Room prices can double or triple during high season. Be sure to confirm a price before accepting the room.

US$10–25

The pleasant backpackers’ hostel Hospedaje Hua Punta Sal (tel. 073/960-8365, www.huapuntasal.com, US$10 pp) has only seven rooms, so make reservations ahead—especially if you want an ocean view. Though there is no pool or hot water, this hostel does offer two kayaks, body boards, a restaurant, and a bar that serves Cuba libres year-round.

Across the street, and off the beach, is El Bucanero (tel. 073/38-1125, www.elbucaneropuntasal.com, US$15 pp with breakfast). The cactus-lined walkways of this hotel will bring you to a 24-hour restaurant, a TV pavilion, and various rooms. All have good mattresses, but only some have patios with hammocks.

US$25–50

The best value in Punta Sal is Hotel Caballito de Mar (tel. 072/54-0058, www.hotelcaballito.com.pe, US$45–70 pp with breakfast). The rooms are fresh and spacious, with terraces, bamboo closets, and big bathrooms. Any activity you can name, the hotel can arrange: Jet Ski and dune buggy rentals, horseback riding, surfing lessons, massages, and mud bath tours. This hotel offers a US$25 Tumbes airport shuttle, Internet, and an incredible, two-night, US$170 (per couple) honeymoon special including a candlelit dinner on your private terrace.

US$50 and Up

There are a few other resorts in this area, visited mainly by Peruvians. Punta Sal Bungalows (tel. 072/54-0044, www.puntasalbungalows.com, US$75 per bungalow) is a good family stop. The apartment-like bungalows accommodate up to six people and come with a fully equipped kitchen, DVDs, and even bicycles.

Club Hotel Punta Sal (Km 1192 Panamericana, Lima tel. 01/442-5992, www.puntasal.com.pe, US$80 pp with all meals) is four kilometers farther north along the beach. While this resort offers a full array of activities including waterskiing, kayaking, tennis, and swimming, its most memorable feature is its replica pirate ship complete with an authentic masthead left by English pirates in Paita. The food is reputed to be excellent and plentiful, though the bungalows are a bit cramped.