The Best Resorts in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Foodie haven right on Condado Beach? How about a fiesta-filled vacation with poolside DJs and champagne brunches? Or perhaps a week at the birthplace of the piña colada is more up your street? Find your ideal retreat in our rundown of the top resorts in San Juan.
There’s far more to the capital of Puerto Rico than beautiful beaches. Here you can take a romantic stroll down the Paseo de la Princesa bayside promenade, photograph edgy street art in the Santurce neighborhood and party into the night while exploring the lively bar scene. Not enough? Cobbled streets lined with Colonial-era casas and adventures into the nearby El Yunque rainforest should quench your thirst for exploration. And when you need somewhere to rest, stay at one of these top San Juan resorts.
1. Best Western Plus Condado Palm Inn & Suites
Resort, Luxury
Just one block from lively Condado Beach, this modern property is in the perfect spot for exploring magical San Juan. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town, tour the Bacardí rum distillery 7mi (11km) away, or splurge at Plaza Las Américas – the biggest shopping mall in the Caribbean – only 5mi (8km) away. Afterwards, soak up the sun by the pool or indulge in Puerto Rican and Cuban cuisine at the Ropa Vieja restaurant.
2. La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
Resort, Hotel
3. San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino
Resort, Luxury
Foodies are in for a treat at this resort on Condado Beach, where dining options include an ice cream shop, Puerto Rican coffee house, and cocktail and sushi lounge. Friday’s Guavate event is the real highlight, with local cocktails served alongside roasted pork and traditional mofongo (mashed fried plantain). Work it off the next day at the top-notch fitness center, or doze by the palm tree-lined pool with ocean views.
4. Caribe Hilton
Resort, Luxury
Head straight to the bar at this celebrated resort next to the San Gerónimo Fort. The piña colada is said to have been invented here in 1954 and is now the official drink of Puerto Rico – but there are more than just cocktails on offer. The hotel has a huge pool complex, a playground, 17 acres (7ha) of tropical gardens, a bird sanctuary, beachfront spa, tennis and volleyball courts and several dining options, including an ice cream kiosk and branch of Morton’s Steakhouse.
5. Acacia Boutique Hotel
Boutique Hotel, Independent Hotel
There’s no need to squeeze next to strangers in the jacuzzi at this Spanish-style hotel villa, less than a block from the beach in Condado. The outdoor tub is swimming-pool size, so there’s always a spot to soak in the blissful warm water while gazing out across the ocean. Don’t miss dinner at French restaurant Niche Bistro, a tiny temple of fine dining loved by local foodies.
6. Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Independent Hotel, Luxury
When even sunbathing feels like hard work, this lavish Puerto Rican landmark has the solution. Lounge in a private cabana or on a chaise longue while a beach butler delivers snacks, cocktails and sunscreen. Save your energy instead for the dining and entertainment, which includes an upmarket casino, cigar lounge, martini bar, the Tacos & Tequila eatery and the unmissable fine dining restaurant 1919 from chef Juan José Cuevas.
7. Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino
Resort, Luxury
Business travellers won’t need to worry about reaching this hotel in front of San Juan Bay. The property is just 10 minutes from the international airport, five minutes from Old San Juan and right at the heart of the Puerto Rico Convention Center District. That’s not to say working will be easy: the fourth-floor infinity pool, full-service spa, sushi bar and poolside restaurant could prove more than a little distracting.
8. The Condado Plaza Hilton
Hotel
Still not found your dream place to stay in San Juan? Perhaps you might prefer to be in one of the top all-inclusives in the city, or maybe one of the leading beach hotels. For something extra special, check out these spa hotels in San Juan and book now on Culture Trip.
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