Hotel Marina Parc

Spread over more than 12 acres, the all-inclusive Marina Parc Hotel is certainly one of the largest of its kind on the island. This sprawling complex is split into three sections divided by quiet roads, each zone with its own pool and gardens. The grounds are composed of a series of footpaths lined with (often patchy) lawns, mature palm trees, and an abundance of sub-tropical flora, combining to create more the feel of a Mediterranean village than a hotel. Whitewashed, traditionally styled guest room blocks add to this vibe, and bursts of colorful bougainvillea flowers bring a dash of charm. However, Marina Parc dates to the '90s, and that's especially apparent with its interiors. There's been little in the way of modernization, and throughout furnishings feel dated and spots of wear and tear can be found. That said, most travelers are drawn not by the property's looks but by its waterpark, its family-friendly vibe, and its location near a beautiful beach. Clientele tend to be British tourists on vacation with their kids. 

The Marina Parc Hotel is part of the purpose-built tourist development of Coves Noves, populated by other hotels and residential and vacation homes, and located close to the northern coast of Minorca. There's not much of interest in the immediate surroundings, though a small commercial center with a supermarket and a few restaurants can be reached in a five-minute walk. However, the gorgeous sweeping bay of Playa Arenal d'en Castell can also be reached in 15 minutes on foot. This is one of the best (and certainly  biggest) beaches in the area. Visitors can also explore the area by jumping on a local tourist "train" that stops outside the hotel. For those with cars, it's about a 30-minute drive to the capital, Mahón, which is great for day trips, and reaching the airport takes roughly the same amount of time.

The hotel has 184 units, with the option of Double Rooms, Apartments of three to five rooms, and two-story Villas. All accommodations received an update in 2016, adding simple modern furnishings, colorful artwork, and a fresh lick of paint. Balconies or terraces with patio seating come as standard, either overlooking pools, gardens, or the street; some upper-level ones are treated to views of the sea. Villas' terraces surround private pools with loungers and extend out to gardens. 

In-room amenities are basic, though they do include large flat-screen TVs (with a few U.K.-based channels), safes (for a fee), and efficient air-conditioning units. Apartments and Villas also come with lounges with sofabeds and cooking facilities that include microwaves, burners, fridges, and cookware -- kettles are provided on-request. Villas add washing machines, too. Wi-Fi is free of charge, though the connection is very spotty or non-existent in most rooms. Bathrooms are mostly clean, though they could still use an update and some past guests have complained of mold. All are equipped with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic toiletries. 

For many Marina Parc guests, features are a highlight of the hotel, and there's certainly plenty in the way of leisure facilities to keep most guests happy -- particularly families. Its three main swimming pools are divided between the three zones, and there's generally with no shortage of loungers (though some could use replacing); all pools also have separate shallow kids' sections. However, its the waterpark that is the real centerpiece. Free to all hotel residents (and open to the public for a fee) the Parque Acuatico features a good selection of slides for all ages, including high-speed, multi-lane and spiral slides. There’s also a sizable splash pool for toddlers, a lazy river and a wave pool. Other recreational facilities include tennis courts, pool tables, and table tennis, plus a kids' club and a low-key animation program. Evening entertainment tends to be performed by the animation team, so it's on the amateurish side. 

Most agree that food is not a highlight at this all-inclusive resort. There's just one buffet restaurant for the whole complex, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It includes a kids' corner and outside terrace. Live cooking is minimal, quality is inconsistent (and often poor), and the restaurant can get overcrowded at peak times. Snacks and self-service drinks are also available from a cafeteria throughout the day, plus there's a manned poolside bar. 

There are free Wi-Fi zones scattered throughout the complex, however the connection is usually sluggish.