The Palace didn't start as a luxury hotel but rather a private residence. But now it is open to the public to get a glimpse of what it must be like to live like royalty! The location is ideal. The Cliff House is literally built into the ocean-side cliff. The main building (The Palace) is set back across wonderful landscaping and terraced walkways with fantastic views. A third building (the guesthouse) has 4 guest rooms as well.
This is an ideal location for a relaxing and private vacation. Meals are set out by the staff on the back porch which receives a wonderful breeze all day. Other covered porches and gazebos offer relief from the sun when needed. The pool is comfortable and refreshing. Local wildlife includes resident chickens and peacocks.
However, all of these amazing facilities pale in comparison to the tremendous staff whose only mission seems to be to pamper you and make you feel like you are the only guests in the hotel. To be fair, on two nights, we were. But the morning, afternoon, and evening staff were attentive, courteous, helpful, polite and right there whenever they were needed. The service is truly world-class--unmatched at all but the most exclusive luxury international hotels.
Details: Location on the ocean, not as some Google Maps put it in Rio San Juan. Look for the kidney-shaped pool. ATM available in town; staff will give you a ride. Get a ride from airport thru the hotel to save hassle; meal plan available at hotel too.