Sol Cayo Guillermo

We like this low-rise all-inclusive operated by Spain's Meliá chain and fronting a gorgeous beach that westward guests have virtually all to themselves. There's a certain classy elegance to this resort, which is a great option for families thanks to the kiddy's pool and well-equipped kid's club. Adults activities run the gamut. Beach volleyball. Snorkeling. Hobi—Cats. Tennis. The entertainment programs here get high marks. And the entertainment staff are happy to teach you some slick Latin moves for the disco.

The 264 air-conditioned rooms in one- and two-story bungalows are airy and spacious, although the doll-like decor might not be to everyone's taste. Most rooms have murals etched onto the robins—egg—blue walls. Women, we suspect, will appreciate the frilly informal decor that includes romantic mosquito nets above the king beds. All the expected amenities are here, including remote satellite TV, direct-dial phones, in-room safe, and refrigerator, and the bathrooms have hair-dryers.

Meliá Cayo Guillermo

Adjacent to its sibling, the Sol Cayo Guillermo, this all-inclusive is a virtual carbon-copy, lthough it bills itself as slightly more upscale. It competes with the Iberostar for top-billing and has a similar lay-out, with buildings wrapping around the main pool complex, set in well-maintained landscaped grounds. There's little to choose between any of these three competing properties in terms of facilities and amenities, as all offer a wide range of watersports, on-land activities such as tennis and volleyball, and near-identical nocturnal shows.

Highlights here include the breeze-swept open air beach grill, a poolside Italian restaurant where you won't be out of place dressing up.

All 314 air-conditioned rooms sport Meliá's trademark gay pastel color schemes, featuring robins—egg—blue with dark blue and yellow highlights, plus rattan lounge chairs on white tile floors...