15 Best Resorts in Puerto Rico For An Island Getaway in 2024 (2024)

Puerto Rico is one of the dreamiest places in the Caribbean, though it’s often forgotten by travelers looking for that all-inclusive resort feel of a place like St. Thomas or Barbados.

Simultaneously, leisure travelers flock to Puerto Rico as one of their tropical island destinations. Why? Because Puerto Rico’s picturesque ocean views, stunning El Yunque Rainforest, and bioluminescent bay views in Vieques never get old.

After visiting Puerto Rico several times over the last decade, I’ve learned a lot about this beautiful island. From the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico has far more to offer than just the sights of San Juan or the countless rum samplings.

While one-time bad weather canceled my bioluminescent bay adventures, Puerto Rico immediately became where I longed to return. And it wasn’t just the mofongo (fried plantain mash, crunchy pork skin, and garlic) that kept me dreaming of this shimmering isle.

What you won’t find on this list are all-inclusive resorts (if you’re looking for those, read our full guide on the best all-inclusive resorts in the world). They aren’t needed since this tropical island is so accessible and budget-friendly.

To fully experience the island, you must leave your resort. After all, you can’t see Old San Juan unless you actually step foot out of your hotel or resort! Let this list of Puerto Rico resorts serve as your roadmap to seeing the most of this incredible island.

TL;DR

• Best Overall: La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
• For Couples: St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
• For Families: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort
• For Relaxation: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
• For Activities: Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino

Best Resorts in Puerto Rico

1. St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico

Address: State Road 187 Kilometer 4.2, Río Grande, 00745, Puerto Rico

With unbelievable Ocean Views, St. Regis Bahia Resort is the perfect place for a romantic getaway and the best luxury option on the island. Their elegant facilities and rooms will transport you to true tranquility.

With the onsite full-service spa, water activities, luxurious amenities, four restaurants, and proximity to the El Yunque Rainforest, you’ll see how this property is a AAA Five Diamond Award winner.

Only steps away from Río Grande Beach, you’ve got easy access to relaxation along the oceanfront in a tropical oasis. You can enjoy canoeing, fishing, snorkeling, and windsurfing from the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort.

A vacation here won’t get boring either, with four eateries to choose from. You can savor flavor without venturing far, from the Greek/Mediterranean dishes at Paros to the Caribbean/local cuisine at Beach Club by Jose Enrique. You’ll want to read our full guide on where to stay in Puerto Rico to orient yourself with locations and areas.

Pros:

• Luxury hospitality
• Lots of food options
• Watersports available
• Close beach access
• Full-service spa

Cons:

• Not in walking distance of off-site restaurants or shops
• Onsite food is expensive

See Related: Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean

2. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach Resort and Spa

Address: 6000 Blvd. Río Mar, Río Grande, 00745, Puerto Rico

Its incredible variety makes the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar stand out from the other best resorts in Puerto Rico. From ten on-site restaurants, two golf courses, tennis courts, and access to Rio Mar beach, the possibilities for families are endless.

Even the pickiest kiddos will find something to eat at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. Whether the trick is traditional Americana at Marbella Restaurant or pizza at Roots Coastal Kitchen, families can enjoy their time here.

Your kids will surely enjoy the resort’s three outdoor swimming pools, a spa, a wellness center, and on-site watersports. You can even enjoy watching nesting sea turtles or feeding iguanas during certain times of the year. Or you can see a whole world of underwater life with a scuba diving excursion! So it’s easy to see why a stay at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is a multifaceted experience.

Pros:

• Easy access to a secluded beach
• Lots of food options
• Some rooms include private balconies
• The resort has golf, tennis courts, and watersports

Cons:

• Rooms are said to be noisy
• Kids corner/Kids Club needs improvement
• Timeshare salespeople

See Related: Best Resorts in St. Thomas

3. Fairmont El San Juan Hotel

Address: 6063 Av. Isla Verde, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico

Right off the golden sands of Isla Verde beach, the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel is a relaxing getaway near the capital city. With three beaches, restaurants, and a reef preserve within walking distance, the Fairmont is a place where you can relax without spending much time commuting around.

Four swimming pools with a relaxed pool area will maintain your chill Puerto Rico vacation vibes. And the onsite spa and salon will keep you looking and feeling your best long before your trip ends. If you’re hunting for more action, the beach has everything from snorkeling to jet skiing tours.

The Fairmont is also home to four on-site restaurants. These include Cana for Catalan/Spanish cuisine, Bar Americana, and Il Sole or Riva for Italian specialties. When you need to relax somewhere on vacation like Puerto Rico, which doesn’t have all-inclusive, this is as close as you’re bound to get.

Pros:

• Off-site walkability
• Multiple swimming pools and a swim-up bar
• Has family rooms available
• Right off of Isla Verde beach
• Close to airport

Cons:

• Attractions and public transit not within walking distance
• Poolside music is said to be very loud

See Related: All-Inclusive Resorts in the Maldives

4. Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino

Address: 200 Convention Blvd, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

Not only can you walk to so many places from the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, but this spot also has so much to do. Hop aboard a free beach shuttle to Condado Beach or take a 20-minute stroll there.

Not to mention, this casino resort also has incredible views of the city from its outdoor pool. I couldn’t get enough of them when I stayed here — especially at sunset.

Some rooms have private balconies from which you can observe the greenery, the city, or perhaps even the not-so-distant ocean. After a long day of exploring, you’ll be grateful for the 24-hour room service.

And don’t let the five hotel restaurants get away from you, either. Metropol Restaurant’s bolitas de queso (fried cheese balls) and margaritas are beyond yummy.

Pros:

• Walking distance to a lot of locations
• Free shuttle to the beach
• Several restaurants
• Fun pool area

Cons:

• Shuttle times are inconsistent (one even drove away even as we approached it to board – it seems like some drivers are inconsistent, too!)
• Need transportation to major San Juan attractions

See Related:

5. La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort

Address: 1077 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

A pearl alongside Condado Beach, this conch-themed resort is a unique place to call home in Puerto Rico. La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort is unlike any other beach resort on the island without a price that’ll break the bank.

Full disclosure: La Concha Resort was supposed to be where I spent my honeymoon. Unfortunately, Hurricane Maria had other plans. Luckily, this hotel came back to host guests once again.

This is an incredible accommodation choice, only a few miles from famous San Juan locations and historical landmarks and within walking distance of parks, shops, and restaurants.

La Concha Resort is the best Puerto Rico resort overall due to its moderate prices, restaurants, spa offerings, and swimming pool. Who couldn’t find paradise on a private balcony facing the ocean, a stone’s throw away?

Pros:

• Easy access to nearby San Juan locations
• Moderate pricing for high-value accommodation
• Private beach area
• Fitness center

Cons:

• Can be noisy at night
• Not a lot of dining variety on-site

See Related: All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Jamaica

6. Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico

Address: 200 Coco Beach Blvd, PR-955, Río Grande, 00745, Puerto Rico

Off of secluded Coco Beach, the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico provides all the comfort you need for time away. This Puerto Rico resort has much to do, from the relaxing lagoon-style pool set amid its gardens to its signature golf courses.

Should you take advantage of the on-site spa with kids in tow, there’s room for them there, too. The spa area has a kid’s pool, salon and spa services, yoga or fitness classes, and a jacuzzi. There’s no reason the kids can’t have a spa experience, too.

Enjoy watersports, live music, and five restaurants without leaving the resort property. There’s a reason since there isn’t anything walkable from the hotel property. You can easily get to places like El Yunque Rainforest or Seven Seas National Park.

Pros:

• Next to secluded Coco Beach
• Lots of activities for the whole family
• Several dining options
• Golf course access
• Full-service spa

Cons:

• Not within walking distance of off-site properties
• Food is not always available at convenient times

See Related: Beach Resorts In Florida

7. Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Address: 1055 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

Only a mile from the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico and steps from La Ventana al Mar Park, the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is a stunner — especially for couples. The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel offers horseback riding, bike tours, water sports, live music, and cooking classes.

Few hotels offer as many activities as the Condado Vanderbilt. Don’t let that stop you from getting off the property to see the island, though! Live music abounds on the island, so you can hear it anywhere you go — especially at night.

The pool bar will ensure your time in the swimming pool is relaxed, though if you need more pampering, you’re welcome to check out the spa. And when 5 o’clock hits (or not — it’s 5 o’clock somewhere, right?), it’s time to stop at Tacos & Tequila!

Condado Beach is only a few hundred feet away from the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, as are several off-site restaurants and parks. You cannot beat the view of the bay from this hotel’s private balconies.

Pros:

• Local attractions are highly walkable
• Right off the beach
• On-site spa
• Several restaurants
• Lots of activities are available, including horseback riding

Cons:

• City-facing rooms can be noisy at night
• It might not be a great fit for little kids

See Related: Resorts in Key West

8. Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa

Address: PR-333 Km 6.5, Guanica, Guánica 00653, Puerto Rico

A lush, green beach resort on the Caribbean Sea side of the island, the Copamarina Beach Resort and Spa is far and away from the other resorts we’ve listed. It is a way to get in touch with nature while still having access to the luxurious amenities you’d want on vacation

Playa Caña Gorda is the only major, walkable location from Copamarina Beach Resort. While that might be a problem for some travelers, the slight seclusion of this beach resort is part of its charm.

Why not rent a bicycle and explore the nearby beach (or even go on a beach hopping tour) or snorkel to glimpse the local sealife?

Two swimming pools, a spa area, and two restaurants are available to you when you get back to Copamarina Beach Resort. When you’re ready to try mofongo with grouper instead of pork (still completely delicious), head over to Las Palmas Café.

Pros:

• Plenty of greenery to relax in
• On-site spa
• Many resort-offered activities to enjoy
• Breakfast is included as an option

Cons:

• Not in walking distance to off-site properties except beach
• Not many options for dietary restrictions

See Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts Without a Passport

9. Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Address: 100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado, 00646, Puerto Rico

A luxurious property like you’d expect from the brand, the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is gorgeous. Multiple outdoor pools, four restaurants, in-room dining, and many other luxurious amenities you’ll fall in love with.

A few beaches are within walking distance from the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, just over half a mile away. The whole family can love a getaway retreat at this luxury at this luxury resort.

I’d recommend a room with a private plunge pool or a suite to avoid even having to leave your room for some time in the refreshing water! The spa at Dorado Beach offers a range of relaxing amenities, including couples massages.

Don’t forget to add some fine dining to your romantic trip to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, if you’re headed there with your special someone.

Pros:

• Luxury accommodations
• Fine dining option
• Rooms with private plunge pools
• Spa on-site
• Several outdoor pool areas
• Beaches are just a short walk from the resort

Cons:

• Not within quick walking distance of other nearby properties
• Few dining options

See Related: All-Inclusive Resorts in Costa Rica for Families

10. San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel

Address: 2 José M. Tartak Ave, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico

Snorkeling, sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and jet skiing await you at Isla Verde Beach, next door to the San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel. If getting sand between your toes isn’t your jam, you can enjoy the water from afar in the rooftop pool here. You’re also only a few minutes’ drive from the airport so you can relax faster!

San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel only has one restaurant on-site, Kumo Rooftop, which serves Japanese cuisine. Luckily, you only have to walk a few hundred feet to find more dining options. You’re also within walking distance from the Isla Verde Reef Marine Reserve and Pine Grove Beach.

This may be a boutique hotel, but it doesn’t look like it. Especially when considering that every room in the hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows for lovely city or ocean views. San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel is also one of Puerto Rico’s more moderately priced beach hotels, making it a great option for budget travelers.

Pros:

• Walking distance to some attractions and restaurants
• Next to Isla Verde beach
• Close to the airport
• Moderate prices
• Cozy, boutique hotel

Cons:

• Only one restaurant on-site
• Music from the rooftop can be very loud

See Related: Dutch Caribbean Islands to Visit

11. Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort

Address: 1150 Av. Caribe, Ponce, 00716, Puerto Rico

For travelers headed to Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, Ponce, the Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort might be just what you’re looking for. Serving food in three restaurants, a variety of outdoor activities, and spa services, the Hilton Ponce Golf Resort gives Hilton hotels an island life treatment.

The two on-site outdoor swimming pools each have a little something different. Children will love the waterslide at one while the adults might prefer the views from the other. Either way, you’ll be basking in the island sun.

You can’t walk anywhere from this beach resort, though they offer plenty to keep you occupied. They even have live performances, walking tours, classes to teach you about the local Puerto Rican culture, and tours covering the island’s coffee industry.

I loved my time in Ponce, and it’s quickly become my favorite destination in Puerto Rico since it’s a much more relaxed environment than the big city of San Juan. Plus, the walking tours with Isla Caribe cannot be beaten. You’ll learn so much from this female-owned tour company and learn so much more about the city than you might otherwise.

Pros:

• Two very different pool areas
• A few dining options
• Fitness center
• Many activities on-site
• Golf course access

Cons:

• Wild dogs on the premises
• Not always a lot of food options for dietary restrictions

See Related: Where to Stay in Jamaica

12. Condado Ocean Club

Address: 1045 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

You’ll think you’re in heaven at Condado Ocean Club from the seaside pool facing Condado Beach. A relaxing atmosphere just a short walk from places like Fort San Cristobal, Plaza de Armas, San Jerónimo del Boquerón Fort (the Fortress of San Jerónimo del Boquerón), or the contemporary art museum.

The Ocean Club is one of the best Puerto Rico resorts for anyone looking for attractions within easy walking distance. Prime shore access is easily one of the top reasons to stay at this Puerto Rico beach resort, though its proximity to eateries and shops in San Juan is a close second.

If you stay in the capital city, why not get a little of the city and the sea in one easy location? This is one of the only adults-only resorts in Puerto Rico, particularly in this round-up. Here’s one way to enjoy the ocean views, have a romantic dinner, and enjoy pool time without kiddos running around.

Pros:

• One of the few adults-only resorts on the island
• Practically on the beach
• Easy walk to nearby locations

Cons:

• Only one restaurant
• Public spaces can be too loud
• Not many on-site amenities

See Related: How Much is a Sandals Vacation?

13. Villa Montaña Beach Resort

Address: PR-4466, Isabela, Aguadilla 00662, Puerto Rico

Designed in a Caribbean style, the Villa Montaña Beach Resort is more secluded than many other beach resorts. Complete with two on-site pool areas, garden view rooms, and plenty of acreages, there is much to enjoy at Villa Montaña.

The Eclipse restaurant may be the only dining option, but it offers several cuisine options, including pizza, seafood, and local Puerto Rican cuisine, and even international choices. You can walk to Dr. Bizarro or the Aguadilla Foodtruck Park if you need something else.

Other attractions aren’t within walking distance, though Isabella is known for having some of the most stunning views on the island. Consider renting a bike from Villa Montaña to see the majestic nature around you.

Pros:

• Secluded property
• Fitness center
• Walking distance to food options

Cons:

• The beds are reportedly very loud
• Not beachfront
• Only a few on-site activities

See Related: Where to Stay in The Bahamas

14. El Conquistador Resort

Address: 1000 Avenida El Conquistador, Fajardo, 00738, Puerto Rico

El Conquistador Resort by Seven Seas Beach has many ocean-view room options. Ten restaurants, practically a water park in its pool area, a spa, and tons of on-site activities make El Conquistador Resort one of the biggest resorts on the island.

You’ll also find the luxury Las Casitas Village on the grounds of El Conquistador Resort, giving guests even more accommodation options. Las Casitas Village comprises 42 villas with pools and more privacy than a typical hotel.

This sprawling resort easily rivals other all-inclusive resorts elsewhere in the Caribbean. There are many family-friendly things to do, entertainment, food, and amenities to keep the entire family happy.

Plus, there are a lot of on-the-water activities, like catamaran tours, that can be done from Fajardo. So, if you get bored, head out to snorkel the reefs, see Culebra Island, or go kayaking in the bioluminescent bay.

Pros:

• Full-service spa with massage and salon offerings
• Pools with waterslides and loungers
• Ten restaurants
• Tons of on-site activities

Cons:

• Rooms are said to be noisy
• Huge hotel, not for anyone who prefers a boutique hotel

See Related: Puerto Rico vs Dominican Republic

15. The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan

Address: 6961 Av. Los Gobernadores, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico

You can’t get much better than The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan, for a luxury stay near San Juan. Ocean-view rooms, five restaurants, four bars, a spa, and an outdoor pool cultivate a luxe experience at The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan.

The San Juan airport is only a few minutes away, as are the palm trees lining Carolina Beach, several restaurants, the Plaza Las Americas, and Old San Juan. The hotel offers Many water sports, including windsurfing and snorkeling. So feel free to enjoy the surrounding area to your heart’s content!

Parents will also be glad the hotel has a children’s club to keep the little ones occupied—a perfect excuse to sneak to the spa or indulge in pilates classes. When staying somewhere as indulgent as the Ritz Carlton San Juan, feel free to fully immerse yourself in luxuriating.

Pros:

• Fitness center
• Full-service spa with massage and wellness options
• Close to nearby attractions
• Many dining options

Cons:

• Very large hotel
• No pets or service animals allowed

See Related: Places Similar to the Maldives to Visit

Tips for Choosing the Right Resort in Puerto Rico

When surrounded by palm trees, you, too, can’t help but sway, which is why the island is perfect for relaxing. Whether for you that means a fine dining restaurant, lounging on a private beach, spending the day on a golf course, or a swim-up bar, you can’t go wrong.

If you’re concerned about language barriers, consider staying in San Juan. Although Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, only about 20% of Puerto Ricans are fluent in English. You’re more likely to encounter language barriers outside the capital city or other large metropolitan areas like Ponce. It’s a great place to practice your Spanish skills, though!

¡Vale la Pena! (It’s worth it!) One of the most incredible parts of visiting Puerto Rico, especially if you’re used to driving, is that you can easily see the island in a day-by-car. The island is only 100 miles long, so you can easily cross from one end to the other in hours by renting a car.

To find the best deals on vacation packages to Puerto Rico or other Caribbean Islands, we suggest using Booking.com or Expedia for hotels and resort options that include flights.

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