Affordable Finds
THE BAHAMAS
The Cove
New owners, a gut renovation, bright modern furnishings, and a top-notch chef (lured from Paris) have transformed the Cove, on Eleuthera, from a forlorn resort into a cheap-yet-chic gem. The staff can arrange any activity on the island, from spearfishing to private-yacht charters, but not to be missed is a longboard lesson on the best surfing beach in The Bahamas. A tip: for a villa-like experience, book one of the two massive cliff-top suites at the far end of the resort's peninsula. The ocean views are endless.
JAMAICA
Jake's
Located on the island's undeveloped south coast, Jake's is intimate (only 29 rooms), dramatic (set designer Sally Henzell created it)—and cheap. Casual Caribbean décor is complemented by Indian and Moroccan details, and the Little Ochie restaurant offers fresh seafood in a beachfront setting. At the livelier Jack Sprat bar and grill, the original rum creations are a specialty.
PUERTO RICO
Numero Uno Guest House
It's all about the beach in San Juan's sleepy Ocean Park neighborhood. The hotel, which occupies a coveted stretch of Atlantic frontage, has 14 rooms, small but recently renovated; many are steps away from the sea. Guests get their own lounge chairs on the beach and from there can stroll over to Pamela's, Numero Uno's excellent Caribbean restaurant, with tables right on the sand.
VIEQUES
Bravo Beach Hotel
The 10-room Bravo is a sexy ode to the boutique hotel: all of the no-brainer perks (Frette sheets, Aveda products, iPod docking stations), plus hip dining and nightlife options that are as close as the beach. The Palms Bar, a poolside lounge, often hosts DJ's from Manhattan's Buddha Bar.
