4 Best Hotels in Palomino, The Caribbean Coast

Bungalows dot the beach between arching coco palms while the main house, open-air lounge, and restaurant perch on a hill taking in expansive views of the surrounding forest and wave-swept beach---this is the scene at Aité. The well-constructed bungalows maintain a cool atmosphere with ceiling fans that help keep the oppressive heat at bay and screened sliding doors that allow fresh air in, but keep invading insects out. The beds are welcoming yet firm and oversized pillows add luxury, while details like a shower with beach views and a deck hung with hammocks make the bungalows a perfect setting for a relaxing beach holiday. The hotel is enchanting at night, as starlike solar lights create pathways between the main house and the bungalows.

A working organic farm that stretches from the coast into the hills, La Jorará offers an unbeatable experience---picture a fresh mountain stream running down from the hills to the wild, deserted beach that's bordered by lush trees that hang heavy with fruit. Spread over three lodges, the accommodations have a farm-style rusticity that integrates with the lush surrounding gardens. There's plenty to do during the day: climb up to breathtaking lookout points; splash in the river's natural pools; or take a tour of the banana plantation. Come sunset, stretch out in a hammock and listen to the forest come alive, and then saunter down to the main house for dinner at large communal tables.

This double-story bed-and-breakfast is a soothing haven tucked right on the beach. Downstairs, an open kitchen and lounge area are decorated with rustic touches and wood and white details. Numerous hammocks hang between the surrounding palms and a daybed with flowing white curtains encourages a lazy afternoon. En suite rooms maintain the easygoing style with lovely four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets.

This attractive beachside eco-lodge is built around the principles of slow tourism and provides a wonderful place to lay your head within easy earshot of the waves. Rooms are light and spacious, with a rustic, locally influenced design that incorporates plenty of bamboo and palm thatching and is cooled using natural ventilation spaces between the roof and the walls. Bathrooms are a treat, with the shower open to the sky, surrounded by plants that soak up and then purify the runoff water.