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One of three Brazilian properties on our It List, this 14-room eco-retreat sets a new standard for stylish, intimate lodging on Bahia's Câcao Coast.

Location: Just 25 miles south of Ilhéus (reached by a daily nonstop flight from São Paulo), the resort lies on 1,500 verdant acres backed by tropical Atlantic rain forest and fronted by 21/2 miles of deserted, ivory-white beach.

Pedigree: The noted Carioca artist Mucki Skowronski owns the resort with her husband, Arthur Bahia, and designed the interiors herself.

Style Design: The public areas--in a series of open-sided pavilions--hew to cool, Aman-style minimalism, while the individually decorated guest cottages incorporate Skowronski's trademark tropical whimsies: bold stripes, vivid floral patterns, and splashes of fuchsia, orange, and lime green. All have gauze-netted platform beds, private decks with hammocks, and, best of all, open-air showers.

Service Amenities: The friendly staff encourages guests to treat the resort like their own private beach house. Raise a flag outside your bungalow and afternoon snacks will be delivered in a handsome wicker basket.

Rooms to Book: Bungalows Nos.1, 6, and 14 have spacious terraces overlooking the sea or the river. Be sure to inquire about a king-size bed; only ten rooms have them. The remaining four are furnished with two queens.

55-21/2259-8511; www.fazendadalagoa.com.br; doubles from $370.