Ritz-Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach

Top choice in North Coast


There's some wealthy types coming to Dorado, clearly, because the dreamy 1000-sq-ft-average Ocean Reserve rooms, with walk-in wardrobes and private balconies, are the modest accommodation option at this, Puerto Rico's most lavish place to stay. The hotel opened its doors in December 2012 as one of only a handful of Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties worldwide.

There are many more spacious apartments ('residences') offering anything from one to five rooms, graduating up to the pièce de résistance – an old plantation hacienda, converted into a sumptuous private villa with its own infinity pool.

Among several restaurants here, the stand-out is Coa.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby North Coast attractions

1. Balneario Manuel Morales

1.13 MILES

This is a little-advertised public beach in Dorado where you can swim. At the end of Rte 697, it’s an OK bit of sand surrounded by rocky outcrops, but it…

2. Playa de Cerro Gordo

2.65 MILES

Lying at the end of Hwy 690, this charming palm-dotted expanse of sand has had several million dollars pumped into the expansion of its tourist facilities…

3. Balneario el Ojo del Buey

2.76 MILES

Calle 13 on the eastern side of Dorado terminates in a tan-colored stretch of tree-backed sand, and is freer from beachgoers than Balneario Manuel Morales…

4. Museo de Arte e Historia de Dorado

2.79 MILES

This neatly renovated museum gives you the rundown on local history and archaeology, including findings from excavations at the nearby Ojo del Buey beach.

5. Museo y Centro Cultural Casa del Rey

2.84 MILES

This museum is set in an old Spanish garrison dating from 1823, making it the town's oldest surviving building. It was also once the home of Puerto Rican…

6. Punta Salinas

7.47 MILES

Toa Alta’s beach, Punta Salinas, lies about 12km east of Dorado on Rte 165. It’s got food kiosks, lifeguards, restrooms and basketball courts.

7. Laguna Tortuguero

8.37 MILES

This lagoon is one of only two natural lakes in Puerto Rico, making its protection extra precious. It is also one of the most ecologically diverse areas…

8. Parque de las Ciencias Luis A Ferré

10.27 MILES

A veritable smorgasbord of family-friendly museums and exhibits plus a minizoo are housed in the expansive Parque de las Ciencias. Kids learn about…