Hotel Brisas Covarrubias

We like this all-inclusive beach resort, despite its reclusive position miles from anywhere on the north shore of Las Tunas province. In fact, it is surrounded by miles of impenetrable mangroves and lagoons – great for birding – and the nearest town, Puerto Principe, is a 40-minute drive away. This relatively modern facility went up in 2000 and the contemporary design still looks fresh. We wish we could say the same about the grounds, however. Not so, as upkeep is wanting and parts of the facility – including the tennis courts at last visit – were trashed.

The large freefrom pool gets lively with organized aerobics and other activities, but there's a gorgeous white sand beach framed by rocks. And the adjacent lagoons can be explored (be sure to bring lots of insect repellent). There's lots do do here, including archery, beach volleyball, and watersports. And kid's get their own pool. There are three bars to choose from, nightly cabarets are put on, and the disco on stilts overhangs the mangroves. Guests are a captive audience when it comes to dining, with no off-site facilities for miles.