8 Best Hotels in The Southern Coast, Peru

Rustic bungalows with thatched-bamboo roofs, a fire pit, and a stellar terrace restaurant make this eco-lodging something special; granted, the hotel's technology-free ethos (no TV, no Wi-Fi) isn't for everyone, but couples seeking a romantic getaway as well as frazzled urbanites in need of rejuvenation will welcome the chance to unplug, especially amid such beauteous surroundings. The staff is amiability personified, including the resident dog and cat. The lodging is a 15-minute cab ride from Lunahuaná's Plaza de Armas.

Backpackers may flock to this super-chill hostel on Huacachina's north side for its buzzing social scene, but the rooms and amenities here are sufficiently ample to attract budget travelers of all ages. Rooftop terraces, movies under the stars, an outdoor tiki bar alongside the palm-fringed pool: the place packs a lot into a compact space. Rooms range from bare-bones dormitories with bunk beds to spacious doubles with en suite baths and air-conditioning. The on-site restaurant is surprisingly good, and the staff offers sandboarding, buggy tours, and excursions to area attractions.

This is one of Ica's hidden gems, with amenities you'd expect to find only in a much larger hotel. The intimate property, surrounded by brick walls, includes a great restaurant serving local specialties and a sleek bar area, plus a swimming pool, a gym, and hammocks. The cozy rooms, with tile floors and contemporary macro photography on the walls, are simple but stylish.

With rooms built around a central courtyard complete with an ancient grape press and a working pisco distillery, it's hard to tell whether this quirky property on the road between Ica and Huacachina is a hotel or a bodega-style theme park. It's strange, but all the knickknacks work, giving the place a unique and charming air. There's something for everyone: an adventure playground for the kids, a nice swimming pool, a small zoo, and of course, the bodega. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with pastel furnishings and wood fittings. In March, you're invited to use your feet in the annual grape pressing.

Hands down Huacachina's best budget hotel, this is a prime lodging for nonbackpackers in Huacachina—clean, safe, and with its own little bar featuring a mural of Ica's now-disappeared camel herd. Thoughtful design touches are everywhere, from the Peruvian art and handicrafts adorning the walls to the rustic bamboo fittings and wooden balconies and walkways. If you want to relax, the pool area with its hammocks for lounging is super inviting. The collection of raucous parrots will ensure that you're up in time for breakfast.

Long a favorite with travelers, this classic Nazca hotel is set around a sunny courtyard with swimming pool—a perfect spot to relax after a dusty morning flight over the Nazca Lines. The hotel's decor is on par with that of other midrange options in town, with clean, comfortable rooms. The reception is extremely welcoming, and knowledgeable staffers can help book flights and tours. Due to its location across from the bus station, the hotel is often full.

A relaxing oasis away from the dust of the Pisco streets, this friendly, family-run guesthouse is a top place to drop your bags and rest your weary bones. The cozy rooms have bright Peruvian motifs, and there are a sunny patio and swimming pool to hang out in. For night owls, a lively bar and billiard room afford opportunities for socializing. The hotel is near the cemetery; take a taxi if arriving at night.

Friendly and in a terrific location for those heading out on early-morning boat excursions, this ramshackle guesthouse is popular with backpackers and tour groups alike. The slightly worn-looking rooms may be nothing to write home about, but there's good Wi-Fi, and the breakfast terrace with views over the port is the best spot in town to catch up on postcard writing or to enjoy a pisco sour. Try to get a room with sea views; those that face the internal corridor are small and dark.