Castle Harbour Apartments

Castle Harbour is housed in two attractive cream-colored buildings a little taller than neighboring structures. While exteriors are attractive -- with three striking keyhole arches by way of entrance to the property, and white stone balustrades -- interiors could use an update. The lobby is basic and dated, with floors and most surfaces covered in dark green and brown clay tiles, a couple of couches, and two vending machines. The apartments are all privately owned and decor style may vary, but most rooms have a similar basic feel, with thin bedspreads and simple wooden furniture. Nevertheless, with great rates year-round, a large pool with a kids’ section, and kitchens in all rooms, the hotel is a good pick overall for families and coupes on a budget. 

The hotel is located in a quiet residential area atop a hill above Los Cristianos Beach. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, and a couple of solid supermarkets can be found within walking distance. While the walk to the beach is nice and easy, the way back can be a little tough for some, and some guests may want to drive or take a cab instead. Playa del Duque, Las Américas, Fañabé and La Caleta beaches can all be reached in under 10 minutes by car. Those who prefer to use public transportation can take a bus to all of the area’s main beaches. Tenerife Sur Airport can be reached by car in 10 minutes, and by bus in under an hour.

The hotel offers 370 units, including Studios for up to three guests, and One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments. They’re all spacious and bright, with large windows and furnished balconies or terraces overlooking either the grounds or the pool area. Decor is dated, with thin bedspreads and basic wooden furniture -- but units here are privately owned and the style varies from one unit to the other. Some have a few homey touches such as a library with a small selection of books, and others have renovated bathrooms or kitchens with up-to-date appliances. Still, fully equipped kitchens and flat-screen TVs are standard amenities in all room types. Wi-Fi is also offered throughout, but for an extra charge. Apartments are serviced a couple of times a week.

Castle Harbour Apartments offers a handful of solid amenities, including a tennis court; a laundry room that guests can use for a fee, and on-site parking. The heated pool, located in the back of the property, is large and pleasant, with a few patches of grass, and palm trees. Separated by a lane rope is a shallow area for kids, and there are lots of loungers and umbrellas -- just note that there is a daily or weekly fee for them. The snack bar is a decent spot for a poolside drink or light bite, but there is no full restaurant here.