Tui Family Life Islantilla

While the immediate area is under-developed, being across a promenade from a stunning beach is a huge draw here, as are 2017 renovations, which spruced up the place. Under towering palm trees, a sprawling expanse consists of paved gardens, sequestered lawns with Balinese daybeds, and vast terraces around equally big pools. Pools have attractive bridge and island features, and the tropical vibe extends inside. The atrium-style lobby retains Andalusian charm from diamond-patterned flooring and indoor trees, while cuboid wood ceilings, slab tables, and casual couch or stool seating are trendy. While age-specific kids' clubs, activities, and lots of sports earmark the family approach, so do plastic cups in bars, which adults often complain about. Multiple dining areas are decorated in varying, elegant design schemes, while rooms are nod to their coastal setting with lots of blue accents and beach-themed artwork. All-inclusive packages are popular and convenient options for the clientele of primarily families.

The seaside resort of Islantilla is less developed than other Costa de la Luz towns, but travelers choose it for its seemingly endless white-sand beach, which the hotel backs onto. Loungers and umbrellas here are free (mid-June through mid-September), and wind or kitesurfing are available (fees apply). Immediate streets are empty, although a mini-train runs into Islantilla's center. A mall and Burger King are nine minutes away on foot, with another shopping center twice that. The province's capital, Huelva, is a 40-minute drive away. Taxis are available. Across the border in Portugal, the nearest airport is Faro Airport, located an hour's drive away.

Breezy rooms have contemporary and mostly nautical decor with their light- or blue-painted wood furniture, blue accent walls and linens, and beachy photography. Furnished balconies or terraces come standard and offer either lateral or sea views. Living areas with sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, and dining tables sit next to kitchenettes with mini-fridges, kettles, stovetops, and cookware. Straightforward bathrooms have shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries.

Studios measure 269 square feet (25 square meters) and sleep three, while larger suites add a second bedroom and bathroom. Rooms for families include aquarium, jungle, circus, or space themes, with fun mobiles and colorful wall decor such as astronauts and planets. Desks, cable flat-screen TVs, seating areas, safes, AC, and free Wi-Fi come standard. Lower-category rooms mostly face pools, with around a quarter overlooking the street.

Features are extensive here, and mostly covered by all-inclusive packages. The focus on family fun is varied and dedicated -- from the well-shaded, shallow kids' pool, which has a slide, to the playground and toddler, kids', and teen "The Hangout" clubs. All have animation, activities, and games, and it's not uncommon to see bear-suited or clown-outfitted teams poolside. Sports for all ages include tennis, soccer, yoga, water aerobics, and water polo. The two main pools have freeform structuring, bridged islands hosting entertainment, tiki-shaded loungers on terraces, and thatched snack bars serving all-inclusive drinks, hot dogs, and ice cream. Lush lawns with two-person daybeds offer quiet space, but entertainment dominates. Evening flamenco or magician stage shows are solid, but better suited to families than couples.

Four restaurants (two buffet and two a la carte) are either all-inclusive or payable, offering show kitchens, themed nights, Spanish tapas, and child-friendly food. Al fresco areas are expansive, and there's also a cafe. Food receives mostly good reviews, aside from some complaints of crowded dining and lukewarm buffet spreads. The sleek spa has an indoor pool (fee), hot tub, sauna, steam room, bright gym, treatment rooms, and a hair salon. Tennis, soccer, and the fantastic beach are free to access, as is a game room with billiards. A convenience store sells snacks and beach gear. Wi-Fi and parking are both free.