Holiday World Polynesia Hotel: A Family Adventure in Costa del Sol
Flying into Gibraltar: A Scenic Start to Our Family Holiday
Our journey began early in the morning, departing from Bristol Airport aboard an EasyJet flight. With our 1-year-old grandchild in tow, we opted for Speedy Boarding, which made the travel process smoother and more comfortable for all of us. Instead of flying directly into Malaga, we decided to take a different route by landing in Gibraltar, adding an extra touch of adventure to our trip.
Once we arrived in Gibraltar, we picked up our rental car and began the scenic drive along the Costa del Sol, making our way to Holiday World Polynesia Hotel in Benalmádena. The journey took us through stunning coastal towns, including Estepona and Marbella, giving us the perfect opportunity to soak in the breathtaking Mediterranean views. As we approached Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, excitement filled the car as we admired the tropical architecture of the resort. The decision to take the scenic route really paid off, offering a fantastic introduction to the beautiful region of Andalucia.
First Impressions: The Polynesian-Inspired Resort
Upon arrival at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, we were immediately struck by the resort’s vibrant Polynesian design. The hotel’s lush greenery, water features, and wooden structures create a tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life. The lobby’s open layout and tropical décor set the tone for the rest of our stay, providing a perfect blend of luxury and serenity. The entire complex exudes a welcoming and family-friendly vibe, perfect for our short 4-night break.
Check-in was seamless, and the staff made us feel incredibly welcome. We were excited to explore our Suite Sea View at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, one of the hotel’s most luxurious room categories. The suite boasted a large terrace complete with a hydro-massage hot tub and stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Stepping into the room, we were greeted with a modern, Polynesian-inspired design, with calming neutral tones and ample space for a family of four. The suite felt spacious, elegant, and catered to our every need.
For families like ours, these suites are the perfect base for a holiday in Benalmádena. The room at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel comes equipped with all the essential amenities—comfortable beds, a mini-bar, flat-screen TVs, and a fully-equipped bathroom with luxurious toiletries. What made it even more special was the welcome gift left for us, which included tea and coffee on arrival, a lovely personal touch that made us feel at home right away.
A Relaxing Start to the Holiday: The Suite Experience
Our Suite Sea View at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel offered the perfect retreat for relaxation, whether it was enjoying the hot tub on the terrace or unwinding in the spacious living area. We spent many evenings on the terrace, watching the sun set over the sea, while our grandchild played nearby. The suite had everything we needed for a comfortable and luxurious stay, and it felt like a private oasis amidst the busier resort atmosphere.
The Holiday World Polynesia Hotel is part of a larger resort complex, which includes the Holiday Village, Holiday Riwo, and Hydros hotels. This interconnected structure allowed us to explore various parts of the resort easily, giving us access to a range of different restaurants, activities, and entertainment options without ever leaving the complex.
One of the things that stood out at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel was the focus on families. Whether it was the baby pool, kids’ club, or the vast range of entertainment options designed for all ages, Holiday World Polynesia Hotel had thought of everything to ensure that both kids and adults could enjoy their stay to the fullest.
Dining at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel
A big part of any holiday is the dining experience, and Holiday World Polynesia Hotel certainly didn’t disappoint. We were spoiled for choice with the variety of dining options available throughout the resort.
Each morning started with a delightful breakfast buffet at the Efes Main Restaurant at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, offering a wide range of options from fresh fruit, pastries, and cereals to made-to-order omelets and pancakes. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day, especially with a toddler who had plenty of energy to burn.
For lunch, we often opted for something light at one of the snack bars, conveniently located near the pool area. With a selection of sandwiches, salads, and local dishes, it was easy to grab a quick bite while keeping an eye on our grandchild as they played in the water.
The Asian Restaurant at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel was a highlight of our evenings. The elegant ambiance, combined with expertly prepared sushi and stir-fried dishes, made it a great spot for a relaxing family dinner. We also enjoyed the Mediterranean Restaurant, which featured a mix of seafood and traditional Spanish fare, all served with a view of the sea.
Entertainment and Activities for All Ages
What really makes Holiday World Polynesia Hotel stand out is its wide range of activities and entertainment options designed for guests of all ages. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, there’s always something to keep everyone entertained at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel.
Our 1-year-old particularly loved the mini-club at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, which had a range of fun activities and a designated play area. For older children, the hotel offers a teen zone complete with video games, arcade machines, and a dedicated space for them to hang out.
In the evenings, the Outdoor Auditorium at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel comes to life with live performances, including magic shows, music, and dance performances. For adults, there’s also a nightclub and Ukelele Bar at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, which is open for specific events and offers a fun, lively atmosphere for those looking to dance the night away.
A Day Trip to Marbella: Exploring the Costa del Sol
While Holiday World Polynesia Hotel offers plenty to keep you busy, we couldn’t resist taking a day trip to the glamorous town of Marbella. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Benalmádena, and the scenic route offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
In Marbella, we wandered through the charming Old Town, explored the local boutiques, and visited the world-famous Puerto Banús. The marina, filled with luxury yachts and high-end shops, was the perfect place to grab lunch and do a bit of people-watching. We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon soaking in the sights before returning to our suite at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel.
The Ultimate Family Fun: Holiday World Beach Club
One of the highlights of our stay at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel was the access to the renowned Holiday World Beach Club. This massive, family-friendly beach club is not just a place to relax by the water—it’s a complete aquatic wonderland with endless entertainment for all ages. As part of the all-inclusive package at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, entry to the Beach Club was complimentary, making it an ideal day out during our stay.
The Holiday World Beach Club is expansive, with over 30,000 square meters of pools, slides, wave pools, and relaxation areas. For our grandchild, the Wild Ocean area was the most exciting part, with its kid-friendly water slides and themed playgrounds. We spent hours splashing around in the various pools, with each one offering something new to explore. The Wave Pool at Holiday World Beach Club, in particular, was a hit with our family—offering gentle waves perfect for little ones, but fun enough for adults too.
We took full advantage of the Snack Buffet located at the Beach Club. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a morning of fun in the water, with a variety of snacks, light meals, and refreshing drinks. It’s hard to overstate just how ideal the Holiday World Beach Club is for families—whether you’re looking to unwind in a more tranquil area or take advantage of the thrilling slides and wave pools, there’s something for everyone here.
For those seeking something a little more exclusive, the VIP Area at Holiday World Beach Club offers private Balinese beds, personal waiting service, and a more serene environment, away from the busier areas. Though we didn’t indulge in the VIP Area this time, it’s certainly an option for those looking to add a touch of extra luxury to their stay at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel.
Exploring Benalmádena and the Costa del Sol
While we loved every minute at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, we also wanted to make the most of our location in Benalmádena. One of the most exciting aspects of staying at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel is how close you are to so many beautiful and vibrant destinations along the Costa del Sol. On one of our days, we decided to drive to Marbella, a town renowned for its luxurious resorts, beautiful marina, and chic Old Town.
Our drive from Holiday World Polynesia Hotel to Marbella took about 30 minutes, and we spent the day exploring the narrow streets, enjoying lunch at a local café, and walking along the stunning Puerto Banús. The marina is known for its high-end shops, luxury yachts, and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to add a little glamour to their holiday at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel. The mix of traditional Spanish charm and modern luxury makes Marbella a must-see if you’re staying in the area.
On other days, we took short drives around Benalmádena, which is filled with beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, and local markets. Whether you’re interested in visiting Selwo Marina, a marine park featuring dolphins and penguins, or taking the Benalmádena Cable Car for panoramic views of the coastline, there’s plenty to do within a short distance of Holiday World Polynesia Hotel.
Family-Friendly Features and Entertainment
One of the standout features of Holiday World Polynesia Hotel is how well it caters to families. We found there was no shortage of activities for our grandchild to enjoy, even at the tender age of one. The hotel’s Mini-Club was a great feature, offering soft play areas, ball pools, and slides designed specifically for younger children. The attentive staff ensured that all the kids were engaged and safe while parents could relax knowing their little ones were having fun.
For older kids, the Play In Recreational Zone was a fantastic place to burn off energy. With arcade games, pool tables, and bowling lanes, there’s enough here to keep children and teenagers entertained for hours. The hotel also has an outdoor Auditorium, where live entertainment is held most evenings. From magic shows to concerts and dancing, the whole family can enjoy a lively evening without even leaving the resort.
For adults, the Monoi Spa at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel is the perfect place to unwind. We indulged in a lomi-lomi massage, a Polynesian treatment designed to relax and rejuvenate. The spa also features a full hydrotherapy circuit, including a Roman bath, Finnish sauna, and Turkish bath. After a day spent chasing after a toddler, these luxurious spa treatments were exactly what we needed to recharge.
Dining: A Gastronomic Journey
As part of the Holiday World Resort, the Polynesia Hotel offers a wide variety of dining options that cater to all tastes. Each morning, we enjoyed a generous buffet breakfast at the Main Restaurant at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, where there was something for everyone. From fresh fruit, pastries, and cereals to a hot selection of eggs, bacon, and sausages, it was the perfect way to start our day. We especially loved the live cooking stations, where chefs prepared omelets and pancakes right in front of us.
For lunch and dinner, the hotel offers a range of options. On one evening, we dined at the Asian Restaurant, which served delicious sushi, noodles, and stir-fried dishes. The atmosphere was tranquil, and the service was top-notch. Another night, we visited the Mediterranean Restaurant, where we enjoyed freshly grilled fish and seafood, paired with fine Spanish wines. The variety of restaurants meant that every meal felt unique, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to our stay.
Even with a 1-year-old, dining at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel was never a challenge. The restaurants were well-equipped with high chairs, and the staff went out of their way to accommodate our needs. It was clear that the hotel prioritizes family-friendly service, and we appreciated how stress-free dining was during our stay.
Summary: A Family-Friendly Paradise at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel
Looking back at our time at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel, it’s safe to say that this was one of the most memorable family holidays we’ve ever had. From the scenic drive along the Costa del Sol to the incredible service and luxurious suite, every aspect of our trip exceeded our expectations. Our grandchild, even at such a young age, had the time of their life, thanks to the hotel’s thoughtful amenities and entertainment options designed with families in mind.
The resort is perfect for both relaxation and adventure, with activities and experiences that cater to all ages. Whether you’re soaking in the hot tub on your suite’s panoramic terrace or watching the kids splash around at the Holiday World Beach Club, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The Holiday World Polynesia Hotel stands out as a luxury, all-inclusive resort where families can make lifelong memories. From the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean to the thoughtful touches throughout the resort, we couldn’t have asked for a better holiday. We left feeling refreshed, relaxed, and already planning our return trip to Holiday World Polynesia Hotel.
If you’re feeling inspired by our wonderful experience at Holiday World Polynesia Hotel and want to plan your own holiday, here are some helpful links to get started.
- Plan Your Dream Holiday: Ready to immerse yourself in the luxury of Holiday World Polynesia Hotel? Click here to plan your holiday with C&M Travel. We’ll take care of everything, so you can focus on enjoying your break.
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