When Hilton HHonors asked me to be a part of the Great Getaway Campaign, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. But when presented with a trip to Puerto Rico which included 2 other bloggers AND relaxation would be the focus. Um, yes, sign me up.
When making the airline reservations, I was determined to stay in Puerto Rico as long as I could, despite the fact that I would be returning on Father’s Day. I mean, if I’ve already missed most of the holiday, a few more hours wouldn’t be that bad, right? Fortunately, I have an amazing husband and a 5 yr old who took special care of her Daddy!
So, unlike Emilie and Jeni, I had until noon to do something that hadn’t been on the amazing itinerary…..spend time on the beach at Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar – Beach & Golf Resort! I was going to take full advantage of the morning hours.
After a quick breakfast and saying goodbye, I made a beeline for my hotel room to change and grab my new Hilton HHonors beach bag filled with sunscreen and water.
When you leave the hotel area and head outdoors, this is what you’ll see. An area where you can see both pool and ocean, along with amazing palm trees. While Paradise Cafe, indoors, is available for breakfast and dinner, the Blue Seahorse Pool Bar & Grill is where you can grab a bite to eat for lunch or in-between meals.
This was mid-June and while there were plenty of guests, the resort really had a feel to it that it was not crowded at all. I adored that, as I’m not a big fan of overcrowded beaches.
Flora and Fauna. So colorful. Beautiful.
Here’s the view if you are sitting at the Blue Seahorse. I would have loved to jump in, but the beach called to me more.
I wanted to see just how family-friendly the resort was, as I am seriously considering coming back soon with my husband and 5 yr old.
There is a great play area with small pool just outside the main pool area. It’s not totally separate and is real close, so you must keep an eye on your kiddos. The main pool does have a zero-entry side to it, perfect for children who are learning how to swim or are comfortable in very shallow water.
Toys! Yes, there is a cabana outside where you can check out towels and large water toys for the ocean area. There are even paddle boats!
Best of all, parents can rest assured that beach access is restricted. You must have your resort key to exit and enter the gate.
The beach was calling my name…………
I took my orange toes and headed to the sandy beach, and oh, what a beach it was. In Texas, we have beaches, but nothing like this. In fact, I rarely, if ever, have seen seashells or colorful rocks on a beach.
Here, I found several small seashells. I was so impressed. This was a real beach with views of the Atlantic Ocean.
What I loved most about this particular beach area is that it was protected. I’m not talking about the beach so much as the ocean. As with resorts I’ve seen elsewhere, this area had rocks jetting out into the ocean which formed a protective cove where you’d have access to fish and ocean-life, but wouldn’t have to worry so much about the dangers of rip-tides, etc.
There was one family out in a paddle boat and other group snorkeling in this cove. Oh, how I wished I could have joined them, but the clock was ticking and I didn’t exactly want wet clothing in the suitcase.
I did find the most peaceful spot off to the side where a bench was just waiting for me. Had I stayed any longer, this is where you’d likely find me. So relaxing.
Of course, before I left to pack my suitcase, I had to have a bit of fun! 🙂
A huge thank you to Hilton HHonors for this incredible opportunity.
Travel could be in your future too!
Great Getaway Giveaway
The Great Getaway Giveaway is going on right now…..yes, you can vote (and possibly win) an “Adventure” themed vacation right now! (TIP: can enter daily). Future themes include Culture and Food/Wine.
Check out my first post, I’m Puerto Rico Bound with Hilton HHonors, for more details!
Great Getaway Deals
Plus, the Hilton HHonors Great Getaway Campaign has amazing deals at Hilton Worldwide’s 10 distinct hotel brands. FYI – I spotted prices for the Embassy Suites Dorado del Mar – Beach & Golf Resort, where we stayed, from $129 per night (includes full breakfast) as part of the Hilton HHonors Great Getaway Campaign!
Miss any of my Puerto Rico Posts?
And if you missed Puerto Rico – Arrival Day, and Day 2 – Sailing the Island and more, be sure to check it out!
(This is a sponsored post as part of a campaign for Hilton HHonors. All opinions are my own.)
So. Pretty. Looks amazing…someday I will get there.
What a beautiful beach! Looks like you really enjoyed the time to yourself too. 🙂
looks divine! ah… love that it’s family friendly too.
Looks like the perfect getaway!!
That beach looks gorgeous!
Thank you for sharing, it looks like a truly beautiful place to visit!
Looks like you really made use of those extra two hours. Wish I could have stayed with you!
I know, Emilie! I wish you could have too……