Anna Kasoyan
We definitely enjoyed our stay at the Occidental in Fuengirola. We were on the 10th floor which included a great view. The room itself was great too, comfy bed and good toiletries in the bathroom. The air conditioning unfortunately wasn’t strong enough and we don’t even feel like it was turned on for our stay. It was just a bit hard to sleep with the heat. The reception staff were very friendly and professional. The housekeeping lady who cleaned our room was exceptionally lovely, and greeted us every morning. We would have loved to say goodbye but missed her on our last day. We had breakfast included, it was fairly decent. Fresh omelettes which we enjoyed everyday. Breakfast also included mostly British style foods, along with fresh fruit, pastries, a selection of fresh meats, and juices. There was options to sit outside which was very nice. We had food outside in the Breeze Bar. This was also amazing and reasonably priced. The pool area is quite small and there’s definitely not enough sun loungers for the amount of people staying at the hotel. The location is in the more quiet part of Fuengirola but yet within 10 minutes walking distance to all the main pubs and restaurants. The only thing that bothered us was the very slow elevator. Overall a great stay, we will be recommending.
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
LH
We had a lovely short stay at this hotel and would visit again. The room especially was great - the aircon worked very well and the beds/pillows were so comfortable. Food was good and breakfast had lots of variety. Nearby there are many shops and restaurants. The hotel is also a 20min walk from train and bus stations which connect you to Malaga, the airport, and Marbella.
The pool area is nice but it was hard to get a sunbed during most of the day. There are signs stating reserving beds is not allowed but this isn't enforced by staff. We noticed some guests putting towels down first thing in morning and not returning until midday. We found it best to go to the pool in late afternoon/evening and spent the rest of the day out of the hotel.
MrAaronw94
Very good stay, no complaints other than occasional noisy guests in the early hours of the morning but the staff were quick to tell them to quiet down.
Pool area sometimes busy not not too much of an issue.
Would stay again!
Living the Dream
Beautiful Hotel friendly staff lovely layout of breakfast bit of everything to suit all. Highly recommend to give this Hotel a stay.