Calle Benabola 3 Bajo, Puerto Banus, Spain | (618) 248-8274
Within a 10-minute walk of two sandy beaches
Surrounded by ample restaurants, bars, and shops
Contemporary rooms have air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs
Apartment-style rooms have kitchens with ovens and washing machine
Rooftop bar offering tapas and amazing views
Buffet breakfast spread receives positive reviews
Spa rooms for massage and beauty treatments
Shop selling liquor, snacks, and sundries
Free Wi-Fi in designated areas
No pool or fitness facilities
Not all rooms have a balcony
No in-room Wi-Fi
Some previous complaints about nighttime noise
Frequented by bachelor/bachelorette parties (pro for some)
The mid-range Benabola Hotel & Apartments is in a scenic, central area of Puerto Banus overlooking the port and within a 10-minute walk of two beaches. The 96 rooms are mostly contemporary, and equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges, but only some offer balconies and kitchen facilities. Features at the hotel are limited -- there are no pool or gym, and Wi-Fi is limited to reception. Guests can, however, get massage and beauty treatments, or head to the rooftop bar for tapas and cocktails plus lovely views. With a mostly adult clientele and frequent party groups, this isn't ideal for families with young children. Travelers looking for a ton more on-site features should compare prices with nearby Melia Marbella Banus, which is also along the water.
Scene
Modern hotel with colorful accents and a predominantly adult clientele
Tucked down a narrow street, Benabola Hotel & Apartments still manages to catch passerby's eyes with its charming archways, Juliet balconies, and yellow accents that pop against the whitewashed building. Inside, the lobby has a mature and unexpectedly modern aesthetic consisting of a mix of bright-orange and brown-leather chairs, a shag rug, and white metal stools. This is the only spot in the hotel where guests can get Wi-Fi, so it's necessary for it be a cozy space. There's little to do on-site, but the nearby beach and dining options make it a convenient base, plus the rooftop bar's views are stunning. The hotel sees quite a few bachelor and bachelorette parties, as well as couples, making it not a great option for families.
Location
Overlooking the port, this scenic and convenient location can get a bit noisy at night
Benabola Hotel & Apartments is in a prime spot in Puerto Banus overlooking the port. It's scenic, and convenient, but according to previous guests it can be a little noisy due to the many nearby bars and restaurants. There are several beaches within walking distance, including two within a 10-minute walk. Guests are a quick 14-minute drive to Marbella, and 40-minute drive to Malaga Airport.
Rooms
Bright and spacious rooms, some with well-equipped kitchens
The 96 rooms range from standard hotel rooms to one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment-style rooms. All have contemporary furnishings -- aside from the occasional old-fashioned linen and piece of wooden furniture -- white walls, marble flooring, and artwork. Some have furnished balconies with lovely views of the port. All come with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and safes. Apartments add well-stocked kitchens with ovens, washing machines, microwaves, stovetops, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and toasters. Apartment also have large living areas with sofas and dining tables.Nondescript bathrooms have floor-to-ceiling white tile, shower/tub combos, bidets, and free bath products. Hairdryers are notably missing though, and Wi-Fi is not available in rooms.
Features
Spa facilities and a rooftop bar with great views, but no pool on-site
The hotel lacks a gym and pool, which may be a negative for some, particularly families with children. Easily the best feature is the rooftop bar with incredible water views and a menu of cocktails and tapas. The on-site restaurant is well-sized and modern, offering buffet-style dining that includes a well-reviewed breakfast. Spa facilities are limited to massage and beauty treatment rooms. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby.