The lower-middle-range Costa Dorada is an aging resort offering a choice of 90 rooms, studios, and self-catering villas divided into two sections, opposite a beach. While layouts are spacious with balconies (villas are newer), poor maintenance and upkeep really lets this place down. There are two pools (one is much nicer than the other), but the on-site restaurant only opens for weekend breakfast, and Wi-Fi is only available at the front desk. The best feature here is the location -- Isabela is a magical Puerto Rico spot, with lovely beaches, great surfing, and a fun beachfront dining scene nearby. Costa Dorada has the potential to be a great little family holiday base, but not without some serious TLC. The villas may suit unfussy families who’d like to self-cater, or surfers just seeking a place to shower and crash. Travelers searching for affordability with better upkeep could try Combate Beach Resort.
The lower-middle-range Costa Dorada is an aging resort offering a choice of 90 rooms, studios, and self-catering villas divided into two sections, opposite a beach. While layouts are spacious with balconies (villas are newer), poor maintenance and upkeep really lets this place down. There are two pools (one is much nicer than the other), but the on-site restaurant only opens for weekend breakfast, and Wi-Fi is only available at the front desk. The best feature here is the location -- Isabela is a magical Puerto Rico spot, with lovely beaches, great surfing, and a fun beachfront dining scene nearby. Costa Dorada has the potential to be a great little family holiday base, but not without some serious TLC. The villas may suit unfussy families who’d like to self-cater, or surfers just seeking a place to shower and crash. Travelers searching for affordability with better upkeep could try Combate Beach Resort.
This see-it-to-believe-it romantic retreat is perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is spread out over a whopping 426 acres in northwestern Puerto Rico, and there are just 20 casitas, so guests may feel as if they have the land to themselves -- especially in the evenings underneath the bright stars and moon (don't miss a dip in the 24-hour saltwater pool). Guests can start the day with a hike down to the beach at sunrise and then play a challenging round of golf on the best course on the island. There are plenty of other activities on the premises, or guests can simply enjoy the casita's scenic patio and private plunge pool in absolute serenity. The hotel is working on a massive 10-year expansion project (away from the casitas) and construction annoyances will be kept to a minimum. With the outstanding dining program, there's no real reason to leave. Wi-Fi is free.
This see-it-to-believe-it romantic retreat is perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is spread out over a whopping 426 acres in northwestern Puerto Rico, and there are just 20 casitas, so guests may feel as if they have the land to themselves -- especially in the evenings underneath the bright stars and moon (don't miss a dip in the 24-hour saltwater pool). Guests can start the day with a hike down to the beach at sunrise and then play a challenging round of golf on the best course on the island. There are plenty of other activities on the premises, or guests can simply enjoy the casita's scenic patio and private plunge pool in absolute serenity. The hotel is working on a massive 10-year expansion project (away from the casitas) and construction annoyances will be kept to a minimum. With the outstanding dining program, there's no real reason to leave. Wi-Fi is free.
Family-run for two generations, this mid-range choice in northeastern Puerto Rico offers 46 units along a stretch of calm ocean near the town of Isabela. Authentic cottages include studio, one- and two-bedroom units and have front porches with either beach or non-beach views and occasional maintenance issues. All units have slatted/screened windows, AC units, and homey tropical decor. The restaurant on-site serves Caribbean cocktails and an extensive beer list as well as local specialties like red snapper and mofongo. Two separate beach areas offer plenty of space and kid-friendly waves that attracts a local crowd as well -- just look out for the stray dogs. Wi-Fi is free.
Family-run for two generations, this mid-range choice in northeastern Puerto Rico offers 46 units along a stretch of calm ocean near the town of Isabela. Authentic cottages include studio, one- and two-bedroom units and have front porches with either beach or non-beach views and occasional maintenance issues. All units have slatted/screened windows, AC units, and homey tropical decor. The restaurant on-site serves Caribbean cocktails and an extensive beer list as well as local specialties like red snapper and mofongo. Two separate beach areas offer plenty of space and kid-friendly waves that attracts a local crowd as well -- just look out for the stray dogs. Wi-Fi is free.
Villa Montana is an upscale, yet low key property on 35 beachfront acres in the northwest corner of Puerto Rico. Its 76 rooms and villas range from studio to three-bedroom layouts, with a coast-meets-country house aesthetic, and attractive features such as flat-screen TVs, DVD players, comfortable beds, free Aveda products, large patios -- and kitchens in most categories. Lush green grounds offer plenty of surrounding nature with two outdoor pools, and a gorgeous secluded, private beach. Fine-dining restaurant, Eclipse, is a plus for foodies and wine lovers, but keep in mind there is very little to do in the area at night. Travelers seeking a casino, lounge, and outdoor bar for a similar price could try the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort.
Villa Montana is an upscale, yet low key property on 35 beachfront acres in the northwest corner of Puerto Rico. Its 76 rooms and villas range from studio to three-bedroom layouts, with a coast-meets-country house aesthetic, and attractive features such as flat-screen TVs, DVD players, comfortable beds, free Aveda products, large patios -- and kitchens in most categories. Lush green grounds offer plenty of surrounding nature with two outdoor pools, and a gorgeous secluded, private beach. Fine-dining restaurant, Eclipse, is a plus for foodies and wine lovers, but keep in mind there is very little to do in the area at night. Travelers seeking a casino, lounge, and outdoor bar for a similar price could try the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort.
These 29 studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments along a secluded local's beach near Aguadilla airport are owned and/or managed by a charismatic Canadian couple. Units are located in the main Villa Tropical building, neighboring buildings along the beach (higher floors have a better views), or across the street. The first-floor office is the hub for morning coffee and water sports equipment rentals (such as surf boards and stand-up paddleboards); maps of the best snorkel spots and underground caves are available here, too. Sundries are for sale, though most choose to hit the grocery store to stock up, as apartments have equipped kitchens and barbecues (some great restaurants are nearby, as well). Decor and amenities range depending on the owner, and direct bookings require communication with the team. Free parking and weekly housekeeping are provided.
These 29 studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments along a secluded local's beach near Aguadilla airport are owned and/or managed by a charismatic Canadian couple. Units are located in the main Villa Tropical building, neighboring buildings along the beach (higher floors have a better views), or across the street. The first-floor office is the hub for morning coffee and water sports equipment rentals (such as surf boards and stand-up paddleboards); maps of the best snorkel spots and underground caves are available here, too. Sundries are for sale, though most choose to hit the grocery store to stock up, as apartments have equipped kitchens and barbecues (some great restaurants are nearby, as well). Decor and amenities range depending on the owner, and direct bookings require communication with the team. Free parking and weekly housekeeping are provided.