Since yesterday was national dog day, I wanted to celebrate an amazing pet-friendly property that we were invited to visit for a dog-friendly press trip; Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve.
Located near San Juan, this incredible Five-Star luxury resort is a secluded sanctuary tucked away on the Puerto Rico Caribbean coast and is settled on a private 50-acre property, formerly a Laurance Rockefeller estate.
When we arrived at the reserve, with Tuna in tow, of course, we were welcomed by multiple staff members, including the hotel’s manager and a personal Embajadores (ambassador). He offered us ice-cold water and a refreshing natural-juice popsicle- the perfect treat to cool us down since the temperatures were high, and it was humid.
After check-in, we were escorted to our suite by our Embajadores, who led us on foot (which we preferred versus taking a golf cart) through the Reserve’s lush, verdant grounds. As we strolled along, we were greeted by some of the indigenous locals: tiny geckos and beautiful birds.
Once inside our 941 SQ FT suite, we were impressed with the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass pocket doors, allowing us a complete view of the stunning Caribbean. They also came equipped with fully screened plantation shutters so that we could hear the ocean while we slept.
Our gorgeous suite was designed in a sophisticated earth-toned, monochromatic palette with bold pops of color in the pillows and art, and the room came equipped with a pull-out sofa bed and a cozy king-size bed. The hand-carved wooden bespoke headboard offered a privacy feature from the adjoining hall that led into the large bathroom that hosted a deep soaking tub, as well as an indoor AND outdoor rainforest shower!
From our spacious terrace overlooking the ocean, we enjoyed relaxing on the oversized lounge furniture, while Tuna propped himself up on a large pillow to sunbathe. Fun side-note: In the suites below ours, they featured private plunge pools, so if you prefer a private pool to a high-rise view, I recommend that type of suite.
In our free moments, we swam in the sea, as well as the properties multiple pools, took walks along the shore, and we went kayaking in the Caribbean thanks to Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program. After kayaking, we were treated to the best massage I’ve had to date at Spa Botánico, tucked away amid lush flora on a five-acre botanical sanctuary. As put on the website, “this relaxing enclave blends lush surroundings, a soothing natural environment and the finest quality of local botanicals and ingredients to enhance tranquility and revitalize the senses.” I literally cried when I walked around the grounds of the Spa to the massage room. I was that overwhelmed by the experience and the beauty of the property .
From morning until night, we ate some of the best cuisine that I’ve ever (overly) indulged in :) Mi Casa, a signature restaurant by renowned chef José Andrés, is a new gourmet tapas dining experience, while Positivo Sand Bar and Encanto Beach Club Bar & Grill are both beach and poolside casual, yet offer delicious and innovative dishes and drinks. All outdoor patios were pet-friendly so that Tuna could join us, and each restaurant on property was steps away from the beach with panoramic views of the Atlantic.
We can’t wait for a return visit because as the Dorado Beach’s website indicated, “this is an island retreat where both new and timeless experiences answer the desire for discovery.” Well put and agreed! #tunapproved #RCpartner
Ps: This place was sooooo incredible and I highly highly recommend it!!!