If you prefer to be in the thick of things, try Elm Beach Suites (284/494-2888, U.S. toll-free 800/878-6359, $140 winter, $105 summer). Elm’s five one-bedroom apartments come with kitchens, cable TV, and air-conditioning in the bedrooms. A pull-out couch means each suite can accommodate up to four people. The suites are sandwiched between three different bars and restaurants; they can be quite noisy.

Just steps from the beach and adjacent to Quito Rymer’s Gazebo Bar and Restaurant, the Ole Works Inn (284/495-4837, fax 284/495-9618, www.quitorymer.com, $110–235 winter, $90–180 summer) provides comfortable accommodations. Rooms range from modest pool-side rooms to honeymoon suites with impressive views of the ocean. There is a pool, and rooms have air-conditioning, cable TV, telephones, coffeemakers, and refrigerators. The inn is sometimes noisy, especially on weekends when there is live music across the road at the Gazebo.