The upper-middle-range Estival Centurion Playa is a contemporary, 257-room property across a pedestrian path from the beach, though a 10-minute drive from the center of Cambrils. Clean-lined, modern rooms have flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and outdoor spaces -- some with lovely ocean vistas -- but Wi-Fi and safes require fees. Quality features include a well-reviewed buffet restaurant, attractive pool terrace, kids' club, and evening entertainment. Guests get free access to the spa's sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and small gym, plus treatments are available for a fee. Travelers wanting to be closer to the downtown action might prefer Tryp Port Cambrils, but it's a five-minute walk from the beach.

The three-pearl Tryp Port Cambrils is a family-friendly hotel a five-minute walk from the beach and just a few minutes farther to the town center. Both Spanish families and international couples frequent this somewhat dated property for its sunny pool terrace with a separate kids’ pool, kids’ club that runs every night during high season, sauna, and small but decently equipped gym. There are also a buffet restaurant and two bars, and food receives mostly positive reviews. The 156 rooms have a simple design, equipped with flat-screen TVs, green-marble bathrooms, and minibars, plus free Wi-Fi. Some people have complained about noise from the nearby train tracks. Travelers who don't mind sacrificing proximity to the town center for a more modern property should consider The Element.