The Dreamcatcher

Ever-burning incense and wall decals with phrases like “you are living your story” prove the Dreamcatcher Guest House is the poster-boy for New Age spirituality. Airy common areas, swaying hammocks, and pleasant water features create an undeniably calm atmosphere, while the design forward spaces are stylish and inspired.From labels that make navigating the kitchen cabinets a breeze, to hand-drawn maps of the neighborhood set out in guest rooms, thoughtful details are found everywhere. You can sense the attentive care taken in maintaining the property, and it seems to inspire the guests, who are good about returning a plate or bar of soap to its place in the shared kitchens and bathrooms.Most guests are young couples or solo travelers, mainly from Europe and the United States. Children must be at least eight years old. The common areas are ideally laid-out for socializing or for finding a private spot to relax alone. With requested quiet hours, it’s definitely not a good match for guests looking to party. 

The Dreamcatcher is set in a residential area of Ocean Park. The picturesque sands of Ocean Park Beach -- a popular spot for kite surfing and swimming -- are a two-minute walk away. There are a number of restaurants, bars, shops, and grocery stores found within a 10-minute walk. Most establishments in this area are geared toward locals rather than tourists, and the overall atmosphere is fairly low-key. The buzzing tourist district of Condado can be reached in less than 20 minutes on foot, and the equally lively Isla Verde area is about a 10-minute drive. Old San Juan can be reached in about 20 minutes by car, while Luis Munoz Marin International Airport is a 10-minute drive from here.

Rooms at the Dreamcatcher are individually decorated, but bold wall colors and eye-catching fabrics are common features throughout. The decor leans toward whimsy, with decorative plates or framed antique keys on the walls, and retro TVs and radios (non-functioning) as statement pieces. The collectibles are wonderfully arranged, a curated collection of knickknacks, and several of these items were passed down from the founder’s grandmother. Most rooms incorporate greenery in some way, whether in the form of hanging plants or potted cacti. Many rooms include extra chairs, hammocks, and desks, and all feature at least one dreamcatcher. This careful attention to design continues in the bathrooms, which might include jade statues or sinks with gilded fleur-de-lis patterns. Some rooms have gorgeous wooden showers set on large outdoor terraces, along with separate toilets, which may be indoors or outside. Terraces overlook the neighborhood or guest house grounds, and offer chairs and hammocks for seating. Some rooms have immaculate shared bathrooms. 

The Dreamcatcher is set amid charming, garden-filled grounds. Quiet sitting areas with hammocks or tables and chairs are found nestled in between fruit trees, softly gurgling fountains, and serene-looking statues. There are two communal kitchens, which are well-stocked with cookware and cutlery. Both feature full-size fridges with shelves set aside for each guest room. Spices, seasonings, oils, and dressings are free for guests to use, and one kitchen includes a stove and oven. Both kitchens are centered on large island countertops, which offer ample space for prepping meals. The kitchens are pescatarian, which means guests are free to prepare fish but not meat. A grill is available in the garden for those who wish to cook meat. A one- or three-course vegan or vegetarian brunch is offered every morning for an additional charge. The brunch menu changes daily, and it’s served in a lovely dining area with large windows overlooking the garden.  The lobby also functions as a small gift shop that sells locally-made soaps, clothing, and jewelry. This area opens up into a breezy common area, which is filled with more distinctive artwork and knickknacks. A box of assorted teas is set on one table, while another table is stocked with jugs of coffee. There are a few board games that guests can borrow, as well as snacks and beverages available for sale.  The guest house offers twice daily yoga classes, with a suggested donation as the charge. Salsa classes and dinner parties featuring local musicians are often hosted here as well. Massages, laundry services, and bike rentals are available for additional fees. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and parking is offered on the street in front of the property. Free beach chairs and umbrellas are also offered.