Hotel Su

Housed in a plain white building, Hotel SU may look like your average beachfront hotel from the outside, but the bold interior design leaves no one indifferent. Large disco balls hang above an all-white, atrium-style lobby illuminated by pink neon lights installed underneath white daybeds, while the main restaurant takes by surprise with nightclub-style all-red decor. Though this striking design is a bit much for some, others find it to be a welcome departure from the many generic properties in the area. 

Beyond the eye-catching interiors, the hotel’s lovely grounds set the property apart from its competitors. While others have tight outdoor spaces with just enough space for a pool and a bar, Hotel SU has sprawling lawns with citrus trees, volleyball and badminton nets, white bean bags and umbrellas, and direct access to its own beach lounge on Konyaalti Beach. The atmosphere is mellow during both the day and evening, with a soft entertainment program, live music, and movie nights instead of water aerobics classes, pool games, and loud shows. This relaxed vibe draws couples in large numbers to the hotel, but the property also caters to families with perks such as a kids’ club and free access to the adjacent water park. The hotel does not offer all-inclusive rates, however.

Half beachfront resort and half city hotel, the SU is a good pick in its pearl category and price range for family and romantic getaways. Nevertheless, those wanting a more bustling property in a similar location may prefer the Porto Bello Hotel Resort & Spa, though rooms are a little dated, and the grounds aren't as nice as the Su's. The Marmara is a good pick for couples on a tighter budget, while the Mediterra Art Hotel is a lovely boutique with lots of local charm and an excellent location in the city center.   

Hotel SU is located on the D400, the coastal highway running east to west all across the region. There is direct access to long, pebbly Konyaalti Beach from the hotel, and the Antalya Aquarium is right across the street, but it’s a 10- to 15-minute walk to the nearest restaurant, bar, or shop. The Antalya Museum is a five-minute drive away, while all major attractions in or around the Old Town (or Kaleici) -- including Hadrian’s Gate, the harbor, and the Panoramic Elevator -- can all be found within a 20-minute drive of the hotel. Antalya Airport is also about a 20-minute drive away, and private transfers can be arranged at the front desk. There is free outdoor parking on-site. 

The lobby’s all-white decor continues in the hotel’s 294 rooms. White platform beds, floors, walls, and even TVs make for a minimalist, streamlined style, which combined with strategically placed pink neon lights give rooms a somewhat futuristic feel. Although this design may not age well, all the rooms we saw were in good condition, with no scruff marks on walls and no signs of wear on floors or couches. (The same can’t be said of the hallways, which did feel a little bit tired.) Starting at 280 square feet (26 square meters), rooms are spacious enough to fit at least a big double bed, a seating area with a daybed that can be used for an additional guest, and a desk with a small ottoman. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balconies, and big mirrors add even more visual space. 

Amenities are good for a hotel of this caliber, consisting of free Wi-Fi, minibars stocked with an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, electric kettles with free instant coffee and tea, and LCD TVs with a few international channels. Central air-conditioning, safes, and robes and slippers are also provided. Clean bathrooms have walk-in showers, rectangular sinks over white counters, hairdryers, and basic toiletries. 

For a city hotel that doesn’t have all-inclusive rates, the SU has a surprising amount of dining options. There are five restaurants on-site, including a sushi bar, a large buffet, and beach and pool bars with food menus. The main restaurant serves up a varied buffet for breakfast and dinner, complete with dozens of hot and cold options. The restaurant has its own bakery, and the morning spread is particularly good, with fresh orange juice, an egg station, lots of fresh pastries, waffles, and a variety of hot items. Located on the top floor, Moonlight serves up fresh Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic sea views. Room service is available 24/7.

The outdoor pool is one of the hotel’s top features. It is long and clean, and lined by two long rows of thick daybeds placed under wicker umbrellas. Ample lawns offer additional space for relaxing, and the bar serves drinks and small bites for lunch and into the afternoon. There is no kiddy section on the main deck, but the adjacent kids’ club has a small splash pool for toddlers and babies. The indoor pool is heated year-round and long enough for a few quick laps, and features a kiddy section and a whirlpool. Guests get free access to the adjacent water park, which has several waterslides for all ages. 

Access to a hammam, sauna, and steam room are included in the room rate, and the spa has a long treatment menu, including Balinese massages, body wraps, and salon services. Outfitted with a wide array of modern cardio and strength-training machines, the fitness center is outstanding. Personal trainers are available free of charge during the day, and the gym has a weekly schedule with group classes that guests can take for a small fee. 

Additionally, there are two big halls and eight rooms for corporate and private events. All spaces feature audiovisual equipment, and catering services are provided for an extra fee. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.