Dorado Beach recalls an era of glamorous travel, when glitterati and globetrotters jetted down to Puerto Rico for some time in the sun. It all really took hold in the late fifties, when Cuba became a no-go and businessman Laurance S. Rockefeller reclaimed this historic property. One of his first RockResorts, the destination reached “it” status when Vogue published a beachwear fashion shoot photographed on location at the newly minted hot spot.
Today, Dorado Beach is once again the place to go. Ritz-Carlton recently completed a $342-million renovation on the property, making it the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Americas. The underlying concept? Uncommon luxury in unusual places, catering to discerning travelers seeking personalized service and unforgettable experiences.
Each of the 100 rooms and 14 suites sits right on the beach. Service is personalized, and a round-the-clock embajador (ambassador) is assigned to each guest to cater to every whim. Dorado’s mobile app makes scheduling dinner reservations, entertainment, pool time and the like a snap.
Guests can enjoy 1,400 acres of natural beauty with three miles of uninterrupted coastline as originally envisioned by Rockefeller. An 11-mile walking and biking trail winding through the preserve is named for its former owner.
Water is a main attraction here, with several pools situated throughout the resort (including family and adult-only options). Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program offers such watersports as kayaking and snorkeling. Other activities include hiking, tennis, hitting the links on one of three professional-caliber courses, and indulging at Spa Botánico, a five-acre facility complete with a pineapple garden, lily pond and soaking pools.
Helmed by acclaimed chef José Andrés, Mi Casa is one of the island’s most heralded Spanish restaurants. Encanto Beach Club Bar and Grill serves up freshly grilled fare right along the oceanfront. Positivo Sand Bar offers tapas and sushi in a trendy atmosphere. La Cocina Gourmet marketplace features Puerto Rican coffee, housemade gelato and other indulgences. And finally, guests can partake in culinary classes at La Cocina Gourmet Culinary Center.
Su Casa is a remarkable five-bedroom home perfect for families or groups. Offering an infinity pool, a private embajador and ocean views galore, the 8,000-square-foot house dates back to the early 1920s, when the property was a grapefruit and coconut plantation owned by Clara Livingston. An expert aviator, she built her own landing strip known as Dorado Airport. Close friend Amelia Earhart is rumored to have stayed at Su Casa just before her disappearance.
In an era when a storied past is hard to come by, Ritz-Carlton has succeeded in restoring the splendor of Dorado Beach.
If You Go
GETTING THERE
Dorado Beach is situated 35 minutesfrom Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport and 30 minutes from Isla Grande Airport.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Puerto Rico is from January to June. Spring weather is pleasant, with average daily highs in the mid-80s.
WHAT TO EXPECT
An unincorporated U.S. territory, this Caribbean island features pristine beaches, mountains and waterfalls. Carrying a U.S. passport is not necessary, nor is exchanging currency. Cellular service is typically covered on domestic plans.
