The luxury travel scene in Puerto Rico is heating up. While Puerto Rico tends to be eclipsed by other Caribbean destinations as a warm-weather beach getaway, the island’s combination of history, culture and pristine beaches are perhaps one of the Caribbean’s most well-kept secret.
And right now may be the time to discover Puerto Rico. Both in and around charming Old San Juan on Puerto Rico’s northern coast, and the less-crowded areas near Ponce on the South coast, luxury resorts across Puerto Rico currently offer amazing value for money.
A number of deals on luxury hotel stays have come across my desk over the past few weeks. And remember, if you are a U.S. citizen, you won’t need your passport to travel to Puerto Rico!
Hilton Hotels have six hotels across Puerto Rico, and all of them are currently offering a fourth night free!
One of these hotels on special offer, the DoubleTree by Hilton San Juan, caught my eye as having beautiful new rooms, a large pool area and the best white sandy beach. Located in the popular Condado area of Puerto Rico’s capital city, here you’ll find a pristine beach that extends for several miles east of downtown (Old San Juan). Watch the lively scene, particularly on the weekends and during holidays, buy a cool drink or ice cream from one of the vendors on the beach, and splash in the waves.
If you can get away with little notice, Hilton is also offering amazing rates – $99 per night! – on some dates this fall. This offer is available at The Condado Plaza Hilton. Also located in San Juan’s sophisticated Condado area, The Condado Plaza Hilton is the only hotel to overlook both the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Condado Lagoon.
And in Puerto Rico, location matters. If you’re headed to Puerto Rico specifically for the beach, be sure to do your research. Not all beaches in Puerto Rico are created equal. Resorts in and around Condado have great beach access. But if you want to get away from the crowds near Old San Juan, consider hopping to the south side of the Island, about 90 miles away. The Copamarina Beach Resort, near Ponce, rests on some of the most tranquil beaches in Puerto Rico.
From here you can visit “Gilligan’s Island” for a day of snorkeling on deserted beaches, or visit the Bioluminiscent Bay, offering a rare glimpse into a natural phenomenon found only in a few places around the world.
What is your favorite Puerto Rico resort?