Club Hotel Marina Beach

Everything about this resort is big. The grounds, rooms, pool, and beach all live up to an oversized standard, but some areas still feel crowded with the number of guests accommodated here. The expansive property includes paths through open lawns and gardens, where guests can walk or bike ride in natural surroundings. Interiors are less impressive, though still generally appealing. The traditional Sardinian style includes bright color schemes that draw the eye, but has an overall dated feel. Leisure travelers of all types are drawn here for the beautiful beach and good amenities, though a large majority of guests are Italian families. Though the grounds are beautiful and facilities are modern, guests expecting the advertised four-star experience will likely be disappointed. Extra fees (some compulsory) to use pools, entertainment facilities, Wi-Fi, and beach towels are also a turn-off. 

Club Hotel Marina Beach is on the eastern shore of Sardinia, a small island off of mainland Italy in the Mediterranean. There’s not much nearby -- the huge property houses two other hotels and there are a few bars along the beach (a 10-minute walk at most). There’s also a harbor with boat rentals a 10-minute walk south along the beach. Orosei is the nearest town; it is 30-minute walk to the center, or a nine-minute drive. The town is a nice spot with several museums and churches to visit, plus several cafes and bars. Atop the surrounding mountains, a 35-minute drive away, is the Bronze Statue of Christ. There are no tourist amenities at the site, but the panoramic views are incredible, and it is a beautiful drive (with an uphill walk at the end). Costa Smerelda Airport is an 80-minute drive from the hotel, as is the nearby port at Olbia.  

Air-conditioned rooms are functional and clean, checking off the basics for a comfortable stay. The traditional Sardinian style consists of cream walls, tile floors, and light-wood furniture with blue accents, plus aquamarine embroidered bedding and ocean-themed artwork. While well-maintained, the overall look feels a bit old-fashioned. Each room houses two to five beds, a wardrobe, and a desk with a chair. Furnished balconies look over the pool or lovely grounds, but in some cases, the view is limited to other rooms. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges (minibars are available for a fee), and safes. Upgrades offer extras like welcome gifts, robes, and late-check out. Spacious bathrooms have shower stalls, bidets, hairdryers, and free toiletries.

A plethora of features make this resort a popular choice for a relaxing, family-friendly beachfront vacation. The pool area has a big main pool, a larger-than-average whirlpool with jets and fountains, and a wading pool for kids. The pool bar serves drinks and snacks all day. It is a busy area, especially when entertainment and water games are happening, but one end is kept quieter for relaxation. The beautiful beach with free loungers is private -- though can be crowded with hotel guests -- and water sports are available for a fee. The kids’ club and a good animation team provide a variety of entertainment options throughout the day. A fitness room, big playground, and sporting courts are also on-site for activities. The main buffet restaurant is a huge cafeteria-like space with flower-motif pastel tablecloths, and a separate kiddy area. The food is adequate and plentiful, though lacking variety (pasta and fish abound). Breakfast is free, and half-board or all-inclusive meal plans can be purchased. An a la carte restaurant with a quieter atmosphere is available for poolside dinners, and a beach bar serves light lunches. Wi-Fi is available for a fee in most areas, but it does not cover the entire property, and guests find the signal lacking. Note that there's a mandatory fee that covers use of facilities.