10th Anniversary Getaway to Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Working at The Travel Maestro, I'm fortunate to help curate unforgettable journeys for our clients, but some trips stand out for their sheer magic and beauty. Recently, I had the honor of experiencing a 10th wedding anniversary celebration that was nothing short of extraordinary. Along with our best friends Patrick and Kathryn Millard, who were also celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary, my husband and I took a short flight from Amelia Island, Florida. The destination? The breathtaking Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico. A hidden sanctuary of elegance, privacy, and natural beauty… And the perfect setting to mark a decade of love.

A beautiful welcome was waiting for us

Upon arrival, the seamless transition from airport to resort instantly signaled that we were stepping into a different kind of luxury. The warm Puerto Rican sun, the scent of tropical flowers, and the sound of the native Coquí frogs set the tone. We were greeted by name with a house-made guava popsicle and were led on a brief tour, starting at the shops and ending at the impeccable pool deck overlooking the ocean.

Our accommodations were two beachfront guest rooms, just steps from the ocean. Picture soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, an outdoor rainforest shower, and private plunge pools overlooking the water. Every detail felt thoughtfully considered, from the handwoven textures to the curated minibar of Puerto Rican delicacies. It was the perfect place to celebrate such a romantic and important milestone.

While serenity reigned at the Reserve, one afternoon we decided to embrace a bit of playful energy and ventured to the nearby Dorado Water Park. Just a short golf cart or bike ride from the resort, the park is a fun and lively contrast to the calm of the beach, perfect for families or adults looking to share a few laughs and relive carefree moments. We floated side by side in the lazy river, sprayed each other with water while on motorized boats, raced down waterslides, and enjoyed tropical snow cones like kids again. It reminded us that luxury isn’t always about stillness. Sometimes, it’s about letting go and playing together.

While the beach itself is a dream, the resort’s signature infinity pool is a sanctuary. We spent our days reading under the umbrellas and relaxing in the plush loungers. It was a welcome escape from our busy lives back home. The pool staff was attentive and anticipated every need, from chilled eucalyptus-scented towels to handcrafted cocktails delivered without ever needing to ask.

The highlight of the trip for me was Spa Botánico, one of the most extraordinary spa experiences I’ve encountered. Tucked within a tropical garden and inspired by the island’s deep-rooted traditions, the spa blends nature with nurture. Before the treatment even begins, you're encouraged to relax by utilizing the outdoor showers, relaxation room, sauna shed, cold plunge, hot tub, and splash buckets all tucked into the lush, Puerto Rican landscape. After enjoying my Deep Tissue Massage in the incredibly spacious and beautiful treatment rooms, I visited the pineapple garden before heading back to relax in the hot tub.

One of the biggest (and most delicious) surprises during our stay at Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve was just how incredible the food was. Every meal felt thoughtful, fresh, and beautifully done in one of the most stunning settings imaginable.

We started most mornings at COA, the resort’s main restaurant. Breakfasts there are next level, fresh tropical fruit, buttery pastries, and made-to-order eggs or avocado toast with a Caribbean twist. The coffee was rich, smooth Puerto Rican roast with just the right amount of boldness. 

My favorite restaurant on the property was Positivo Sand Bar. It’s right on the beach, and the vibe is totally relaxed. Think craft cocktails, sushi rolls, and ceviche with your toes in the sand. We spent a few sunsets there sipping martinis and sharing bites while the sky turned pink and gold.

There’s something transformative about celebrating life’s milestones in a place that is both grounding and elevated, especially when alongside your best friends. Dorado Beach doesn’t just offer luxury. It offers space to reconnect, to reflect, and to dream about what’s to come.

Whether you're planning a milestone anniversary, a honeymoon, or soulful escape with friends, Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is more than a destination. It’s a love letter to nature, to service, and to the moments that matter most.