Hotel Mira Spiaggia

Open seasonally (from April through October), this hotel perfectly captures the relaxed atmosphere associated with the words "beach escape." The simple white structure, open-air common spaces, palm trees in clay pots, and blue and white tile accents definitely add to the Mediterranean feel. Seashells and rattan furniture in the lobby also remind visitors that this is a seaside structure. Small and family-run, this 40-room mid-range hotel is often visited by other tourists and even locals stopping by the gelateria or restaurant and bar to enjoy refreshments and the beach views. Guests usually convene in the restaurant each morning for their free continental breakfast buffet before heading across the street to San Vito lo Capo beach where their free sun loungers and umbrellas await them.

Location is what this hotel is all about! Not only is it directly across the street from the sea, but it is literally a five-minute walk from the main downtown area of San Vito lo Capo, so guests can easily try different restaurants when they need a break from the sun and sand. The central locale is also a good starting point for excursions to nearby attractions such as the Vingaro Nature Reserve, Mother Church, Chapel of Saint Crescentia and Macari Beach.

Let's go back to the location thing here...because that is what you're paying for with this hotel. The rooms themselves are small, simple and perfectly adequate for a mid-range property. They have a mix of country and beach style -- many have distressed blue wooden furniture, white linens, and wood floors.

Amenities include free in-room Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, and mini-fridges. The Comfort and Superior Rooms may include upgrades such as beach views, balconies, espresso machines, and robes. Little touches like faux rose petals strewn on the beds upon arrival help make the simplicity seem charming. Guests can expect all the rooms to be clean, although not always quiet (rooms on the first floor and near the front desk tend to be noisier and oftentimes darker). Budget-minded travelers can opt for annex or "Dependence" rooms which are not on the main hotel property but rather slightly down the street -- these lack daily maid service, Wi-Fi, and beach views. There are also apartment-style options with full kitchens.

The Aqua Space full-service spa on the top floor of the hotel Mira Spiaggio is small but still manages to offer a variety of treatments and can accommodate parties or groups. It features an eight-person whirlpool, sauna, steam room, showers, and a terrace with lounge chairs and truly fabulous ocean views. While there is no pool or fitness center, the beach is right across the street and guests get free reserved loungers and umbrellas. A small business center is available with a computer and printer/copier. The open-air restaurant and bar gets high marks from many guests (it also draws locals) and has great ocean views from the terrace; it serves fish and pasta dishes, among other options. There is even a gelateria on-site. The free breakfast includes pastries, hot dishes, and coffee (there's an espresso machine).