This May half term we traded school runs for sunshine and sea views in Costa Adeje, staying at Iberostar Waves Bouganville Playa, and it was exactly the relaxed family break we needed.

Just 20 minutes from Tenerife South, we were checked in, changed and by the pool with a drink in hand in no time. We went all-inclusive and it worked brilliantly: branded drinks, a great pool bar with self-serve beer, soft drinks, and ice creams on tap for the kids, and no faff over costs.

The buffet was the best we have experienced in a hotel: plenty of choice, lots of live cooking stations and a really good kids’ section, so even fussy eaters were happy. Mealtimes felt easy and relaxed, which makes such a difference on a family holiday.

The location is another big plus. The hotel sits on a lovely seafront promenade with shops, bars and restaurants, and it always felt safe and walkable, whether with little ones or heading out for an evening drink. Siam Park is only about 5 euros in a taxi, so waterpark days are very doable.

Pool days were a highlight: two main pools, a toddler pool with slides and a kids’ pool with slides, plus activities through the day and Star Camp for children. We also never struggled for sun loungers, which really helped the relaxed vibe. Evenings brought family friendly entertainment like magic shows, acrobats and live singers.

For something, a bit more grown up, the rooftop bar and pool were a real wow factor, with gorgeous sea views and sunset drinks. The beach is an easy 5-minute walk downhill, with soft sand, sun loungers to hire and water sports like pedalos, jet skis and parasailing if you want a bit of adventure.

We also did a day trip to Loro Parque, around an hour away, which was a brilliant family day out and a beautiful drive over the mountains.

What really stood out was how well the hotel works for everyone: young families, couples, and multigenerational groups. We saw lots of three generation families enjoying the pools, easy access, and space to spread out.

With its short flight from the UK, simple transfers, year-round sunshine and fantastic family friendly hotels like Iberostar Waves Bouganville Playa, Tenerife really won our hearts. We loved our time there and would go back in a heartbeat.