Playacanela Hotel

The Arabian style hotel consists of two buildings with interesting architectural details including a pink facade with multicolored tiles, turrets, and green wrought-iron balconies. Indoors, the expansive lobby has two glass elevators and exotic touches like caged birds and green ivy growing over interior balconies. Upholstered wicker furniture and potted plants bring a garden vibe indoors. Outside, a pedestrian bridge and yellow water slides add interest to the swimming pool. Tall palm trees and lush flower beds add to the tropical scene.

Isla Canela is a natural island connected by a bridge with the Andalusian town of Ayamonte. The neighborhood surrounding the hotel mostly consists of private luxury homes and other hotels, so a car is required for exploring. Ayamonte is about five miles from the hotel and has lots of options for restaurants and shopping. There's a charge for parking at the hotel.

There are 306 different rooms, suites, and apartments spread out between two buildings of the Playacanela Hotel. Apartments are a good choice for families as they're spacious and include kitchenettes with microwaves, gas burners, mini-fridges, and basic appliances and cutlery. Floral bed coverlets and tile floors are a bit drab. Rooms and suites are slightly smaller, but are still comfortable. They come standard with electric kettles, TVs with satellite channels, and mini-fridges. Some have furnished outdoor balconies though views range from the parking lot to the river to the swimming pool with the sea in the distance. Not all rooms have flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms are clean and functional with single sinks and vanity counters; some have bathtub/shower combinations while others have a shower stalls.

There are some great features at Playacanela Hotel but some basic services cost extra. The indoor and outdoor swimming pools are real highlights. Outside, the pool has an adjacent whirlpool and water slides, plus plenty of sun loungers to go around. Indoors, the pool is mellow -- if a bit dark. Beach access is gained by walking down a long wooden footbridge and there aren't any facilities at the other end. Mini-golf and ping-pong are fun for families. There's a kid's club and evening entertainment. An on-site gift shop sells souvenirs and beach essentials.

Buffet style breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at Odiel Restaurant Buffet, complete with live show cooking and crepes. There's a small baby area with a microwave and high chairs where parents can prepare food for little ones. A reception bar, theater bar with a live show, and seasonal pool bar with tapas round out the dining options at the hotel. Breakfast is included with the price, and half or full-board packages are also available. Drinks cost extra, as do Wi-Fi, parking, in-room safes, and beach towels.