Occidental Lanzarote Playa

Housed in a large, plain building, the Occidental Lanzarote Playa looks a bit like a convention center from the outside. Even the lobby has a slight business property feel, with an atrium-style design, sparse furniture, and a huge skylight. Decor, however, is cheerful albeit generic, in particular the vinyl couches in gray, burgundy, and lime-green hues, and the white drop-shaped lamps. Although some areas could use a bit of freshening up (we spotted some chipped paint, a few cracked tiles, and worn carpets) the overall feel is contemporary, and the hotel has a more updated feel than its sister property Occidental Lanzarote Mar, located right across the street. There isn’t much greenery here aside from a few dozen palm trees and a small lawn behind the annex building, but the grounds are pleasant, with big pools, many loungers, and sea views. The property offers direct access to a tiny bay with a small patch of sand. Guests -- most of whom are families in the summer and older couples in the winter -- tend to gather around the pools during the day, and the atmosphere is lively. There is a quieter, separate Family Block complete with two kiddy pools, but the main pool deck is generally bustling, with fitness activities and games, music, and lots of children running around. Couples seeking something more peaceful may prefer the upscale Barcelo Teguise Beach – Adults Only, which is located in the city center. Los Zocos Club Resort is a good alternative for families wanting apartment-style accommodation, though prices can be a bit higher. 

The hotel is located on the road that connects Costa Teguise to Arrecife and the airport. A couple of other hotels are the only buildings within a few blocks, and the area gets little foot traffic. The property offers direct access to tiny Ancla Beach, but there is also free shuttle service to larger Las Cucharas Beach, which is in the city center. It is also possible to walk to central Costa Teguise along a pretty promenade, but it takes about half an hour. Arrecife, home to a handful of historic and cultural attractions, including San Gabriel and San Jose castles, La Recova Market, and the 18th-century San Gines Church, is a 10-minute drive away, as is the Lanzarote Airport. The hotel is 30 minutes from Timanfaya National Park, home to several stunning volcanos.

The hotel has 372 rooms spread over two large buildings, including a Family section in an annex structure with its own kiddy pools. While not particularly stylish, rooms feel fresh, with a black, white, and green color scheme, gray laminate floors, and backlit plastic nightstands. The blond-wood furniture is generic, though, and walls have few ornaments. Superior Rooms are on a higher floor than Standard units, but big glass doors slide open onto furnished balconies in all, many of which offer sea views. In-room amenities are average for the price, consisting of flat-screen TVs with a few international channels, individually controlled central air-conditioning, and mini-fridges. Wi-Fi is free, but most guests say that it works better in common areas than in rooms. All but Standard Rooms are outfitted with electric kettles and free tea and instant coffee (replenished daily), but only Superior units come with robes and slippers. Safes are available for a daily fee. Bathrooms are clean and simple, with either brown or gray marble-like counters, tiles throughout, and simple shower/tub combos. Junior Suites and Suites have walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads, and some suites feature jetted tubs. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided in all rooms.

There are two restaurants at the Occidental Lanzarote Playa. The main one serves up buffet-style international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while La Geria offers a la carte meals for dinner. All-inclusive guests get one free dinner per seven-night stay at La Geria, but it is an extra charge otherwise. Smaller bites and snacks are available at the poolside bar. The hotel has five outdoor pools, including two large ones for families, and three kiddy ones -- two of which are located behind the Family Block and have small slides. The kids’ club offers a few activities for children between the ages of 4 and 12, but it has limited hours. There are also a playground and a game room with arcade machines. The fitness center has a few machines, and tennis, paddle, and multi-sport courts are also on-site. The hotel also offers massages, a sauna, and a whirlpool, all for a fee.