Evenia Zoraida Garden

The scene at Evenia Zoraida Garden is lively and a bit crowded with families and couples. On-site entertainment throughout the day and into the evening is high energy and fun. The interior lobby is uniquely built with an interior courtyard surrounding a recessed star shape landscaped with artificial grass, outfitted with a sun lounger and umbrella. Iron railings and potted plants decorate the balconies while kites and doves hang from strings. Clusters of chairs and tables throughout the lobby offer plenty of seating options. Outdoors, the large and irregularly shaped pool includes an island in the center and water slide. Grass umbrellas and comfy loungers are plentiful. Artificial grass, palm trees, and beach views give the pool a tropical vibe.

Evenia Zoraida Garden is about 300 feet from the public beach in Roquetas de Mar, in a mostly residential neighborhood, though there are other nearby hotels on the same stretch of sand. Shops and restaurants are within walking distance, and there's a gift shop just across the street that sells beach gear. The center of Roquetas de Mar is a few minutes drive north from the hotel and the Playa Serena Golf Course is about two miles south.

There are 342 rooms and suites at Evenia Zoraida Garden, each decorated in tones of black, white, and gray with the occasional pop of bright orange. Artwork includes white seashell molds above the bed and an homage to Audrey Hepburn on a privacy screen in the suites. Hardwood floors are standard, as are small refrigerators for guests to use. Double Rooms are right on the edge of small, so it may be worth upgrading to a suite or booking a room with a private balcony for added space. Double beds are pushed together -- not so private for families or groups sharing a room. Bathrooms are less impressive than the bedrooms. Expect single sinks, bathtubs, and a bidet but not a lot of square footage, even in the suites. Some rooms have views of the sea and swimming pool.

All-inclusive drinks and meal packages are available at the hotel's restaurants and bars, along with free breakfast or half-board options, but what's included and when can be confusing. Additionally, all-inclusive guests must wear a wristband. Food options include tapas, pizza, and buffets with international dishes. The swimming pool with a kid's pool and nearby beach are definite draws while a gym, tennis courts, and a game room are welcome perks -- but there are limits on how long they can be used. Expect an extra charge for Wi-Fi, which has been described as poor in quality by past guests. One desktop computer is available in the lobby. Daily and evening entertainment is fun for kids and adults while the on-site disco keeps the party going late.