Benítez was born in the town of Aguadilla to José Benítez Bermudez and Juana Constanza Batista Rodriguez. She was the second eldest of six brothers and sisters. Her father was a lieutenant in the Spanish Army who was famous for having successfully defended San Juan against an English invasion. Her family loved literature and owned a private library which contained a collection of the best books available at the time. Her father could afford such a luxury since in addition to commanding the military garrison in Ponce, he also served as a sub-delegate to the Royal Intendancy, an important position within the Spanish colonial government, as well as a mayor of the city, meaning that he controlled both the military and civilian powers in one of the island's largest cities. Benítez was able to attend the best private schools where she learned about poetry and composition. María read and studied the classics of the Spanish Golden Age, fostering a fondness for poetry. She remained faithful to Spain, the mother country of Puerto Rico, and King Fernando VII. She was inspired by the Spanish writers Luis de León and Pedro Claderón de la Barca.