Luxury isn’t only for the rich. Even with low funds, you can still enjoy a lovely vacation or holiday in any of the best hotels in Puerto Rico. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a rich and opulent escape from reality, then you should visit these best hotels in Puerto Rico.
From sumptuous furniture to cutting-edge amenities, these breathtaking places are dedicated to providing the best experiences in breathtaking settings.
These hotels go above and beyond to ensure an incredible and unforgettable holiday, with easy check-in and check-out operations, beautiful accommodations, award-winning restaurants, distinctive spas and wellness centers, and other services.
When you check into Puerto Rico’s greatest luxury lodgings, you can expect to be pampered and treated like royalty.
The Best Hotels in Puerto Rico 2023
Puerto Rico, sometimes known as the “Island of Enchantment,” actually lives up to its name. The island is one of the cheapest Caribbean destinations.
In Puerto Rico, bucket-list activities include kayaking in a bioluminescent bay (three of the world’s five are found here) and hiking through El Yunque National Forest, the US Forest Service’s only tropical rainforest.
In Puerto Rico, bucket-list activities include kayaking in a bioluminescent bay (three of the world’s five are found here) and hiking through El Yunque National Forest, the US Forest Service’s only tropical rainforest.
Puerto Rico is also a U.S. territory that is only a short flight away from several mainland U.S. gateways, and U.S. citizens do not need to have a passport or worry about exchanging currency upon arrival.
There are also many fantastic hotels to stay at when visiting. Few Caribbean islands have such a diverse range of hotels as Puerto Rico, from luxury resorts to eccentric guesthouses.
Here are a handful of our personal favorites.
1. Dorado Beach
Dorado Beach, located on a stunning 2-mile-long beach, combines a sustainable attitude with unrivaled luxury and immaculate attention to detail.
Originally built in the 1950s by entrepreneur Laurance Rockefeller, this Ritz-Carlton-affiliated hotel continues to attract celebrities, bitcoin investors, and well-heeled travelers.
The superbly designed suites are nestled among lush foliage and provide butler service as well as amenities such as sea views, Nespresso machines, and Bluetooth speakers.
Standard rooms are over 900 square feet in size, with natural wood furniture and sparkling marble tiling. Private plunge pools are available in the deluxe suites.
Two beautiful pools are flanked by swaying palms, and three Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed golf courses await guests.
The trademark Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment Program provides engaging family-friendly activities.
Among other things, participants can go snorkeling, manage an organic garden, and learn more about the indigenous Tanos.
COA, with meals honoring the region’s Tano heritage, and La Cava, with one of the Caribbean’s greatest selections of wine labels, are two epicurean-worthy eateries.
Rates at Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve begin at $1,995 a night or 170,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
2. Olive Boutique Hotel
You’ll understand why this beautiful hotel is regarded as one of the top boutique hotels in the Americas the moment you step inside.
Olive Boutique Hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group and is located on a quiet street in San Juan overlooking Condado Lagoon.
Its design elegantly combines Caribbean exoticism and European elegance, with furnishings inspired by owners Loisse Herger and Fernando Davila’s Amalfi Coast vacation.
The color palette of the 15 rooms is modest, but they are beautifully outfitted with chicly distressed oak paneling, elegant accents, and an abundance of antiques from Italy and Spain, not to mention some colorful tiling.
The beds are made up of pristine linens, and the tiled bathrooms include rainfall showers. Luxurious extras include soft robes and slippers, L’Occitane bath products, and Nespresso coffee machines. Larger suites have separate living areas as well as outside showers.
Sage Italian Steak Loft, the hotel’s restaurant, is led by local chef Mario Pagán and serves freshly sourced food as well as steakhouse classics.
After dinner, head to The Rooftop for cocktails. It’s definitely one of the city’s most serene sites, with sweeping views of the lagoon and nature preserve.
Olive Boutique Hotel’s rates begin at $262 per night.
3. Caribe Hilton
This iconic resort, built in 1949, was Hilton’s first property outside of the United States. It also claims to be the birthplace of the pia colada, which was invented in 1954.
Caribe Hilton’s star-studded guest list has included Elizabeth Taylor and Johnny Depp throughout the years; however, its opulent 1950s ambiance has transitioned into a more family-friendly environment.
The Caribe, a city landmark readily recognized by its famous neon sign, has just undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation post-Hurricane Maria.
It has 652 rooms and suites spread on 17 beachfront acres, including a tropical garden with ponds, multiple pools, and a semi-private beach.
The Zen Spa Oceano, as the name suggests, provides restorative, “ah”-inducing treatments, including the Four Hands Massage, an aromatherapy Swedish massage given by two massage therapists working simultaneously.
Guests can also pick from nine on-site eateries, including Caribar, where the famed pia colada was invented.
Order the mirin shrimp cocktail (with seaweed and a Sriracha cocktail sauce) and then the scratch-made wild mushroom ravioli with white wine cream, pancetta, and a fresh basil and Parmesan topping.
The rooms are attractively decorated and light, with dramatic bursts of white and blue providing a modern touch to the beachy atmosphere. Every accommodation has a balcony with stunning views of the ocean or the gardens.
A kids club, a playground, a covered beach, a mini-golf course, children’s menus, and a schedule of daily events are among the child-friendly features.
Rates at Caribe Hilton begin at $317 per night or 50,000 Hilton Honors points.
4. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is located on the island’s northeastern shore at Rio Grande. It is approximately 22 miles from Luis Muoz Marn International Airport (SJU), giving it a very accessible spot to stay after a flight.
Because the huge 483-acre seaside property is located between El Yunque National Forest and Espiritu Santo River State Preserve, you can easily visit two of the island’s major attractions.
In addition, a whole renovation following Hurricane Maria resulted in attractively expanded public spaces with modern island-style furnishings and artwork, giving the hotel an aesthetically pleasing location to stay.
The beautiful (and newly remodeled) lodgings were designed by Puerto Rican fashion designer Nono Maldonado.
And include modest gray walls with eye-catching blue touches on the chairs and in the artwork.
It may be tempting to stay in your spacious room (which comes with a cozy pillow-top bed and cashmere throw, as well as a marble spa bathroom with a huge soaking tub and luxe Frette bathrobes).
But you’d be remiss if you didn’t venture out and take advantage of the resort’s extensive amenities.
Highlights include an enticing oceanside swimming pool, the quiet Iridium Spa, a Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course, and three highly acclaimed restaurants (don’t miss upmarket Paros, which serves sophisticated Greek taverna-style meals).
Prices at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort start at $695 per night or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
5. Hotel El Convento
This historic jewel in the heart of Old San Juan was Puerto Rico’s first Small Luxury Hotel of the World outpost as well as the oldest member of Historic Hotels of America.
This ancient edifice, built in 1646, was a Carmelite convent until 1903. The structure was used as a boarding house, then as a garbage truck garage, until it was virtually demolished in the 1950s.
It was reincarnated as a luxury hotel and celebrity refuge for Ernest Hemingway, Truman Capote, Rita Hayworth, and Ethel Merman after a thorough repair in 1962.
El Convento retains features from its heyday, such as a grand, arched doorway, Andalusian tile floors, mahogany paneled ceilings, and antique furnishings.
All 58 rooms provide stunning views of Old San Juan or the bay, as well as modern amenities like Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and Bose radios.
Guests can also enjoy a refreshing plunge pool and Jacuzzi, a 24-hour fitness facility, and genuine Puerto Rican cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, Santisimo.
Every afternoon, complimentary wines and hors d’oeuvres are provided on the sun-drenched La Veranda terrace.
El Convento Hotel’s prices begin at $239 per night.
6. Royal Isabela
The Royal Isabela, located on 500 acres abutting a protected area on Puerto Rico’s west coast, is probably one of the Caribbean’s most premium eco-resorts.
It was co-founded by Puerto Rican tennis ace Charlie Pasarell, who wanted to build an environmentally friendly beach resort.
The property has been described as “Scotland in the Caribbean. But with great weather,” and it has 2 miles of gorgeous beach.
It also preserves microclimates that support a diverse population of indigenous flora and animals, including 65 bird species.
The resort has 20 standalone casitas that are furnished with natural timbers and fabrics. Each one is 1,500 square feet in size and has a living area, a bedroom, a luxurious bathroom, and a separate outdoor patio.
Royal Isabela is a destination in its own right, with amenities such as swimming pools, a fitness facility, a library, acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants, and a gorgeous golf course.
Furthermore, guests can see humpback whales breaching in the Atlantic from the property from January to April.
Royal Isabela’s rates begin at $425 per night with a two-night minimum stay.
7. Hotel El Colonial
This rebuilt 33-room facility is housed in a 150-year-old building and boasts a clean, minimalist aesthetic that seems to fit seamlessly with the original Belle Epoque architecture.
The rooms feature striking black-and-white tiled floors, and the muted color scheme is the ideal setting for displaying bright artwork.
Some apartments have Juliet balconies that overlook the lovely cobblestone alleys of Old San Juan.
Book a queen-private terrace room with an outdoor tub and shower on your own patio. The rooms also have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and huge flat-screen TVs.
Although there is no on-site dining, you are just steps away from a bevy of amazing eateries, including Casa Cortés ChocoBar, Races, and Mojitos.
What it lacks in terms of on-site eating, Hotel El Colonial compensates with a 24-hour complimentary open bar that is only available to hotel guests. Wines, vodka and rum beverages, local beers, fresh juices, sodas, tea, and coffee are all available.
It’s worth noting that there is no elevator in this building. Rooms begin on the second floor and need a walk-up (staff will assist you with your luggage).
Hotel El Colonial’s prices begin at $175 per night.
8. Residence Inn San Juan, Isla Verde
If you arrive in Puerto Rico and decide you don’t want to go, the Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde can accommodate you.
Each of its 231 units has a fully equipped kitchen as well as separate living and sleeping quarters. They are intended to accommodate extended visits.
The nightly fee includes daily breakfast, so you can relax knowing that one meal is covered. If you prefer to prepare your own meals, you can use the hotel’s grocery delivery service.
You can also pick up products at The Market, a 24-hour grab-and-go food and beverage store. Other features include laundry facilities on-site, a workout center, a pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The beach area on Isla Verde offers a wealth of water-based activities, and tourists are well-positioned to take advantage of them. Jet Skis, parasailing, and banana boat rides are available from a variety of providers.
There are also various local eateries, lively nightclubs, and a bustling beachside promenade to pick from.
Families will enjoy the neighboring Carolina Beach, which features a water park, beach volleyball, restrooms, and other amenities.
Prices at the Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde start at $211 per night, or 32,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
9. El Pretexto
Puerto Rico is well known for its beautiful stretches of sand. However, this picturesque farm and resort nestled in the Cayey Mountains of the island may tempt you to leave your bathing gear at home.
Head to the island’s central-southwest region to visit Puerto Rico’s first gourmet farm lodge, which was inspired by local businesswoman and self-proclaimed foodie Crystal Daz Rojas.
El Pretexto, a blend of rustic, artistic, and modern sensibilities, embodies Daz’s dedication to ecological sustainability.
The land is densely forested with native vegetation such as pines, palms, and banana trees, and it has its own agroecological garden and beehive.
In addition, to limit food waste, the lodge uses solar energy, gathers rainwater, and composts leftovers.
On a little less than 2 acres of land, El Pretexto has five spacious guest rooms distributed over two villas and a barn house.
Daz’s original artwork can be found on the walls of each area. Board games and outdoor yoga courses have taken the place of flat-screen TVs.
Off-property excursions include rejuvenating nature hikes and the discovery of secret waterfalls.
Breakfast is included in the accommodation cost and includes pumpkin pancakes, multigrain French toast, and other freshly made meals. Many of the ingredients used in the restaurant are grown on the premises.
El Pretexto‘s prices begin at $240 per night.
10. Aloft San Juan
This 177-room hotel is the Caribbean’s first Aloft location. The boutique-style hotel features all of the Aloft brand’s hallmark amenities, including its Refuel by Aloft grab-and-go cafe, the famed W XYZ lobby bar, and even a pool on the third floor.
Its central placement in the Distrito T-Mobile complex, an entertainment-focused development centered on a 50,000-square-foot central plaza, is undoubtedly its most compelling selling point.
In addition to the event location, attendees may enjoy a zip line in ToroVerde Urban Park, a multiplex cinema, a concert hall, and a variety of delicious culinary options.
The brand’s simple design philosophy is reflected in the room decor. The light gray walls and wood floors provide a soothing backdrop for the deep purples and blues of the fabrics and diverse artwork.
Prices at Aloft San Juan start at $201 per night or 24,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
11. San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is located in Condado, one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods, and is close to numerous restaurants, bars, and stores.
Its beachside position is great for guests who wish to spend their vacation with their toes in the sand while still being accessible to all of the city’s attractions.
Each of the 527 stylish rooms and suites has a private terrace with views of the Caribbean or downtown San Juan.
The new Cabana rooms at the resort offer plenty of space for families to spread out. The luxurious apartments are decorated in soothing gray, blue, and tan tones that are offset by brilliantly colored textiles.
Mini fridges, coffee makers, and huge flat-screen TVs are among the conveniences provided in the rooms.
On-site amenities include heated pools with fountains, a waterslide, and a swim-up pool bar, as well as plenty of comfortable lounge seats.
The lobby bar frequently has live Latin music, and the lively casino is a popular hangout for guests looking to try their luck.
The colorful Red Coral Lounge serves small appetizers and innovative beverages such as the dragonberry mojito.
Gingambo, on the other hand, offers classic Puerto Rican mofongo with ocean views from nearly every table.
Prices at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino begin at $390 per night or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
12. Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort
Ponce, on Puerto Rico’s southern shore, lives up to its nickname, “La Perla del Sur” (the Pearl of the South). Despite being the island’s second-largest city (after San Juan), this treasure has the laid-back vibe and slow pace of a beach town.
This large 18-acre beachside resort has 255 rooms, each with its own private balcony or patio (depending on the level).
The lodgings have an island vibe to them, with blue and white accents everywhere. Coffee makers, minifridges, and flat-screen TVs are all standard features.
The hotel’s numerous on-site amenities will appeal to guests of all ages.
Among the amenities are two large pools, a 27-hole championship golf course, a miniature golf course, four tennis courts, a playground, and even a splash park. There’s also a casino for adults to enjoy.
Dine at one of the four restaurants on the property: El Bohio, La Cava, La Terraz, or Sancho’s Sushi Bar.
Prices at The Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort begin at $230 per night or 50,000 Hilton Honors points.
13. Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Condado Vanderbilt San Juan was erected in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt (yes, that Vanderbilt) and a team of architects who also worked on New York’s Grand Central Terminal.
This exquisite Spanish Revival-style property housed Puerto Rico’s first luxury hotel as well as the island’s first casino, which opened in 1940.
For more than a century, the famous hotel has hosted heads of state, royalty, and Hollywood elites. It was meticulously restored in 2014 and remains true to its 1920s glory.
A shark-filled aquarium in the art deco-style lobby is among the plush, gilded furnishings and dramatic artistic accents.
The guest rooms and suites are bold and stylish, with period furnishings and huge marble baths. All have French windows or glass doors that frame breathtaking views of the Atlantic or the city.
At the 24-hour casino, you can gamble to your heart’s (or wallet’s) delight, or you can relax your body and mind at the Vanderbilt Spa (try the delicious cinnamon scrub).
A semi-private beach, four swimming pools, and a beach club with spacious cabanas and chaise lounges offer plenty of opportunities to soak up the island sun.
The hotel’s dining options include the renowned 1919 restaurant, which is led by Michelin-starred chef Juan José Cuevas, and the trendy VC lounge, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Condado Vanderbilt‘s prices begin at $429 per night.
Conclusion
There are practically endless ways to see Puerto Rico, so check out our Puerto Rico travel guide for ideas.
Stroll around Old San Juan’s historical sites and sample the (literal) spirit of Puerto Rico at one of the island’s many rum distilleries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most luxurious area in Puerto Rico?
Dorado is an excellent choice for an expensive vacation: it literally means “golden.” Many of Puerto Rico’s most famous restaurants, such as El Ladrillo, can be found in Dorado, but that’s far from all there is to offer.
How many hotels does Puerto Rico have?
Whether you want a beachfront location, a historic hotel in Old San Juan, or a luxury resort tucked away in a nature reserve, Puerto Rico has over 130 hotels waiting to welcome you.
What is the safest city to stay in Puerto Rico?
San Juan is one of Puerto Rico’s safest cities for travelers. Visitors should always take standard measures against COVID-19, petty criminality, and inclement weather.
What month are the hotels cheapest in Puerto Rico?
The prices for flights, lodging, food, and activities are most likely to be lowest from August to November, which coincides with hurricane season in Puerto Rico.
