Why Isla Verde Is the Ultimate Destination for Puerto Rico With Kids (+ How We Stayed for Free!)

Planning a family vacation to Puerto Rico? Look no further than Isla Verde! This vibrant area offers stunning beaches, family-friendly activities, and incredible accommodations perfect for parents and kids alike.

During a recent Summer, we had an unforgettable family trip to Isla Verde, Puerto Rico, to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. Here’s everything we learned—from the best activities for kids to insider tips on making your trip as smooth as possible.

We also made this trip affordable by redeeming points from a Marriott credit card promotion. The year before travel, we signed up for a Marriott card that offered free nights (plus we accumulated additional points that covered 8 total nights!). If you’re interested, check out their current promotions here and feel free to reach out with any questions about our experience. Our entire 8-night stay was booked 100% on points!

Why Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico was the perfect destination for our family for several reasons:

1. No passports required for U.S. citizens.
2. We used Marriott points to book our stay at the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort, which checked all our boxes:
   • Gorgeous beachfront property.
   • Family-friendly amenities.
   • Proximity to top attractions like El Yunque National Forest and Old San Juan.

Our Isla Verde Family Itinerary

Here’s a quick look at how we planned our 8-night stay:

• Sunday: Late check-in at the hotel.
• Monday–Tuesday: Pool and beach days.
• Wednesday: Day trip to El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, and Icacos Island.
• Thursday: Visit Arecibo Observatory.
• Friday: Explore Old San Juan and relax at the hotel pool.
• Saturday-Sunday: More pool/beach time with a visit to the local splash pad.
• Monday: Fly home.

“Having kids is a reason to travel, never a reason to stop” – Anonymous

Room Recommendations

Our stay at the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort was exceptional! We booked a high-floor ocean-view room, which I highly recommend if it’s within your budget. Here are a few tips for choosing the best room:

• Request a room with an even-numbered view for a full beach experience.
• Rooms on lower floors may have partial views due to nearby buildings or rooftops.
• The hotel’s proximity to the airport means some plane noise, but it’s minimal and felt more like white noise to us.

Amenities

The resort is directly on Isla Verde Beach, offering easy access to:

• A palm-shaded pool area with a swim-up bar.
• Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas.
• Convenient beachside food and drink service.

Family-Friendly Activities in Isla Verde, Puerto Rico

Beach and Pool Fun

• The resort pool was a favorite for our kids, especially the swim-up bar and their snorkel gear.
• Bring your own pool floats and collapsible beach buckets to save money and keep the kids entertained.
• Note: The ocean can be a bit rough, so plan for shallow swims or head to calmer beaches on day trips.

Nearby Attractions

• Carolina Splash Pad (Parque Acuático Infantil Aquasol):
  • Entry: $4 per person/hour (open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 AM-5 PM).
  • Walking distance from the hotel (~1 mile).
  • Don’t forget a cover-up for women—it’s required here!

• Ocean Lab Brewing Co.:
  • A short 0.75-mile walk from the hotel.
  • Great beer, craft cocktails, and family-friendly dining.
• Playa Papaya:
  • A must-visit for breakfast, featuring delicious acai bowls.

Practical Tips for Traveling to Puerto Rico With Kids

• Bring cash for taxis, as many don’t accept credit cards
• WHEN LEAVING: Visit the USDA inspection area at the airport before checking in your bags. This saves you from last-minute delays.
• Arrive at least three hours early. Airport lines can be unpredictable, and food options may be limited (pack snacks!).

Final Thoughts

Puerto Rico and Isla Verde exceeded our expectations for a family vacation. The Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort provided the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring local attractions, or taking day trips to the island’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone.

We’re already planning our next trip back! Want more tips and insights? Follow us on Instagram here or check out our blog for updates.