Río Grande Plantation Eco Resort (Carr. 956, km 4.2, Guzmán Abajo, 787/887-2779 or 787/887-5822, fax 787/888-3239, info [at] riograndeplantation [dot] com, www.riograndeplantation.com, $136 s, $163–272 one-room villa, $272 two-room villa, plus 9 percent tax) is a unique, rustic property at the base of the Caribbean National Forest. It features 22 accommodations that run the gamut from single rooms to two-level villas with balconies overlooking the Río Grande.

The buildings are a tad shabby and the furnishings a bit worn, but most rooms are large and comfortable and feature modern bathrooms, satellite TV, VCRs, air-conditioning, and kitchenettes. Amenities include a swimming pool, a basketball court, a game room, a business office, and several large event pavilions. What really makes this property interesting is its massive grounds, which have been left in their natural wooded state and feature several hiking trails. Las Tasqueria serves a modest menu daily 11 a.m.–11 p.m. This is a popular family vacation spot for Puerto Rican families.

Gran Melia Puerto Rico (1000 Coco Beach Blvd., Carr. 3 at Carr. 955, 787/809-1770 or 866/436-3542, fax 787/807-1785, www.gran-melia-puerto-rico.com, $169–350 s/d, plus taxes and resort fees) is a large 500-unit luxury resort, formerly known as Paradisus Puerto Rico. All accommodations are suites or villas and come with balconies or terraces, marble baths, air-conditioning, hair dryers, room safes, minibars, satellite TV, high-speed Internet, and room service. It has three restaurants serving Puerto Rican, Asian, and Italian fare, as well as two bars. Amenities include a lovely lagoon-style swimming pool, a spa and health club, three lighted tennis courts, and access to Trump International Golf Clubs. Guests can upgrade to what’s called Royal Service to receive butler service and access to a private lounge and adults-only pool.