Amenity highlights: Two levels of sundecks furnished with cushioned lounge chairs face the ocean, and the lower deck features a 14-meter (45-foot), irregularly shaped, heated pool. A short path and 29 steps lead down to a eight-km (five-mile) beach, where independent operators offer water sports in summer. Diners at the hotel's two restaurants, one serving Indian cuisine, can take meals on a terrace extending from the hotel and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Rooms have high-speed Internet access (surcharge).

Insider tip: Although Armação de Pêra's fishing-village origins are nearly obscured by new apartment buildings, fishermen still drag their colorful boats onto the beach 800 meters (875 yards) east of the hotel, and adjacent restaurants prepare the day's catch.