San Juan prides itself on its plentiful clean and comfortable accommodations, and hoteliers, by and large, aim to please. Big hotels and resorts, several with casinos, and a few smaller establishments line the sandy strands along Condado and Isla Verde. If you want to do little but relax on the beach, enjoy ample resort amenities, and partake in lively nightlife, either area is a good option. Between them, the Ocean Park neighborhood has homey inns, as do Miramar and Santurce, although the latter two areas aren't directly on the beach. They're likely to be more popular with independent travelers, artistic types, and anyone who wants to stay a little bit off the beaten tourist track. Old San Juan has fewer lodging options, only one of which has a casino, but most of the city's best boutique hotels are here. If you’re a history or architecture buff or looking for a unique romantic experience, definitely stay in one of these colonial inns; many of their structures date back several hundred years, and you'll feel as if you’ve been transported to another era (even though most have flat-screen televisions and Wi-Fi). Keep in mind, though, that these buildings are old and Puerto Rico's climate is tropical, so minor inconveniences like room mustiness or ongoing repairs are possible. Also consider Old San Juan if you’re in town for a cruise, since the main cruise piers are within walking distance. Wherever you stay, keep in mind that all guest rooms are now no-smoking.
Staying in a self-catering apartment or condo has advantages over a resort, especially for families, mainly due to the considerable autonomy of more residential lodging. For example, the option to cook for yourself means you can eat when and what you want. Several companies represent such properties in San Juan. When booking, be sure to ask about maid service, swimming pools, and any other amenities that are important to you.
AirBnB rentals are abundant in San Juan (and throughout Puerto Rico) and have become very popular with travelers. You can rent everything from from low-budget apartments to mansions near the beach to colonial homes in Old San Juan—the options are varied. If you decide to rent through AirBnB or any other online service, ensure that you complete your rental through the company; you run greater risks and do not receive any buyer protection by making side deals with home or apartment owners.
