The Playa & Spa is part of Beatriz Hotels, a small chain with a handful of mid- and upper-middle-range properties in Spain. Although it markets itself as a luxury hotel, this resort is in urgent need of some upgrades in order to be on par with true four-pearl properties. It is not so much about the maintenance as it is about cleanliness, decor, customer service, and food quality. The lobby has salmon-colored walls and eclectic decor that feels more mismatched than stylish, with black and red couches, a couple of retro coffee tables, ornate mirrors, Moroccan lamps, and even a statue of a buddha. Lush plants and artificial streams lined with dark stones make the sprawling grounds appealing. 

With three pools -- including a kiddy one -- a kids’ club, a playground, and daily entertainment, the Playa & Spa caters to families looking for some fun in the sun. However, the property is busy and couples on a romantic getaway may want to look elsewhere. 

The hotel is located across the promenade from Matagorda Beach, a narrow stretch of sand a 10-minute drive from central Puerto del Carmen. There are a handful of casual cafes and a couple of shops within a few blocks, but the area is mostly residential and therefore quiet. Puerto del Carmen has a wider variety of dining and drinking options. This location offers easy access to the airport, which is just a five-minute drive from the hotel, but noise from planes taking off and landing can be annoying to some. Timanfaya National Park, home to several volcanoes, can be reached in about 25 minutes. 

The Beatriz Playa & Spa has 404 rooms, including 360 Standard units and 44 Junior Suites. All are large enough to fit a seating area with a sofa bed, and Junior Suites, with separate living areas, can fit up to three adults and two kids under 12. Decor is dated, with simple wooden furniture, generic artwork on walls, and basic amenities, such as small tube TVs (although the hotel is in the process of upgrading to flat-screen TVs), air-conditioning, and hairdryers. Wi-Fi, safes, and mini-fridges are available for a fee. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, older fixtures, and a nice array of hotel-brand toiletries. Although planes can be heard flying low due to the hotel’s location adjacent to the airport, flights to and from Lanzarote do not normally start until after 7:30 a.m. and stop before midnight. All units have balconies, some offering ocean views.

Options for drinking and dining abound at Beatriz Playa & Spa. The property is home to seven restaurants -- including four buffets, a tapas bar, a burger joint, and a Spanish eatery -- and three bars. All guests can dine at any of the restaurants, but a la carte options are an extra charge even for those on the all-inclusive meal plan. The spa, with its contemporary decor and relaxing vibe, is a highlight here. It offers spacious hydrotherapy areas as well as body treatments and relaxation rooms with padded loungers. Those looking to stay active during their vacation can get a full workout at the small on-site gym, or book the tennis court, which has flood lights for night play. Equipment is available for a deposit. Daily entertainment and nightly shows keep guests of all ages busy, and the kids’ club, kiddy pool and playground are convenient for those traveling with children. Additionally, the hotel has two other pools (including a heated one), both lined with loungers and straw parasols and offering access to a bar with drinks and snacks. Outdoor parking is available free of charge.