Xuqiong Chen
Disappointed by the Experience — Not Family-Friendly
We stayed at this hotel as a family of four — two adults, a 4-year-old, and a 1-year-old — and unfortunately, our experience was disappointing from the start.
Despite clearly requesting a baby cot during booking and providing the ages of both children, we were told upon arrival that our room could only accommodate two adults and one child. This put us in a difficult situation and showed a lack of flexibility and understanding, especially considering our 1-year-old just needed a cot and not a separate bed.
To make matters worse, we found ants in the toilet, which is unacceptable for any standard of accommodation. When we tried to raise this issue and get help at reception, we had to wait over 30 minutes just to speak to someone — and there was no apology or sense of urgency from staff.
Overall, this hotel did not feel family-friendly or well-managed. Cleanliness and basic hospitality were lacking, and we would not choose to stay here again or recommend it to others.
Mia Hillman
Not Worth the Hype: Overcrowded, Noisy, and Disappointing
Fuengirola, as a destination, already left much to be desired — lacking the charm and class of nearby towns like Marbella or Málaga. Unfortunately, this hotel didn’t do much to improve the impression.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear this is a high-traffic, mass-market hotel — busy pool, crowded common areas, and a general feeling of chaos. The staff were, at best, indifferent. At worst, rude and inattentive. Any request felt like an inconvenience, and the service fell well short of even basic expectations.
The rooms were passable — clean enough and reasonably sized — but the walls were paper-thin. Every hallway conversation, toilet flush, and suitcase roll echoed through the night. The lifts were another frustration: old, painfully slow, and often overcrowded, adding to the general sense of wear and tear.
And then, there was the breakfast buffet. Calling it a buffet feels generous — it was more like a zoo. Whether it was the hotel’s clientele, poor planning, or simply lack of control, the experience was a chaotic free-for-all. Long queues, no available tables, food running out without replenishment — not exactly the relaxing start to the day one hopes for on holiday.
In short, I wouldn’t stay here again. If you're looking for a peaceful, pleasant experience on the Costa del Sol, this hotel — and Fuengirola in general — is best avoided
Charles Hill
This is an excellent hotel. Perfectly located in Fuengirola. We were a group of 8 golfers. Easy pick up for the golf. Staff were friendly. The breakfast was excellent. The staff were friendly. Highly recommend.
Sue B
A very nice hotel in good location. We walked everyday along the seafront with many restaurants and shops. Easy to walk into the main town 15/20 minutes. Stayed 6-11 December and booked a Junior Suite with sea views. Very nice with a separate lounge area and bedroom. TV in both rooms with English TV channels. We arrived early but were given an early check-in as our room was ready, which was much appreciated. It was our anniversary and the hotel arranged a complimentary bottle of cava and chocolate cake in our room, which was lovely. All staff were friendly and helpful. Breakfast and dinner was buffet and always a nice selection. Very good service in the breakfast and dining room. Thank you Hotel Occidental for a lovely holiday.
Sue Garber
2/11-2/13 This is the most wonderful place to stay. I actually stayed here in 1970 and since Barcelo/ Occidental took over everything was better than I ever imagined as far as the staff itself. Everyone warm and welcoming. Good breakfast and I got to sit out by the pool today. Highly recommend. Can’t wait to come back
My Booking
