Caribe Hilton: An Iconic Beachfront Paradise in San Juan


Take a journey back in time at Puerto Rico’s Caribe Hilton!

The luxury and elegance of this resort hotel is as stellar as it was when it opened in 1949. Your grandparents may have vacation here, but today generations of visitors have come to enjoy a mix of old and new at this expansive San Juan property with its 17 exotic acres of exhilarating activities and convenient amenities. Whether practicing your backhand at the Monica Puig Tennis Center or working up a sweat at the Zen Spa Oceano, later cool off in the infinity pool or float over to the Bagua bar for a refreshing cocktail.

Updated to meet today’s savvy guest, the lobby remains a standout as a welcoming setting reminiscent of 1950s architecture. The Caribe Hilton – Hilton’s first-ever hotel outside of the continental US. The property is one of Puerto Rico’s most beloved resorts. Caribe Hilton is a vibrant social hub and epochal hotspot for celebrities throughout the decades hosting the likes of Gloria Swanson, Liz Taylor, and even Barack Obama to name a few.

The resort is located oceanfront so guests will enjoy cooling ocean breezes throughout their stay. Hotel rooms are basic with few amenities, so guest may be encouraged to get out and enjoy the resort and island.

San Juan

Just beyond the hotel property is a bustling San Juan, Puerto Rico’s capital and largest city, which sits on the island’s Atlantic coast. Cobblestoned Old San Juan features colorful Spanish colonial buildings and 16th-century landmarks including El Morro and La Fortaleza, massive fortresses with sweeping ocean views, as well as the Paseo de La Princesa – the city’s most beloved and beautiful bayside promenade.

​San Juan has a tropical climate and boasts an average temperature of 78-84 °F in May. The resort is located oceanfront so you can be sure to enjoy a cooling ocean breeze throughout your stay.

Birthplace of the Piña Colada

Talk about refreshing. One thing that hasn’t change is the thirst quenching PIña Colada that was  created at Caribe Hilton. The Piña Colada was created at the resort in 1954 by bartender Ramón “Monchito” Marrero and still represents what we now know as the modern-day, umbrella laden, poolside indulgence.

The tropical drink has stood the test of time and has been a favorite among guests looking to cool down under the hot Puerto Rican sun. While marking its 70th anniversary, Caribe Hilton celebrated National PIña Colada Day last summer on July 10. There’s nothing quite like the taste of the cool, soothing mix of pineapple juice, coconut cream with white rum.

While named the official drink of Puerto Rico in 1978, twenty years ago, in 2004, the then governor presented the Caribe Hilton a proclamation honoring the property’s world-famous concoction. The drink still ranks on the top ten list of most popular drinks by the Bacardi Cocktail Trends Report.

Just a short, direct flight from most major US cities, Puerto Rico offers lush rainforests, amazing beaches, and vibrant cities filled with history.

Cave of The Taino Indian & Poza Del Obispo Beach Tour
Enjoy adventure, archaeology, and nature in an all-in-one guided tour. First, it should be noted that this trek requires a bit of experience, with lots of climbing, slippery slopes and terrifying close calls atop cliff edges and hikers should have at least intermediate experience. 
To start, soak up some scenic views on the hour-drive from San Juan to Arecibo. Once there begin the  hike to Cueva del Indio where visitors come to admire Taino (indigenous) rock paintings and carvings. Cueva del Indio is a prehistoric rock art site in what is now a public park. Artifacts at the site appear to stem from Late Ceramic Period from A.D. 1200 to 1500.
Next, continue on to view the Seven Arches – seven rock formations along the coast with one of them similar to an Indian’s face. Views are stunning and picturesque to watch as massive thunderous waves crash on the rocks below.
El Yunque Rainforest, Waterslides, and Beach Tour
Discover the natural beauty of Puerto Rico on this unique tour from San Juan that combines El Yunque Rainforest and Luquillo Beach. At El Yunque, you will start with a walk through the forest to swim in the crystalline rivers. You will soon come upon Luquillo, where visitors can slide down a natural waterslide at Las Paylas and spend time at the local beach before returning to San Juan.
Carli’s Fine Bistro & Piano
After an adventurous day, one would have worked up quite an appetite. For an exotic assortment of gourmet tapas and international entrees, try Carli’s Fine Bistro & Piano. This fine venue overlooks the San Juan Bay from the historic neighborhood. Here, dinner can be enjoyed outdoors while listening to live jazz piano by Carli Muñoz.
Breakfast at Néctar Del Caribe
Rise refreshed after a restful sleep on a Caribe Hilton king bed for a delectable breakfast on property at Néctar Del Caribe. Get your fill till your heart desires with fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, and phenomenal breakfast cocktails  – it’s consider the best and only way to start your day in Puerto Rico!
Ready to party in Puerto Rico? Well, book your next stay at Caribe Hilton here.