LABRANDA Marine Aquapark Resort

Labranda Marine Aquapark Resort is a big hotel on a long beachfront. Grounds are trim and pretty, with open lawns and flowers along brick pathways. It can be a long walk from some rooms to reach facilities like the kids’ club or restaurants, but the property is relatively flat, so it is not difficult. Rooms near the back of the property get more noise and activity from the pools, but toward the front are quite peaceful. Interiors are functional and contemporary, featuring unfussy decor. Embellishments are limited and there’s no artwork to speak of, but everything is clean and neat. The hotel is popular for its peaceful setting and extensive entertainment offerings, particularly for families with children.

This hotel is on the northeastern coast of Kos, a Greek island just off the shore of Turkey. It's in a quiet spot, a 12-minute drive west of the harbor in the nearest city, also named Kos. The hotel is surrounded by farmland and little else, but there is a restaurant and a bar, each within a 15-minute walk. There is a bus stop a five-minute walk from the lobby. It is a 20-minute walk -- or a four-minute drive -- to the main road where there are a few shops and a supermarket. The city of Kos offers some museums and ancient ruins to explore, plus plenty of restaurants and shops near the harbor. Kos International Airport is a 30-minute drive from the hotel. 

Air-conditioned rooms are clean and functional, though decor is simple. Tile floors and light-wood furniture are basic, and feel bland together with muted gold and brown accents. Some rooms have a high, exposed-beam ceiling for a nice touch. Furnished balconies offer a view of the sea or grounds. All rooms have mini-fridges and televisions with DVD players, but not all are flat-screens. Use of safes require fees. One- and two-bedroom upgrades include sitting areas with sofa beds to accommodate up to five guests. Bathrooms are likewise simple and clean, equipped with showers, and some upgrades have shower/tub combos. Basic hairdryers are provided, and free toiletries include soap and Olivia-brand shampoo, conditioner, and bath gel.

This all-inclusive resort offers a plethora of meal and activity options, such that guests never need to leave the property. Dining choices range from well-reviewed food at the main buffet, to a variety of a la carte restaurants. Greek and Italian restaurants share a rooftop terrace for dinners; a barbecue and pizza shop is open midday; and afternoon tea is served in the lobby bar. 

Four pools line the back of the property, along the coast. The main pool is huge, and generates waves up to five-feet high for part of every hour during the day. There’s a smaller, quieter pool for relaxation, and a water park offering slides, wave pools, and kiddie areas. The beach is a pebbly strip, separated from the water by a rocky shoreline, where stairs provide access to the sea. All areas have free sunbeds, but a deposit is required for towels. 

Other activities are available -- like video games, pool tables, and a bouncy castle -- but incur extra charges. The team at the kids’ club and the playground are entertaining, but some of the facilities are worn. The fitness room is dated and musty, however, it's spacious and has a range of equipment. Massages and a few spa services are available. Tennis courts, shops, and entertainment in the amphitheater round out the offerings. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, but the reception is poor in many areas.