Uncover the magic of Puerto Rico, where some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and natural attractions await. Some of the world’s best luxury resorts are also found here, promising 5-star service and tropical grandeur you won’t find anywhere else.
Among these are The Ritz-Carlton and The St. Regis resorts, both promise remote luxury away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Let’s see which one is for you in this Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico comparison.
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- Quick Glance: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
- The Details: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
- Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
- The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
- Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
- Wrapping Up
- FAQs
Quick Glance: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
| Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico | |
| Location | Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado, Puerto Rico | State Road, Río Grande, Puerto Rico |
| Getting There | Requires a 35-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (SJU), also called the San Juan Airport. Chauffeured transportation can be arranged for a fee. | Requires a 26-minute drive from Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (SJU), also called the San Juan Airport. Guests can contact the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort concierge for airport transfers via private car or taxi. |
| Room | 114 Rooms, Suites, and Residences | 139 Rooms and Suites |
| Amenities | Pool, Beach, Spa, Bar, Gym, Tennis Court | Pool, Beach, Spa, Bar, Gym, Tennis Court, Sauna |
| Food and Dining | 4 Restaurants and Bars | 3 Restaurants and Bars |
| Staff and Guest Services | Excellent. An embajador (personal butler) is assigned to each room, ensuring personalized service each time. | Impeccable. For select rooms and suites, a personal butler is assigned to be at your service anytime you need them. |
| Price | The cash rates start at $1,260 up to $3,170 per night (average of $1,930). | Cash rates go from $800 up to $2,940 per night (average of $1,250). |
| Points Redemption | Yes, points redemption is available using Marriott Bonvoy points. Book a standard room starting from 163,000 to 240,000 points per night. | Yes, points redemption is available using Marriott Bonvoy points. For a standard room, the range starts from 95,500 to 119,500 points per night. |
The Details: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve vs The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a dream destination offering top-tier luxury in an exclusive area. A former Laurance Rockefeller estate, it was renovated in 2018 after Hurricane Maria.
Location
This 50-acre beachfront property is situated inside an exclusive gated community of Dorado, a popular tourist destination on Puerto Rico’s central north coast. Thanks to its beachside location, the resort puts guests in proximity to the club’s amenities and world-class golf courses.
To reach the resort, guests can fly to either these two airports: the Luis Muñoz Marín Airport—also called the San Juan Airport (SJU), or the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport—also known as the Isla Grande Airport (SIG). They’re roughly the same distance so the travel time from the two airports to the resort takes only 30 to 35 minutes.
While renting a car or taking a taxi is possible, Dorado Beach can arrange a private chauffeured pickup service with its partner First Class Destination Solutions. However, if you want to arrive in style, the resort also comes with a helipad on site.
A points consultant will analyze your finances before recommending the best way to accumulate points.
Room
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s oceanfront accommodations reflect Puerto Rico’s colorful flora—a mix of brown tones come together with green and blue hues. Marble and wood interiors punctuate the spacious living areas for a luxurious and stylish stay.
The entry-point rooms—West Beach and East Beach Ocean Reserve—are undoubtedly spacious, starting at 941 square feet. They come outfitted with modern amenities such as a king bed, a flat-screen TV, a sofa bed, a walk-in wardrobe, an Elchim flatiron, a Nespresso machine and tea kettle, and an iPhone docking station. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available.
Their sliding glass doors open to a gorgeous furnished terrace and outdoor shower. The lounging area overlooks the magnificent aqua blue waters. It’s also perfect for sunset viewing.
Both room types have easy beach access, but take note that West Beach has a swimmable beach while East Beach has a quieter setting.
The bathroom features an oversized soaking tub, double vanity, hairdryer, and a Bose wireless speaker. Enjoy a luxurious set of toiletries from in-house Spa Botánico as well.
West Beach and East Beach Plunge Reserve is the next room upgrade and these come with a private plunge pool.
The higher-priced condo-style villas, residences, and penthouses have extra spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas. These also have a laundry room. Some units come with a rooftop terrace, private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, a furnished veranda or rooftop, and a private golf cart.
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Amenities
Spend a laidback day by their gorgeous exclusive beach surrounded by hammocks and chic daybeds that are shaded with umbrellas.
This Ritz-Carlton Reserve also has two ocean-view outdoor pools—the Positivo Pool is found near the lobby pavilion, and the family-friendly Encanto Beach Club’s main pool and smaller pools for kids.
For unparalleled bliss, there’s the world-class Spa Botánico. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, this five-acre sanctuary promises excellent service and locally inspired treatments.
Enjoy a massage, body scrub, or spa treatment al-fresco on one of their treetops or in a pavilion. This sanctuary is where they invite their guests to immerse themselves and reconnect with nature.
After your treatment, head to the Purification Garden for a relaxing soak in warm and cool pools. Waterfall showers and a free-standing steam room complete your luxurious pampering experience.
Nearby, their Herb Garden is where they produce several of the ingredients used in the spa treatments and restaurants.
Keep up with your fitness routine at their outdoor yoga studio or 24-hour fitness center. The fitness center is complete with free weights and cardio and resistance machines. Group classes and private training are also available. Afterward, stop by the juice bar for quick refreshments or shop at their apparel boutique.
Their tennis center consists of five Har-Tru Green Clay courts. Enjoy tennis classes for all skill levels as well as daily clinics. Equipment rental services are also available.
Ready for adventure? Goodwinds Watersports provides exhilarating water experiences. Sail, surf, or paddleboard at the exclusive Dorado Beach. During the weekend, bring the kids to the nearby Watermill Waterpark. It has a lazy river, several waterslides, and a wave machine.
Get the most surreal experience teeing off at two of the resort’s world-class golf courses, with gorgeous greens and fairways highlighting Puerto Rico’s natural beauty. There are other world-class golf courses nearby that are just a short car ride away.
The resort offers a host of fun things to do outside the resort. The concierge team can help arrange a trip to visit the renowned El Yunque Tropical Rainforest, explore the nearby island via a helicopter or a private luxury yacht, or tour Old San Juan.
The Ritz Kids program gives your little ones aged 4-12 an immersive and hands-on experience. The nature-themed program offers fun activities such as laboratory work, swimming, arts and crafts, and more.
Food and Dining
COA Restaurant Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
The resort’s in-house restaurants span several cuisines from Asia to the Caribbean for gastronomes to enjoy, including the beachfront Encanto Beach Club Bar and Grill. The family-friendly area is also the perfect place to refuel after a dip with its proximity to the pool.
At COA, sample locally sourced, in-season dishes grilled in a traditional Spanish-style oven. Postcard-perfect views of the ocean and a casual ambiance awaits.
La Cava, one of the most extensive wine cellars in the Caribbean, boasts hundreds of labels and thousands of wine bottles. Its elegant private room is also available for intimate experiences you and your loved ones will remember.
Posi+Ivo Sand Bar offers an alfresco setting with both Latin and Asian-inspired dishes. Its sand floors invite a casual yet refined setting.
Try fresh seafood, sushi, ceviche, and tapas at Omakase Bar. Advanced reservations are recommended since this evening-only dining only sits six guests at a time.
La Cocina Gourmet, the resort’s in-house market, offers various gourmet specialties, such as pastries, artisanal chocolates, homemade gelatos, wines, and coffee. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also available.
Eager to brush up on your culinary skills? Sign up for their hands-on cooking classes at their Culinary Center, where you can bring home valuable tips and secrets that you can use in your kitchen.
There’s also 24-hour room service available on days when you prefer to stay in the comforts of your room.
Staff and Guest Services
With excellent and personalized service present to cater to your every need, your experience at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton, will be unforgettable.
Price
Cash rates here start at $1,260 up to $$3,170 per night (average rate of $1,930).
Points Redemption
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is part of the Marriott Bonvoy program. You can book a standard room starting at 163,000 to 240,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
You’ll enjoy excellent returns on your purchases with the best travel credit cards. Book first-class flights and luxury stays for free!
Who Is It For?
This lavish resort promises the best of what any luxury resort can offer. If you’re looking for privacy and serenity in your Puerto Rico vacation, this Ritz-Carlton property is an excellent choice. It’s one of the priciest resorts in the area, but it is certainly worth your money if you can afford it.
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Gallery
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Room. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Spa Botánico. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Image Credit: Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Casa Grande. Image Credit: Marriott
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico is one of only a few luxury resorts set in the rural area of Rio Grande. The resort offers beachside luxury that harps on nature’s serenity. Plus, it’s considered among the finest points hotel in Puerto Rico and even the Caribbean!
Location
This 483-acre St. Regis resort draws the crowd with its promise of gorgeous scenery and 2 miles of unspoiled, private beach. The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort boasts unique accessibility to the area’s top natural attractions, including the El Yunque National Rainforest and Espíritu Santo River State Preserve.
The surrounding lakes too, are popular for fishing and boating. Plus, nearby trails for biking and walking offer more opportunities to commune with nature.
To reach the resort, you can fly to the Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU) or the Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport – Ceiba (RVR), it’ll take anywhere from 35 to 45 minutes by car to reach the property.
Pickup services via a private vehicle or taxi can be arranged with the resort’s concierge. They can also assist you with any car rental arrangements with pick up at either of these two airports.
Room
Inspired by the tropical hues of Puerto Rico, the airy rooms and suites feature contemporary designs in a tranquil setting. Shades of white and light blue reflect the tropical surroundings of the ocean and lush gardens.
The 674-square-feet standard room Superior Tropical Garden View has bed configurations of either one king or two queens with a duvet and St. Regis’ signature 400-thread count bed linens. The outdoor terraces open up to the garden, ocean, or golf course views.
The marble bathrooms are complete with an oversized tub and a separate shower, double vanities, a lighted makeup mirror, and a hairdryer. Luxury touches include plush bathrobes and comfortable robe slippers.
These rooms come with all the amenities a modern traveler will need: a walk-in closet, a 55-inch TV with international and premium channels, a high-tech plug-in room, Wi-Fi, a mini-refrigerator, a minibar, a coffee maker and tea service, an alarm clock, an iron, and ironing board. There is also a work desk space for those who need to work during their stay.
The 747-square-feet Grand Deluxe comes with spacious areas, upgraded room views, and direct access to the pool. Added luxury touches include a Bluetooth speaker, a five-fixture marble bathroom, and an oversized mirror with an LCD TV.
Prefer ocean views? The 741-square-feet Oceanfront guest room boasts postcard-perfect ocean vistas with close access to the beach. Additional hospitality services for this room and the following suites include evening turndown service and butler service.
For the suites, the 1-Bedroom Suites (1,295-square-feet Astor and Luxury, plus the 1,255-square-feet St. Regis) feature upgraded living quarters, including a separate living area, a full-sized sofa bed, and a fully furnished terrace.
Perfect for larger gatherings, the 2,510-square-feet Governor’s Suite comes with a second floor with a furnished terrace and a spacious master bedroom. Separate areas for living and dining make it ideal for hosting intimate get-togethers. The state-of-the-art kitchen is well-furnished if you decide to cook and dine inside your room. There is also a private elevator for your butler.
The 5-Bedroom Case Estancias is the resort’s grandest accommodation. This 14,000-square-feet beachside residence boasts pristine oceanfront views, contemporary minimalist interior designs, and bespoke art pieces. Added enhancements include private terraces, a state-of-the-art kitchen, several outdoor areas perfect for entertaining, and an exquisite infinity-edge pool.
Amenities
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico offers exclusive rituals one can only experience when staying in a St. Regis property. This includes the champagne sabering ceremony at Casa Grande, tropical iced tea (instead of afternoon tea) at the pool, late afternoon s’mores at Seagrapes‘ fire pit, and koi fish feeding at the Casa Grande ponds.
Beach lovers can spend the day at the Bahia Beach which comes outfitted with cabanas, sun loungers, and umbrellas to unwind and relax in. The oceanfront lagoon-style pool is located mere steps from the beach. Enjoy poolside service from Seagrapes Restaurant from their plush lounge chairs or pool cabanas.
Pamper yourself at the Iridium Spa, where indulgent relaxation awaits. Choose to have treatments by the beach or at one of their private treatment rooms or villas. Only local, organic, and cruelty-free ingredients are used at this spa.
Aside from full-body massages, body wraps, and scrubs, the spa offers beauty treatments. These include facials, manicures, pedicures, and body waxing. A plunge pool and steam room is also available if you’re looking for more relaxation.
Keep up with your active lifestyles at the state-of-the-art Bahia Wellness Center. It’s equipped with treadmills, elliptical machines, free weights, and weight machines.
Personal trainers and group classes are also here. Prefer exercising outdoors? Go jogging or biking at one of their nearby trails, play a round or two of tennis at their courts, go kayaking, or sign up for a guided nature walk.
The resort is also celebrated for its Robert Trent Jones Jr. Golf Course. Golfers can tee off in 18 holes with awe-inspiring views of the El Yunque Rainforest in the background.
Want to explore the natural attractions Puerto Rico has to offer? The resort’s 24-hour concierge team and personal butler can help arrange recreational tours for you, such as Bio Bay Kayaking, El Yunque, and Manatees Center.
Traveling with kids aged 4-12? Have them join Iguana’s Children Kids Club. This specialized program allows kids to experience fun through different activities, such as embarking on nature tours and exploring Bahia Beach. The clubhouse also has separate rooms for reading, movies, arts and crafts, and gaming.
Food and Dining
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Seagrapes Restaurant. Image Credit: Marriott
The resort’s in-house restaurants include the Paros Restaurant, Seagrapes Restaurant, Beach Club by Jose Enrique, and St. Regis Bar.
Sample elevated Mediterranean fare with picture-perfect beach views at the Paros Restaurant. The all-day Seagrapes Restaurant offers a more laidback and casual ambiance with its predominantly white interiors.
At St. Regis Bar, enjoy cocktails and canapés in an intimate setting. Dine in the alfresco setting, where you can enjoy the fresh ocean breeze. St. Regis’ famed champagne sabering ritual takes place there in time for sunset.
For special occasions, enjoy a romantic private dinner by the beach. Or, call room service and enjoy your orders from the comforts of your room or suite.
Staff and Guest Services
The outstanding level of hospitality only St. Regis is known for is recognized here. However, guests staying in select higher-priced rooms and suites also receive the perks of a butler service.
Price
Cash rates for the standard rooms start at $800 up to $2,940 per night. On average, it’s $1,250 per night.
Points Redemption
You can book a standard room using your Marriott Bonvoy points. Per night, the range starts from 95,500 to 119,500 points.
Who Is It For?
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico ticks all the boxes for a serene and lavish stay in Puerto Rico. Its location near El Yunque Rainforest gives it an advantage if you’re into exploring natural attractions. The resort is also perfect for honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway close to nature.
Price-wise, it’s slightly cheaper than Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton, a Reserve. It does have similar amenities—spa, gym, tennis, golf course—so if you’re looking for more value, this St. Regis property is a great option.
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Gallery
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico King Guestroom Ocean View. Image Credit: Marriott
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico Grande Lawn. Image Credit: Marriott
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico. Image Credit: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Convenience | The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico | It’s slightly closer to the airport. |
| Best for Food | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve has more diverse in-house dining options. |
| Best for Pools | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | The Ritz-Carlton property has two pools. One for adults-only and one that’s more family-friendly. |
| Best for Spa | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Spa Botanico feels more immersive with its natural surroundings. It is also more spacious. |
| Best For Beaches | Tie | Both are beachfront resorts on secluded beaches that guarantee utmost privacy. |
| Best For Adults | Tie | Both Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis properties have similar amenities that adults can enjoy. |
| Best for Families | Tie | Both resorts offer specialized programs for kids. |
| Best Location | The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico | The resort’s proximity to the airport and some of Puerto Rico’s top natural attractions gives it a better edge. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Its sprawling grounds ensure more privacy for its guests. It also has a lesser number of accommodations. |
| Best for Service | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Although both offer butler service, the Ritz-Carlton property gets this since all guests (regardless of which accommodation you’re staying in) have butler service. |
| Most Exclusive | Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Its exclusive location inside an upscale gated community offers more exclusivity. |
Wrapping Up
Both Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico offer a remote beachfront luxury experience in Puerto Rico.
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is the pricier option—and for a good reason. It wins in terms of overall ambiance that puts a premium on exclusive privacy. The sprawling property has a more refined look with exquisite architecture and curated artworks. Not to mention, the rooms are spacious and outfitted with luxury touches such as plunge pools and outdoor oversized tubs and showers. The steep price tag certainly reflects this. You get what you pay, and you’ll get your money’s worth.
However, that doesn’t discount what The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico, has to offer. It still has all the makings you’ll need for a luxury stay. The resort offers similar amenities to The Ritz-Carlton Reserve—a secluded beachfront area with a swimmable beach and a nearby pool, a lavish spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, golf, and an opulent bar.
One advantage is that it’s close to El Yunque Rainforest and other nearby natural attractions, so that’s something to take note of when planning your Puerto Rico vacation.
The top-notch service that all St. Regis properties offer is certainly a highlight here. The rooms are outfitted with modern touches and quite spacious as well. However, one thing to note is that the standard room does not come with butler service.
Price-wise, it’s still the more affordable option. With everything this St. Regis property offers, you’ll still enjoy your stay.
Whether you choose The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis, both resorts make excellent choices.
Enjoy Puerto Rico!