Puerto Rico Great Values

Originally built as a private home in the ’40s this stylish and intimate waterfront property has 14 comfortable, internet-equipped rooms, all upgraded in December 2005 with crushed bamboo furnishings and chic bathroom fixtures. Some rooms are a bit snug for two – opt for the larger ocean-facing units or one of the apartments in a separate building. The property sits on a broad beach, where cabana boys handle lunch and drinks under umbrellas on the sand. A tiny private pool and excellent modern Caribbean restaurant round out the facilities.

On the south coast next to a UNESCO biosphere reserve, Copamarina is an affordable family-oriented resort option. You’ll leave the casinos and nightlife of San Juan behind in favor of a tranquil oasis featuring hiking, bird-watching, and visits to La Parguera’s bioluminescent bay. Rooms come with garden or ocean views fronted by a balcony; louvered windows provide privacy. The 106-room resort has two pools (plus two kiddie pools), a small spa, non-motorized water sports and a dive shop. Copamarina’s two restaurants, especially Alexandra, draw non-resort visitors for adventurous, Caribbean cuisine like whole fried snapper with mojo (garlic sauce).

Located along the quiet western end of the north coast, Villa Montaña is a 35-acre resort that provides value and personalized service without sacrificing a modicum of good taste. Accommodations vary between traditional hotel rooms and a series of villas ranging up to three bedrooms – you’ll find open-air showers, cathedral ceilings, terracotta tile floors, and a private veranda or terrace. Larger units include a full kitchen, though the resort’s romantic restaurant, Eclipse, serves Carib-Euro-Asian fusion meals by candlelight. There’s a well-appointed pool area with elevated sofas and plush lounge chairs, while the rugged beach unfurls for three deserted miles.