North Coast

For those in search of calm seas and tranquility, Pousada dos Artistas (Av. das Pitangueiras 1216, Praia da Daniela, tel. 48/3282-5512, www.pousadadosartistas.com.br [1], R$105 d), on Praia da Daniela, is a practical and affordable option. The spotless one- and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and verandas are bright and modern, if a little lacking in warmth

Amidst the urban development and movimento of Praia do Jurerê, Pousada Casa Sin Nombre (Rua dos Polvos 58-A, Praia do Jurerê, tel. 48/3282-1379, www.casasinnombre.com.br [2], R$140–210 d) is a lovely exception. Built and decorated in the style of a whitewashed Mediterranean villa, with dark wood fixtures, wrought iron, and plenty of plants and quaint knickknacks in the common spaces (the rooms are plainer), this cozy guesthouse exudes a home-like warmth.

Located at the absolute northern tip of the island, on what is one of the north coast’s most beautiful beaches, the pretty pink Pousada da Vigia (Rua Conselheiro Walmor Castro 291, Lagoinha [3], tel. 48/3284-1789, www.pousadadavigia.com.br [4], R$230–340 d) is an enchanting and intimate hotel with eight apartments and two luxury suites (with private Jacuzzis and saunas) nestled against a backdrop of Atlantic forest. Although hardly spacious, rooms are breezy and tastefully furnished with fine linens and local handicrafts. The private balconies that offer fantastic ocean views are perhaps the best feature.