Ona Las Brisas

Couples and families of all ages feel right at home in this gated apartment complex that opened in 1986, and though showing its age, the property is well-maintained. Palm trees and manicured gardens with blossoming bougainvillea form extensive grounds, and neat paths divide up individual bungalows. There's a real sense of space here, and though many guests bring children, the resort is peaceful. The lobby's forest greens and yellows are on the tired side and faux-leather seating here is basic, but clean-tiled floors give an indication of hygiene standards, which are high throughout. Activity centers around a large heated outdoor pool and separate kiddy pool, set in a sunny terrace with loungers. The restaurant is in need of a face-lift, but varied menus cater to the primarily British crowd. This is an excellent pick for home-like comforts alongside a familiar atmosphere.

Location-wise, the hotel has a lot going for it. The main Playa Blanca Beach is an eight-minute walk, as is a lively seafront promenade. It stretches for miles between the town's ferry terminal to the west, and quaint marina to the east, where Wednesday and Saturday markets are popular. Parallel to the seafront, the main Avenida de Papagayo's bars and restaurants are plentiful, plus it has a shopping complex. A supermarket sits opposite the hotel, as does Playa Blanca bus station. Busses from here run all over the island, including the resort town of Puerto del Carmen and the capital, Arrecife. More importantly, it's a drop-off point for the 161 airport bus, which runs direct to Lanzarote Airport (30 minutes). Dorada Beach is a 20-minute walk, as is Flamingo Beach. A vehicle is useful here, but not a necessity. Timanfaya National Park is a 20-minute drive.

One- and two-bedroom Apartments start at a spacious 484 square feet (45 square meters). Pinewood furniture and striped fabrics in greens and canary-yellows are dated, but the bungalows are cozy and definitely well-equipped. Simple bedrooms have light-green or russet accents in the bedspreads and drapes, as well as dressers topped by hairdryers. Sofa beds increase sleeping capacity to a maximum of six in larger bungalows. Full living areas with flat-screen TVs and DVD players accompany dining layouts, and terra-cotta floors here are typically Mediterranean. Kitchen-wise, you've got the works. Electric stoves, kettles, full ovens, coffeemakers, and toasters come alongside mini-fridges, dishwashers, and washing machines. Full kitchenware, plus sponges, cloths, and dish soap are provided. Simple cream-tiled bathrooms have shower/tub combos and bidets, and towels are changed during twice-weekly housekeeping. Larger bungalows have two bathrooms. Pebble walls enclose trellis-shielded private patios that get lots of sun, and are outfitted with barbecue facilities and plastic garden furniture. There are fees for cribs and safes, alongside electricity and water usage. Wi-Fi is free in bungalows, but patchy.

Towering palms, loungers, and tropical thatched parasols surround the freeform outdoor pool, which is heated and spotless. The adjacent kids' pool has set times for inflatables and ball games, and a nearby playground offers dry fun. The bar offers affordable cocktails, beers, and snacks, as well as nightly entertainment -- think karaoke and quiz nights. The restaurant's beige tones are simple, but an outdoor terrace affords pleasant al fresco dining with pool views. Lasagnes, salads, and fish and chips here don't get rave reviews, but themed curry and carvery nights are better received. Two flood-lit tennis courts are free to use, and an indoor game room has air hockey and table tennis, plus a pool table. The on-site mini-market is handy for last-minute essentials. Reception can arrange car and bike rentals, plus excursions (all at a fee). Wi-Fi is free throughout the complex, but signal weakens in bungalows. Parking is free.