The Best Room At... Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Puerto Rico’s spate of natural disasters over the last several years may have deterred some would-be travelers, which is unfortunate on several fronts. First, the economic boost of tourism is precisely what the island needs to promote recovery. Second, some of Puerto Rico’s most gorgeous and luxurious destinations are on the north coast, near San Juan, and thus out of the earthquake danger zone. In fact, we contend that there’s no Puerto Rico resort more alluring than the Dorado Beach Ritz Carlton Reserve, a 1400-acre paradise that once belonged to conservationist Laurance Rockefeller, son of John D. Jr., who fell in love with the lush land and developed upon it an eco-friendly resort and preserve that opened in 1958.
Dorado Beach still clings to its conservationist roots—a Jean Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program sits on the property to guide guests through kayak, hiking, and other nature trips—as well as to its status as an ultimate luxury resort, composed of newly renovated (post-Hurricane Maria) beach front villas that sit steps from a private plunge pool which, in turn, is another few steps from the sand.
In this latest installation of T&C’s “The Best Room At” column, we interviewed Dorado Beach General Manager George Sotelo on how to make the most of a stay at his hotel.
Describe the hotel in a sentence.
Dorado Beach is a sanctuary of magnificence and tranquility, tucked away on Puerto Rico's Atlantic coast and situated on 1,400 acres of the former Laurance Rockefeller estate, providing guests an intimate refuge and offering a true sense of barefoot elegance.
Which room is the best? Why?
All the rooms at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve are wonderful but one of my personal favorites are the one and two bedroom ocean front suites. The suites are extremely popular with guests as they include a private ground-level or rooftop plunge pool, ocean views and a separate living area along with the personal attention of an Embajador, outdoor living space, an open-air shower and artwork capturing the colors of the flora and fauna of The Reserve.
What’s the average nightly rate?
The average nightly rate at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is dependent on season but typically starts at $1,299.
Who is your typical guest?
Guests of the Reserve often are second generation visitors who are looking for a resort with soul, steeped in history and tradition.
Can you mention any famous guests who have stayed at the hotel?
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton has a storied past and have played host to many notable names. Some of which include Amelia Earhart, Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor and many more.
What’s one local recommendation you give first time visitors?
Explore Old San Juan. The area allows guests to experience the rich culture of the island and explore the brightly colored houses lining cobbled streets and shady plazas, alongside cool cocktail bars and renowned Caribbean fusion restaurants.
What’s an interesting story about the hotel’s history?
Originally the home of early female aviator and friend of Amelia Earhart, Clara Livingston, ownership transferred in the 1950’s to Laurance Rockefeller, both a pioneer of venture capital and eco-tourism. Shortly after completing his new resort on the estate, on December 1, 1958, Rockefeller hosted his glamorous opening night, inviting 150 friends and associates he labelled ‘the fabulous 150.’ These hand-picked guests, each one a millionaire, included some of the biggest names of the day such as Ava Gardner and Elizabeth Taylor. The star-studded event initiated what quickly became a favorite hangout of the American beau monde. Since opening as a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in 2012, the resort has retaken its place as a favorite of celebrities and captains of industry.
Can you tell us about the hotel’s relationship to conservation and the Cousteau family?
Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is an active participant in the Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment which aims to carry on the family’s legacy and inspires guests to connect with the world around them in hopes that they will work towards preserving it for future generations. The program at Dorado highlights Puerto Rico’s rich native culture and unique ecosystem through immersive experiences designed for children, adults and families.
What do you hope visitors to your property will feel about Puerto Rico when they leave?
I hope that visitors to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve feel the rich history of the island coming through every element of the Reserve. The former plantation that makes up the property is steeped in the history and development of Puerto Rico and we hope that guests experience that, whether it be through as a spiritual connection of their own or human connection with the people they encounter on the Reserve.
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