There are not many places in the world where you get to marvel at sandy beaches and lush forests at the same time. In Puerto Rico, you can’t escape the shade of some of the most important forests in the world, even at the furthest coast. Don’t be surprised to see the best hotels in Puerto Rico providing forest views as one of its best offerings. El Yunque, among the country’s rainforests, helps most parts of northern America breathe. After all, these are the only tropical rainforest in the continent. Visiting Puerto Rico is not just about being beach bums or exploring its unique gastronomy. It’s so much more!
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico
With so many things to do in Puerto Rico, no matter which area you choose to stay, you’ll be surrounded by excitements. But if you have to choose one, San Juan is no doubt the main area to go to. This coastal area is filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants, among other beach activities you can delve into. Being one of the 11 Most Welcoming Gay Friendly Islands, everybody is welcomed in San Juan, especially if you stay at one of the Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In San Juan, Puerto Rico.
History buffs should head on to Ponce. This is where you get to stroll around the ornamented streets, passing through sparkling fountains, amidst the architectural beauty. But there’s a catch. Traffic is something you’ll have to get used to here.
Looking for a luxury getaway? Dorado is a great option. Thanks to its five championship-standard golf courses, Dorado is the home to many resorts. Speaking of golf, this is something you should try while you’re in Dorado.
Holiday Inn Mayaguez
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When you visit Mayaguez, the unofficial capital of Puerto Rican west coast, stay the night in Holiday Inn Mayaguez. Maintaining its reputation as a widely known hotel chain, its standards live up for many. Making it one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico. Some of the rooms are equipped with a working desk and sitting area. Perfect for those who need to catch up with work while traveling!
You’re not in Puerto Rico yet if you haven’t tried the local dishes. West Coast Bistro, the on-site restaurant, serves international and Caribbean cuisines. They serve great coffee, too. And did we mention that they have a casino on-site? There, you’ll find live entertainments every day!
Within a few minutes’ drive, you can stroll around the city and visit its most popular landmarks. Teatro Yaguez (Yaguez Theatre) is just 10 minutes’ drive from the premises. Plaza de Colon is a must-visit as it’ll be a stunning venue for festivals during Christmas. From foods to crafts, you’re guaranteed for memorable experiences in Mayaguez.
Wyndham Candelero Beach Resort
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Heading to the eastern part of Puerto Rico? Spend the night in Wyndham Candelero Beach Resort! Fully furnished in Latin American architecture and decoration, you’ll love the authenticity! Better yet, their infinity-pool is an adult-only facility. All the more reasons to refresh yourself and let loose for a bit. With all-inclusive rates includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there’ll be way fewer hassles for your daily meals during the stay!
Spoil yourself in the hot-tub. Or fix yourself various delicacies from one out of 5 its on-site restaurants. Serving a variety of cuisines, you can find authentic Caribbean cuisines to a familiar Italian taste.
The 3,000 acres Humacao Nature Reserve will be a blast to visit other than planting yourself at Punta Santiago Beach. As mentioned before, not many places in the world offer the best of both worlds. So, you better explore them while you’re in Humacao, Puerto Rico.
Hyatt Place Manati
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Known as the Athens of Puerto Rico, Manati offers a lot more than its white-sand beaches. Its tranquillity is your well-deserved price after a long day at the beach. The tubular waves at Los Tubos roar up to 12 feet high and it is surely a surfer’s paradise. While you’re here, rest your head in Hyatt Place Manati, one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico.
Hyatt Place Manati is conveniently located not far from the capital, San Juan. Making it a perfect stay if you’re not really into the hustle and bustle part of the state. Visiting with your furry friends? No need to worry! Make your request and they’ll be welcomed here!
Both you and your furry babies get to sleep in a modern room, complete with a comfy couch in front of the TV. Or they can curl up near your feet when you need some laptop time using the in-room working space. But don’t spend too much time in front of the screen as there are many things you can explore both on-site and off-site.
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Juan – Hotel & Casino
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Elegantly nestled just two blocks away from Isla Verde Beach is Embassy Suites by Hilton Hotel & Casino. Its perfect location is everyone’s virtue. Other than the beach, the hotel is just a block away from nearby restaurants, bars, and convenience stores. Or if you don’t feel like strolling around the neighborhood, you can still enjoy Latin American delicacies at the on-site restaurant, El Patio Bar Café. The lobby’s steakhouse, Outback, will satisfy all carnivores around!
The hotel is one of our best picks for when you’re looking for a stay around Old San Juan. After all, it’s one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area.
Rest your head in their minimalist designed rooms. The two-room suites fit not just one but two flat-screen TVs, 37-inch and 55-inch. The room also features a wet-bar style kitchenette with a fridge. Perfect for those planning to stay a bit longer!
Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort
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Our next on the best hotels in Puerto Rico list is the splendid Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort. This resort will totally blow your mind. Located in Ponce, this beachfront hotel offers access to a secluded public beach. On top of that, you’ll also have access to a 27-hole golf course, a casino, and relaxing massage services. Definitely a go-to for a comforting holiday.
Some of the rooms feature a direct view of the serene cobalt ocean. Something we deserve as a break from our daily hustle and bustle in the big city. With 4 on-site restaurants for you to choose from various range of cuisines, Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort is more than generous to provide as many tastes as they can.
While you’re staying here, head to either one of their outdoor swimming pools for a refreshing activity. Each one resembles the pristine ocean just a few feet away from it.
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
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Another terrific stay in the capital of Puerto Rico! To say Condado Vanderbilt Hotel as awe is an understatement. Securing number 6 on our best hotels in Puerto Rico list, this lavish beachfront hotel is eager to please! A top-class spa treatment is guaranteed here, so make sure to visit their exceptional spa and wellness center to loosen your muscles and rejuvenate your body and soul.
Pick your personal taste in one of their on-site restaurants. The 1919 restaurant serves typical American cuisines, Ola Ocean Front Bistro with their Latin American delicacies, and Tacos & Tequilla for… obviously, should we explain more?
Now, let’s peek into the bedroom. Something modern yet classic, we didn’t know such a place exists until we found this hotel. Every corner screams luxury and comfort. On top o that, the marble bathroom is just spotless. Dare we say this is also the best of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area?
DoubleTree by Hilton San Juan
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DoubleTree is among one of the most popular hotel subsidiaries in the world. With this reputation and name, staying in one of their properties is a promising experience. DoubleTree by Hilton San Juan is no exception. Brightly furnished in and out with a maximum touch of contemporary design in each room, the property needs to be considered seriously when you’re visiting San Juan.
We have no complaints about the bedroom. It’s stylish, yet comfortable. Something other hotels struggle with. A complimentary microwave is available in each one, so you can heat up something quick in case of emergency hunger. But this may not be necessary since the hotel has not just one but 3 on-site dining options. Each of them serves different tastes for everyone.
On top of that, there’s a Starbucks store within the hotel’s area, for anyone craving the familiar taste of the coffee shop franchise. Get a cup to go as you explore the surrounding areas. Some popular landmarks are less than 1 km (0.6 miles) from the premises. Museum of Art Puerto Rico, Contemporary Art Museum, and Ocean Park Beach are reachable by foot. Making it one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area.
Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel
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In Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel, you can marvel at the stunning view that is San Juan Bay and have access to popular sites like the National Gallery, Museum of San Juan, and of course, Old San Juan. Better yet, you’re only steps away from these landmarks. Nestled in a strategic location, you’ll love staying here as it allows you to have easy access anywhere in Old San Juan.
This hotel also welcomes all sorts of guests. From couples to families, Sheraton Old San Juan got what we need. Babysitting services are available with additional charges. Pets are also allowed on request. You and your four-legged buddies can bask in the luxury of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan!
If we can only pick one word to describe the hotel’s rooms it would be “spacious”. Everything from the bedroom, seating areas, to the bathroom, provides more than enough space to roam around. We recommend booking one overlooking the port. Often, you’ll see one or two cruise ships docking for a couple of days. That’s a sight you should not miss!
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach & Resort
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We’re now at the top 3 with one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area! Located on San Juan’s Isla Verde Beach, this hotel is an absolute blast! Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach & Resort champions itself in selected rooms with full ocean view. With a 24-hour on-site casino, you’re in for some fun games while you spend your holiday in San Juan.
The hotel also houses 3 on-site restaurants and an ice cream parlor where you can devour some sweet treats in a casual café setting. But the star of Courtyard’s culinary is the Picante Lounge. Here, you get to chill and sip on some exotic Caribbean cocktails accompanied by live music.
Both the indoor and outdoor pools are exceptionally breathtaking, somewhere you’d wish you can stay in for the rest of your life! But since the beach is just a stone’s throw away, head on there and delve into the tropical beauty!
La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
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The hotel’s infinity pool always has its own charms. Now, how about an infinity pool overlooking Condado Beach? It’s a thousand times better! You can find this charming facility at La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort.
Add some spacious bedrooms and a free rental bike to their services, this hotel is like no other. Some of the rooms are brightly decorated and featured with floor to ceiling windows opening to the balcony. Completed with an iPod dock, you can blast your favorite playlists to the room! What else do you need from the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area?
Guests can choose from the variety of meals served in 6 different on-site restaurants. Komakai, one of the restaurants, is serving poolside tapas and seafood. On top of that, the rate also includes breakfast for two! When you’re staying with your little ones, you don’t have to worry about not enjoying your time to the fullest. The hotel offers babysitting services for a better experience.
San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino
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Topping the rank on our list, and also the best of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, San Juan area is San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. Beachfront hotel? Check. On-site casino? Check. On-site restaurants and ice cream parlor? Check. Rooms with plush bedding? Obviously. This hotel got everything we need from a hotel while visiting San Juan. Whether you’re up for some historical or art pilgrimage, planting yourself at the beach, or betting your luck in the casino, San Juan Marriott Resort covers it all!
Who else has been googling photos of Puerto Rico beaches? The turquoise water, sandy beaches, and tall buildings along the shore. Staying here, that exact picturesque view is yours and yours only from the comfort of your bedroom! Make sure you book one with a private balcony.
Gingambo, their on-site restaurant is playing safe with serving international cuisines. You can enjoy Italian gelatos at Gelato & Co or sip some cocktails and devour meals at the dashing Red Coral Lounge. Wherever you are in this part of the hotel, 100% satisfaction is guaranteed!
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Puerto Rico:
- El Rancho Original – Culinary adventure in Puerto Rico is not complete without a taste of the locals’ favorite. Guavate’s lechoneras is known to be legendary!
- Restaurante La Guardarraya – How does pork ribs cooked in fat and looks like a cancan dancer’s skirt sound like to you? Try them here!
- Countryside Foodie Tour with Carite Rainforest– Have a taste of San Juan’s best cuisine while touring the countryside of the big city.
Recommended Activities In Puerto Rico:
- Arecibo Observatory – This observatory has a 1,000 feet radio telescope which is considered as one of the largest single-aperture telescopes of the world. It’s also one of The 12 Best Astronomical Observatories Around The World.
- El Yunque Rainforest Half-Day Tour – Explore one of the few tropical rainforests in America for half a day. You get to see the La Coca Waterfall and bask in the unobstructed view from Yukaho Tower.
- Fajardo: Catamaran and Snorkel to Deserted Icacos Island – Don’t call yourself a beach bum if you don’t take time to see Puerto Rico’s underwater beauty while visiting. Sail into the Caribbean sea and explore away!
