Zorah Beach Hotel

There’s more to Zorah Beach Hotel than just the name. Enormous country that it is, Brazil boasts enough beach to last a lifetime; this lesser-known stretch, Guajiru, is over 2,700 kilometers from Rio’s famous shores. Yet Zorah differs even from its laid-back, windsurfer-centric neighbors by virtue of curiously eclectic, wonder-cabinet design: its furniture, fixtures, and copious art objects were all sourced from similarly remote collectors or artisans in Bali, India, and the Middle East. Little Buddhas pop up everywhere, by turns mischievous and serene.

Here, nature is almost cartoonishly gorgeous, balancing white-sand dunes with palmy tropicalia and temperate, outrageously blue waters. And the accommodations — 22 in all, split between suites, bungalows, and a villa — leave nothing at all to be desired. Even the humblest comes with a personal jacuzzi, a flatscreen, a Nespresso machine, a balcony, and a king-size bed with Egyptian cotton Trussardi linens and goose-feather pillows. Bathrooms are similarly lavish, featuring solar-heated rain showers with L’Occitane bath amenities. And if that’s somehow not enough, feel free to book a bungalow for the royal treatment: four-poster, private garden, two-seater jacuzzi, maybe even a gregarious toucan to keep you company (*toucan not guaranteed).

The Asian character emerges quite strongly in the cuisine, favoring off-menu experiments with local seafood and produce. Then there’s the Beach bar, both pool- and beachside, perhaps the best spot for sunset-gazing and a delectably fresh cocktail. Fans of the bubbly will appreciate the hotel’s affiliation with a little brand called Veuve Clicquot. Maybe save that indulgence for after you’ve sampled the hands-on activities: Zorah retains professionals to guide you through horseback rides, sandboarding, buggy tours, and any variety of surfing (kite, wind, or original flavor).

How to get there: Zorah Beach Hotel is located approximately 140 minutes by car from Pinto Martens — Fortaleza International Airport via CE-085.