Dive Hotel

A smart and elegant guesthouse, the Dive Hotel’s contemporary design centres on bold colours, polished wood and clean, crisp bedlinen. Its cosy, sun-filled breakfast room looks out on to a bamboo-bordered garden, while views of the ocean from some of the rooms are equally wonderful. All rooms are en suite, with a microwave, fridge, TV and VCR, and while the bathrooms may be small, they are stylishly fitted out with mosaic tiles and stainless steel sinks. The annex – a three-bed house two blocks from the beach – accommodates families. Dive is a disarmingly welcoming place, thanks to its gracious owners Terry Bunton and Mercedes Mariano and their poodle (Babe), retriever (George) and cat (Bob) who help take the sharpness off the style. At the time of writing, the addition of a 17th (luxury) guest room was planned. Internet (wireless/high-speed). No smoking. Parking ($20). TV (cable). Bus 372, 373, 374. Rates $165-$280 double. Rooms 16. Credit MC, V.