The Best Hotels & Resorts in Puerto Rico

 

Known for incredible stargazing, bioluminescent waters, charming old cities and miles of beautiful beach, Puerto Rico is an incredible vacation destination. Plus, if you live in the U.S., you don’t even need a passport to enjoy this state-side island getaway. From intimate villas to grand city stays, here’s our round-up of favorite hotels and resorts in Puerto Rico.

As the only hotel in the Caribbean to earn Audubon International’s Gold Signature Sanctuary certification, it doesn’t get much more grand than the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. With its own 18-hole golf course, luxury spa, and wildlife sanctuary, all 483 acres of this resort are catered to creating a true Puerto Rican paradise.

Dorado Beach is known for being a respite from Puerto Rico’s more tourist-heavy north shore, and time moves slower at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel. Here, you’ll enjoy outdoor showers, galler-caliber art, and spa treatments in the treetops at Spa Botánico.

The Royal Isabela is made of 20 charming casitas that open to their own private pool terraces. This is one of the most intimate resorts in Puerto Rico, but the best part is their efforts towards sustainability. The Royal Isabela uses recycled rainwater to tend the garden that supplies their restaurant, and the resort rests on 426 acres of nature preserve.

In case the name doesn’t give it away, this unique hotel is located in a former convent. Dramatic architecture in this landmark Spanish Colonial home in Old San Juan will take you back to the 17th century, while the bespoke details in each suite will make you feel right at home. Enjoy both city and ocean views from your Juliet balcony.

With just five rooms, your time at Tres Sirenas will feel more like staying in your own private villa. Every accommodation at this boutique bed & breakfast allows access to poolside daybeds and white-washed balconies, but the Sea View Penthouse offers panoramic views of Rincon beachfront from the second floor. Step out of the inn and into the water for snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking.

At the Villa Montaña Beach Resort, you’ll enjoy a perfect balance of classic resort and boutique hotel. Spend your days riding complimentary bikes, wind and kite surfing, and scuba diving off three miles of pristine beach. Villa Montaña is also home of Eclipse, one of the best restaurants on the island.

The Hix Island House is one of the most dynamic resorts in Puerto Rico. This more-retreat-than-resort features ultramodern design but no wifi or TV (but don’t worry—you’ll be occupied by a guided yoga or pilates class before sunbathing by the pool). The villas here are both luxurious and minimal, prompting guests to find their zen and enjoy being close to nature.

Your wellness is top of mind at Finca Victoria. Enjoy meals from the plant-based kitchen, amazing natural ventilation, many onsite gardens, and an Ayurvedic center for wellness treatments of all kinds. La Finca runs on solar power, with the goal of becoming completely eco-sustainable and leaving nearly zero-impact on the environment. This resort is also dog-friendly!

A stay at Palacio Provincial puts you at the center of Old San Juan. You’ll be surrounded by history at every turn, and you’ll enjoy seeing the water just beyond the city from the Palacio’s rooftop pool. Classically modern decor outfits the 43 rooms and suites and the onsite Consular Restaurant & Bar offers Puerto Rican fusion dishes and signature cocktails.

This one is a favorite among couples and groups. Guests love being near the Shops at San Juan and many in-town nightlife options, but you won’t get bored within resort walls either. Fairmont El San Juan features four pools, a swim-up bar, an extensive spa and fitness center, and trademark dining experiences. Choose between an oceanfront villa or poolside suite and let the relaxation begin.