Universal Hotel Marques is an upper-middle-range hotel in the quiet resort neighborhood of Colonia de Sant Jordi. The chain hotel is located on a private beach and just a few minutes away from the popular beach of Es Trench. The property has a bright and modern look throughout. The 191 guest rooms include fresh decor, air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and balconies with sea views in most. Healthy meals are available at the restaurant, and all rates include a free buffet breakfast -- half-board rates are available. Additional fees for things like Wi-Fi, use of the sun loungers, towels, and games facilities are a bit of a gripe among guests. For a peaceful and scenic location, this hotel is ideal. Aparthotel & Hotel Isla de Cabrera offers more kid-friendly and lively facilities, like a kids' club and evening entertainment, for family travelers.

With winding cobbled streets, village squares, and apartment-style rooms, the three-and-a-half-pearl, clifftop Pueblo Acantilado Suites feels more like a small town than a hotel. It has a removed location, a 20-minute walk from the nearest beach and a 25-minute drive from Alicante. The 100 bright and contemporary studios and apartments have well-equipped kitchens, shower/tub combos, and furnished outdoor spaces -- some with stunning sea views. The complex has an impressive amphitheater where an animation team put on entertainment every night during high season, as well as a tennis court and a mini-golf course. Multiple dining options are available for those that don't want to cook, plus there are a spa, tiny gym, and a small pool that's unheated. Travelers who don't need kitchen-equipped rooms should consider Hotel Albahia, which is across the street from the beach in Alicante.