Romantic Puerto Rico

It’s no wonder Puerto Rico [1] is such a popular destination for honeymooners. The beautiful beaches, balmy breezes, and lush tropical foliage provide a perfect backdrop to a romantic getaway. But there’s more to it than that. There is a palpable sensuality to life in Puerto Rico. The Spanish architecture, the salsa music, the Caribbean cuisine, the heat — all those elements and more come together to enliven the senses and set the stage for amorous pursuits.

Whether it’s soaking in the natural hot springs in Coamo [2] or taking a nighttime boat ride through a bioluminescent bay, learning the art of flamenco dancing or dining under the stars, couples can’t help but fall under the sway of Puerto Rico’s many aphrodisiacal charms.

Old San Juan

Book your stay at Hotel El Convento [3], a former Carmelite convent in Old San Juan [4] that dates back to 1651. Start the day with a couples massage. That night, dine beneath great swaths of silk organza on the sensuous culinary creations at Marmalade [5], then take an evening stroll through the historic town’s cobblestone streets. Take a taxi to nearby Hato Rey and catch the flamenco show at Divino Bocadito [6], a Spanish restaurant and lounge.

Vieques

Old San Juan may be the most romantic place in Puerto Rico [1], but for a more low-key romatic retreat, head to Vieques [7]. Stay the night at Inn on the Blue Horizon [8], a lovely, secluded inn overlooking the ocean from its cliff-top perch. The next day head to Balneario Sun Bay [9] and enjoy the white sand gentle surf. Dine at any number of excellent seafood restaurants in town, and take a nighttime boat tour of glittery Mosquito Bay [10].

Coamo

From San Juan [11], take a scenic drive through the Cordillera Central [12] to Coamo [13]. Although rustic Parador Baños de Coamo [14] caters more to families than couples seeking romance, it’s the perfect place to spend the night because it’s located right beside Baños de Coamo [2], a natural hot spring that has brought tourists to this tiny pueblo since colonial times. The springs are contained in a tile and cement pool on the hotel grounds, but for a more authentic experience, hike a short distance behind the hotel to the public pool located in a wooded area. That evening, drive 13 miles southeast to Salinas [15], where you can dine at one of the many seafood restaurants that line the coast in this tiny fishing village. Ladi’s [16] is a good choice, especially if you can get a seat right on the water.