3 Best Hotels in Guayaquil and the Pacific Coast, Ecuador

This landmark hotel near Parque Seminario and most other downtown attractions shares a city block with the Catedral Metropolitana. Small but comfortable rooms with large windows let in lots of sun. The health club lets you play squash on two courts, relax in a sauna, or enjoy the terrace with a great view of the cathedral.

If you need a place to anchor your 150-foot yacht, head to this beautiful resort on the Península Santa Elena. (You don't really need a yacht to stay here.) This is a great vacation destination for the entire family; it has everything from deep-sea fishing to rain-forest expeditions. The small suites have balconies overlooking the bay, where you can watch the sun disappear into the ocean. For larger groups, two- and three-bedroom apartments are available. Although the property functions much like a timeshare-condo operation, non-Ecuadoran guests may stay here with advance reservations.

Staying at this comfortable hotel puts you walking distance of most of the city's attractions. Across the street from the Parque Seminario, it gives you direct access to an 80-store shopping center. Several excellent restaurants are also on the premises, including a wonderful sushi bar called Unibar. Buffet breakfast is included. The best view is from a parkside room.