11 Best Hotels in Salvador, Salvador and the Bahia Coast

This intimate boutique hotel on the outskirts of the Pelourinho—featuring personalized service, beautiful rooms, and a unique design—is a favorite among couples celebrating something special. Owned by architect Juan Piccon Navarro from Barcelona, the vibe is more sleek European with a hint of Bali than rustic Bahian, but the view from the infinity pool over the bustling, deep blue bay of Baía de Todos Santos could be nowhere but Salvador. For families, or couples seeking more privacy, the master suite takes up an entire floor and comes with a second bedroom, private terrace, and plunge pool.

A longtime favorite among business travelers and families due to its close proximity to the airport and extensive facilities—including direct access onto the beautiful Itapuã Beach—this resort hotel could do with an overhaul. Lackluster decor aside, the hotel's tropical gardens remain well kept, the rooms are spacious and come with their own private terraces, and there is a large pool area for children. Make sure you opt for Catussaba Resort rather than its sister hotel, Catussaba Business, which is set a few blocks back from the beach.

A long-standing favorite in the Rio Vermelho district, this quirky 19th-century mansion is full of character, offering friendly service, delicious breakfasts, and small but comfortable rooms. If you're looking for space, ask for one of the six split-level suites. Extra attention is devoted to the decor, which includes pottery and embroidery from local artisans, although certain details, such as the air-conditioning units and mattresses, could do with an update. There is one wheelchair-accessible room for guests with disabilities, unusual for a small hotel.

In the bohemian district of Rio Vermelho, this reliable hotel combines sleek, modern design, quality service, and a stunning rooftop infinity pool a short distance from some of the city's most happening bars and restaurants. Rising above a rocky section of sand, most of the rooms have a sea view, and there is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Alongside on-site conference and meeting rooms and a self-service business center, the hotel can arrange mobile-phone hire and translation/interpretation assistance for business travelers. Though the beach is not the best for swimming, there's another option for guests: the hotel's large infinity pool proves a focal point for travelers and businesspeople to unwind over caju caipiroskas. The Casarão restaurant has tables on a deck overlooking the ocean.

From Brazilian actresses to professors, the list of returning customers to this charming, Italian-style pensione is as varied as the legendary breakfast, served amongst tropical plants on the sun-drenched veranda to spectacular views over the bay. The property opened more than 20 years ago, and while some areas could do with a lick of paint, the pousada's heart and soul shines through, with local art lining the walls. Simple rooms, divided between two colonial houses, are eclectic in character. The veranda in No. 11 proved romantic enough even for Ricky Martin, who filmed a music video here. For fabulous sea views, request No. 1. All rooms except one come with a private bathroom.

This pleasant B&B a few steps from Barra Beach wins over independent travelers, couples, and families alike with its competitive prices and Mediterranean-style design. While the breakfasts are on the basic side, rooms come equipped with comfortable beds, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Light sleepers should avoid rooms closest to the kitchen, while groups will find the best value in the master suite, complete with two bedrooms and a private terrace. Charming Irish owner Sean and his small team of English-speaking staff are on hand to provide local tips and advice on how best to navigate the bus system.

One of the most sophisticated choices for business travelers and families alike, this modern hotel in well-heeled Campo Grande offers sleek, spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, and internationally recognized bilingual service. It's a short taxi ride from the principal sights and Salvador's business hub. The hotel's design recaptures the glamour of the 1950s, with leather armchairs in the style of Sergio Rodrigues and a grand piano in the cocktail bar. The extensive list of amenities includes a spa, travel agency for organizing transfers and trips through Bahia, money-exchange service, numerous events rooms, and an international buffet for lunch and dinner.