About Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a luxury beach resort in Dorado on Puerto Rico’s north coast, west of San Juan. Opened in 2012 on the former Rockefeller estate, it has 114 rooms, suites and residences across 50 beachfront acres.
What sets it apart is its space and privacy: it was the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Americas, it holds a Forbes Five-Star rating, and rooms start at about 941 square feet, many with their own plunge pools. It suits honeymooners, luxury travelers and families who want calm, top-level service away from the city.
At a glance
Highlights
- First Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Americas
- Forbes Five-Star rating
- 50 beachfront acres on the former Rockefeller estate
- Treehouse spa platforms
- Rooms from about 941 square feet
Amenities
Rooms and suites
Rooms sit in low-rise buildings close to the sand, and many open straight onto the beach.
- Beachfront rooms from about 941 square feet
- Rooms and suites with private plunge pools
- Larger suites and residences for families
Restaurants and bars
The resort is not all-inclusive. Dining is a la carte across a small number of high-end venues.
- COA: flame-grilled steakhouse with a wood-burning oven and the La Cava wine cellar
- COA Lounge: sunset cocktails and a strong rum list
- Positivo Sand Bar: beachfront Asian and Latin fusion dishes at sunset
- Encanto Beach Club: beach bar and grill
- La Cocina Gourmet: cafe and market with Puerto Rican coffee and gelato, plus cooking classes
Beach, pools and spa
The resort has two secluded beaches, East Beach and West Beach, both suitable for swimming, with beach cabanas available.
There are two outdoor pools and a children’s pool, plus the Watermill aquatic play area with water slides and a lazy river. Spa Botánico is a five-acre hacienda-style spa with two treehouse treatment platforms in the trees.
Activities and entertainment
Golfers can play the neighboring TPC Dorado Beach courses, originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Children can join the kids’ club or Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment nature program, both at extra cost, and La Cocina Gourmet hosts cooking classes.
Puerto Rico is warm all year. December to April is the drier, busier high season, while May to October brings more rain. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
Beyond the resort, Old San Juan is about 40 minutes away by car, and El Yunque rainforest and the east coast bioluminescent bays make good day and evening trips.
Who it’s best for
- Best for: luxury travelers, honeymooners and families who want space, privacy and attentive service.
- Consider another resort if: you are on a budget, want nightlife, or want to walk to San Juan’s restaurants.
Getting there from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is about 26 miles east of Dorado. The drive takes 35 to 60 minutes depending on traffic through San Juan.
Taxis are available at the airport, and most guests book a private transfer in advance so a driver meets them at arrivals.
Good to know
- A daily resort fee is charged on top of the room rate
- Parking is valet only, for a daily fee
- The kids’ club and babysitting cost extra
- Spa treatments need a reservation
Location of Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
FAQ about Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Is Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve all-inclusive?
No. Dining is a la carte at the resort's restaurants and bars.
Is Dorado Beach adults only?
No. It welcomes families and has a kids' club and a water play area.
How far is Dorado Beach from the airport?
It is about 26 miles from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), a 35 to 60 minute drive.
How many rooms does Dorado Beach have?
There are 114 rooms, suites and residences.
Do rooms have private pools?
Many rooms and suites have private plunge pools.
Is there golf at Dorado Beach?
Yes. The TPC Dorado Beach golf courses are next to the resort.
Does Dorado Beach have a kids' club?
Yes, for an extra charge, plus the Ambassadors of the Environment nature program.
What is special about the spa?
Spa Botánico covers five acres and has two treehouse platforms for treatments.
How far is Dorado Beach from Old San Juan?
Old San Juan is about 40 minutes away by car.
Is there a resort fee at Dorado Beach?
Yes. A daily resort fee is added to the room rate, and valet parking costs extra.
