Things To Do
in Dorado
Dorado sits on Puerto Rico’s northern coast just west of San Juan, blending resort luxury with pristine beaches. The town is known for its calm, white-sand shores, upscale golf courses, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. It serves as a convenient gateway to Puerto Rico’s natural and cultural sights, from rainforest hikes to coastal boardwalks.
Expect a warm tropical climate with seasonal showers and frequent coastal breezes year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Dorado Beach, soaking in the sun and the gentle ocean breeze. The soft sand invites you to relax while listening to the soothing sound of the waves. Don’t forget to enjoy an early morning swim in the crystal-clear waters.
After a leisurely morning, grab lunch at a nearby beachfront café serving local dishes. Spend your afternoon exploring the natural beauty of the area, perhaps trying out paddleboarding or kayaking. Let the vibrant colors of the ocean foliage invigorate your spirit.
As the sun begins to set, take a romantic stroll along the coast. Dine at a seaside restaurant, indulging in freshly caught seafood while watching the horizon turn golden. The night sky will soon be illuminated by stars, making for a magical end to the day.
Drive to nearby Old San Juan to experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Puerto Rico. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and historic forts. Don't forget to stop by a local café for authentic Puerto Rican coffee and pastries.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the history by visiting El Morro and San Cristóbal Forts, where you can take guided tours and explore the expansive grounds. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling mofongo or other traditional dishes. Spend some time shopping for handmade crafts and souvenirs in the charming boutiques.
Return to Dorado as twilight descends, finding a cozy spot for dinner. Savour the local cuisine while listening to live music, which often fills the air during the evenings. Conclude the night by enjoying a cocktail under the stars, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛏️Night in a mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $7-20 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut drink | $2-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and golf courses
- Compact size makes day trips easy
- Limited nightlife compared to San Juan
- Some services concentrated in resorts or San Juan area
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Dorado
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture golden-hour shots along the palm-lined beachfront with calm turquoise water.
Long stretches of sea, sand, and skies ideal for wide-angle beach photography.
Dunes, breakers, and dramatic horizons perfect for silhouettes at dawn.
Food in Dorado
Dorado Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A mashed plantain dish often filled with shrimp, pork, or chicken; look for it in local Puerto Rican eateries in Dorado and nearby towns.
Must-Try!
Rice with pigeon peas and sofrito, often served with pork; a staple at home-style Puerto Rican restaurants.
Roasted pork with crispy edges; common at festive gatherings and many restaurant menus.
Layered plantain lasagna with seasoned ground beef and cheese; found in Puerto Rican eateries and many family kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and Puerto Rican staples.
Casual beachfront stalls and food trucks offering quick bites like empanadillas, tostones, and fresh coconuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Spanish is predominant; greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Hola' and a friendly handshake.
Casual, comfortable beachwear is common near the coast; more formal eateries may appreciate modest attire.
Be reasonably punctual for social visits; tipping is customary in service settings.
Safety
Tipping in Dorado
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-20% is customary; check for a service charge on larger groups.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and tips; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May to October brings high humidity and warm seas; expect frequent quick tropical showers and hurricane season risk; bring reef-safe sunscreen and light clothing.
November to April offers cooler, comfortable temperatures with less rain; ideal for outdoor activities and golf with reduced humidity.
Dorado at Night
Hiking in Dorado
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular rainforest hike to a waterfall; easy to moderate terrain.
Tropical forest trails with ocean views in nearby towns.
Casual coastal trails along beaches and cliffs offering ocean panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Dorado by plane.
Main international gateway to Puerto Rico; about a 25-45 minute drive to Dorado depending on traffic.
Small airport in Isla Grande (San Juan area) offering regional flights; convenient for quick connections to the Dorado area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Puerto Rican families and retirees; growing number of visitors and expats drawn to the area.
Beach lovers, golfers, and families seeking resort-style relaxation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class oceanfront courses with dramatic views.
A staple of Puerto Rican culture with strong local interest.
Coastal breezes and calm waters support sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dorado.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Puerto Rican dishes can be adapted: request mofongo with vegetables, rice and beans, salads, and grilled vegetables. Ask for plantain-based sides when meat is present.