Casa Verde Hotel

In an area packed with downmarket surfer crash-pads, Casa Verde stands out for the right reasons -- though it doesn't always eschew the lively party vibe of the local area. From a style standpoint, the hotel is designed like a motel, with two levels and exterior hallways. However, the bold, Miami Art Deco Revival style adds a healthy dose of contemporary flair to ensure that it feels nothing like a typical motel. Many design elements -- a stark white exterior, bright green trim, and brushed metal staircases and railings -- recall accents found in more upscale South Beach hotels. The result is a look and feel that’s one step above almost every other hotel and guesthouse in the area. The upmarket, dinner-only restaurant and lovely outdoor pool add a sense of sophistication. Both areas are typically relaxed and low-key. However, the on-site Kahuna Burger Bar often attracts a party-hard, locals-heavy crowd. The atmosphere can become downright raucous, particularly during high season or American spring break holidays.

Casa Verde Hotel is situated along Route 413 -- a popular road that runs parallel to the famous surfer beaches of Rincon. The area’s beautiful public beaches (including Turtle Beach and Punta Gorda), plus a handful of restaurants and bars are within a five- to 10-minute walk. Punta Higuero Lighthouse, Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, and Playa Domes (one of Rincon’s most famous surf beaches) are all less than 10 minutes southwest by car.

Assuming light traffic, the hotel is 30-40 minutes by car to the airports in Mayaguez (MAZ) or Aguadilla (BQN). The hotel does not provide airport shuttle service. Taxis can prove to be the most convenient form of transportation. However, many cabs do not use standard meters, so it’s important to confirm the fare before heading out. Brand name rental car counters are also available at both airports with weekly rates that are affordable and on-par with other Caribbean tourist destinations.

Much of the property, including each of the 19 rooms, underwent heavy renovations in 2015. The current decor is bold and ultra-contemporary with bright blue or pea green accent colors, espresso wood furniture, and crisp white linens. Overall it feels stylish and clean, and more reminiscent of modern design trends found in big city hotels. Ocean-inspired photographs or bold abstract canvases hang on the otherwise white walls. All in all, the rooms here are a big step up from what's on offer in this no-frills part of Puerto Rico.

The hotel offers four room categories: Standard and Superior Rooms, Junior Suites, and Suites. Entry-level Standard and Superior Rooms provide similar square footage comparable to a typical, mid-range hotel room, though Standard Rooms can be quite narrow. The former includes a queen bed and shared balcony while the latter offers a king-size bed, semi-private balcony, and (optional) mini-fridge. Both suite categories feature a split layout -- with separate sleeping and living quarters -- that’s at least 50% larger than both entry-level room types. Suites also offer additional amenities like a microwave and mini-fridge. Beds are well-reviewed as comfortable in all categories. Flat-screen TVs with satellite television, air-conditioning, electronic safes, and Wi-Fi are available in all rooms. We found the internet to be fast and reliable during our visit.

Bathrooms in all categories feature similar contemporary decor, with espresso-stained shelving and vanities contrasting stark white surfaces. The stand-up shower stalls are done with upscale touches like floor-to-ceiling tile and there are colorful mosaic tile accents plus partially recessed sinks in most bathrooms. Generic, pump-style bath amenities are standard.

As a small, mid-range property, the list of common amenities is brief, though far more than what's on offer at other nearby hotels. The hotel is serviced by two distinctly different restaurants. Saltaire offers upmarket, dinner-only service in a casual, open-air space -- reservations are recommended. The menu primarily features steaks and locally caught seafood. Unfortunately, the space is only open seasonally for a few brief months during the high season each year. Across the street, Kahuna Burger Bar offers year-round lunch and dinner service. The space features an outdoor, second story deck plus an open-air bar bedecked in funky, surfer-inspired decor. While the menu focuses on specialty burgers, salads, sandwiches, and other bar food are also available. The restaurant attracts locals and hard-partying tourists who often drink and carry on well after midnight, especially on the weekends.

The on-site pool area is small, though adequate given the hotel’s capacity. There's a small waterfall at one end and a tiny swim-up bar (surprising for such a small hotel) offers a modest drink menu of beer, wine, and cocktails. A handful of lounge chairs plus a couple of umbrellas provide adequate shaded seating. Free self-parking is provided in an off-street lot. The property lacks full-time security, however, the surrounding neighborhood is safe and quiet. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.