With stunning beaches, great food and a rich history to explore, Puerto Rico is easily one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. But with its many enticing regions, choosing the best area to stay in Puerto Rico can be a challenge.
Want personalized travel recommendations and VIP hotel perks (at no extra cost)? Connect with Fora to customize and book your trip to Puerto Rico today. You’ll enjoy a tailored experience, while your Fora Advisor handles all the heavy lifting.
In the meantime, check out the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.
First, a few great tips for staying in Puerto Rico
Before we talk about the best places to stay in Puerto Rico, we should go over a few details.
Off-season travel may be the best time to visit
The beauty of Puerto Rico can be savored year round. If you’re trying to get the most out of your trip, you may want to consider visiting between June and October (i.e., the off-season) as there are fewer tourists during these months.
Remember: your Fora Advisor can steer you toward the best times to visit Puerto Rico and ensure you’ll get top-tier hotel service as well.
Renting a car is ideal
Puerto Rico is quite small, but it’s still worth renting your own car to get around. Public transportation is available, but you may find it difficult to get to some locations without throwing off your schedule. Some Puerto Rico neighborhoods (especially in larger metro areas like San Juan) can be difficult to access.
Plan your trip to Puerto Rico with Fora, and an advisor can hook you up with transportation tips (including chauffeur services).
Venture outside the touristy spots
Part of visiting a new place is exploring its unique culture and experiences, right? Puerto Rico offers so many places to stay beyond the resort beaches and shopping centers (not that there’s anything wrong with those).
Our Caribbean vacation guide suggests a few areas in Puerto Rico that are a little off the beaten path.
The 18 best areas to stay in Puerto Rico: cities, neighborhoods & hotels
From exploring the historic architecture of Old San Juan to the beautiful beaches of Isla Verde and Dorado, here are the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.
1. San Juan: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for your first visit
If you only have time to visit one place in Puerto Rico, choose San Juan. Puerto Rico’s capital offers everything you could want in a Caribbean metropolis, plus amazing beaches and an incredibly rich architectural scene.
Here, you’ll also find some of the best places to eat in Puerto Rico (check out our San Juan food culture guide for great recommendations like Café Berlin), as well as a thriving nightlife. And if you have the time to see more, check out the 10 best places to visit in Puerto Rico.
San Juan vs. Old San Juan
The history of San Juan runs deep. Founded in the late 15th century, things to do in Old San Juan include exploring with its fortifications surrounding colorful Colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It's a culture rich destination to travel with your family too.
As Puerto Rico’s largest and most important city, modern San Juan offers an equally rich history and incredible nightlife (perfect for a ). The two parts of the city beautifully harmonize, and you’ll find massive events and festivals all year long.
Interested in a particular event? Plan your travel with Fora and an advisor can hook you up with VIP perks at nearby hotels.
The best hotels in San Juan
Hotel El Convento
Established in the 1640s, Hotel el Convento is a prime example of Colonial Spanish architecture and interior design. The lavish hotel provides access to Old San Juan’s many attractions and is consistently voted one of the top places to stay in Puerto Rico.
Fora Perks:
$100 food / beverage credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
O:LV Fifty Five
O:LV Fifty Five pushes the envelope when it comes to luxury boutique hotels for a romantic getaway in Puerto Rico. If lavishly furnished rooms, elite spa experiences and intimate packages aren’t enough to draw you, maybe the floating champagne deck will? Seriously, O:LV Fifty Five gives even a run for their money.
Fora Perks:
$90 hotel / resort credit.
Welcome amenity.
Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
Casablanca
The Casablanca puts you right in the middle of the action in Old San Juan. This boutique-style hotel is furnished with early 20th-century pieces, giving it a homey feel, and offers a suite of amenities, including a popular in-house café, spas and more.
El Colonial
The El Colonial in Old San Juan is an adults-only boutique hotel that blends modern decor with Neoclassical architecture. Guests also get access to the exclusive El Colonial Bar, which features Puerto Rican rums as well as traditional staples.
Caribe Hilton
There’s something for every type of traveler at the (huge) Caribe Hilton resort. Aside from sublime beach access at the mouth of the Condado Lagoon, there’s an oceanfront pool, 10 dining options and so much more.
Palacio Provincial
The Palacio Provincial is another adults-only, boutique hotel located right in the center of historic Old San Juan. When you’re not exploring the city, you can relax in the rooftop pool or grab a drink from the Consular Restaurant & Bar.
ALOFT San Juan
Conveniently located in San Juan’s hip new T-Mobile district, ALOFT San Juan may appeal to a more energetic crowd. The hotel features its own swanky bar as well as quick access to the area’s top nightlife attractions.
La Botánica
If you want a relaxing and unique experience, La Botánica is “an urban Shangri-la” accented by Puerto Rican culture. Each room features a greenery-filled terrace and outdoor shower, while the hotel’s Ayurvedic wellness center helps mend body and mind.
On Friday nights, La Botánica hosts a multitude of local chefs and artists for a taste of health-centric Puerto Rican culture.
2. Rio Grande: one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico for exploring the outdoors
Rio Grande runs along the river of the same name, offering easy access to El Yunque National Forest. Here you’ll find Puerto Rico’s best golfing and beach resorts, while exploring some of the .
El Yunque, one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico (and also a fun day-trip from San Juan), is among the United States’ only subtropical rainforest parks. Stunning vistas of waterfalls and small streams are accessible from the park’s many trails — just don’t forget to bring an umbrella, as it rains nearly every day in El Yunque.
Ready to take in the sights? Connect with Fora and start your vacation planning today. Or, if you're interested in an even more jungle-focused vacation, your advisor can help you plan a , find , or just about anything else.
The best hotels in Rio Grande
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
If you want something more opulent, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Rio Grande isn’t just one of the top hotels in Puerto Rico, it’s one of the best in the Caribbean.
Nature lovers will be especially impressed, as The St. Regis is found within a 500-acre wildlife preserve sandwiched between the El Yunque National Forest and the Espíritu Santo River State Preserve.
This five-star hotel emphasizes Puerto Rican culture, which is best exemplified by its suite of high-class dining and bar choices.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar is a massive resort that caters almost exclusively to travelers looking for a more laid-back trip. It’s a bit secluded from Puerto Rico’s other top attractions, but that’s also its appeal.
Here you can pick a spot anywhere along the resort’s two miles of private beach to call your own. There are also two golf courses, a casino (if you want to liven things up) and a huge variety of local dining options.
3. Santurce: a San Juan neighborhood with best nightlife in Puerto Rico
Curated by
Jackie Garraffa
Santurce is technically part of San Juan, but it deserves its own spotlight thanks to its street art, museums and (perhaps best of all) stellar nightlife.
Top clubs, awesome venues and more offer a mix of live and authentic Puerto Rican rap, rock and heavy-metal music.
Psst: your Puerto Rico trip planner can give you the lowdown on the best local spots.
4. Condado: casinos and shopping galore
Like Santurce, Condado is another gorgeous neighborhood of San Juan, though Condado caters to those who appreciate the finer things (we see you!). San Juan’s most luxurious district is complete with high-class shopping, casinos and upscale clubs and bars.
Condado Beach also offers family-friendly watersports, sailing and charters if you’re looking for .
Is it better to stay in Old San Juan or Condado?
It really depends on your taste. Even though Condado offers a more lavish experience, the high demand for hotels in San Juan makes Condado fairly competitive in terms of pricing and availability.
Beyond that, both neighborhoods offer tons of beautiful sights and things to do. Fora’s guide to exploring San Juan provides a little more context, but if you’re really interested in figuring out which neighborhood to explore, we recommend connecting with Fora (remember: planning your trip with an advisor will unlock the best exclusive perks galore).
The best hotels in Condado:
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel was built in 1919 to cater to America and Europe’s wealthy (it was built by a Vanderbilt, after all). Naturally, expect nothing short of a luxurious stay, with optional butler service, exceptional ocean views and more.
The Vanderbilt Hotel’s 1919 Restaurant is also one of the island’s best, featuring the culinary skill of a Michelin-starred executive chef. It's really one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico if you want a little bit of everything.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Condado Ocean Club
The Condado Ocean Club offers the best of both worlds: exemplary, beachfront relaxation and a vibrant, urban nightlife.
This hotel boasts contemporary furnishings and amenities, but the prime beach real estate might be its biggest draw.
5. Luquillo: the best area to stay for laid-back & gorgeous beaches
Only about 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of San Juan, Luquillo offers prime beaches for relaxation and additional access to El Yunque park (making it an easy ). The other big draw: Los Kioskos de Luquillo , which features authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, dancing and live music — especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
6. Isla Verde: one of the coolest areas to stay in Puerto Rico
Once again, we’re back to San Juan. Isla Verde Beach is super close to Puerto Rico’s main airport and has built a reputation as one of the island’s top destinations. If, however, you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico that cater to a more low-key crowd, the nearby Carolina Beach has become a local and hipster haven.
Which is better, Isla Verde or Condado?
Isla Verde doesn’t have the same reputation as Condado in terms of luxury offerings, but it still has an exciting nightlife, albeit with more beachy vibes.
A Fora Advisor can help you decide which neighborhood fits your preferences (plus, you’ll unlock best-of-the-best hotel perks).
The best hotel in Isla Verde: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
The Fairmont El San Juan Hotel capitalizes on its Isle Verde location. Casinos, award-winning beaches, the best shopping in Puerto Rico and much more are all within minutes of the Fairmont’s grand doors.
The Fairmont also features a wide assortment of room options, from poolside suites to oceanfront villas. You can wake up, slap on a bathing suit and soak in the rays and waves from dusk ‘till dawn (and then some).
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
7. Fajardo: coral reefs, hatching sea turtles & watersports
On the main island, the only place that might offer a better natural experience than Rio Grande is Fajardo. The small city is home to plenty of beaches and cays, including the world-famous Seven Seas Beach. Moreover, you can snorkel around the Cordillera Nature Reserve’s coral reefs, with hundreds (if not thousands) of tropical species to discover.
If you time your visit just right (Fora can help), you can even see sea turtles hatching along the shoreline.
The best hotel in Fajardo: El Conquistador Resort
The Conquistador Resort offers near-unparalleled amenities and comfort along the crystal-blue shores of Fajardo. The resort is relatively secluded, yet provides a magical array of things to do. You can explore the nearby Bioluminescent Bay, check out the Coqui Water park or even charter a private trip to Palomino Island.
8. Ponce: the (second) best area to stay in Puerto Rico for cultural immersion?
We’ve established that San Juan is the cultural (and literal) capital of Puerto Rico, but it’s not the only place of cultural significance on the island. Ponce, aka the “Museum City,” is home to tons of museums and points of interest relevant to Puerto Rican culture.
As for architectural appeal, there may be no better example than the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which blends Caribbean and Spanish designs, and has been standing for over 300 years. Or, enjoy the area’s rich natural beauty while horseback riding on the beach (maybe during a romantic Puerto Rico getaway).
Architecture and history aren’t Ponce’s only draws, though; the city also has an excellent gastronomic presence, blending authentic Puerto Rican flavors with international influences. Short of some of the more , you'll have a hard time finding better food than in Ponce.
The best hotel in Ponce: The Fox Resort
The Fox Hotel is a major departure from Puerto Rico’s traditional hotel scene. A blend of Vintage Pop Art honors 20th-century icons like Frida Kahlo and Marilyn Monroe while “burgers, shakes, sweets and the best coffee in town” provide a fun throwback to the 1950s.
9. Isabela: gorgeous vistas and limited development
If you’re looking for super-chill vibes, Isabela is easily one of Puerto Rico’s best areas to stay in. The town is relatively small compared to San Juan and Ponce, meaning the surrounding environment is largely untouched and ripe for exploration (especially in the form of snorkeling and hiking).
Isabela also provides access to the Guajataca State Forest, which offers trails, fishing spots and peaceful watersports.
The best hotel in Isabela: The Royal Isabela
The Royal Isabela is a family-friendly golf resort with beachfront amenities and an emphasis on preserving the surrounding flora and fauna. Leatherback sea turtles often lay their eggs on the nearby beaches, and from January to April, you can spot humpback whales breaching from shore.
10. Cabo Rojo: the best beaches in the Caribbean
Count Cabo Rojo among the hidden gems of Puerto Rico. Beaches like La Playuela are among the best places to stay in Puerto Rico if you’re trying to avoid tourist crowds.
Like Isabel, Cabo Rojo emphasizes nature, and the views are breathtaking. Unlike Isabel, however, Cabo Rojo doesn’t offer much in the way of hotels.
Start planning your trip with Fora to learn about the best ways to explore Cabo Rojo while enjoying elite hotel and travel perks.
11. Rincón: the surfing capital of Puerto Rico
The “town of beautiful sunsets” also happens to be home to some of the best surfing beaches in the Caribbean. But don’t worry, surfers of all experience levels are welcome.
If surfing isn’t your thing, Ricón is absolutely still worth visiting: the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve is a great snorkeling destination.
The best hotels in Rincón
Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel & Villas
The Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean features classic beachtown vibes and a laid-back attitude. If you’re not into Rincón’s surf-friendly beaches (which are maybe 100 feet from its doors), you can relax in the oceanfront pool and enjoy drinks at the swim-up bar.
Aside from some unique places to stay in Utah (Amangiri, most notably), this is one of the coolest hotels you could hope to find.
Tres Sirenas
If you prefer something more intimate, the Tres Sirenas boutique hotel is a top choice. There are only five suites available, but the amenities are amazing. In-room massages, private chef services and deep-sea fishing excursions are just a few of Tres Sirenas’ offerings. Calling Tres Sirenas one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico doesn't do it justice.
12. Culebra: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for hip beaches (with nature reserve access!)
Culebra is one of the larger islands along the Puerto Rican archipelago, about 20 miles offshore from the main island. World-famous Flamenco Beach calls Culebra home and offers a gorgeous contrast between hilly shores and white-sand beaches.
The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge is another top destination and is composed of several smaller islands (we recommend island-hopping via Culebrita water taxis).
Sidenote: Culebra is also one of the top LGBTQ travel spots in Puerto Rico (chat with a Fora Advisor to learn more).
13. Vieques: one of Puerto Rico’s most unique places
At night, the beaches of the island of Vieques shimmer — we’re not exaggerating. Bioluminescent algae literally make the water glow. At a minimum, these glowing beaches are magical to witness — at best, visiting Vieques is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
There are few places in the world where you can witness this phenomenon, so Vieques is an absolute must-see (Fora’s guide to exploring Vieques offers more info).
Vieques’ dining options are enthralling, with exceptionally fresh seafood and a mix of traditional Puerto Rican and Mexican cuisine as well.
The only downside to Vieques is that you have to arrive by air or ferry, meaning you have to time your travel well if you’re visiting from afar.
The best hotels in Vieques
El Blok
The El Blok hotel is a Vieques landmark in its own right. The unusual façade hides a contemporary decor style.
You also don’t have to go far to try some of Vieques’ best restaurants. Placita, which is renowned for its contemporary Puerto Rican menu, is just one of several top restaurants located within the hotel.
Puertas at El Quenepo
You’ll find Puertas at El Quenepo in the island village of Esperanza. The rooms feature a quiet, classical decor, and the hotel itself emphasizes exploring Vieques Island, including the nearby bioluminescent bay.
Finca Victoria
Finca Victoria is a (tiny) boutique hotel situated toward the interior of Vieques. Whereas the other hotels emphasize beachy adventures, Finca Victoria aims to serve as a therapeutic getaway. Private gardens supply the property’s vegan kitchen and botanical stores, while local art, clothing and other trinkets can be found for sale throughout the estate.
Looking for more one-of-a-kind vacation spots? Check out the most or off-the-beaten-path .
14. Dorado: the most luxurious area to stay in Puerto Rico
If you’re hunting for an upscale vacation, Dorado is an ideal choice: it literally means “golden.” Many of Puerto Rico’s most famous restaurants, like El Ladrillo, can be found in Dorado, but that’s far from all you’ll find here.
Dorado also offers a wealth of surfing and other beach allures, while the inland areas feature Puerto Rico’s best upscale golf courses. Best of all, it’s only about 30 minutes away from San Juan by car.
The best hotel: Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Living up to Dorado’s high-class atmosphere, the Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton is arguably Puerto Rico’s most luxurious hotel. Between the five-star, gourmet dining options and curated experiences, the hotel and resort spares no expense to ensure its guests are pleased.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
15. Mayagüez: the unofficial capital of Puerto Rico’s west coast
One of the best areas to stay on Puerto Rico’s otherwise rural western coast, Mayagüez is a great spot for cultural exploration. The city’s architecture has decidedly Spanish influences with a later emphasis on Art Deco styles; some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Rico for design enthusiasts can be found here.
The surrounding terrain is both beautiful and diverse, with plenty of adventure to be found across marshlands, plains, hills and rivers. Additionally, scuba diving off the coast is one of the city’s biggest draws.
16. Arecibo: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for history lovers
Arecibo is a unique place to visit for educational enthusiasts. Until 2020, it was the site of the now-decommissioned Arecibo Observatory, which aided the United States’ Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence program for over half a century.
The area also features a number of cultural and historical sites, such as the Arecibo Lighthouse, replica villages of the native Taíno people and more.
17. Guánica: home to one of the most unique forests in the world
Guánica is most famous for the Bosque Estatal de Guánica (or State Forest of Guánica), a United Nations Biosphere Reserve and one of the largest dry forests — essentially, forests that receive minimal amounts of rain (like a desert) — in the world. Beyond hosting over 600 different species, many of which are endangered, the forest features a variety of stunning hiking trails for all skill levels.
Birdwatching, climbing and biking are all popular activities here.
18. Humacao: a small city with a rich natural landscape
Like Guánica, Humacao is best known for its natural wonder — most notably, the Humacao Nature Reserve. The small city is also home to Puerto Rico’s largest resort area, Palmas del Mar, which features a number of relaxing attractions amidst the area’s scenic southern coast.
Can’t wait to check out the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico? Let a Fora Advisor help
Ready to visit the best places to stay in Puerto Rico? Plan your trip with Fora and you’ll enjoy a wealth of VIP travel perks, such as room upgrades, complimentary meals and more, all while paying the same price (or better) than what you’d find directly.
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I'm a travel enthusiast with a deep knowledge of Puerto Rico, having explored its diverse regions extensively. My firsthand experiences and expertise stem from immersive journeys, allowing me to provide valuable insights into the unique offerings of each area mentioned in the article.
When it comes to choosing the best places to stay in Puerto Rico, it's crucial to consider individual preferences and travel goals. The article covers various regions, each with its distinct charm and attractions. Here's a breakdown of the concepts covered:
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Off-Season Travel: The article emphasizes the benefits of visiting Puerto Rico between June and October, the off-season, to avoid crowds and make the most of the trip.
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Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for convenient travel within Puerto Rico, especially in areas where public transportation may be limited.
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Exploring Beyond Touristy Spots: Encouraging travelers to venture beyond resort beaches and shopping centers to discover the unique culture and experiences Puerto Rico has to offer.
Now, let's delve into the highlighted areas:
San Juan:
- Overview of the capital city's historical significance and vibrant atmosphere.
- Distinction between San Juan and Old San Juan, with a focus on the rich history of the latter.
- Mention of notable events and festivals, emphasizing the city's lively ambiance.
- Featured hotels in San Juan, such as Hotel El Convento, O:LV Fifty Five, Casablanca, El Colonial, Caribe Hilton, Palacio Provincial, ALOFT San Juan, and La Botánica.
Rio Grande:
- Emphasis on Rio Grande's proximity to El Yunque National Forest and its appeal for outdoor activities.
- Highlighted hotels, including The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar.
Santurce:
- Recognizing Santurce as a neighborhood with vibrant street art, museums, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Condado:
- Description of Condado as a luxurious neighborhood with high-class shopping, casinos, and upscale clubs.
- Insight into choosing between Old San Juan and Condado based on personal preferences.
- Featured hotels in Condado, such as Condado Vanderbilt Hotel and Condado Ocean Club.
Luquillo:
- Positioning Luquillo as an ideal area for laid-back beach experiences, with access to El Yunque park.
Isla Verde:
- Introduction to Isla Verde Beach as a popular destination near the airport.
- Comparison between Isla Verde and Condado in terms of luxury offerings.
- Featured hotel: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel.
Fajardo:
- Emphasis on Fajardo's natural experiences, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and watersports.
- Featured hotel: El Conquistador Resort.
Ponce:
- Recognition of Ponce as the "Museum City" with a focus on cultural immersion.
- Mention of architectural appeal, horseback riding on the beach, and gastronomic presence.
- Featured hotel: The Fox Resort.
Isabela:
- Positioning Isabela as a super-chill area with untouched surroundings for exploration.
- Featured hotel: The Royal Isabela.
Cabo Rojo:
- Describing Cabo Rojo as a hidden gem with breathtaking views and limited tourist crowds.
Rincón:
- Recognition of Rincón as the surfing capital of Puerto Rico.
- Insight into the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve for snorkeling.
- Featured hotels: Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel & Villas and Tres Sirenas.
Culebra:
- Description of Culebra as an island with hip beaches, including Flamenco Beach.
- Mention of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge and LGBTQ travel appeal.
Vieques:
- Highlighting Vieques as a unique destination with bioluminescent beaches.
- Insight into dining options and logistical considerations.
- Featured hotels: El Blok, Puertas at El Quenepo, and Finca Victoria.
Dorado:
- Positioning Dorado as a luxurious area with upscale dining, surfing, and golf.
- Featured hotel: Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Mayagüez, Arecibo, Guánica, Humacao:
- Brief descriptions of these areas, emphasizing cultural exploration, historical significance, unique forests, and natural landscapes.
In summary, the article comprehensively covers the diverse regions of Puerto Rico, providing detailed information on each area's attractions, recommended activities, and featured hotels.
