La Concha Resort joins Autograph Collection after $80 million transformation, marking new era in Puerto Rico hospitality

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

June 16, 2025

San Juan’s iconic La Concha Resort has officially reopened under a new name and elevated identity following a sweeping $80.2 million renovation.

Now operating as La Concha Resort, Puerto Rico, an Autograph Collection Hotel, the transformation marks the resort’s entry into Marriott Bonvoy’s esteemed Autograph Collection portfolio, becoming the first property in Puerto Rico to join the globally recognised premium brand.

The extensive renovation has ushered in a new chapter for the beloved beachfront retreat, situated in the heart of the vibrant Condado district. Designed to honour the resort’s storied history while reimagining it for the future, the project includes a complete refresh of the resort’s Suite Tower, now featuring 238 redesigned suites.

Created by award-winning Celano Design Studio, the interiors draw inspiration from the resort’s oceanfront location and tropical modernist aesthetic. Each suite now features floor-to-ceiling windows, marble flooring in residential-style bathrooms, private balconies, and calming interiors in soft whites, greys, bone and teal. Carefully curated design details such as sculptural decor inspired by native Puerto Rican flora and polished bar carts stocked with local rum reflect a stylish celebration of the island’s spirit.

“This is a landmark moment for La Concha and for Puerto Rico’s premium hospitality scene,” said Mike Rivera, General Manager of the resort. “The renovation and transition to the Autograph Collection allows us to elevate every aspect of our guests’ experience, from design to culinary offerings and wellness.”

The resort’s inclusion in the Autograph Collection is a significant milestone for Marriott International’s presence in the Caribbean. Brian King, President of Marriott International for the Caribbean and Latin America, called the opening a testament to Puerto Rico’s growing appeal as a destination that blends rich culture, natural beauty, and vibrant energy. He praised La Concha’s transformation as embodying the individuality and authenticity that defines the Autograph Collection.

As part of its reinvention, La Concha has introduced a number of new guest experiences. A standout feature is the resort’s interactive signature cocktail programme, launching in the newly redesigned lobby bar. Guests can craft personalised drinks based on their mood—ranging from Adventurous to Life of the Party—selecting from five house-made infusions for a bespoke and engaging start to the evening. Non-alcoholic versions are also available.

The culinary offering at the resort has also undergone a dramatic transformation. In March 2025, Levant by Chef Michael White opened within La Concha’s iconic shell-shaped structure, delivering a Mediterranean fine dining experience led by the Michelin-starred chef. The hotel also welcomed Tekka Bar, a lively lobby venue specialising in handrolls and sake, late last year. Later this summer, the new oceanfront restaurant AQA is set to open, providing a sophisticated all-day dining experience for guests and locals alike.

The evolution of La Concha also extends to wellness. The newly introduced Elemara Spa & Salon opened at the end of 2024 and has quickly become a sanctuary of calm within the property. Inspired by the natural elements, Elemara offers an array of holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Guests can also take advantage of a programme of daily private wellness sessions, yoga, and fitness activities designed to complement the resort’s serene setting.

While embracing calm and refinement, La Concha remains one of San Juan’s most dynamic destinations for nightlife and entertainment. Guests can try their luck at Casino del Mar, now home to Puerto Rico’s first BetMGM Sportsbook, or dance into the early hours at the ever-popular Fifty Eight Nightclub, a mainstay of Condado’s social scene.

To mark its transformation, the resort is launching an exclusive package titled “The Ultimate Unveiling”, available for booking from 15 June through 1 October 2025. Designed to showcase the full La Concha experience, the four-night offer includes luxury Oceanfront Suite accommodation, a $1,000 resort credit, 65,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in honour of the resort’s 65-year legacy, a sunset tasting dinner for two at Levant, Signature Core Massages at Elemara, a private photo shoot and in-suite style experience, Champagne by the pool, daily breakfast at AQA, and roundtrip private airport transfers.

Rolando Padua, President of Paulson Puerto Rico, said the relaunch was about more than renovation—it represents a commitment to both preserving heritage and driving the future of hospitality on the island. “As the first Autograph Collection property in Puerto Rico, this milestone reinforces our role as pioneers in redefining the island’s tourism landscape, while contributing to its sustainable economic growth,” he said.

The resort’s integration into Marriott Bonvoy enables members to earn and redeem points across stays and purchases, while enjoying personalisation and ease through the Marriott Bonvoy app. With its fresh design, immersive guest programming, and prime beachfront location, La Concha Resort is poised to remain a cornerstone of luxury travel in the Caribbean.