6 Best Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The rooms have a modern look (with shades of blue, white, and cream), but elsewhere, this hotel's classic appeal remains, including in the lobby, which has intricately carved mahogany walls. Beneath a coffered ceiling are three bars, among them the iconic Chandelier Bar, down a few steps from the lobby and set below a massive oval, two-ton chandelier. The pool area has a trio of poolside cabañas with indulgent amenities like televisions and four-poster beds draped in curtains (some guests opt for breakfast in these beds). Rooms are larger than most on the island and have modern furnishings.

Not only does this property epitomize the chic Caribbean resort, but it's also an icon of tropical modernist architecture—from the undulating ceiling in the sprawling lobby to Perla, the shell-shape event space. As a result, it's the center of social life in San Juan for both travelers and locals (including politicians and celebrities). The open-air lobby is a hive of dancing, drinking, and socializing most nights. If you're looking for respite, head poolside for comfortable chaises, umbrellas, and a surprising amount of privacy. Although La Concha hums with activity, the luxurious rooms offer a good night's sleep, not to mention exceptional amenities and extraordinary views.

Not many hotels can boast about having their own fort, but Fortín San Gerónimo del Boquerón, which once guarded the entrance to San Juan Bay, is on the grounds of this 17-acre sprawling resort. It has a private beach, a multilevel pool with a swim-up bar, and a luxurious spa. The airy and iconic Oasis lobby bar makes one of the more legitimate claims to having invented the piña colada; it holds an official government certification.

This 12-story resort tries to be all things to all people—and succeeds to a great degree. Harried business executives appreciate its location near the airport and its high-tech offerings. Families prefer the many dining options and the fact that a particularly peaceful section of the city's best beach is just outside. It's not as glamorous as its neighbors, but for the price you get almost all of the same amenities, including multiple pools, a swim-up bar, and hammocks on the beach.

Although it's somewhat dowdy on the outside, the Royal Sonesta's remodeled guest rooms are spacious and contemporary, done in soothing shades of white, cream, and brown. Some have pleasant ocean or city views; others overlook the palm-shaded pool.

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.