Sol House Costa del Sol by Meliá

There is nothing uptight about the Sol House Aloha Costa del Sol, but the Comodoro Bar has a vibe of relaxed elegance and retains a feeling of intimacy in its clusters of cool, modern armchairs and cocktail tables, and in the stretches of white sofas with bright throw pillows on which guests can recline as they watch the dance floor and evening performances. The Aloha Pool Bar is open all day for drinks and informal hot and cold lunches, including paella, served under a pretty tent that casts a nice (but not sunburn-inducing) glow on the tables. There is another outdoor snack bar, open in summer only, that is super casual, decorated with nautical touches such as anchors and ships' lamps; bare feet and bathing suits are acceptable attire, and almost de rigueur. The buffet restaurant is vast and nondescript, with wooden tables and chairs and no tablecloths, giving it almost a cafeteria feel, but the rest of the grounds are lovely and spacious, and the food is plentiful. For atmosphere, there are plenty of local fish shacks right on the promenade, and fine dining in town.

The Sol House Aloha Costa del Sol is located at the end of the Torremolinos beaches by La Carihuela, which is known for its local fish shacks that serve paella and fried fish. The beachside promenade is a lovely walk, and the nearby marina is one of the major tourist attractions of the Costa del Sol, with tons of atmosphere, rides, and fun things to do. The Sol Aloha is almost two miles from the commercial and tourist center of Torremolinos, but city buses run from outside the hotel's entrance. A rental car is advisable, though, for those who want to explore other Costa del Sol attractions.

Rooms at the Sol House Aloha are suites with separate sitting areas and sofa beds, which look more utilitarian than stylish. Spotless and decorated in Spanish oranges and golds, rooms come with all the basics, but the vibe is more beachy/comfy than modern luxe. Oversize wooden headboards are the major nod to design, with mirrors and sculptural reliefs set into their centers. Rooms have balconies, and most offer sea or marina views, but even the city views are beautiful. (Guests report that "Block Three" ranks number one in the scenery department.) There are flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges and safes are available for a fee.

The Sol House Aloha has two adult pools, one of which is heated in winter, and a children's pool. A bright, modern deck area with sunbeds and beach umbrellas surrounds the water, although guests report that sunbed real estate can get competitive. The El Yate Buffet Restaurant offers international theme nights. Adult activities include dance and zumba classes, and water polo. There is a mini club for kids, with arts and crafts, pool games, and more.