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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.
The onetime home of the Vanderbilt family has been restored to its grand, early-20th-century, Spanish revival style and transformed into this luxurious hotel. The marble lobby—with its original sweeping staircases, graceful arches, and striking chandeliers—exudes elegance. The rooms are spacious, and the service is impeccable. Take advantage of the hotel's several pools, cabanas, hammam spa, and fine-dining 1919 restaurant.
Opulent and luxurious, this adults-only Condado hotel has 26 lavish guest suites. Dazzling chandeliers and velvet, marble and gold accents can be found throughout the property. The rooftop has stunning views and a great bar with a Rolls Royce.
This hotel has all you need: a large pool with a swim up bar, stunning rooms, a great restaurant, a coffee and wine shop, excellent beach access, and so much more. Superclose to San Juan's main airport, the Royal Sonesta has an extremely clean, luxurious, and modern feel with amazing service to match the vibe. You'll get a wristband and a key (just in case the wristband doesn't match your outfit) to gain access to your room, the automated towel service, and other parts of the hotel. Make sure to get an ocean-view room for the most beautiful sunsets against the bright blue waters.
The shape and color of a cardboard box, this lively, popular hotel doesn't add much to the skyline of Condado, but step inside the impressive lobby—with its stunning coral sculpture carved from wood, chic spots for lounging, and welcoming bar—and you'll feel you've arrived in the Caribbean. The rooms also offer a bit of flair with tropical fabrics and bright colors, and there's a view of the ocean from most of the balconies. The high points are undoubtedly the pair of pools, which add a bit of whimsy with their gushing fountains and swirling mural. Plus, the resort's stretch of beach is arguably the best in the neighborhood.
This hotel is located directly across from the convention center. It is the accommodation of choice for event hosts, in part because of its rooftop infinity pool, but also because it's close to all the action but sufficiently insulated from the noise. There is a casino on the first floor as well as seven dining experiences, including Texas de Brazil and a café with à la carte items. A free shuttle service is provided to Old San Juan and the nearby beach.
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