Coconut Palms Inn

From the outside, there's not much to set this apart from the area's many other budget hotels -- it's a motel-style property split into two floors. Once inside, though, there's an eclectic style that feels entirely appropriate for this authentically bohemian part of Puerto Rico. The decor is a mishmash of decades' worth of accumulated furnishings, linens, and accents that mostly match. Throughout the day, most guests congregate on the relatively large outdoor veranda that offers lovely sea views. This space becomes the de facto gathering area as the adjacent beach is lovely but not especially wide. While children are allowed on the property, the hotel is billed as “adult-oriented." The resulting atmosphere is quiet and relaxed.

The hotel is located on a quiet beachfront road dotted with small homes and guesthouses. The neighborhood is three blocks from Route 115, where there are dozens of bars, restaurants, and markets. A five-minute drive takes guests to central Rincon, with additional facilities and attractions. The El Faro Lighthouse at Punta Higuero, and Playa Domes (the area’s most popular surf beach), are 10 minutes away by car. It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive to San Juan.

The nearest airport -- Eugenio Maria De Hostos (MAZ) in Mayaguez -- is only 20 minutes away but offers limited connecting flights through San Juan International Airport (SJU). Rafael Hernandez Airport (BQN) provides more flight options but requires a 45-minute drive. It's worth renting a car to get around and explore the area, especially as taxi prices over long distances can be pricey.

Room decor includes an eclectic mix of furnishings that all come together to feel cheerful and charming, helped in part by being impeccably clean and well-kept. IKEA-esque dressers and wicker chairs occupy the same spaces as white-tile flooring and gold, metal-scroll headboards -- this, of course, varies from room to room. Some rooms are done with classy, carved hardwood furniture and bold fabrics that add even more charm. Expect to see a not subtle amount of ocean-themed knickknacks, though the look is homey rather than kitschy.

While the hotel offers just eight rooms, there are three main categories: Studios, Rooms, and Apartments, with each category offering either garden or ocean views. Studios and Apartments feature substantially larger floor plans with separate living and sleeping dining areas, and Apartments have a full kitchen. All provide a single queen- or king-size bed which is well-reviewed as comfortable in all categories. Each room also includes a microwave and refrigerator, a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, and free WI-Fi. We found the latter to be fast and stable during our visit. Some rooms have furnished outdoor space.

Bathrooms are clean and bright, although the fixtures and decor are equally eclectic. While each is uniquely designed, every bathroom feels a bit dated, with pale color palettes and fixtures that were stylish in the ‘90s. Stand-up shower stalls and generic bar soap are standard in every room.

The beach -- like all beaches in Puerto Rico -- is technically public. However, because of its sheer size, guests will likely find the sand in front of Coconut Palms Inn to be quiet and uncrowded. While there are no permanent beach facilities, the hotel provides free use of beach chairs, coolers, towels, and water toys. The condition of the water is highly dependent on the weather and time of year. It can be as smooth as glass in the morning but choppy and unswimmable the same afternoon.

A large verandah at the back of the property offers lovely sea views. Several dozen chairs and umbrellas provide ample shaded lounge space. A fully-applianced communal kitchen -- including a grill, sink, and refrigerator -- provides space for guests to relax and prepare their own meals. There is no off-street parking, though ample street parking is available directly in front of the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.