DHJ

Hello,
My husband and I are planning an anniversary trip to Puerto Rico, staying 6 nights. We would like advice on where to base our stay. We like sightseeing - will want to see Old San Juan and other areas with "history" (San German) as well as hiking in the El Yunque rain forest. We like good food and music but not necessarily "night life." And, although we want some beach time, we don't do water sports (no snorkeling, surfing, or swimming) - we'd like a beach mainly for the views and relaxing. I expect we'll need to rent a car. So, where is the "best" place to stay - perhaps outside of San Juan? I'd appreciate any suggestions!

KVR

We are going to PR for our vacation this year in November. After several months of research, we have decided on the Marriott Stellaris Condado. That area is within walking distance to restaurants, bars, shopping and entertainment. The beach in that area can be rough and non-swimmable, but we prefer the pool over the ocean anyway. San Juan is about a 15 minute cab ride away.

The Isla Verda area has the better beach, but more laid back and not as many dining options. It's also further away from San Juan. I have read many, many reviews that the cost of food and drinks in any of the hotels/resorts is overly expensive, so being closer to dining options outside of the hotel was key for us.

We don't rent cars on vacation, but prefer guided tours. However, drving in that area to get to various things is recommended. It's just a matter of preference. Some people prefer to split there stay between areas so having a car is beneifical to get around. The additional areas outside of Condado, Isla Verde and San Juan can be isolated.

There are also day trips offered to Culebra and Vieques that we plan on doing while there.

PlumeriaTattoo

We stayed at the Wyndham Rio Mar and absolutely loved it. Nice restaurants and bar, great rooms (especially if you get one with a view.) Close to San Juan, but more quiet and relaxed. Two beautiful pools (1 is adults only, no kids) with views of their gorgeous beach. You are right in the middle between Old San Juan and Fajardo where you can take a boat cruise over to Culebra or Vieques if you'd like. The beach and kiosks at Luquillo are also very close and enjoyable, as is El Yunque. You do need a car if you stay at this resort however, unless you don't plan on leaving the grounds, or always want to rely on cabs. There is also a small casino at the hotel if you are into that. We'd stay at this hotel again if we come back to PR.

coqui_07

If you want to be close to metro area and a taxi ride away from Old San Juan, then hotels in Condado or Isla Verde.

If you are OK with renting a car then hotels like Rio Mar (Rio Grande) or the El Conquistador (would be options).

Things to do:
Plenty of restaurants in Old San Juaan, Condado, Isla Verde and if staying near Fajardo there are a few worth checking out

Spend some time walking around Old San Juan

Check out El Yunque (get there early) followed by Luquillo beach

If moon phase is right then an evening Bio Bay tour (either near Fajardo or take the boat tour over to the one on Vieques)

Guavate is a good trip for lunch - it's the best place to get Puerto Rico's spit roasted pork "LECHON" - the p[lace gets very busy on weekends and holidays, so it is best to get there before noon - also during the week it is quieter but there are less places open

If you do rent a car, you could always split the trip and spend a few days on the west coast in say Rincon - if not it is possible to do a day trip over there but it will be a long day

have fun

DebitNM

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