Tropicana Beach Hotel

The Tropicana Beach Hotel is a small property with a lovely private beach located just across the road -- close enough that guests can leave towels and possessions on a sunbed when making trips back to the hotel. The two-and-a-half pearl property has a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that attracts many repeat guests -- large groups of families and friends often frequent this hotel, but it is not a party destination. It is, however, within walking distance of Gumbet’s nightlife district, so those wishing to party will also find this to be a convenient spot. The hotel is clean and bright, but furnishings are dated -- from the lobby's yellow-brown cushioned seating to the green strip of fake grass lining the pool. However, the whitewashed buildings with wrought-iron details and colorful bougainvillea cascading down are gorgeous. Note that there are a number of local dogs that make themselves welcome in the gardens, though they prefer to stretch out in the sun and leave guests alone. Many guests mention how much fun the hotel’s weekly Turkish night can be. The low rates and sufficient amenities make the Tropicana Beach Hotel one of the best values in the area.

The Tropicana Beach Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The Gumbet bar scene can be reached via a 10-minute beachfront walk, though the hotel is far enough from the lively area that it feels quiet and serene. Bodrum City is about a 10- to 15-minute drive away, and there guests can explore historic sites such as the Bodrum Castle and Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. There is a public bus stop outside of the hotel, a convenient way to explore the area, plus the hotel offers a shuttle service for a fee. Bardakci Beach is about a five-minute drive or a 15-minute walk from the hotel, for guests who want to go beyond the private beach across the street. Milas-Bodrum Airport is about 40 minutes away by car.

The 52 guest rooms at the Tropicana Beach Hotel come in three configurations: studios, double rooms, and one-bedroom apartments. Rooms are clean and well-kept, but furnishings are dated and decor is bland. Studios and apartments have bare-bones kitchenettes with two-burner hot plates, electric kettles, and mini-fridges, as well as dining tables and chairs. Living rooms in the apartments are long and narrow, outfitted with a pair of patterned sofas. Bathrooms, while spacious and equipped with large walk-in showers, are in need of a modern update. All rooms have furnished balconies or patios; the wrought-iron balconies are especially charming and provide lovely sunset views. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and mini-fridges, but there are no free toiletries or in-room safes. Other negatives are that air-conditioning incurs a daily fee and Wi-Fi doesn't reach some rooms.

The Tropicana Beach Hotel features a large outdoor pool, as well as an adjacent kids' pool stocked with rafts, floats, and pool noodles. The pool is surrounded by plenty of white sunbeds and beach umbrellas. Three poolside bars serve drinks and snacks, and there are flat-screen TVs that are often playing sports. Guests can also lounge on the hotel's private sandy beach, which is located just across the road and offers free lounge chairs and beach umbrellas. The hotel's restaurant, the Panorama, serves a Mediterranean and Turkish menu, including authentic Turkish meze. It has a pleasant outdoor terrace with beautiful sea views. Wellness facilities include a sauna, hammam, and spa tub, plus massage services are available. Other amenities include barbecue grills for guest use, and a convenience store for souvenirs and groceries. Airport transfers are available on request for a surcharge. Wi-Fi is free and strongest in public spaces.