Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort

Set deep within a gated residential enclave, the Embassy Suites is fairly secluded, which might explain why it gets so crowded -- it’s hard to get out and go anywhere. Even those with their own car face a fee for valet parking or a fee for self-parking in a multistory lot that's a good 700 feet away from the entrance. Once inside, the atrium lobby sits at the center of the main tower, which rises up around it, surrounded by a moat-like lily pond and lush greenery. Open hallways on all seven levels overlook the lobby, and exposed glass elevators whiz up and down all day. Noise here echoes throughout the interiors -- and into rooms. (Thankfully bedrooms are removed from hallways via living areas, so it’s possible to get a good night’s sleep.) During mealtimes, the lobby serves as an extension of Paradise Cafe -- tables are set up here, and the space essentially resembles a makeshift restaurant.Out back, a big patio area arrives at the enormous lagoon-inspired pool that cascades down toward the beach. Kids dominate the pool scene, and overall the place feels very crowded so guests should be prepared to wait, as lines (especially for breakfast) aren’t unusual. Grounds are well maintained, but interiors are dated and could really use updates. Unfussy families seem to love it here, but anyone desiring peace or any degree of luxury should stay elsewhere. 

Embassy Suites Dorado is located in -- you guessed it -- Dorado. It’s a popular tourist destination around a 40-minute drive west of San Juan, on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, where the waves are larger and great for surfing. The hotel is located right on the beach, and relatively close to restaurants, shops, and casinos, however they all require a car to reach. There’s a popular Asian restaurant right over the road; and some fast food joints are located near the main gate entrance, which can be reached in approximately three minutes by car or an 18-minute walk. East Golf Course takes an 11-minute drive. It’s around 35 to 40 minutes by car to Old San Juan and 50 minutes to Luis Munoz Marin International Airport.

The guest rooms' main selling point is their space: All provide spacious suite layouts with separate living areas and bedrooms -- equipped with king or twin beds. Decor, however, is less of a highlight. It's tired and could use some serious updating. Furniture is bland but practical, with lounge and dining seating for three; and wet bars with coffeemakers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. Living areas lack natural light, but bedrooms are nice and bright with glass sliding doors that open onto covered balconies. The higher the level, the better the view. Ocean View rooms overlook the hotel grounds and pool to the beach. Both bedrooms and living areas have flat-screen TVs, and all rooms have irons, ironing boards, safes, and temperature control. Hallway noise can echo into living rooms, but rooms are otherwise pretty quiet. Some guests report maintenance issues, while others experience none whatsoever. 

Embassy Suites does check all the boxes when it comes to a mid-range resort, but not all of its features are stellar. The terraced pool and whirlpool are a highlight, and they're bordered by deck chairs. There's also a smaller pool for the kids. The property steps directly onto the beach (via a security gate), and some basic water-sports equipment is on offer.Guests also appreciate the freebie when it comes to food and drink. Free daily breakfast is provided with buffet and cooked-to-order options, but with one cook at the grill, lines can be expected. Each night, the manager’s reception takes place in the lobby, offering free drinks and appetizers. Calypso Bar in the lobby opens evenings and offers live music on weekends. Blue Seahorse Pool Bar & Grill serves drinks and a range of lunch dishes by the pool. Paradise Cafe serves casual fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and room service is available. E’terie in the lobby serves espresso coffee, cakes, and snacks, and there’s also an Asian restaurant right over the road (owned by outside vendors), which guests seem to enjoy. Other features include a decent, basement-level fitness center; an arcade room for kids; a spa; meeting and event space; and valet and covered self-parking -- though these both incur fees.