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Keri Bridgwater, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
For many travelers, the novelty of staying somewhere unique or making the most of luxury amenities like a private pool can be the main draw of booking an Airbnb. For others, it’s the flexibility to tailor a vacation according to needs or group sizes. Whatever you’re looking for, the best Airbnbs in Puerto Rico offer the opportunity to feel immersed in the community, shop at local markets and prepare authentic meals. There are approximately 25,000 short term rentals across Puerto Rico and its enchanting outer-lying islands, Culebra and Vieques.
Spanning a variety of options in different regions, including a charming pied-à-terre in the heart of Old San Juan, a spacious and decidedly design-forward villa near the El Yunque rainforest and a family-friendly cottage in legendary surf town Rincón, there are plenty of options for every type of traveler. We’ve combed through the cream of the crop, with our selections all either guest favorites, run by Superhosts or rated 4.9 or higher to ensure the most superlative of stays. Below, the best Airbnbs in Puerto Rico for 2024.
- Best Airbnb For Families In Puerto Rico: Unique Coastal Cottage With A Pool, Rincón
- Best Airbnb For Romance In Puerto Rico: Monte Madera Cabin, Calabazas
- Best Airbnb For Group Trips In Puerto Rico: Villa Bohemia Gated Estate, San Juan
- Best Rainforest Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Jungle Loft, Ciales
- Best Treehouse Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Baez Haus At Finca Victoria, Vieques
- Best Oceanfront Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Villa Morivivi, Rio Grande
- Most Unique Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Bubble Dome Surrounded By Nature, Ponce
- Best Airbnb In Old San Juan: Villa Blanca Apartment, Old San Juan
- Best Airbnb Near El Yunque: Selva Rainforest Retreat, El Yunque
- Best Airbnb For Design Lovers In Puerto Rico: Luxury Ocean Park Residence, San Juan
Best Airbnb For Families In Puerto Rico: Unique Coastal Cottage With A Pool, Rincón
Unique Coastal Cottage With A Pool
Accommodations: Three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Families who want to explore Rincón, the “town of beautiful sunsets”
All-Star Amenities: Beach and ocean views; petite swimming pool; outdoor living space and gourmet kitchen; one-bedroom casita; Wi-Fi and HDTV with popular streamers (Hulu, Netflix)
What Not To Miss: Spending a day at secluded Canal Beach or strolling down to catch the sunset
Location: Rincón
Laid-back surf town Rincón is famous for its beautiful sunsets and great waves, and this charming coastal cottage in its coveted Sea Beach Colony neighborhood is a short walk from one of the town’s most popular swimming spots. It comes well equipped with essentials like beach chairs, a cooler, umbrellas and a wagon to tow everything down there. Cooled by tropical breezes and ceiling fans, the main house features a spacious living area, kitchen and dining room with a library-meets-workspace and fast Wi-Fi for WFH or keeping up with email. Upstairs, the primary and twin bedrooms both enjoy beautiful ocean views, as does a veranda with hammocks and additional seating. Within the tropical garden is a lovely standalone casita that can sleep two, a kidney-shaped pool and a claw foot bath with hot running water for alfresco soaks. There’s a full gourmet outside kitchen, too, but if cooking doesn’t appeal, there are plenty of beach bars, restaurants, food trucks and local shops within easy walking distance.
Best Airbnb For Romance In Puerto Rico: Monte Madera Cabin, Calabazas
Monte Madera Cabin
Accommodations: One bedroom, one bathroom
Who Will Love It: Slow traveling couples looking for a secret hideaway in the mountains
All-Star Amenities: Private backyard with a pool, jacuzzi and fire pit; HDTV with Roku and Netflix; AC; gated parking
What Not To Miss: Night swims in the heated pool while stargazing
Location: Calabazas
Couples looking for a private spot to unwind for a few days in the mountains will love this one bedroom cabin in San Sebastian on the northwest side of the island. Although located close to some great local restaurants, many can close at 10 p.m. or earlier on slow days, so plan to bring food and drinks before arriving and make the most of the cabin's recently updated and small but well-equipped kitchen. A semi-steep set of wooden stairs leads to the loft bedroom, and you'll find fluffy robes and toiletries in the bathroom. The inside living space is cozy—there's a TV with Netflix—although with its heated pool, jacuzzi, hammocks and gazebo, the outside space is where guests spend most of their time.
Best Airbnb For Group Trips In Puerto Rico: Villa Bohemia Gated Estate, San Juan
Villa Bohemia Gated Estate
Accommodations: Nine bedrooms, five bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Multi-generational families or friend groups with something big to celebrate
All-Star Amenities: Private pool with gated backyard and outdoor dining area; HDTV with Apple TV; dedicated workspace; washing machine; free parking
What Not To Miss: co*cktails poolside before walking to nearby hot spot restaurants in Condado
Location: San Juan
Dubbed the "Waikiki of the Caribbean" and considered the trendiest neighborhood in San Juan, Condado makes an ideal base for any Puerto Rico vacation, and when it comes to group trips, no property could play host to friends or families in better style than Villa Bohemia. Located blocks from Condado's best beaches and restaurants, the beautifully decorated gated estate boasts nine bedrooms and five baths and can comfortably accommodate 16 guests. (Even bigger groups should consider renting the sister property next door, Villa Bohemia II, for extra space.) Villa Bohemia’s open-plan kitchen and dining area lend themselves beautifully to hosting large meals and with two rooftop terraces, a pair of porches anchored by swinging chairs, a balcony off the primary bedroom in addition to a swimming pool, plus an outdoor dining and lounge area, there are as many places to socialize as there are to enjoy a bit of quiet downtime here, too.
Best Rainforest Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Jungle Loft, Ciales
Jungle Loft
Accommodations: Three bedrooms, three bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Anyone looking for an immersive back-to-nature experience
All-Star Amenities: Mountain views; wood-burning sauna; Wi-Fi
What Not To Miss: Bird spotting over coffee in the morning and firing up the sauna at night
Location: Ciales
Those who love to be in touch with nature and explore hiking trails and waterfalls will appreciate this one-of-a-kind property near the picturesque town of Ciales in Puerto Rico's central mountain range. You'll need a 4x4 or AWD vehicle to reach the house, making the trip there part of the adventure. Run entirely on solar, the open-plan concept has two bedrooms where you'll fall asleep to a chorus of tree frogs and wake up to bird song, a basic but functional kitchen, and a spacious deck that doubles as a lounge area with hammocks and plenty of seating. It’s a great place to land on yoga mats—whether moving through a few gentle flows or meditating while taking in the sounds of nature. And although a wood-fired sauna in the jungle seems an offbeat pairing, it’s highly rated by guests.
Best Treehouse Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Baez Haus At Finca Victoria, Vieques
Baez Haus At Finca Victoria
Accommodations: One bedroom, one bathroom
Who Will Love It: Yogis and free spirits who love tiny homes
All-Star Amenities: Complimentary morning yoga and Ayurvedic-vegan breakfast; access to communal spaces including the garden and sweet-water pool; wellness center; 24-hour drink station; boutique
What Not To Miss: A herbal bath at the wellness center and stargazing from the pavilion
Location: Vieques
Puerto Rico's stunning outer-lying island of Vieques provides the setting for this three-level tree house, which doesn’t skimp on details (memory foam mattresses are luxury hotel-quality, and toiletries organic). The property impressively packs in a spacious living area and upstairs queen-sized bedroom with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that give way to cool Caribbean breezes and fantastic ocean views. Downstairs, there's an outdoor shower and patio with a hammock for relaxing, while the outdoor kitchen features essentials including a mini-fridge, stove top, French Press and local coffee. Being part of Finca Victoria, Airbnb guests can enjoy communal spaces and borrow books and boardgames when not out exploring the island—although the towns of Isabel Segunda and Esperanza, plus some of Vieques' best beaches, are all just a short drive away. Borrow loaner picnic blankets, coolers, beach bags and towels to make a day of it.
Best Oceanfront Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Villa Morivivi, Rio Grande
Villa Morivivi
Accommodations: Two bedrooms, one bathroom
Who Will Love It: Families of four or traveling couples
All-Star Amenities: Beach access and essentials; TV with cable; washer and dryer; free parking
What Not To Miss: SUPing before breakfast and swinging in one of the hammocks at sunset
Location: Rio Grande
Take ten steps from Villa Morivivi and your feet will touch the sand and salt water. Newly constructed last year, this beautifully appointed Atlantic Ocean-facing home has two bedrooms (a queen and loft king with sea views) but can sleep up to six. Its Río Grande location offers a 35 minute drive to San Juan and a 10 minute drive to El Yunque for waterfall hikes and zipline adventures—if you can bear to leave the property. Thanks to a nearby reef, the beach is excellent for swimming or using one of the house paddle boards or mask and snorkel sets. Hammocks slung between palm trees are a prime spot for enjoying the sunset, while it's easy to picture yourself grilling, dining and sipping co*cktails on the outdoor terrace. There's just one bathroom (although the outdoor shower helps for rinsing off sandy feet), an open-plan style kitchen meets living space and an indoor dining area that can comfortably seat four.
Most Unique Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Bubble Dome Surrounded By Nature, Ponce
Bubble Dome Surrounded By Nature
Accommodations: One bedroom, one bathroom
Who Will Love It: Solo travelers and couples looking for something different
All-Star Amenities: Private heated plunge pool; patio or balcony; free parking; AC
What Not To Miss: Sunning beside the pool and night sky gazing from the suspended net canopy
Location: Ponce
Futuristic inflatable “glamping” domes have dominated Instagram feeds for several years now, and this bubble stay in the countryside, a short drive from “museum city” Ponce on Puerto Rico’s southern coast, is a top-rated guest favorite. Surrounded by sugar cane, pomarosa trees and exotic flowers, each bubble room features a queen-size four-poster bed with curtains for privacy and a silently compressed air conditioner. Outside, there’s a heated private pool with sun loungers that looks towards the river and a basic outdoor kitchen where it’s possible to make drinks or prepare simple dishes. You’ll bathe and shower outside here, too. Whether coming to spend quality time with a partner or alone, it’s an inspiring environment to unplug (there’s no Wi-Fi) while reconnecting with the natural world for a day or two.
Best Airbnb In Old San Juan: Villa Blanca Apartment, Old San Juan
Villa Blanca Apartment
Accommodations: Two bedrooms, two bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Fans of traditional Spanish architecture
All-Star Amenities: Location, location, location; Smart TV; Wi-Fi; AC
What Not To Miss: People watching from the balcony and strolling to restaurants and historic sites
Location: Old San Juan
Located on one of Old San Juan’s famed blue cobblestone streets, this elegant Colonial-style apartment is just steps from Plaza de Armas and a short walk from historic sites like El Morro Fort and waterside promenade Paseo de la Princesa. With two good-sized bedrooms and one and a half baths it can comfortably sleep four. The updated kitchen has all you need for fixing breakfast and easy meals, although with so many local bars and restaurants (including breakfast staple La Bombonera) on your doorstep, the pull to venture out to eat and drink might be stronger. Cathedral ceilings and ornate doors add to the historic appeal while artwork adds a subtle splash of color and despite the apartment’s proximity to the center of town many reviewers note how quiet and peaceful stays here feel. Parking isn’t included and although paid lots and garages can be found nearby, it's recommended to take a rideshare from the airport.
Best Airbnb Near El Yunque: Selva Rainforest Retreat, El Yunque
Selva Rainforest Retreat
Accommodations: Three bedrooms, three bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Nature-seekers looking for a magical escape who appreciate modernist design
All-Star Amenities: Heated swimming pool; HDTV with Roku; Bluetooth sound system; fast Wi-Fi; beach essentials; pets allowed
What Not To Miss: Swims in the saltwater pool and stargazing from the gazebo
Location: El Yunque
Surrounded by a private hiking trail, this upscale hideaway in the El Yunque Rainforest feels deliciously remote and secluded, yet is under an hour from San Juan and a short drive to the Blue Flag Luquillo Beaches. Framed by mountain and ocean views, modernist architectural details abound outside, while its interiors feel clean and spacious and feature natural materials, including lime-wash walls, custom concrete and wood furniture. Each of the three bedrooms has a brutalist-style ensuite bathroom with an outdoor shower. With a striking pool deck and gazebo, you'll want to spend plenty of time outdoors—swimming, sunbathing, sitting beside the fire pit, stargazing, and listening to the coqui tree frogs at night. After booking, guests can access a digital guide that highlights standout local sights—nearby waterfalls and the El Yunque National Forest, the best places to eat and the bioluminescent bay in Fajardo (one of only five bio bays in the world), which is 20 minutes away.
Best Airbnb For Design Lovers In Puerto Rico: Luxury Ocean Park Residence, San Juan
Luxury Ocean Park Residence
Accommodations: Three bedrooms, three bathrooms
Who Will Love It: Anyone who appreciates aesthetically pleasing interiors that feel like home
All-Star Amenities: Plunge pool and hot tub; beach access; Wi-Fi and TV with Roku; washer and dryer
What Not To Miss: Mornings or afternoons spent lounging poolside
Location: San Juan
This tastefully designed three-bedroom, three-bath luxury condo in the coveted Ocean Park neighborhood really has it all being within walking distance of San Juan’s best beach, great local restaurants and boasting an exceptional outdoor living space with a private pool. From the bedrooms (two queens and one bunk) and bathrooms to a designated work area, the house provides ample space to sleep, get ready and meet deadlines with design details and carefully curated amenities. Whether on a family vacation, work retreat or traveling with friends, the outdoor pool area is just as lovely a place to spend time as the tropically-inspired living room with its comfy sofa and Smart TV. Although a quick rideshare away from Condado and Old San Juan and within a few minutes’ walk of neighborhood stores and restaurants, the modern kitchen has new appliances and plenty of counter space for cooking and eating family-style around the dining table or al fresco on the pool terrace.
About Keri Bridgwater, Your Puerto Rico Airbnb Guide
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit and write about beautiful hotels around the world since 2019. Indie boutique properties and wellness resorts often top my wish list, but I love fluffy robes and slippers in five-star grand dames too. I’ve been intrigued with Puerto Rico ever since I read The Rum Diary in my twenties, and I explored many corners of the enchanting island including historic Old San Juan on a recent trip. I’m based in San Diego but often on assignment, and have contributed to InsideHook, Marie Claire, Yoga Journal, Fodor’s, Modern Luxury and London’s Evening Standard, among others.
