Puerto Rico's resorts offer a remarkable variety, from intimate beachfront boutiques to sprawling luxury complexes with every amenity imaginable. This Caribbean destination combines the convenience of domestic travel for US citizens (no passport required) with the allure of pristine beaches, rainforests, and vibrant culture - all accessible within a relatively compact island.
We've researched and compared the best resorts in Puerto Rico to create this comprehensive guide. We assess each property based on location, amenities, price point, and guest feedback. Whether planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or a stay at a wellness retreat, these eleven properties are the crème de la crème in Puerto Rico.
- Puerto Rico Travel Tips
- 1. Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- 2. St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
- 3. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
- 4. Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
- 5. Villa Montana Beach Resort
- 6. Finca Victoria
- 7. Royal Isabela
- 8. Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa
- 9. La Concha Resort
- 10. Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
- 11. Hix Island House
- FAQs
Puerto Rico Travel Tips
National language: Spanish and English are both official languages in Puerto Rico. Most locals speak Spanish as their primary language, but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas and resorts.
Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency of Puerto Rico, making it convenient for American travelers who don't need to exchange money while visiting.
Weather: Puerto Rico enjoys a tropical climate year-round with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 85°F). The coastal areas tend to be warmer, while the mountains are more incredible.
Getting around: Taxis, rideshare services (such as Uber, which operates in metropolitan areas), and rental cars are popular transportation options. Public transportation, including buses and a metro system (in San Juan), is available but may be limited in some areas. Many resorts also offer shuttle services to popular attractions and the airport.
The best time of year to visit is from mid-December to April, when the weather is dry and temperatures are ideal. May through November is also a good time to visit, especially if you prefer fewer crowds. Be aware that this time of year overlaps with hurricane season.
The worst time of year to visit: September and October are typically the most active months of the Atlantic hurricane season, bringing a higher chance of storms, heavy rainfall, and possible travel disruptions. While Puerto Rico is prepared for hurricane season, you might want to avoid these months (or purchase travel insurance).
1. Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Dorado Beach Resort has a storied and star-studded history. Initially, it was the childhood home of early female aviator Clara Livingston. In the 1950s, ownership transferred to Laurance Rockefeller, who was "both a pioneer of venture capital and ...what would come to be known as eco-tourism" (from an article published by Spears).
5-star hotel
$1,347-$6,865
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While there are over 100 Ritz-Carlton properties, only six of them are designated as part of the Reserve collection. The Reserve Collection is the ultra-elite line of hotels and resorts, advertised by the brand as "a collection of rare estates...where heartfelt care and craftsmanship are felt at every turn."
Guest Reviews
Guests highlight the breakfast buffet for its range of options and fresh selections. Paros, the on-site restaurant, stands out for both food and service, but making a dinner reservation ahead of time is a smart move since tables go quickly. The location next to El Yunque National Forest (the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. national forest system) is a major attraction for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The setting is quieter than city resorts, which many find relaxing, but it does mean there are fewer restaurants or shops within walking distance. The spa is a top contender for guests who have booked a treatment. The property is approximately a 30-minute drive from the airport, making it best suited for travelers who plan to stay on-site rather than venture out each day.
2. St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is on an old coconut plantation near El Yunque rain forest, 30 minutes from San Juan airport. The natural beauty of St. Regis's Resort is apparent once you step onto the property: it's expansive, with nature trails, a bird sanctuary, and a private two-mile beach.
5-star hotel
$726-$1,311
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The rooms have solid hardwood floors, rain showers, and outdoor spaces with ocean views. The design mixes natural materials with open, airy spaces.
Guest Reviews
The resort is quiet and away from San Juan’s nightlife, so it’s a good spot to relax, enjoy oceanfront dining, and watch the sunset without the crowds. Guests highlight the breakfast buffet for its range of options and fresh selections. Paros, the on-site restaurant, stands out for both its food and service; however, making a dinner reservation ahead of time is a smart move, as tables fill up quickly. The location next to El Yunque National Forest appeals to those who want to spend time hiking or outdoors.
The setting is quieter than city resorts, which many find relaxing, but it does mean there are fewer restaurants or shops within walking distance. Spa amenities are often included and frequently mentioned by guests who utilize them. The property is approximately a 30-minute drive from the airport, making it best suited for travelers who plan to stay on-site rather than venture out each day.
3. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is on Puerto Rico's north coast near Rio Grande, with a two-mile stretch of beach along the Atlantic Ocean. It features three lagoon-style pools and offers activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and beach cruises. An environmental scientist on staff runs programs about the local ecosystem.
5-star hotel
$292-$957
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The rooms have spa-like bathrooms with rain showerheads and marble vanities. The resort offers ample space for events, both indoors and outdoors, making it an ideal option for families, groups, or business travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and activities.
Guest Reviews
Most guests choose this resort for its beachfront access and proximity to El Yunque National Forest. The 500-acre property offers ample space to spread out, featuring pools, nature trails, and organized activities throughout the grounds.
Families say there’s enough going on between the kids’ club and three pools to keep younger travelers happy. The food receives decent reviews, with nine restaurants that range from casual to sit-down, so there are enough options to avoid getting tired. Other points to note are that the property size requires some walking (or waiting for a golf cart), and that the casino will be closed for renovations through summer 2025.
4. Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
The Fairmont El San Juan Hotel is situated in the Isla Verde area of Puerto Rico, offering a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comforts. It offers 388 timeless guest rooms, suites, and villa rooms, all decorated with local art and design.
4-star hotel
$363-$747
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You can choose rooms with views of the ocean, the pool, or the city. The hotel offers several excellent dining options, a wellness center, and four swimming pools. Plus, there’s daily live entertainment to keep things lively. It’s just steps from the beach and close to San Juan’s cultural spots, so getting out and exploring is easy.
Guest Reviews
Guests enjoy the nightly entertainment and the performances by local Puerto Rican artists, which make for a fun end to the night. The location near Old San Juan is another advantage, making it easy to head out for sightseeing or dinner in the city. The noise from the entertainment spaces can be an issue if you’re a light sleeper or tend to go to bed early.
5. Villa Montana Beach Resort
Villa Montana Beach Resort is a small, quiet spot on Puerto Rico's northwest coast, away from the busier tourist areas. It features a private beach and a restaurant called Eclipse, renowned for its excellent local cuisine.
4-star hotel
$274-$466
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The views from its Oceanfront Gazebo have made it a popular wedding destination. It doesn’t have all the amenities of bigger resorts, but guests appreciate the personal service and laid-back, local vibe. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a peaceful, low-key place to stay.
Guest Reviews
Villa Montana draws guests who prefer a quieter stay. The grounds cover 35 acres, so there’s plenty of space and a sense of privacy. Eclipse, the on-site restaurant, has ocean views and a menu with the finest locally sourced ingredients.
Daily housekeeping and room service are available by request, but not standard, and there aren’t many restaurants nearby. People suggest Villa Montana for couples or solo travelers interested in relaxed and slower-paced travel.
6. Finca Victoria
Finca Victoria is a small, eco-friendly spot focusing on wellness and sustainability. It sits on one of the highest points in Vieques, giving you incredible sunrises and sunsets.
3-star hotel
$273-$682
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They offer daily yoga classes and serve plant-based meals made from ingredients grown on-site. You can relax in the sweet-water pool or kick back in the pavilion lounge. The accommodations feature fully equipped kitchens stocked with Ayurvedic spices and oils to enhance the flavor of your cooking.
The place feels connected to nature, with gardens attracting local wildlife and a cozy cabin tucked behind bamboo. It’s not a fancy resort with tons of amenities, but it’s perfect if you want to unwind, relax, and enjoy some peaceful time surrounded by nature.
Guest Reviews
The daily yoga and Ayurvedic breakfasts are a highlight for many guests, particularly those attending wellness retreats. The location on a hilltop in Vieques offers expansive views and a genuine escape from screens and busy schedules.
The vibe is eco-conscious and straightforward, which guests say helps them feel at ease and grounded. You'll have to take a ferry from the main island to get to the resort (it's somewhat remote).
7. Royal Isabela
Royal Isabela is on Puerto Rico’s northwest coast, featuring private casitas with plunge pools and Atlantic Ocean views. The Royal Isabela Golf Club offers pristine terrain for golf enthusiasts.
4-star hotel
$831-$1,305
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The outdoor pool is set among palm trees, and spa massages can be enjoyed either in your casita or by the pool. Other amenities include a tennis court, children’s pool, walking tours, and butler service. There’s no fitness center, and indoor activities are limited during bad weather. The resort focuses on privacy and outdoor experiences.
Guest Reviews
Guests mention the cliffside views are one of the most memorable parts of the stay, especially from the golf course that overlooks the ocean. The Joto restaurant receives strong reviews for both its food and service.
Several recommend booking the private casitas, which come with plunge pools and secluded terraces where you can "dine al fresco". A downside for some is the remote location, which requires transportation to other destinations. There's no on-site gym, and indoor options are limited if it rains. Royal Isabela appeals most to golf enthusiasts and people who prefer to relax rather than explore.
8. Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa
Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa is in Guánica on Puerto Rico’s southern coast, about two hours by car from San Juan Airport. It’s on 20 acres inside the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve, a rare, dry coastal forest. Two thousand feet of shoreline span Guánica Bay, making it ideal for visiting nearby sites and attractions, such as the bioluminescent bay at La Parguera or hiking in the Guánica State Forest.
3-star hotel
$229-$495
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There are 106 rooms spread across several low-rise buildings with a Mediterranean aesthetic. The resort underwent renovations in 2018, so the rooms and common areas feel fresh and modern, but still tropical.
Guest Reviews
Many guests mention the two on-site restaurants for their thoughtful mix of local and international dishes. While the setting inside Guánica Dry Forest Reserve draws in nature enthusiasts—especially those interested in bioluminescent bay tours and hiking trails—it’s worth knowing the resort is about two hours from the San Juan airport, so a bit of travel planning helps.
The resort underwent renovations in 2018, which, according to guests, improved the appearance and comfort of the rooms. Reviews indicate this is a solid choice for travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed location outside the typical tourist zones.
9. La Concha Resort
La Concha Resort is directly on the beach in San Juan’s Condado area, and off Puerto Rico's northern coast. First built in 1958 and renovated in 2007, there are 483 suites across three towers with several pool areas interspersed throughout (one being an adult-only infinity pool).
4-star hotel
$356-$688
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The nightclub is open Thursday through Saturday. Most rooms include outdoor balconies with exquisite ocean views.
Guest Reviews
Attractive aspects of La Concha are its beachfront location (it's in Condado and within walking distance of San Juan’s restaurants, bars, and shops—convenient if you like to explore).
Reviews say there is a decent mix of food options with the seven on-site restaurants. Something to note is that this is a city resort, so you're trading privacy for immediate access to nightlife. Rooms near the nightclub can be affected by some of the late-night noise.
10. Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
The Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico sits on a quiet peninsula on the island’s northeastern coast, about a 30-minute drive from San Juan airport. It’s a large resort spread over 72 acres near Rio Grande and close to El Yunque National Forest.
5-star hotel
$253-$617
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The accommodations include standard rooms, luxury suites, and villas. On three miles of coastline, the Grande Reserve sits adjacent to the Coco Beach Golf Course and features a swoonworthy lagoon-style pool. That, plus a Rainforest spa with impeccable service, steam rooms, saunas, and a private pool area reserved exclusively for spa guests.
Guest Reviews
Most guests mention that the location feels quieter and more private than many of the larger resorts in Puerto Rico. The lagoon-style pool is the largest on the island and a family favourite. Parents appreciate the Kids' Club and beach activities that help keep the little guys content.
The resort is 72 acres, so depending on your room, you may need to walk or use a shuttle to reach the central amenities. Its spot on a secluded peninsula makes it a good pick if you're planning to stay put, but it’s about a 30-minute drive from the San Juan airport.
11. Hix Island House
Hix Island House is on Vieques, a small island off the coast of Puerto Rico. It consists of simple, concrete buildings designed to blend in with their natural surroundings. The house utilizes solar power and rainwater collection to maintain its eco-friendliness.
3-star hotel
$149-$221
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It sits on a hillside with great views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding countryside. The resort has four houses with apartment-style rooms with open-air living spaces. There’s no TV, phone, or air conditioning, so it’s really about enjoying the outdoors—think outdoor showers and ocean breezes.
Guest Reviews
Guests consistently mention the open-air design and striking concrete structures, with wide views of the Caribbean Sea. There are no TVs, phones, or air conditioning, so it’s a genuine digital break—something people either love or don't.
The property runs on solar power and collects rainwater, a significant feat and a reason to visit in itself. People generally recommend Hix Island for travelers who don’t mind warm nights, ceiling fans, and a stay that feels more like a bare-bones island escape than a proper hotel stay.
FAQs
This depends entirely on what you're looking for. If you want total luxury, check out Dorado Beach or St. Regis Bahia Beach - both are beautiful but quite pricey.
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar and Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve are kid-friendly resorts offering activities for all age groups, ensuring the entire family has something to do. For something more affordable, Villa Montana or Copamarina are nice accommodations and are an excellent value for the cost.
Most first-timers gravitate toward San Juan, which makes sense - you get beaches plus easy access to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. The Condado area resembles Miami Beach, while Isla Verde has more resorts.
Vieques or Culebra have some of the most stunning beaches and are quieter areas, making them perfect for a relaxing getaway. Surfers often head to Rincón on the west coast, while the south side around Guánica is drier and less crowded. It's only a quick ferry ride away.
Puerto Rico is a great vacation spot, especially if you're from the US. You won't need a passport, the currency exchange is seamless, and many locals speak English in tourist areas. The island packs a lot into a small space: lounge on beaches, hike in El Yunque rainforest, wander through Old San Juan's colorful streets, and kayak in bioluminescent bays - all within relatively short drives.
The food scene goes way beyond just rice and beans (though those are delicious too). Puerto Rican cuisine feels like a blend of US comfort food and authentic Caribbean flavors, which works well for the palate.
Most people visit between December and April, when the weather is sunny and less rainy and temperatures are around 75-85°F. This is the high season, so you can expect bigger crowds and higher prices.
May through November is a more relaxed time of year to visit. That said, spring may have more rain (usually brief afternoon downpours rather than all-day affairs). Also, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June through November, with September and October being the most active. For a good middle ground with decent weather and fewer crowds, visit from May to November.
About 5-7 days is ideal for most travelers. This is enough time to explore San Juan, enjoy a few beach days, visit El Yunque rainforest, and maybe take a day trip somewhere else on the island.
With just a weekend, you'll only get a taste of San Juan. With 10-14 days, you can relax and visit different regions and sites. Puerto Rico isn't huge, so you won't spend too much time traveling between places, which helps make the most of shorter trips.
