KAIRABA Alacati Beach Resort & SPA

Travelers come to this resort for the unbeatable beachfront setting, as Alacati's white sands are a sunbathing and surfer paradise. Looks-wise, the Alacati Beach Resort has a lot of appeal. Green lawns, hammocks, and gazebo or trellis-shaded outdoor areas are attractive, as is the lounger-surrounded outdoor pool. Similarly pleasant is the Ottoman-Aegean architecture seen in the low-rise, light-stone buildings. Stylish interiors have a shabby-chic feel, clad in exposed stone, chandeliers, Art Nouveau furnishings, and country house decor. While the chic look continues into rooms, not everything here is as well-reviewed. Reports of slow or unfriendly service, steeply priced or disappointing food, and disturbing music from neighboring establishments are downers. There's also nothing in the way of child animation or adult entertainment. Overall, there are better options in the area. As is standard for the region, the hotel is only open April through September.

Guests choose the hotel for its Alacati Surf Beach location, and with stunning white sands and turquoise waters, it's obvious why. Shores here are perfect for windsurfing and kiteboarding, and guests can use the free loungers and umbrellas. Raised terraces shade the beach bar and restaurant, and tables overlook the sea. Immediate surrounds offer little more than a cluster of surfing schools and independent beach bars, although Alacati Marina's restaurants are a 14-minute walk away. Busses or taxis the medieval town of Alacati take 11 minutes, and there visitors will find artisan-packed streets and fashionable eateries. Cesme is an 18-minute drive. Adnan Menderes Airport is over an hour away by car. Airport transfers are available for a fee.

Spacious rooms have elegant, contemporary decor that consists of wood and/or tile floors, streamlined tan or red-on-white fabrics, and chic accents walls in gold or exposed brick. Wood and wrought-iron furniture are shabby-chic, and pillow-topped beds have continuity from matching drapes, rugs, and seating areas. All rooms have desks, closets, and sitting areas, while Suites have living spaces with sofas (and fireplaces in some) and kettles, plus fancy bathrooms with jetted or clawfoot tubs. All bathrooms are beautifully tired and have showers, hairdryers, slippers, quality toiletries, and robes. Phones, desks, flat-screen TVs with limited English-language channels, minibars, and safes come standard. Furnished balconies or terraces offer garden, pool, or sea views (in upgraded units). AC and Wi-Fi are free, but the latter is reportedly weak.

Despite the beach resort moniker, features here aren't as extensive as comparable properties. However, the private beach is lovely, and it offers cushioned loungers, umbrellas, and cabanas by the waters. The beach bar and restaurant has raised terraces nearby that take in the view. Additionally dining areas include an equally pleasant trellis-shaded terrace and indoor space with a country-house feel. Unfortunately, slow service, steep prices, and mediocre food are disappointing. Although, the breakfast buffets are free. The outdoor pool is large, surrounded by loungers, umbrellas, manicured gardens, hammocks, and palm trees. Fountain features, a hot tub, and a kids' pool are well-maintained here, plus there's a snack bar. A relaxed vibe continues throughout furnished and plant-filled outdoor nooks and gazebo cabanas that form the outdoor spa. Massages and Turkish hammam treatments (at a fee) are available. Note, the facility only operates from mid-June through mid-September. Sadly, there are no gym, kids' club, or entertainment. Tennis and a multi-purpose sports pitch are free-to-use. Pets aren't allowed. Free parking and Wi-Fi round out features.