Fodor's Expert Review Punta Palma Hotel

Built at the end of the bay, this hotel has an enviable view of Puerto La Cruz and the mountains to the west—best of all, though, is its small slice of beachfront, including a private moorage and beach. Most of its colorfully decorated rooms have balconies and overlook the pool, marina, and small private beach. Be sure when you are booking to ask for a room with a view of the water. Also, when you are enjoying the lovely breakfast buffet poolside, take a look over the edge of the patio and you'll see dozens of iguanas sunning themselves—there are so many iguanas that live in this rockery, in fact, that biologists have taken to studying them here.