Flor de Maria

Laid-back beachfront hotel in the surfers’ mecca of Puerto Escondido

The Flor de Maria is an oasis of good value and excellent service in the once hippy hangout of Puerto Escondido. Whilst it remains a mecca for surfers - every November it plays host to the World Surfing Championships - the town’s flower-power days are over and it has become more of a mainstream resort. This makes the Flor de Maria that little bit more exceptional. Set back from the main highway by a small slip road, it’s laid-back-friendly and easy on the budget, yet eminently professional.

The town's biggest swimming beach is just outside the hotel's front door or, if you prefer your bathing without the waves, there's a small sun-baked pool on the roof. Afterwards, grab a beer from the terrace bar, loll in one of the hammocks and enjoy the sunset. Then head downstairs to sample the delicious and varied cuisine at Flor de Maria's restaurant - one of the most popular in town - before retiring to comfortable rooms overlooking a peaceful inner courtyard.

Highs

• Owners Paul and Joanne have created a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere; regular guests return year after year
• It's a stone’s throw from the largest swimming beach in Puerto Escondido
• The roof terrace is always cool and breezy, with great sunset views
• There's a covered parking area for those coming by vehicle

Lows

• Some of the furnishings are a bit dated and a freshening paint job in the rooms wouldn't go amiss
• The restaurant is only open from mid-December to mid-March, though there are plenty of places to eat within walking distance
• The burnt-down and abandoned cabanas in front of the hotel are a bit of an eyesore
• The small rooftop pool is more for cooling off than for serious swimming