Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas

Travelers come here for the beach setting and ample resort facilities, which are well-organized and well-maintained. The property's multiple structures are spread amid vast grounds housing lawns, dining terraces, four outdoor pools, and sports facilities, and the 2015-renovated interiors are impeccable. Trendy lounges are adorned with wooden bookcases, chic armchairs, and comfy sofas, accented by classic floral arrangements, birdcages and lanterns, and stunning Islamic silks and wall art. Sun-drenched terraces offer shaded lounging by the pool, though many guests take advantage of the abundant activities available. Opinions are divided regarding evening shows and karaoke, but with similar resorts often disorganized or dated, this hotel stands out among the pack. Note, there are no elevators, all-inclusive packages end at midnight, and a stay here means exclusively buffet dining, plus a largely loved, sanctuary-protected cat presence.

Though farther from attractions than other properties, the hotel still benefits from a prime, Agadir Promenade location, and its stretch of private beach is across the street. Umbrella-shaded loungers are free here, and miles of golden sands are gorgeous. Taxis are cheap and plentiful, and they're the best bet for reaching the 1541-built Kasbah, handicrafts at Agadir Medina, and the spice-filled Souk El-Had; all are within a 10-minute drive. Many guests find the 50-minute seafront walk to the marina's boutiques pleasant, but again, it's far. Some fast-food restaurants and Agadir's nightclubs dot the midway point of this route. Agadir-Inezgane Airport is a 17-minute drive away.

All with furnished balconies overlooking pools or the ocean (in upgraded units), pleasant rooms are spacious and modern, thanks to renovations in 2015. The whites in walls and bedding are accented by wood headboards and paneling, slate-gray or brown throw pillows, runners, and drapes, and a smart finish from terra-cotta or gray-tiled floors. Sleek, large desks and coffee tables look polished, and sofa beds increase sleeping capacity. Beds themselves are twins pushed together though, and past guests have found them firm. Tan-tiled bathrooms are swish with glass-wrapped rainfall showers, and upscale amenities include large flat-screen TVs, bottled water, and electronic safes, plus hairdryers, toiletries, and AC. Mini-fridges are provided, but there are no tea- and coffee-making facilities. The 861-square-foot (80-square-meter) Suites have elegant living rooms, crested details in bathrooms, and huge wardrobes. Note, upper-level rooms are reached by stairs. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. 

Extensive features here don't differ massively from competitor offerings, but it's the streamlined management and impeccable setting that sets this hotel apart. Lagoon pools are vast, and bridges, boulders, and river-effect sections give them a natural feel. Palm trees and umbrella-shaded or cabana loungers surround the pools. Kids are well-catered to with shallow pools, a playground, and a great animation team at the kids' club. Tennis, beach volleyball, and darts are also available. Adult yoga and water aerobics are available in the daytime, while evenings offer live shows or karaoke, however some guests find this underwhelming. Though it lacks a sauna and steam room, the sleek spa has a lovely marbled Turkish hammam with red moody lighting, treatment rooms, a heated indoor pool, a hair salon, and gym (although it mostly offers resistance equipment). There's also the private beach, where security fends off local peddlers.

Three restaurants offer international, Moroccan, or Asian buffets (with themed decor to match), but unfortunately, there's no a la carte option. Multiple bars are by the pool and indoors, and al fresco terraces are smart and plentiful. All meals and snacks are part of the all-inclusive package, as are unlimited local and imported alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages -- until midnight, that is. Pets are not permitted. Free parking and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel round out features.