Wish Natal

Formerly the Pestana Natal All-Inclusive Beach & Resort, the Wish Natal changed hands in 2017 and began extensive renovations in rooms and common spaces. As of early 2019, the hotel is still carrying out updates and some common areas can be closed (including the spa), but spaces that have been completed are stylish and contemporary. Most hotels along the Natal coastline offer a similar experience, with big pool areas offering sea views, a relaxing atmosphere, and somewhat dated rooms. The Wish, however, is leading the way with fresh, uncluttered interiors that combine clean lines, a neutral palette, and rustic-chic touches such as woven straw chairs and lamps, untreated wooden accent furniture, and beachy patio furniture. The grounds are spacious and pretty, with ample lawns dotted by palm trees and rope hammocks, a spacious beachfront deck with a large pool and a bar, and lots of loungers placed under big straw umbrellas. 

This part of Natal is full of beachfront resorts, though few are truly upscale. Travelers seeking something more bustling may want to consider the Esmeralda Praia Hotel, which offers a full entertainment program, as well as activities for kids, a big pool, and direct access to the beach. Rates, though, are generally higher than at the Wish Natal, and rooms aren’t as attractive. The mid-range Parque da Costeira is a good alternative for those shopping around for something cheaper and closer to central Natal attractions, while the Kristie Resort is a more intimate option with a pleasant pool and airy rooms.  

Wish Natal is located on Via Costeira, the highway that connects central Natal and the southern part of the city along the coast. The hotel is built directly between the Natal Dunes State Park and the beach, in a quiet and somewhat secluded area home to several beach resorts. There are a few restaurants and bars within a five-minute drive of the hotel, but little else of general interest can be found in the immediate vicinity. The iconic Morro da Careca is less than a 15-minute drive away, as is Natal’s historic center. Major attractions such as Felipe Camarao Palace, Igreja do Galo-Santo Antonio, and the Reis Magos Fortress can all be reached within 20 minutes. The resort is a 50-minute drive from Natal International Airport. 

The hotel has 188 rooms spread over seven floors. The vast majority of them were renovated in 2018 and feature stylish, contemporary decor that combines clean lines with a neutral or gray-and-white color scheme to create attractive spaces. Although entry-level Superior rooms have nice touches such as new furniture, pops of teal, and cute wooden lamps, the original off-white floor tiles are dated, and the overall feel is a tad basic. Those that weren't renovated are dated. Big windows let in lots of light and open to balconies in all rooms, the majority of which also offer full sea views. Only standard Superior units overlook the dunes behind the hotel. 

Room amenities are on par with other hotels in this price range, and include free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Mini-fridges are stocked with water, soda, and beer. All rooms are equipped with central air-conditioning, but the temperature can’t be regulated from the room and some guests have complained that it can get cold. Most bathrooms have also been renovated and feature cream-colored stone-like tiles throughout, spacious walk-in showers, and big sink areas. 

The resort features a large, pleasant outdoor pool lined with loungers and offering sea views. The vibe is quiet and relaxing, and there is a bar, a big whirlpool, and separate areas for kids. Another good perk for children is the kids’ club, which offers indoor play areas and outdoor activities. Breakfast is included in all room rates and offers a wide variety of hot and cold items, both Brazilian and international. Malta Restaurant also serves Brazilian cuisine for lunch and dinner, and food gets consistently great reviews from guests. Snacks and drinks are available throughout the day at the lobby lounge and the pool bar. Although somewhat lightly equipped, the gym offers enough cardio and strength-training machines for a quick workout. The spa was closed for renovations at the time of writing but is expected to reopen in mid-2019. 

While the hotel is more popular among couples and families than business travelers, it offers six meeting rooms with a combined capacity of 680 guests. Audiovisual equipment is available in all of them, and printing services are provided at the business center. The hotel also offers free outdoor parking.