Welcome to San Juan, Puerto Rico – a vibrant and colorful city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to this tropical paradise, you’re in for a treat. With so many stunning beaches, fascinating landmarks, and exciting activities to explore, you’re sure to have a memorable vacation.
But first things first, you need to find the perfect place to stay. Luckily, San Juan has an abundance of excellent accommodation options, ranging from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to stay in San Juan, so you can focus on enjoying all that this incredible city has to offer.
So, whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation or a thrilling adventure, dive in and discover where to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
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Table of Contents
Overview of Where to Stay in San Juan
San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a vibrant city with many different areas to stay depending on your personal preferences and travel style.
The best area to stay in San Juan depends on what you’re looking for in your trip, such as beach access, nightlife, cultural experiences, or historic sites. It also depends on your budget for the trip, as some areas may be more expensive than others.
| Area | Recommended Hotel |
|---|---|
| Old San Juan (first-timers, architecture buffs) | Palacio Provincial |
| Condado (luxury travelers, beach bums) | Condado Vanderbilt Hotel |
| Miramar (art enthusiasts, foodies) | Hyatt Place San Juan |
| Isla Verde (nightlife, shopping) | Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort |
| Ocean Park (beach bums, quiet time) | Numero Uno Beach House |
Best Areas to Stay in San Juan
1. Old San Juan
Old San Juan is a historic district located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The area is known for its vibrant culture, colonial architecture, and colorful streets, making it one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Puerto Rico. The district is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay, providing breathtaking views.
Old San Juan is one of the best neighborhoods in San Juan to experience the many attractions, including the San Juan National Historic Site, which includes the El Morro and San Cristobal fortresses.
The district is also home to many museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and the Casa Blanca museum. Visitors can also enjoy shopping in the area’s many boutiques, dining at local restaurants, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.
Old San Juan is ideal for travelers who are interested in history, culture, and architecture. It is also a great choice for those who want to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the beach. The area is also easily accessible, with many hotels and accommodations available.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Old San Juan
PROS
- Charming and beautiful district
- Many attractions within walking distance
CONS
- Can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons
- Can be quite noisy at night due to local nightlife
Best Places to Stay in Old san Juan
LUXURY – Palacio Provincial
Palacio Provincial is a charming hotel located in the heart of historic Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms with colonial-style furnishings, as well as a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city and the ocean. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s convenient location, just steps away from popular restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions.
MID-RANGE – Villa Herencia Hotel
The San Juan 23 Caleta Las Monjas is a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Old San Juan. With its historic architecture and beautifully appointed rooms, guests will feel transported back in time while still enjoying modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The hotel’s rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the city and the nearby ocean, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
BUDGET – Navona Studios
Navona Studios, located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a charming and comfortable hotel that offers its guests a peaceful stay. The spacious rooms are well-appointed and include air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a flat-screen TV. With its convenient location, friendly staff, and cozy accommodations, Navona Studios is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a relaxing and affordable stay in Puerto Rico.
2. Condado
Condado is a vibrant, upscale neighborhood located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico. This area is known for its stunning beaches, high-end shopping, fine dining, and nightlife. It attracts a diverse mix of travelers, including couples, families, and solo travelers who are looking for a luxurious and convenient vacation experience.
Condado is one of the best areas in San Juan due to its beautiful beach, which stretches for miles and offers crystal clear water, white sand, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The area is also home to a variety of world-class restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as high-end boutiques and designer stores.
In addition to its beaches and shopping, Condado is also known for its cultural and historical landmarks. The area is home to several museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Puerto Rico Museum of Art, as well as historic sites such as the San Juan Cathedral and the Fort San Felipe del Morro.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Condado
PROS
- Central location makes it easy to explore the surrounding areas
- Short drive from the airport, ideal for travelers with very early or very late flights
CONS
- Prices can be steep in comparison with some of the other best neighborhoods in San Juan
- It can also get noisy at night due to nightlife, which is common in many areas of San Juan
Best Places to Stay in Condado
LUXURY – Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a luxurious and historic property that exudes elegance and sophistication. With stunning oceanfront views, a rooftop infinity pool, and top-notch dining options, this hotel offers a truly memorable stay for those seeking a refined and relaxing experience.
MID-RANGE – AC Hotel Marriott San Juan
The AC Hotel Marriott San Juan offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities and sleek decor. Located just steps away from Condado Beach, this hotel provides a convenient and comfortable option for travelers looking to enjoy the vibrant culture of San Juan. Guests can relax by the rooftop pool and enjoy stunning views of the city or indulge in delicious cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
BUDGET – Casa Isabel B&B
Casa Isabel B&B is a charming and comfortable accommodation located in the heart of Condado. The hotel features well-appointed rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi, along with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city and the ocean. The location is ideal for exploring the historic district’s sights and sounds, including restaurants, museums, and shops.
3. Miramar
Miramar is one of the best places to stay in San Juan for art enthusiasts and travelers who are keen on finding the perfect restaurant. Known for its upscale residential streets and trendy dining scene, Miramar has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. The area is bordered by the Condado Lagoon to the east and the San Juan Bay to the north, offering breathtaking views of the water.
One of the main attractions of Miramar is its art scene, with a number of galleries and museums located in the area. The Puerto Rico Museum of Art, located in a neoclassical building, houses a vast collection of Puerto Rican art, while the Museum of Contemporary Art showcases modern works from both local and international artists.
Miramar is also home to a number of upscale restaurants and bars, offering a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres. From trendy rooftop bars to intimate fine dining experiences, there is something for every taste and budget.
Travelers who appreciate luxury, culture, and good food will love staying in Miramar. The area is a great choice for those who want to be close to the action of San Juan but still enjoy a quieter and more upscale atmosphere. Miramar is also well-connected to the rest of San Juan, with easy access to major highways and public transportation.
Overall, Miramar is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the best of San Juan while enjoying a more upscale and refined atmosphere.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Miramar
PROS
- Central location and proximity to cultural attractions
- The best place to stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico for artists or artistically inclined travelers
- Great bar and restaurant options
CONS
- Limited nightlife options in comparison with other areas of San Juan
- Elevated prices for accommodations
Best Places to Stay in Miramar
LUXURY – Hyatt House San Juan
The Hyatt House San Juan is a modern and stylish hotel located in Miramar. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed suites, a rooftop swimming pool with stunning ocean views, and a fitness center. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet and social hour, as well as easy access to local restaurants and attractions.
MID-RANGE – Hyatt Place San Juan
The Hyatt Place San Juan City Center is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico. With spacious and comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool and bar, and a convenient location just a short walk from many of the city’s top attractions, this hotel is the perfect choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast and 24/7 dining options at the hotel’s Gallery Kitchen.
BUDGET – Hotel Miramar
The Miramar Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico offers guests a comfortable and relaxing stay in a prime location just steps away from the beach. With spacious and well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool and bar, and friendly staff, this hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for comfort and convenience during their stay in Puerto Rico.
4. Isla Verde
Isla Verde is a vibrant beachfront neighborhood located in the northern part of San Juan. This is one of the best areas in San Juan known for its pristine sandy beaches, upscale hotels, lively nightlife, and a plethora of dining options. Isla Verde attracts tourists from all over the world, but it is especially popular with young adults and couples looking for a lively and exciting vacation.
One of the most famous attractions in Isla Verde is its stunning beaches. The long stretch of white sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can also indulge in some retail therapy at the many boutiques, souvenir shops, and malls nearby. For those interested in history, the San Juan National Historic Site is a short drive away and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Isla Verde is also famous for its buzzing nightlife. The area has numerous bars, nightclubs, and casinos that stay open until the wee hours of the morning. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of culinary delights at the many restaurants in the area, ranging from traditional Puerto Rican cuisine to international dishes.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Isla Verde
PROS
- Convenient access to the airport and other parts of San Juan
- Luxurious hotels and resorts with top-notch amenities and services
- Fabulous nightlife options
CONS
- High prices, especially during peak tourist season
- Crowds can make it difficult to find a quiet spot on the beach
Best Places to Stay in Isla Verde
LUXURY – The Royal Sonesta San Juan
The Royal Sonesta San Juan is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the Isla Verde district in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This beachfront property boasts modern rooms with spectacular ocean views, multiple dining options, a casino, and a stunning outdoor pool area. Its prime location provides easy access to popular attractions such as Old San Juan and El Yunque National Forest.
MID-RANGE – Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort
For those looking for where to stay in San Juan close to the beach, the Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort is a beautiful oceanfront hotel. With modern and comfortable accommodations, guests can enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, relax on the beach, or take a dip in one of the hotel’s pools. The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including a seafood restaurant and a poolside bar.
BUDGET – Hotel Villa del Sol
Villa Del Sol is a charming hotel located in Isla Verde. The hotel features stylishly decorated rooms with modern amenities and a peaceful courtyard where guests can relax and unwind. With its convenient location and affordable rates, Villa Del Sol is the perfect base for exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of San Juan.
5. Ocean Park
Ocean Park is a charming neighborhood located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, just east of Condado and south of Isla Verde. Known for its beautiful beaches, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, Ocean Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The area is primarily residential, but it offers plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy.
One of the main draws of Ocean Park is the gorgeous beach, which stretches for miles along the coast. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, and it’s also a great spot for a romantic stroll at sunset. Other nearby attractions include the Puerto Rico Convention Center, which hosts events and conferences throughout the year, and the historic Old San Juan, just a short drive away.
Ocean Park is a great area for travelers who are looking for a more laid-back atmosphere than Condado or Isla Verde, but still want to be close to the action. The area is popular with young professionals and families, as well as retirees who want to enjoy the warm weather and beautiful scenery.
Overall, Ocean Park is a great choice for travelers who want to experience the best of San Juan without the crowds and noise of some of the more touristy areas. With its beautiful beaches, trendy restaurants, and laid-back vibe, it’s easy to see why Ocean Park is one of the best areas to stay in San Juan.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Ocean Park
PROS
- Close proximity to the beach, just a short walk away from many accommodation options
- Near to many essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and bars
CONS
- Can be noisy at night, especially during high season
- Can be expensive depending on your accommodation choice
Best Places to Stay in Ocean Park
LUXURY – Numero Uno Beach House
Numero 1 Guest House is a charming and intimate accommodation option in the heart of Ocean Park. The guest house features uniquely decorated rooms with comfortable beds and modern amenities, and guests can enjoy a delicious continental breakfast each morning on the outdoor terrace. The location is ideal for exploring the city’s vibrant culture and history.
MID-RANGE – La Esmeralda PR
La Esmeralda Beach Hotel in Ocean Park is a charming, family-run hotel with stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach. The hotel is conveniently located in one of the best neighborhoods in San Juan and features cozy rooms with all the necessary amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, as well as a pool, restaurant, and bar.
BUDGET – Rosalina Ocean Park
Rosa Lina Ocean Park is a stunning hotel that offers breathtaking ocean views and luxurious amenities. With a prime beachfront location, guests can enjoy the sand and surf right outside their door, while the hotel’s stylish rooms and suites provide the perfect retreat after a day of adventure.
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