Fodor's Expert Review Hôtel Bakoua

Wrought-iron gates open to this lovely beachfront hotel, a throwback to gracious estate living, where you can cocoon yourself in colonial-era style. From the circular bar and the adjacent infinity pool, the views of the mountain peaks juxtaposed with the yachts in the bay are magical. Walk down the pier to the thatch-roof rotunda that shades the Coco Bar. (Lunch here is inexpensive, and the tropical drinks are super.) The bountiful breakfast is not included in the rate, but it's definitely a must-do. Suites offer down pillows and European linens, as well as comfy window seats, giving even the smallish beach-level rooms a sumptuous feel. Alas, they can be damp, and on weekends, when people party, are too loud. At night, entertainment makes this one of the island's social centers.