Sol Lanzarote is similar to many other all-inclusive properties in the area in terms of amenities and atmosphere. It is popular with families with young kids, and the vibe around the pool is busy and loud. It is more bustling in the summer and school vacation periods than in the winter, but there is always music and some entertainment on the pool deck, which is dotted with dozens of loungers and umbrellas. However, unlike some other resorts, the grounds at Sol Lanzarote are spacious, and there are quieter areas for those looking to get away from the noise and the activities. Ample lawns shaded by palm trees offer additional seating on the opposite side of the building from the main pool deck, where there is no music and less foot traffic. 

Although the lobby doesn’t give a great first impression with its limited seating, plain off-white floors, and bare white pillars, extensive renovations in 2015 brought much-needed updates to the hotel’s interiors, including rooms, restaurants, and even the fitness center. Decor is contemporary (albeit generic) throughout, with minimalist lines, a neutral palette, and some mood lighting around pillars and under counters in bars. Large windows let in lots of sunlight and bring the lush outdoors in, making even the more unremarkable spaces attractive. Despite the extensive renovations though, we spotted some minor wear and tear both indoors and out, including peeling paint on the facade and scuff marks on walls in every room we saw. 

Sol Lanzarote does a good job keeping families busy, but travelers whose idea of a relaxing vacation is hearing the sound of waves from a lounger or reading a book by the pool may prefer Las Costas, though it is not an all-inclusive property. ClubHotel Riu Paraiso Lanzarote is a good pick for families and couples wanting a Cancun-style resort, with several dining options, bigger pools, and a full entertainment program with activities for all ages. Just beware that room decor is dated. In the same price range as the Sol Lanzarote, Sentido Aequora Lanzarote has more stylish rooms and family and adult-only pools.  

Sol Lanzarote is located at the end of a small cul-de-sac in a quiet beachfront area adjacent to the airport. The grounds open directly onto the promenade and sandy Matagorda Beach, and there are several cafes, restaurants and shops in a small mall found a five-minute walk away. Puerto del Carmen, located a five- to 10-minute drive away, offers a wider range of dining and drinking options and a livelier atmosphere. Pocillos Beach, a long stretch of sand just west of Matagorda, can be reached on foot in about 10 minutes. The airport is five minutes from the hotel, and Timanfaya National Park is a 25-minute drive away. The hotel offers free outdoor parking. 

The hotel’s 341 rooms were renovated in 2015-16 and feature contemporary (albeit somewhat generic) decor, consisting of dark laminate floors and white furniture with minimalist lines. The neutral palette is fresh, yet a tad bland, but touches such as backlit headboards and brown accent pillows add some style. Most rooms used to have kitchenettes, but these were removed during the renovations, making for more spacious sleeping areas. Rooms start at 280 square feet (plus a 54-square-foot balcony), so even Standard units have enough space for a big armchair that turns into a single bed for a child. 

Standard amenities are good for the price, and include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, central air-conditioning, and electric kettles. All but Standard units come with microwaves, and Family Rooms have sliding doors separating the bedrooms from living areas, which are equipped with sofa beds. Suites have bigger terraces, queen beds, and extras such as slippers, robes, and tote bags. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but safes are an additional charge in all room types. Bathrooms are clean and spacious, with either shower/tub combos or walk-in showers, plus hairdryers and toiletries.

The only meal plan available at Sol Lanzarote is the all-inclusive, but there are two types of packages. The standard all-inclusive rate includes three buffet meals per day, plus all snacks and local drinks until midnight, while the All-Inclusive Gold package covers premium drinks, milkshakes, and fresh fruit smoothies. 

Main meals are served at the buffet restaurant, which offers a wide selection of regional and international options, as well as a grill and outdoor seating. Hot and cold snacks, cocktails, and desserts are available at the poolside bar during the day. Located right off the promenade, Blue Horizon is a stylish lounge with a sushi menu, DJ sessions, and live music in the evening, but food and drinks purchased there are an extra charge even for All-Inclusive Gold guests. 

Most guests spend their days on the main deck, which is home to dozens of loungers and three pools, including one that can be heated in the winter, and a big pool for children. The deck is spacious and pleasant, with palm trees, two bridges, and a lively atmosphere, but loungers go fast in the morning, especially during the summer. The kids’ club hosts an array of age-appropriate activities during the summer and school vacation periods, and there is a playground that kids can use when supervised by an adult. The game room has several arcade machines, as well as ping-pong and foosball tables -- all for a fee. 

There is no full spa at the Sol Lanzarote, but massages and other body treatments are available at the wellness center, which is run by a third party and has limited opening hours. The adjacent fitness center is outfitted with a handful of modern machines, and there are two tennis courts that guests can use free of charge. Loaner tennis equipment is available for a fee. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.