The Sol Guadalmar has a bright, inviting lobby with tufted furniture in brilliant pops of color. The lobby bar and cafeteria are similarly airy and welcoming. There is a focus on entertainment here, with organized activities including water exercise, Latin dancing, and tennis. Evenings have a relaxed feel with live music and shows.

The Sol Guadalmar is located in a residential area six miles from the Malaga city center, but right on two spectacular Malaga beaches, where guests can windsurf, swim, dive, and more. To get to town, public transportation or a car is necessary; there is a taxi stand right outside the hotel entrance. There are no nearby stores, bars, or restaurants, but there is plenty to do at the Sol.

Every room at the Sol Guadalmar has a balcony with seating and views of the Bay of Malaga. Fitness rooms have a treadmill or exercise bike. Decor in all rooms is the same: simple and clean, with white bedding, marble tile floors, and solid pine headboards. It's less stylish than the decor in the public areas, but still appealing. There are family rooms with bunk beds available, and all rooms have minibars, safes, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels.

The Sol Guadalmar has two outdoor swimming pools surrounded by gardens with sunbeds, and, in summer, a barbecue restaurant. There is tennis, lawn bowling, ping pong, and a fitness center that is better equipped than many hotel gyms. In addition, there is a small, heated indoor pool with glass roof. The restaurant Cenachero serves snacks, regional cuisine, and an extensive hot and cold buffet breakfast (and the occasional theme dinner). Bikes can be rented on the premises. Beach and water sports are highlights of the Sol Guadalmar, and the staff plans a full schedule of classes and activities for guests of all ages.