6 Best Hotels in Easter Island, Chile

Perched high on a cliff jutting out into the ocean, this hotel entices its visitors with unmatched views. The swimming pool is small but overlooks the waves, and down below, there is a natural sea pool. However, the hotel, which is popular with tour groups, is 2 km (1 mile) south of town, so you may feel a little isolated. In high season, room rates include breakfast and your choice of one other meal. In low season, you can take a room with just breakfast for a slightly cheaper price.

This hotel has 30 simple wood-paneled rooms around a long garden that’s perfect for kids to play in. There are a couple of swings hanging from a tree in the middle, a pool, and an upstairs deck, where you can glimpse the ocean, a few blocks away. The Rapa Nui family that owns this hotel has been in business for a long time, though the hotel does not show it. Adjoining the hotel is the current owner's great-grandfather's house, one of the oldest on the island, dating from 1945.

Although the hotel is right in the center of town, its beautiful gardens make you feel like you're miles from anywhere. From the flower-scented deck surrounding the pool, you can catch a glimpse of the ocean. It's worth paying a bit more for a superior room, which are much better than standard rooms.

Open and airy, this hotel seems to have sunlight streaming in from everywhere. Rooms are connected to the main building, and there are some freestanding bungalows for larger groups or those seeking more independence and privacy (but no kitchen). The dining room, with a view of the ocean, has a tropical feeling lent by its soaring arched ceiling and lazily spinning fans.

Within walking distance of the airport, Puka Vai is clean, airy, bright, and spacious. The lobby and breakfast room has high ceilings and white tile floors, while guest rooms are tastefully furnished in a modern style with comfortable beds and the occasional piece of art. Breakfast includes eggs any way you like them, seasonal fruit, and brewed (albeit weak) coffee. There is a pool in an interior patio (which many of the rooms look onto) with two (replica) moai that stand sentry over it and lounge chairs for sunbathing.

The name of this lodging means "blue sea," and it's easy to see why, as a long stretch of azure ocean can be seen from just about everywhere. Little green cabins strewn around the grounds are simply furnished, with wood-beamed ceilings and wide windows. They are cleverly designed with venting windows so neither fans nor air-conditioning are necessary, even in summer; sustainability is key here. Artsy guests can take advantage of workshops, classes, and educational events led by woodworkers, painters, and other artists. There is also a pool and massage room.