Beverly Park Hotel

The seven-story Beverly Park Hotel was built in 1970 and has a dated, retro feel with its accordion-like facade and red rooftop signage. Once inside, apart from a contemporary sculpture, the old-fashioned vibe continues -- the lobby (last renovated in 2006) contains a number of tired striped sofas, granite floors, and posters advertising nightly entertainment. The grounds, however, are well-maintained with walkways leading through tropical planting and waterfall features to the lagoon pools and various seating areas. A separate low-rise block of apartments on the other side of the road, directly in front of the beach, is also part of the hotel and has its own pool. This hotel attracts all sorts of guests -- families with kids, vacationing couples, and groups looking for a value option by the ocean.

The hotel is set just off the highway that runs between the popular Gran Canaria resorts of Playa del Ingles and San Agustin. The best aspect about the location is a long stretch of sandy beach is just a minute walk away -- though this requires a fair amount of steps, which could pose an issue for mobility impaired individuals. There's not a great deal in the immediate area, though there are restaurants and a couple shops within walking distance. Travelers seeking nightlife can take a five- to 10-minute cab journey to the lively Yumbo Centrum in the center of Playa del Ingles. The stunning Maspalomas Dunes are also about a 10-minute drive away, while Gran Canaria Airport is around 20. 

The 469 rooms feel dated due to green carpeted floors, green patterned bed linens, and striped drapes. All rooms open to furnished balconies -- many with impressive sea views (particularly those on higher floors), while others facing the main road are prone to noise. Standard amenities include air-conditioning (during the summer months) and small tube-style TVs with satellite channels (deposit required for the remote control). Wi-Fi must be paid for and is reportedly very slow. Simple bathrooms have floor-to-ceiling tile, shower/tub combos, and basic toiletries. 

The hotel features an impressive five swimming pools (one heated), as well as a tennis court, mini-golf, and game room. Children are well-catered for as two of pools are kid-only and there are also a kids' club with a playground and activities led by an animation team. Sun loungers are plentiful, plus poolside snacks and drinks are available. The pool at the separate apartment block is less crowded than the others. Wi-Fi comes at a cost and is reportedly slow. Additionally, there is an Internet corner in the lobby and a meeting room. A colorful spa has a sauna and massage treatments available, and there is also a hair salon.

For dining, guests have the option of half-board, full-board, or all-inclusive plans. The buffet restaurant serves all three meals in a large space with white tablecloths that give it a more sophisticated vibe than the rest of the property. The breakfast has a wide choice of hot and cold items, but food quality receives mixed reviews. Some guests have also complained that the restaurant can be very busy and lack enough seating at peak times. Additionally, there are a poolside snack bar and lounge bar with evening entertainment.