I am originally from Santos so it feels a bit odd to stay at a hotel in my hometown. Santos used to have only a couple of decent hotels, but now it has all changed and the Novotel is one of the new good places to stay.
I chose it based on the location, since it is exactly behind my parents' condo building. But the location is good for anyone - steps to shops, restaurants and the beach.
We traveled with a 2-year old and when we arrived both the crib (Pack & Play style) and a child tub (the hotel only has showers, so they offer baby tubs) were already waiting for us in our room. First time this has ever happened in all of my travels!
The room is not huge, but we were able to move around even with the crib. The bathroom has a separate toilet area closed off, which is good when traveling with more than 1 person. Good closet space for the size of the room and minibar with ok prices. You can use the minibar to store your own drinks (we used it for the baby's milk).
We chose the options with breakfast and it had a great assortment of food, including hot options and the traditional Brazilian goodies (cheese bread, cakes etc). Fresh fruit also plentiful.
Parking is extra but reasonable (25 reais per day in 2019) and it may take 5-10 minutes for the car do arrive since it is valet only - however, you will likely not need your car during your stay.