Vitoria is a "little" Rio de Janeiro.  It is a great place with awesome beaches and blue water.  I enjoy spending time in Vitoria because it is more laid back then Rio but still has the same things to offer.  It is a lot like the most of towns along the water where you have a bunch of hotels lining the water so you can't go wrong whether you stay at a hotel or one of the new condos that are being built there.  Vitoria is definitely a thriving area with its shopping centers and restaurants.  Make sure you enjoy a clay pot with fresh seafood and a cold Skol.