Hotels in Carolina

Coastal Charms: Unveil the Hidden Wonders of Carolina's Shores

Discover Carolina, Puerto Rico, where sun-kissed beaches meet vibrant culture. Renowned for its stunning coastline, Carolina Beach offers golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a weekend getaway. Immerse yourself in the local scene at nearby kiosks serving delicious street food, or explore the lush landscapes of El Yunque National Forest just a short drive away. With its lively atmosphere, rich history, and breathtaking ocean views, Carolina is an ideal destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement in this captivating Caribbean gem! For the best hotel rates in Carolina and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Carolina

Some of the best places to stay in Carolina are Old San Juan, Condado and Isla Verde. Carolina, Puerto Rico, offers vibrant destinations like Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde. Old San Juan is perfect for first-time visitors, featuring historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Condado boasts upscale beachfront resorts and a lively atmosphere, while Isla Verde is known for its stunning beaches and water sports. Accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to larger resorts, ensuring options for every budget. Whether you seek luxury or charm, Carolina has something for everyone. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Carolina:

1. Old San JuanOpens in a new window: Known for its colorful colonial architecture and rich history, Old San Juan is a charming area that offers a unique blend of culture and coastal beauty. With its proximity to the Puerto Rico Convention Center and Condado Beach, it’s an excellent location for both business and leisure travelers. For accommodations, consider Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton ReserveOpens in a new window, a resort with direct beach access and amenities for adventure enthusiasts, including snorkeling and kayaking. Another option is Residences at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton ReserveOpens in a new window, which also features a beach theme and provides various business facilities, along with exciting water sports activities. For a boutique experience, Hotel El ConventoOpens in a new window offers unique decor and adventure sports nearby, catering to travelers seeking a distinctive stay.
2. CondadoOpens in a new window: A vibrant beach destination, Condado is famous for its stunning coastline and lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for beach lovers and those seeking nightlife and entertainment, given its proximity to the Puerto Rico Convention Center and Casino del Mar at La Concha Resort. Consider Condado Vanderbilt HotelOpens in a new window, offering direct beach access and adventure sports like hiking and kayaking. Alternatively, San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris CasinoOpens in a new window, which also boasts beach accessibility, includes a casino on-site for added excitement. For business travelers, The Condado Plaza HotelOpens in a new window provides essential amenities and recreational activities, ensuring a perfect blend of work and play.
3. Isla VerdeOpens in a new window: Isla Verde is renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular spot for travelers looking to unwind. With attractions like Condado Beach and exciting water sports, this area is ideal for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Fairmont El San Juan HotelOpens in a new window is a beachfront resort that offers casino facilities and various adventure activities like parasailing and biking. Fairmont El San Juan Villa ExperienceOpens in a new window also features direct beach access and hosts an on-site casino, perfect for thrill-seekers. Lastly, Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach ResortOpens in a new window offers a slightly more budget-friendly alternative while providing easy access to the beach and recreational activities.

Things to do in Carolina for first time

Three days in Carolina offer a perfect blend of stunning beaches and lush landscapes, ideal for relaxation and adventure. Travelers can enjoy sunbathing, boating, and hiking through scenic trails, while vibrant nightlife features dancing and live music, creating an unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Carolina:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Condado Beach, where you can soak up the sun on the golden sands and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. After a refreshing swim, head over to Plaza del Mercado, a bustling marketplace perfect for sampling local cuisine and picking up unique souvenirs. Conclude your day at Atlantic Beach, where you can unwind with a picturesque sunset, listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
• Day 2: Start your day with a visit to El Yunque National Forest, an enchanting tropical rainforest filled with lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls—perfect for hiking and exploring. After your nature adventure, stop by Estudio de Arte Samuel Lind, where you can appreciate local art and maybe even take part in a workshop. Wrap up your day at Bahia Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the serene waterfront views.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at Luquillo Beach, known for its soft sands and calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Next, visit the Luis Munoz Marin Foundation, where you’ll gain insight into the life of Puerto Rico’s first democratically elected governor and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the site. End your day at Pinones State Forest, where you can explore scenic trails and indulge in local street food offerings from the various kiosks dotted along the coast.

5 tips to find a great Carolina hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Carolina is between September and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're traveling from abroad, it's wise to book your flight at least 5 months in advance to secure the best deals. For a budget-friendly getaway, plan to stay for at least 3-4 days to fully enjoy the area's main attractions, including its beautiful beaches. This makes for a great value for money trip, allowing you to experience all that Carolina has to offer without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute hotel deals in Carolina, you're in luck! You may discover great discounts and good availability by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com. These areas often feature refundable options, giving you peace of mind while booking. To maximize your chances of snagging cheap hotel deals, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you’re always in the loop about flash sales and special promotions. Don't miss out on potential savings!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Carolina.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Carolina is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or public transit to explore the area, which is more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Carolina. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Carolina

Here are a few popular dishes in Carolina, Puerto Rico:

• Mofongo: A delectable dish made from fried green plantains, mashed with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings, creating a rich, savory flavor. Often served with a variety of fillings like shrimp, chicken, or vegetables, it showcases Puerto Rican culinary creativity and is a must-try for any food lover.
• Arroz con Gandules: This iconic rice dish combines fluffy rice with pigeon peas, sofrito, and spices, reflecting the island's African, Spanish, and Taíno influences. Traditionally served during festive occasions, it embodies the spirit of Puerto Rican gatherings and is often paired with lechon (roast pork) for a complete meal.
• Asopao: A hearty Puerto Rican stew that blends rice, meats (usually chicken or seafood), and a rich broth seasoned with herbs and spices. It's perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it a popular choice for communal meals and celebrations.

Best time to go to Carolina

Carolina experiences its lowest average temperatures in January and February, at 75.7°F (24.3°C), while August and September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 81.3°F (27.4°C). September is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Carolina, March, July, and August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, September to November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.