No passport? Or just craving that Caribbean vibe but still want a taste of America? Then Puerto Rico’s your spot. It’s the perfect blend of chill island life and that familiar, laid-back American feel. If you’re looking to kick back, enjoy the sun, and let loose, Puerto Rico’s got you covered. Here’s your guide to the best places to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is the ultimate getaway that doesn’t feel like a getaway. As a U.S. commonwealth, it’s close enough to skip the passport hassle but far enough to leave the mundane behind. A three-hour flight from Miami drops you into the heart of the Caribbean, nestled between the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands.
Don’t let its size fool you—this island packs a punch. In just a few hours, you can drive coast to coast, but you’ll want to linger. Puerto Rico is a playground of contrasts, from descending into subterranean caves to chasing waterfalls in El Yunque Rainforest. It’s adventure on tap, with a little something for everyone.
But let’s be real. The beaches steal the show. Endless stretches of sand and surf that make you question why you ever put up with winter. Puerto Rico is an island, and it wears its beach culture proudly. Whether you’re a sun-worshiper, a surfer, or someone who just wants to sip a piña colada while the waves hum their melody, you’re covered.
Now, when it comes to San Juan, the neighborhoods are as diverse as the island itself. Each has its own rhythm, catering to different kinds of travelers. I’ll break it down for you—three main districts, each with its own flavor. Think of it as matchmaking for your perfect stay. Pick your spot, unpack your bags, and dive into everything this vibrant city has to offer.
The districts I recommend are:
For directions and advice on arriving in San Juan, see the bottom of the article.
The Best Hotels in San Juan at a Glance
- The Best 5 star Hotel in San Juan: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
- The Best Centrally Located Hotel in San Juan: AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado
- The Top Spa Hotel in San Juan: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
- The Top Hotel with Seaview in San Juan: Condado Ocean Club – Adults Only
- The Top 5 Star Hotel in San Juan: The Royal Sonesta San Juan
- Best Family Friendly Hotel in San Juan: San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
- The Top Eco-friendly Hotel in San Juan: Verdanza Hotel
Condado District
Condado is the postcard-perfect neighborhood of San Juan, where historic hotels line the oceanfront and private patches of beach offer a taste of exclusivity. This is the heart of luxury, where big-name hotels carved their legacies, and every view feels like it belongs in a travel brochure.
When I visited with my family in March 2024, we chose Condado as our base, and it delivered. The area is incredibly walkable, with everything from beachfront dining to boutique shopping and vibrant nightlife just steps away. Mornings start with the sound of waves, afternoons are for the beach or pool, and evenings come alive with music, laughter, and the aroma of Puerto Rican cuisine from open-air restaurants.
Condado strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid-back. It is entertaining enough to keep you engaged but relaxing enough to feel like an escape. Whether you are sipping cocktails at a swanky hotel bar or simply enjoying the sand between your toes, this neighborhood delivers the best of San Juan in one convenient, beautiful package.
Why I love Condado District
- Condado is walkable and offers everything from beachfront dining to boutique shopping and nightlife
- The neighborhood is home to historic hotels with private beaches and a mix of old glamour and modern luxury
- It combines ocean views, lively energy, and relaxing vibes for the perfect San Juan experience
Top Attractions in Condado District
Best Restaurants in Condado District
The Best Hotels in Condado District
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
5-star | $$$$ | historic luxury | oceanfront views | exceptional service
A restored 1919 landmark offering timeless elegance and unmatched ocean views. Guests enjoy world-class dining and luxury amenities right on the beachfront.
O:LV Fifty Five Hotel – Adults Only
5-star | $$$ | boutique experience | rooftop pool | modern design
A stylish adults-only boutique hotel with a focus on personalized luxury. The rooftop pool offers stunning views of the Condado Lagoon.
O:live Boutique Hotel
4-star | $$$ | Mediterranean-inspired | intimate setting | personalized attention
This small luxury hotel combines Mediterranean design with Puerto Rican warmth. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a cozy, romantic getaway.
La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
4-star | $$$ | beachfront location | vibrant nightlife | contemporary style
A trendy beachfront resort with a lively atmosphere and multiple pools. The onsite dining and nightlife make it a hotspot for entertainment.
AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado
4-star | $$ | rooftop pool | modern amenities | central location
This sleek and contemporary hotel is a great base for exploring Condado. The rooftop pool and bar are guest favorites for relaxation.
Condado Ocean Club – Adults Only
4-star | $$$ | oceanfront | chic ambiance | infinity pool
An adults-only retreat offering chic décor and breathtaking oceanfront views. The infinity pool is the perfect spot for unwinding with a cocktail.
San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
4-star | $$$ | beachfront | family-friendly | on-site casino
A family-friendly resort featuring a sprawling beachfront and casino. Its pools and dining options make it a great choice for all travelers.
Isla Verde
Isla Verde is where the beach life takes center stage. This district swaps the glamour of high-rise hotels for a laid-back, cottage-like vibe that feels effortlessly authentic. It is home to Isla Verde Beach, the main attraction, which is divided into three distinct areas. Here, you get the best of both worlds which is a blend of city convenience and beachfront serenity.
This is the spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle and lean into a more casual, surfer-inspired atmosphere. While there are fewer big-name hotels, the accommodations here are often directly on the beach, offering an unbeatable mix of relaxation and accessibility. The beaches are among the island’s best, with soft sands, swaying palms, and crystal-clear waters inviting you to spend the day basking in the sun or catching the perfect wave.
Isla Verde is also a haven for those who appreciate simplicity with a touch of local flavor. Whether it’s grabbing fresh seafood from a beachside shack, sipping a rum cocktail at sunset, or just watching surfers carve up the waves, this district offers a beach experience that feels refreshingly real. It’s where you trade structured itineraries for hammocks and ocean breezes, embracing the true meaning of island time.
Why I love Isla Verde
- Isla Verde offers a laid-back beach vibe with charming accommodations and fewer big-name hotels
- The district is home to Isla Verde Beach, divided into three areas, combining city convenience with beachfront relaxation
- It provides an authentic island experience with casual dining, surfer culture, and some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico.
Top Attractions in Isla Verde
Best Restaurants in Isla Verde
The Best Hotels in Isla Verde
The Royal Sonesta San Juan
5-star | $$$$ | beachfront luxury | lagoon-style pool | exceptional dining
This luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms and a lagoon-style pool by the beach. Guests love its dining options and upscale amenities.
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
5-star | $$$$ | historic elegance | multiple pools | vibrant nightlife
A legendary hotel blending historic charm with modern luxury. Its pools, spa, and vibrant nightlife keep guests entertained around the clock.
Villa Verde Inn
4-star | $$ | cozy charm | close to beach | great value
A small, cozy hotel offering great value and easy access to the beach. Its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere are guest favorites.
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort
4-star | $$$ | beachfront access | family-friendly | excellent dining
This beachfront resort is perfect for families, offering a large pool and great dining. The tropical ambiance and location make it a popular choice.
TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde
4-star | $$ | modern amenities | rooftop terrace | convenient location
A stylish hotel with a rooftop terrace and modern conveniences. It’s a great base for exploring the Isla Verde area.
Verdanza Hotel
4-star | $$ | independent spirit | pet-friendly | rooftop terrace
Located just one block from a dazzling golden sand beach, Verdanza Hotel combines the amenities of premier full-service hotels with the friendly, personalized service of a boutique hotel. Guests appreciate its unique style and proximity to local attractions
Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan
4-star | $$ | modern comfort | close to beach | complimentary breakfast
Nestled in the Isla Verde area, this hotel offers free WiFi and an outdoor pool with a swim-up bar. Guests enjoy its proximity to the beach and dining options.
Old San Juan
Old San Juan is a portal to the past, a living museum where history and modern life collide in the most colorful way. The cobblestone streets wind through a vibrant maze of brightly painted houses, each one a postcard of the island’s rich heritage. Here, centuries-old churches share space with modern cocktail bars, creating a unique blend of tradition and innovation. This is the heartbeat of Puerto Rico’s history, where every corner tells a story.
The vibe in Old San Juan is completely different from the beachy relaxation of Isla Verde or the polished energy of Condado. This is where you come to wander, soak up the architecture, and feel the weight of time in every stone. It’s a place to slow down, explore hidden courtyards, and discover treasures like artisan shops, street performers, and local bites that capture the essence of the island. Old San Juan invites you to lose yourself, both literally and figuratively, in its charm.
What makes Old San Juan truly special is the way it rounds out your experience of the city. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the modernity and ease of the other districts, letting you feel the full spectrum of San Juan’s identity. Whether you’re admiring the view from El Morro, sipping a handcrafted mojito in a cozy bar, or simply watching life unfold in a centuries-old plaza, Old San Juan makes sure you leave Puerto Rico with a deeper appreciation of its history and culture.
Why I love Old San Juan
- Old San Juan blends history and modern life with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and vibrant cocktail bars
- It offers a completely different vibe, inviting you to wander, explore hidden courtyards, and soak up the city’s heritage
- This district rounds out your San Juan experience, letting you feel the full spectrum of the city’s history, culture, and charm.
Best Attractions in Old San Juan
Best Restaurants in Old San Juan
The Best Hotels in Old San Juan
Hotel El Convento
4-star | $$$$ | historic charm | rooftop terrace | exceptional service
This former Carmelite convent offers a blend of historic elegance and luxury in the heart of Old San Juan. Guests enjoy stunning views from the rooftop terrace and easy access to cultural landmarks.
Palacio Provincial
4-star | $$$ | boutique elegance | rooftop pool | modern amenities
A boutique hotel housed in a historic building with sleek, modern touches. The rooftop pool and terrace offer unbeatable views of Old San Juan.
Decanter Hotel
4-star | $$ | colonial architecture | wine-themed rooms | personalized attention
Set in a restored colonial building, this hotel is perfect for wine lovers and history buffs. It features charming, spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
El Colonial
4-star | $$ | adults-only | 24/7 free bar | chic boutique vibe
This adults-only boutique hotel offers stylish accommodations with unique perks like a 24/7 complimentary bar. Its central location is perfect for exploring the vibrant streets of Old San Juan.
La Terraza de San Juan
4-star | $$ | restored historic building | rooftop pool | panoramic views
A boutique hotel with a rooftop pool that offers sweeping views of Old San Juan. The restored historic property exudes charm and character.
Villa Herencia Hotel
4-star | $$ | intimate setting | unique rooms | charming courtyard
This cozy hotel is nestled in a quiet street and features uniquely designed rooms. The lush courtyard adds to its intimate and serene vibe.
CasaBlanca Hotel
4-star | $$ | Moroccan-inspired décor | rooftop lounge | central location
Inspired by Moroccan style, this vibrant hotel is a short walk from major attractions. Its rooftop lounge is perfect for unwinding with views of the city.
How to Get to San Juan, Puerto Rico
The main airport in Puerto Rico is the Luis Munoz Marin international airport in San Juan. There are over 15 airlines that fly into the airport with multiple arrivals a day from various destinations in the USA.
Like most major airports, you can rent cars and there is public transportation to get you to San Juan. However, I recommend a taxi or Uber which will cost around $25 and gets you to your hotel without stress.
