Porto de Galinhas Praia Hotel

Although Porto as a whole is very popular with party people from Recife who flock down on weekends for some sun and samba, this particular hotel aims to cultivate a slightly calmer atmosphere. Entered from the main road into town, the palm-fringed property stretches right down to the beach and, though there are other hotel complexes on either side of it, pretty green spaces dotted with gazebos, little gardens, and reflecting pools lend it a secluded feel. Unfortunately, decor in the lower-category rooms is bland, and some past guests have complained of maintenance issues. Nevertheless, a simple spa, kids' facilities, and ocean-view pool are enough to keep most guests happy, and evening entertainment livens things up a bit. Guests here tend to be Brazilian couples and families on vacation.

Brazil’s Atlantic Coast has some stellar beaches, and the reef-protected one that fronts Porto de Galinhas -- a former fishing village turned vacation haven -- is routinely considered among the best. Now part of the municipality of Ipojuca, Porto is about 40 miles south of Recife, Pernambuco’ state capital. Local buses departing from Recife/Guararapes–Gilberto Freyre International Airport can bring travelers down in two hours or so; however, coming by car via the Rota do Atlântico toll highway takes less than half that time. Shuttle service can also be arranged for the short trip from the hotel into Porto’s compact but bustling pedestrianized center where beachside boutiques, bars, and eateries await. Boat trips, diving excursions, off-road safaris, and such can be booked at the town's tour-company kiosks, though many are offered through the hotel as well.

The spacious lower-tier rooms here are done up in a tropical style -- picture sparsely furnished digs with white walls and tile floors enlivened by a few colorful accents such as green bedskirts, striped bed runners, and highlighter-yellow bathroom tiles. Simple wood furniture and closets are sufficient for storage, but there are no chairs. Design-conscious guests should upgrade to a Luxo unit or Master Suite, both of which have sleeker designs. The Master Suites are particularly chic, with rock walls, light-wood flooring, and canopy beds in some. Air-conditioning, digital safes, minibars, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and free Wi-Fi come standard, as do furnished balconies or patios with hammocks -- some boast built-in whirlpool tubs.

The hotel sits along a beautiful stretch of sand, which is lined with loungers under umbrellas for guests. A volleyball net is set up in the sand. Porto de Galinhas Praia maximizes its oceanfront setting by placing many facilities in full view of the beach, including the freeform outdoor pool. It delivers fine ocean views, and has an adjacent, well-sized kiddy pool plus a deck lined with loungers. Around here is an open-air spa pavilion for ocean-view massages. A poolside bar serves snacks and drinks during the day. All meals can be had at the restaurant, which serves a la carte fare for breakfast and lunch, and buffet-style spreads for dinner. The spread consists of both regional and international cuisines, though food receives mixed reviews. Breakfast is free and half- and full-board meal plans are available.

A kids’ club that offers daytime activities and a playground point to the family-friendly atmosphere. Well-equipped event spaces, a lobby bar, TV lounge with guest computers, a gift shop, multi-sports court, laundry and room service, and babysitting are also on-site. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.