Dom Jose Beach Hotel

Although it has a history dating back several decades, this family-run hotel is modern and fresh. It's now run by the third generation of the same family and has expanded from its original 32 rooms to 154. The hotel is housed in a seven-story white-washed building that fits right in in this beachfront neighborhood. Guests enter the bright lobby through a pair of glass doors into a small reception area, with just a white front desk and a couple of benches. There is a lobby lounge adjacent with plenty of seating, though as most guests are here to be in the sun, expect to see most people outdoors. The ambience is casual and cozy, and things stay quiet year round. Depending on the time of year, it draws couples of all ages, plus families and groups of friends.

This hotel is situated across the street from Praia da Quarteira, along a pedestrian walkway that's lined with shops, bars, bakeries, restaurants, and ticket counters for activities. There is also a supermarket nearby, as well as a bus station. it's an eight-minute walk to the commercial heart of town. The town of Vilamoura and its marina are about a 10-minute drive away, and golfers can get to the courses at Vale do Lobo in about 15 minutes by car. Faro Airport is 30 minutes away by car, and the hotel provides transfers for a fee. Expect a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Lisbon for those arriving and departing by its airport.

Rooms are small and simple, but modern and fresh, with wood-laminate floors, clean-lined contemporary furniture, brown and white color schemes, and black-and-white photos on the white walls. Some rooms show subtle accents of blue on the bed runners, pillows, and drapery. All in all, while the style isn't exactly sophisticated, it's far nicer than many mid-range hotels in the Algarve. Flat-screen TVs are mounted on the wall. Other amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and safes (fee), though electric kettles and mini-fridges are lacking. Bathrooms are tiny, with glass-enclosed stall showers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Superior Rooms are more spacious and come with sofa beds for additional sleeping capacity. Balconies are furnished, some with views of the sea and some overlooking the city. 

The hotel has a fairly predictable list of features, plus a few extras that help set it above its three-pearl competition. The on-site restaurant serves all meals, including a breakfast buffet that's included in some rates -- reviews from previous guests are mixed. The space is bright and sunny, with a white tile floor, wooden tables and chairs, and large windows for lots of natural light. The Salao Bar has indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the beach. Live entertainment performs there some nights. 

The hotel's outdoor pool overlooks the beach, but it's small and has limited space for lounge chairs and umbrellas on the deck. As such, it's often quite crowded. The sandy beach is lovely, and guests can rent lounge chairs and straw umbrellas at the hotel's private area, though the beach can also get busy. Drinks and ice cream are available. 

In addition to the pool and beach, other outdoor recreation includes a fourth-floor nine-hole mini-golf course. The fitness center offers cardio and weight training equipment plus free weights and exercise balls. 

A tiny business center has two computers for guests to use, and meeting spaces can accommodate small gatherings. A sunny TV room is furnished with several tables and chairs where guests can gather for games and socializing. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The hotel has limited parking for small cars, and guests otherwise park on the streets.