By far the nicest property on Cayo Largo, this Sol Meliáa-managed hotel outshines the neighboring and similarly priced Sol Pelícano by a mile. The lovely aesthetic of pastel-toned Caribbean-style wooden structures with plantation rails is enhanced by thoughtful landscaping that makes clever use of the natural eroded limestone and foliage. The huge serpentine pool complex with water cascade is also a visual delight, and the broad deck is a great place to soak in the sun.

Most of the 244 guest rooms are in two-level fourplexes widely dispersed amid the sand dunes 100 meters inland of the beach. Decor plays up the maritime theme, with sponge-washed blue (or yellow) walls. Rooms have ceramic tile floors, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, a mix of rattan and faux-stressed antique reproduction furniture, plus TV, telephone, in-room safes, and spacious balconies with plastic seats and chairs.

The three restaurants include an elegant gourmet dining room, plus a beachfront seafood grill. The poolside Sol Azul restaurant serves burgers and other snack food throughout the day. Sol Cayo Largo has a full range of watersports, including scuba diving. Nightly shows and other entertainment is offered, and is of a standard superior to that of Sol Pelícano. This is one "four-star" hotel that actually lives up to its billing.