4 Best Hotels in Jumeirah Beach, Dubai

Nobody thought the Burj al Arab could be surpassed for their colorful take on five-star lavishness until Atlantis came along. The whimsical decor includes primary colors, sparkles, shine and texture, and plenty of wacky glass sculptures, including a 32-foot tall homage to pig tails in the lobby. Rooms are a little more understated, comfortable, and well-sized, especially for families. In fact, you're better off having kids with you when traveling here, because built into the price are entry to Aquaventure water park, the Lost Chambers aquarium, and Dubai's best kids' club. Beware though, this place is packed, all year round. Expect to wait for absolutely everything, all the time.

At 750 square feet, these are likely the biggest standard rooms in the city; in fact everything about this hotel is big: big pools, big beach, and big smiles. Despite its size, the feel is personal and boutique. The exterior is modern Moorish, and these Arabic nuances continue throughout the public spaces, with marble, delicate fretwork, archways, and geometric designs. Rooms are simpler, with soft furnishings in seaside tones and bathrooms with glittering mosaic tiles and deep soaking tubs. Kids have water sports available and a very good on-site kids' club. While they are entertained, parents can enjoy the Pearl Spa and its aquathermal treatments. On-site dining is excellent, with Fodor's favorite Coya, two Jean Georges restaurants, Nusr-Et (home of "Salt Bae"), and a picturesque seaside bar and lounge (Sea Fu).

Palm Jumeirah has some of the most expensive hotel real estate in Dubai, but the Sofitel offers a good balance between luxury, convenience, and price. This large, Asian-inspired resort is lush and exotic and sprawls over many zones. The 182 apartments make this an excellent choice for families. There is a kids' club, complete with water slides and waterfalls, and the main pool (one of six) is lined with a good proportion of cabanas and shaded areas, perfect for watching progeny splash while adults rest and rejuvenate. When it's time for more activity, there are a plethora of water sports on offer, and for golfers, there is an "eco golf" driving range on the beachfront---the balls fall into the Arabian gulf and disintegrate into fish food.