Puerto Rico gets a dose of luxury with new dining, shopping, spa and hotel options that make the island a decidedly more haute destination than ever. Best of all? No customs and no need to turn off your cell phone—you’re still in the us!
MALL OF SAN JUAN
OMEGA Boutique
The opening of the Mall of San Juan just two months ago, marks Puerto Rico’s march toward luxury retail. The 650,000-square foot mall boasts lots of high-end names, and the only Nordstom and Saks Fifth Avenue in the Caribbean. There are also Hervé Leger, Bulgari and Versace shops, that, like OMEGA’s 3,000-square foot boutique (pictured), are indicative of the next frontier for luxury in this tropical US territory.
1000 Mall of San Juan Boulevard
San Juan, PR 00924
787-759-2642
FERN RESTAURANT
Mega-chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten brought his culinary prowess to St Regis Bahia Beach a few years ago, and the restaurant has now become a destination for diners around the island for some of the best food not just in Puerto Rico, but anywhere. Dishes are a fusion of Latin and Caribbean cuisine, with the chef’s European touch. Favorites include sweet pea soup with Parmesan foam, pan-roasted branzino and of course, the chef’s famous avocado pizza served with jalapeno, cilantro and lime.
State Road 187 kilometer 4.2 Rio grande, Puerto Rico, 00745
787.809.8000
The St. Regis Bahia Beach resort
This sprawling resort was Puerto Rico’s first ultra-luxury property and is the only AAA Five Diamond spot on the island. Bahia Beach is recognized by the Audobon society for its 483 acres of unspoiled natural beauty and nature trails. The number of tropical trees—including coconut palms—on this former plantation is staggering. Frogs sing travelers to sleep, while plush bedding insures they stay that way. From biking to golfing on the Robert Trent Jones Jr. course, there is so much to do, it’s hard to settle on just one thing. But a day at the famous Remède Spa might top the list—especially with their new “Spa Without Walls” services. This menu takes spa-goers on an open-air adventure with beach-side massages and treatments. The spa itself isn’t too shabby either, with saunas, outdoor plunge pools, and unique services like Queen Loiza’s Royal Treatment and the Cacique Lightening and Brightening Facial.
State Road 187 kilometer 4.2 Rio grande, Puerto Rico, 00745
787.809.8000
Mi Casa by José Andrés
José Andrés has crafted the most important Spanish restaurant in Peurto Rico, delighting diners with his legendary tapas. Locally-caught seafood and farm-fresh ingredients combined with a unique take on Spanish cuisine makes it a winner. The exceptional interior space and views of waves crashing on the coastline might seal the deal.
100 Dorado Beach Drive,
Dorado, PR 00646
787-626-1100
Dorado Beach, A Ritz Carlton Reserve
Dorado Beach represents a $3.4 million investment in luxury for Puerto Rico. It’s three miles of pristine sand and 1,400 acres of natural beauty make it a perfect escape from urban environments. So too does their five-acre spa, and Su Casa, a breathtaking 8,000-square foot, four-bedroom villa that overlooks the water, has tons of historic glamour, and rents for tens of thousands of dollars.
100 Dorado Beach Drive,
Dorado, PR 00646
787-626-1100
W RETREAT & SPA VIEQUES ISLAND
W Vieques is in a class of its own. Why? Because it is on its very own island, a quick 20-minute flight from San Juan airport. Aside from the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay, the resort offers two different private beaches, guestrooms designed by hip Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, and horseback riding. Gather around the firepit for a sunset cocktail after a treatment at Away Spa, a delux spa with ocean view treatment rooms.
State Road 200, KM 3.2 – HC-1 Box 9368 ·
Vieques Island, Puerto Rico, 00765
787.741.4100
