Santa Clara

Rustic guesthouse set in a lush tropical garden, a short stroll from a fabulous beach on the unspoilt island of Boipeba

Probably the last time you'll wear shoes on Boipeba is when you step off the small boat that makes the 5-minute trip from the mainland. Jump directly onto the beach and make the short walk up the shaded path to Pousada Santa Clara. From here on in, it's barefoot, carefree luxury all the way.

You'll be greeted warmly by the owners and shown along a wooden pathway to your charming, simply furnished room, hidden among lush foliage and banana trees. There's an open-air library with a collection of books and magazines, and a bar-restaurant serving breakfast and dinner where people gather to chat and drink in the evening. Around the back, up some stairs in a tree-top massage room, local resident Norma takes chill-out to another level. There's no pool, but you won't need one - the "Bounty Bar" beaches are superb and the sea gratifingly warm, all just 50m away.

Highs

• The owners, brothers Charles and Mark, extend a really warm, personal welcome
• Simple, laid back charm with a fun ambiance
• Great restaurant - easily the best on the island
• Tree-top massage room
• Miles of deserted beaches and friendly locals - the island of Boipeba is one of Brazil's best-kept secrets

Lows

• It's not easy to get to, but the distance from the mainland has helped Boibepa remain pristine, and the owners can send private vehicles to pick you up from Salvador or Ilhéus
• Not directly on the beach but it's only a minute's walk away
• On Boipeba 8pm is the new midnight: if you want buzzing nightlife, stick to Ibiza
• Most of the rooms don't have AC or other mod cons, but they do have fans