There are two pools, including one heated in the winter, and another one with a kiddy section. They’re both small and basic, but pleasant enough for a dip or a lazy day sunbathing. The buffet restaurant is average, and the snack bar offers burgers, ice cream, and sodas by the pool. The lobby bar has a decent selection of drinks, but the most popular spot for a quiet evening is the outdoor lounge, which has comfy seating and a few tables. There is no fitness center here, but those looking to stay active can book the tennis court or play a round of ping-pong. Wi-Fi and towels are available for a fee, and there are a few outdoor parking spots that guests can use free of charge. A few others are available indoors for a fee. There is daily entertainment, and a kids’ club with activities.