Fodor's Expert Review La Puerta del Sol

Facing a formal garden with sculpted shrubs and a lovely pool, this tranquil enclosure just two blocks from the beach has airy, Mediterranean-style guest rooms splashed with tropical colors. Each room has high ceilings, plenty of windows, and king-size beds atop adobe platforms, meaning mattresses don't have a lot of give. Coffeemakers, Wi-Fi, and hair dryers are welcome extras. For $40 more, the second-story suite, with polished concrete floors, has walk-in closets and its own enclosed terrace overlooking the garden. Request one of the renovated rooms, since the older ones lack character and are in need of an update. There's an on-site garden bar and restaurant serving up ice-cold drinks and fun activities like trivia and live music. A major plus is the covered parking area, which helps keep your car cool.