The Caribe Hilton is a sprawling resort offering everything you could want and more | Courtesy of Caribe Hilton / Expedia
No matter which Caribbean island you decide to visit, there will be a beach. But not all beaches are created equal. Take a dip in the ocean off Puerto Rico, and you’ll be confronted with panoramic views of lush mountains standing thousands of feet tall – a fine backdrop for resorts sprinkled along the coastline. Here’s our pick of the finest beachfront hotels on the island – bookable on Culture Trip.
Rincon Beach Resort
Courtesy of Rincon Beach Resort / Expedia
On the west-facing side of the island, Rincon Beach Resort has a front-row view of exquisite sunsets. Accessed by a private driveway, the property has 112 guest rooms and 24 condo villas. Romantics should book the junior suite – it has an outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the ocean. After a day of sunbathing by the infinity pool (that nearly spans the entire width of the resort), dine at Brasas Restaurant, serving Caribbean fusion cuisine.
San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel
Courtesy of San Juan Water Beach Club Hotel / Expedia
Just east of San Juan along Playa Isla Verde, this boutique hotel offers expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean from its distinctive rooftop pool and restaurant. With blue hues to mirror the waterfront outside, each room comes with Gilchrist & Soames bath amenities and an in-room Puerto Rican Yaucono coffee service.
Trópica Beach Hotel
Courtesy of Trópica Beach Hotel / Expedia
At the Trópica Beach Hotel, in the upscale Condado area in San Juan, enjoy complimentary bikes, snorkel gear and beach chairs while staying in the boho-chic guest rooms. After a day of activity, unwind at Dulcesalado by chef Atisha Pascual – the food is truly mouth-watering.
Caribe Hilton
Courtesy of Caribe Hilton / Expedia
The Caribe Hilton in San Juan was the first Hilton hotel outside the contiguous US, and it also claims to have mixed the first piña colada cocktail ever made. The property’s 650-plus guest rooms are set on 17 tropical acres (7ha) that boast a large pool complex, a giant beachfront spa, tennis and volleyball courts, a hammock garden, a bird sanctuary and more.
La Jamaca
Courtesy of La Jamaca / Expedia
For a more intimate experience, book a room at La Jamaca. This small hotel on the southern end of Puerto Rico is known for its secluded feel, complete with surrounding gardens and an outdoor pool. Also, adventurers will enjoy its proximity to turquoise water cays and mangroves channels, which are explorable via kayak.
Villa Montaña Beach Resort
Courtesy of Villa Montaña Beach Resort / Expedia
Villa Montaña Beach Resort claims miles of pristine coastline in the northwest corner of Puerto Rico. Choose between simple suites and multi-bedroom garden villas at this stylish, plantation-style property. A real draw is the oceanfront Eclipse Restaurant, led by chef Rafael Grau; the outdoor dining room sources its menu from local growers and fishers. Surfers will enjoy the resort’s proximity to world-class breaks – book transportation at reception.
A laid-back, surfer vibe pervades at the Casa Verde Hotel, a 19-room boutique property in Rincón on the west coast. The top tower suite offers ocean views and a private patio, perfect for sunbathing. After spending the day scuba diving, snorkelling or fishing, recoup with comfort foods from Kahuna Burger Bar & Grill.Casa Verde Hotel
Parador Villa Parguera
Courtesy of Parador Villa Parguera / Expedia
For more than 50 years, Parador Villa Parguera has been a staple in Lajas, on the island’s southwestern corner. A shaded pool deck and garden border the Caribbean Sea. Stroll out onto the pier for sea swimming, fishing and water sports. Views of the bioluminescent bay at La Parguera are best enjoyed from the Aquamarina Restaurant, which serves Creole food. Try the lobster – it’s the speciality here.
InnCoconut Palms Inn
Courtesy of Coconut Palms Inn / Expedia
For an apartment feel, book a studio or one-bedroom accommodation at Coconut Palms Inn. Complimentary beach accessories – such as floats, coolers, beach chairs and barbecue grills – come as standard. The hotel’s highlights include a beachside veranda, gardens peppered with hammocks and its proximity to Domes Beach, the top surf spot in Rincón.
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
Courtesy of Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico / Expedia
Set between the ocean and El Yunque National Forest, the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico is a golf lover’s dream, with two 18-hole championship courses on-site. There’s no bad view here – suites and rooms offer vistas of the ocean, golf course or rainforest and mountains. Beyond hitting the green, you can enjoy other on-site activities such as snorkelling, kayaking and spa treatments.
These recommendations were updated on August 10, 2021 to keep your travel plans fresh.