San Juan

San Juan has one of the best harbors in the Caribbean in a strategic location in the Atlantic Ocean. The city celebrated its 5th century anniversary in 2008 from the founding of Caparra, and in 2021, it celebrated its 500th anniversary of its official founding in its current location at the Isleta de San Juan. The city has a land area of about 76 sq mi (200 km²).

San Juan
Climate chart (explanation)
J F M A M J J A S O N D       4.1     83 72       2.6     84 72       2.2     85 72       4.6     86 74       5.5     87 76       4.7     89 77       6     89 78       6.3     89 78       6.5     89 78       5.2     89 77       7.4     86 75       4.9     84 73 Average max. and min. temperatures in °F Precipitation+Snow totals in inches
Metric conversion J F M A M J J A S O N D       104     28 22       66     29 22       56     29 22       117     30 23       140     31 24       119     32 25       152     32 25       160     32 25       165     32 25       132     31 25       188     30 24       124     29 23 Average max. and min. temperatures in °C Precipitation+Snow totals in mm

San Juan is a tropical city with winter temperatures typically ranging in the low 80s°F (21-24°C) during the day, and low 70s°F at night. Summer temperatures are generally in the high 80s°F (29-32°C) during the day, and high 70s (25-28°C) at night. Summer does include high humidity. The city has a tendency to receive rain and thunderstorms from April to November in the afternoon. San Juan and the rest of Puerto Rico can be hit by hurricanes or tropical storms from July to November.

San Juan is a Latin American city with Spanish-based culture, mixed with African traditions and Taíno culture. Museums of modern art exist abroad. The citizens of San Juan are very festive, as on the rest of the island. San Juan has bars and discotheques all-around the city, from Old San Juan to the southern part of the city that stay open until 3 or 4AM. San Juan has become very modernized as of late, with its first Metro line (called Tren Urbano) and buses. Like most large cities, however, there is a small population of vagrants and beggars lining the streets.

San Juan is the financial capital of Puerto Rico. There are facilities for petroleum and sugar refining, and pharmaceuticals.

Founded in 1509, San Juan became a walled city protected by multiple forts. It guarded an important entrance into the Spanish Main, and withstood multiple attacks by the British and Dutch (some partially successful). It was considered the Gibraltar of the West Indies. Due to its military significance, the government kept the growing population within the city walls until 1897, when a few bastions were demolished. The forts were bombarded from US naval ships during the Spanish–American War (1898). Much of the district is intact architecturally, including the impressive fortifications.

Many tourists are caught unaware by the sun exposure received from walking around the sites of this tropical city. Sunblock is available at many stores in town. Wear good walking shoes to deal with the hills and cobblestone streets. Around the perimeter of the district the trade winds make it surprisingly comfortable, but along the interior streets it get much hotter, with closely spaced, multi-story buildings cutting off any breeze. Brief showers are quite common, so watch your step, the cobblestones can get quite slippery.

Old San Juan is a common stop for cruise ships, yet it is definitely not a beach resort. It is a real town within a city, where people work and live. Men typically wear collared shirts and long pants, and businessmen wear suits. Women tend to wear skirts or dresses and often high heeled shoes. Although visitors are expected to dress more casually; a collared shirt, shorts with pockets and belt, and shoes are minimally appropriate for adults at most attractions.

Today the port of San Juan annually accommodates nearly 1.4 million passengers in cruise ship travel alone, making it the third busiest cruise port in the world, according to the Cruise Industry Statistical Review published in 2000. The busiest docks are on the south side of the area near a large city bus station. Another pier adjacent to the old Pan American airport handles mostly Royal Caribbean cruise ships for beginning or ending their cruises; it must be reached by car or taxi. Otherwise, all cruise ships dock at Old San Juan.

You may arrive at San Juan/Luis Muñoz Marín Airport, then take a $20 cab ride to your pier. If cruising, you should reach San Juan at least a day before the cruise ship embarks to ensure you make it despite any airline troubles. This also provides time for sightseeing in Old San Juan, near your hotel, etc.

There is also ferry service from across the harbor. Although one can easily drive to Old San Juan, it is not easy to drive or park within the district due to the narrow streets.

For those staying at major hotels outside Old San Juan, day tours can usually be arranged with the concierge. During busy times, drivers may refuse those with significant luggage. For just getting around, you might also consider the city bus to and from Old San Juan (see same subject for "San Juan".)

Ferries del Caribe operates an international passenger and vehicle service from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The overnight journey requires Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative documentation^{[dead link]} and there are strict rules regarding vehicle transportation. Fares payable in US dollars.

San Juan is served by 1 Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU ^IATA). A large international hub airport about 14 km away.   Airlines that fly here include Air Canada, American, Avianca, Condor, Copa, Delta, Frontier, Iberia, InterCaribbean, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, United and domestic airline Vieques Air Link.

Most travelers opt to rent a car here or take a taxi (fixed fares of $15-25 to most points in the city, plus an extra $1 per luggage item). If you have more time than money, you can take public bus B-40 to Río Piedras and connect onward to your destination in the city with another local bus or elsewhere on the island with a público (best only attempted in the morning). Correct change is necessary. No dollar bills accepted.

2 Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport (SIG  ^IATA Isla Grande Airport). This secondary airport only serves flights from Puerto Rico's smaller islands.  (updated Sep 2020)

• San Juan National Historic Site, 501 Norzagaray St, ☏ . 9AM-5PM. The park consists of multiple sites. Castillo San Cristóbal is one of the largest Spanish fortresses in the new world, and has a National Park Service visitor center off of Avenida Luis Muñoz Rivera. The center offers English and Spanish versions of an introductory film to the Historic Site, exhibits, and a bookshop. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (or el Morro) is a citadel with a commanding view of the entrance to San Juan Harbor, at the end of Calle Norzagaray. The extensive esplanade between the citadel and the town is popular for kite flying. Allow at least an hour to explore each fort. The park also includes most of the historic city walls, and tiny Fortín San Juan de la Cruz (or el Cañuelo) across the harbor on Isla de Cabras. $10/day adults, children under 15 free, national park passes includes up to 3 visitors. One ticket is good for both Castillos on the same day.
  • 1 El Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro). A 16th-century citadel that lies on the northwestern-most point of the islet of San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is part of San Juan National Historic Site and was declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations in 1983.  
  • El Castillo de San Cristóbal, ☏ . A fort built by the Spaniards to protect against land based attacks on the city of San Juan. It is part of San Juan National Historic Site. It covers 27 acres of land and is 150 ft (46 m) tall. 
• Alcaldia, Calle de San Francisco (along one side of Plaza de Armas). San Juan's City hall, built in 1602. (updated Jul 2025)
• The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture.  (updated Jan 2016)
• Casa Blanca, western end of Calle San Sebastián, ☏ . Wed-Sun 8:30AM-noon and 1:30-4Pm. Ancestral home of the Ponce de Leon family, now a museum. $5 adults, $3 seniors/students/children. (updated Jul 2025)
• 2 La Fortaleza, western end of Calle Fortaleza, ☏ . or the Palacio de Santa Catalina, "La Fortaleza" (or The Fortress in English) is the official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico, who is Puerto Rico's head of Government. It was built between 1533 and 1540 to defend the harbor of San Juan. The structure is also known as El Palacio de Santa Catalina (or Palace of Santa Catalina). It is the oldest executive mansion in the New World. La Fortaleza was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  
• 3 San Jose Church. Built in 1523, when it was called the Church and Monastery of Saint Thomas Aquinas. It is the second oldest church in continuous use in the New World and the oldest in the United States. Before Ponce de Leon was moved to the San Juan Cathedral, his body was buried here for 300 years.  (updated Jan 2016)
• San Juan Cathedral, 153 Calle Cristo. contains the tomb of the Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León. It was built in the 1520s, was soon wrecked by a hurricane, and then rebuilt in 1540. After being rebuilt, it was robbed in the late 1500s, and then, in 1615, it was damaged by a hurricane. In 1917, a lot of changes were made to restore the building. Tours are given daily from 8:30AM-4PM. 
• 4 San Juan Gate (western end of Caleta de San Juan). Traditional entrance to San Juan.  (updated Jul 2025)
• 5 Cuartel de Ballaja (Ballaja Barracks), ☏ . Wed-Fri 9AM-noon and 1-4PM, Sat Sun 11AM-4PM. Completed in 1863, and in 1881 a chapel was added. This building housed military personnel and is now a museum called Las Americas Museum containing Caribbean and European American arts and artifacts. $6 adults, $4 seniors/students/children. (updated Jul 2025)
• Museo de San Juan, 150 Calle Norzagaray 3er piso. Museum on the history of San Juan. 
• La Casa del Libro, 255 Calle del Cristo, ☏ . Tue-Fri 11AM-5PM, Sat 11:30AM-5:30PM. Museum of the art and history books through five centuries. A museum holding nearly 5,000 early works of manuscripts and books, some as from as old as the 15th century. This museum is most known for having two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella concerning arranging Columbus' fleet for his second voyage. 
• Felisa Rincón de Gautier Museum, 51 Calle Caleta de San Juan. Open Mon-Fri 9AM-4PM. Felisa Rincón served as the mayor of the city of San Juan for 22 years, between 1946 and 1968. The museum that commemorates her memory is in a 300-year-old building. Free. 
• The municipal cemetery of Santa María Madgalena de Pazzis (just outside the city walls.).  
• La Princesa, 2 Paseo de la Princesa, ☏ . Open Mon-Fri from 8AM to 4:30PM. Built in 1837, a beautiful structure that overlooks San Juan Bay and has beautiful landscaping. It is surrounded by a wall and contains a fountain, sculpture, and even a former municipal jail in the courtyard. 
• La Casa Estrecha (the narrow house), 101 Calle Tetuan. At just over 5 ft (1.5 m) wide, this home built into a former alleyway is easy to miss - watch for the bright yellow and green front. Free to walk by, nominal fee to enter. Reportedly has great views from the upper level. (updated Jul 2025)

There is not much to see in Puerta de Tierra, but there are a few things of interest for the traveler looking around this area

• Casa de Espana, 9 Av. de la Constitución. Walking distance from Old San Juan, this house is literally something to see, as the average tourist cannot go in unless they are involved with one of the many events hosted there. Still, the building, which gets its name from its original purpose as a community center for local Spanish citizens, is worth a look for its architectural accents and 'old world' look. It is closer to Old San Juan than the hotels of Puerta de Tierra, but it is on the bus line.
• Ateneo de Puerto Rico, just west of next to Casa de España. Founded in 1876, it is the largest repository for national theater in Puerto Rico. Art contests and classes are held here as well. Hours are M-Sa 9AM to 5PM. +1 787-721-3877.
• Fuerte San Jerónimo is a small fort in the entrance to what is known today as Condado, Puerto Rico lagoon in San Juan. The fort defended San Juan from attacks by Sir Francis Drake in 1595, Sir George Clifford "Earl of Cumberland" in 1598 and Sir Ralph Abercromby.

• Museo de Arte (Museum of Art), 299 Av. José de Diego, Santurce. Open W F Sa Su 10AM-5PM, Th 10AM-8PM. Puerto Rico's most important gallery, which opened in 2000 and was constructed at a cost of $55 million, is a state-of-the-art showcase for the island nation's rich cultural heritage. Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for residents, $5 for seniors/students/children/veterans/disabled. Add $3 to see the temporary exhibits. All exhibits free Th 5PM-8PM. Sculpture garden free, open M-F 8AM-5:30PM, Sa Su 11AM-5PM.
• 6 Caparra Ruins and Museum (Museo y Parque Historico Ruinas de Caparra) (bus t2 from Sagrado Corazon), ☏ . Mon-Fri 9AM-4PM. Caparra was the first Spanish settlement in Puerto Rico. It was put several miles inland to keep it protected from pirates. The site is the ruins of the house/fort of Puerto Rico's first governor, Juan Ponce de León. A small museum displays some of the excavated artifacts. The displays are all in Spanish, though they do have a summary page in English upon request. Free.  

A popular point of interest is Old San Juan, a 7-block area that has become popular for tourists and residents. The narrow streets of old San Juan are packed with people so it is recommended to experience Old San Juan by foot in order to avoid too much traffic. You can take a taxi for less than $20 from most hotels but for $0.75 you can also take the B21 bus which picks up from many locations near the hotels and is very easy to use.

There are a few things to do in Puerta de Tierra that don't have anything to do with what is in your hotel. There is a large park, a nice beach, and several smaller walkways to take short walks on.

Check out the beaches in Condado and Isla Verde.

In Puerta de Tierra, the Balneario el Escambrón is the most accessible area of the beach to hotel guests, being a 5-minute leisurely walk from the hotels. This family-friendly beach is protected from the waves by a coral reef, and in the smooth waters you can see many fish. Once on the beach, there are great distant views of not only the San Cristobal fort, but El Morro as well, if there is no fog.

Closer in and right next to the Kiosko Escambrón, a snack bar often playing loud salsa and serving up drinks to locals, is a lookout point that faces the water, where romantic couples often go to privately make out and gaze off into the ocean.

• Central Park is the park to visit if you're looking for traditional activities such as jogging, tennis, baseball, etc.
• Parque Luis Munoz Rivera, Av. Ponce de León. Tu-Su 9AM-5PM. By the ocean, it has beautiful trees and landscaping. A great place to tour by foot.
• Parque de las Palomas overlooks La Princesa Jail. From this park you are able to see a great view of the mountains, harbor and the city.
• Parque del Tercer Milenio. Encompassing most of the beach and park area of Puerta de Tierra, this park also holds an athletic club with a track and plenty of field area for outdoor napping or picnics on the beach.

• The Teatro Tapia, +1 787-721-0169 or +1 787-721-0180. Built in 1832, this is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere. This building, which was named after Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, has been remodeled twice, once in 1949 and once in 1987. Plays, ballets, and other concerts and events are held here.
• Centro de Bellas Artes, Ave. Ponce De León Pda. 22 1/2, is the largest fine arts center in the Caribbean. Concerts, plays, and operas are hosted here.

• San Sebastian Festival, annually in January, the weekend before the Martin Luther King holiday, it is one of the most popular festivals in the Caribbean, full of activities, parades, food and live music. It began as a neighborhood event for Saint Sebastian; now it's the Festival de la Calle San Sebastian - celebrating the street, rather than the Saint. It is pleasant, if insanely crowded early in the afternoon, with artisans and families, but after dark the artisans flee and it's jam packed with drunken teenagers. Remarkably crime free, except for rocking cars, and the predictable outcome of 10,000 people drinking for 8 hours in a 6-block narrow street with no facilities.

• The Casino of Puerto Rico is a large building with a 12 ft (3.7 m) chandelier and an open ballroom, built before World War I.
• Casa Bacardí (Bacardi Rum Factory), 200 PR-165, Cataño, ☏ . Daily 9:30AM-5:30PM. Also called the "Cathedral of Rum" and covers 127 acres. Tours range from $40 to $125. 
• 1 La Perla. see where the famous music video Despacito with Luis Fonsi was filmed, but use discretion in a poorer neighborhood. 
• Segway Tours, ☏ , info@segwaytourspr.com. Daily 9AM-5PM, according to demand. Explore Old San Juan on a segway. 45-minute and 2-hour tours include riding lesson, individual segway and audio guide. $35-70. Off season in September. 
• La Marquesa Canopy Tour - About 30 minutes outside of San Juan in Guaynabo you can tour the La Marquesa Forest Reserve via zip line. It is a low impact experience suitable for people of all ages. Those who are up for extreme adventure travel may find this a little too easy.

• El Asador, The Grill Old San Juan, 350 San Francisco St (Old San Juan), ☏ . Daily 10AM - 4AM. Puerto Rican cuisine at the entrance of Old San Juan, the heart of nightlife in the Old City. It is a two-level restaurant with an exterior patio. 

• Margarita's, Several locations including 3rd level at Plaza las Américas and 1013 Ave. Roosevelt, +1 787-792-0283. A traditional Mexican food restaurants.
• Tierra del Fuego, 3rd Level at Plaza las Américas, +1 787-294-7019. One of the best Argentinean restaurants where you will be able to savor a tender, juicy cut of meat prepared by chefs and cooks who work together with a warm staff of waiters and hostesses.
• UVVA Restaurant, +1 787-727-3302, 1 Calle Tapia, Ocean Park. International creative cuisine by Chef Jose Vicente is served from 8AM-11PM. The ambiance is elegant and casual.
• BUNS Burger Shop, 1214 Ashford Ave. (In front of Marriott Hotel). 11:30AM-4AM. Great burgers with high quality beef. Over 40 beers, some on tap. 

Several major hotels have their own restaurants serving most if not all meals; if breakfast is not included in the room rate, prices can be substantial.

On the south side of the "Avenida", small malls and parking areas variably hold small restaurants offering traditional Puerto Rican food, and several branded fast food outlets. This includes the Espana Bakery...on the south side of the highway (west end of Isla Verde). It has been in existence for over 30 years easily the best place to get "pastelitos" of many types, Spanish style soup (Fabada Austriana or Caldo Gallego - both versions of hearty bean and ham or sausage soups), sandwiches and "cafecito" the local coffee drink offered any time of the day or night.

Mi Casita is a similar family restaurant for Puerto Rican dining. At Plazoneta De Isla Verde (phone+1 787-791-1777, toward the East end of the "Avenida"), it serves tasty breakfasts, lunches and dinners at attractive prices, with many items substituted across generous entrees. The plazonetta (strip mall) also offers Church's Fried Chicken, Burger King and other franchises for easy recognition from the "Avenida". If you are driving, charges for secure parking can be offset by receipts from businesses within.

Grocery stores

• Super Max, Calle Julian Blanco (near the Doubletree hotel). 24x7. A normal grocery store. 
• Freshmart, 1310 Avenida Ashford (Near the Marriott). A natural foods-centric grocery store where, as you leave, you are wished to "have a healthy day!" 

In Puerta de Tierra, there are little to no options for eating out. If you are visiting another part of San Juan, try to eat in that area before coming back to the hotel. If your room has a mini bar, try stocking it with some bottled drinks and snacks from a mini-mart, in case you get hungry while still in the area. For breakfast, your best bet is either to eat in your hotel or to eat at your destination for the day. Along the beach, there are kiosks in small, green buildings that sell a few bottled drinks and occasionally some food, but I wouldn't depend on it.

• El Hamburger, 402 Avenida Munoz Rivera. This loud burger pit is packed at dinnertime with local families and beach-goers sipping beers and munching on freshly grilled burgers. The hamburgers come with a slice of Swiss or American cheese and a separate plate of toppings so you can decorate your burger to your liking. There is counter service and table service, but little English is spoken so order at the counter where you can point to your choice if you would like to order something other than "el hamburger." $3-7 per person.

Unlike in most U.S. States, Puerto Rican laws make it easy for restaurants to sell alcohol. Even modest lunch counters will offer beer, wine, and some mixed drinks. Tipping is customary. There are restaurants which cater to tourists, particularly tapas bars and Latin "fusion" restaurants, but look at the menu before going in to make sure prices are in a comfortable range.

• La Bombonera, 259 Viejo, C. de San Francisco, ☏ . 7:30AM-8PM. Authentic local cuisine in an unassuming landmark atmosphere unchanged for decades. Serves lunch and dinner. Fresh pastries. Superlative coffee. Inexpensive. 
• La Mallorca, Calle San Francisco 300 (east of Tanca). Called "the Platonic ideal of a diner" by the New York Times, this local cafe is operated by the owners of La Bombonera and has the same time-warp atmosphere. Serves breakfast and lunch. The Mallorca pastry and the sandwiches are recommended. Superlative coffee. Sandwiches around $5, mains under $10.
• El Meson Sandwiches at the intersection of C. San Francisco and C. San Jose, has a large selection (including many vegetarian items) at very reasonable prices.
• Mojito's, Calle Recinto Sur 323. Despite the Cubanesque name and its location on the cruise ship trail, this restaurant serves up big portions of no-nonsense pork, rice and beans local fare at reasonable prices. Try the chuletas (pork chops). Mains from $10.
• Ostra Cosa, Calle del Cristo 154, ☏ . Daily noon-10PM. Reservations recommended. The ambience here is one of the most sensual and romantic in Old San Juan. 
• El Jibarito, 280 Sol Street, Old San Juan, ☏ . This is a moderately-priced restaurant serving authentic criolla food. $10. 
• Supermax - Viejo San Juan (grocery store), 201 Calle de la Cruz. 6AM-10PM daily. A grocery store in the center of Old San Juan (updated Jul 2025)

• The Butterfly People, 257 Calle de la Cruz, Old San Juan, ☏ . Real butterflies encased in acrylic. Stunning. Go to see it, even if you don't buy. 
• Diana Font Artworks, 205 San Francisco & 204 Luna Streets (Ground floor Cochera Parking Building), ☏ . Diana Font, a nominee to the National Design Awards sponsored by the Cooper- Hewitt National Design Museum. designs and manufactures unique world quality furniture. The ship around the world and the prices extremely attractive to theknowledgeable. 
• Plaza las Américas, "The Center of it All", biggest mall in the Caribbean, containing more than 300 stores anchored by the world's largest JC Penney, plus Macy's, Lacoste, American Eagle, A|X and Sears. It has a movie theater and restaurants such as Chili's, Macaroni Grill, Margarita's and Tierra del Fuego. If you need or want to visit a good example of a modern, enclosed mall from the U.S. mainland, this won't disappoint.

• Mercado de Santurce, La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce. A small farmers' market with fresh fruits and vegetables, in the La Placita neighborhood of Santurce. The market is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and bars. (updated Jul 2025)

• There are several bookstores near the University of Puerto Rico along the Avenue Ponce de Leon.
• There is a pedestrian-only shopping street near the Río Piedras station of the Tren Urbano. Just get off, and you should see shopping that no tourist has ever seen before! (look on Google Maps for "Paseo de Diego, Río Piedras, San Juan"). There are also several large-scale sculptures and a great deal of graffiti art along this street.
• Mercado de Río Piedras is a covered market offering fruits, vegetables, meats, and a variety of stalls with ready-to-eat food (many of them cafeteria-style). This market is off the beaten path for tourists, but much larger than the market in Santurce. Closed Sundays, and many stalls also close on Mondays.

Several tourist and fine stores line the main street of the area. Puebla is a block off of the main street and facing the airport. It offers everything you'd expect of a modern supermarket.

Make sure you do all of your souvenir and clothes shopping in other parts of town before coming to Puerta de Tierra. If you are buying groceries, your options are slim as well. Try to do grocery shopping in other parts of town if you want any food beyond snacks. There are two options near the hotel for snacks, toiletries, and practicalities. In the Hilton, there is Caribe Sundries, which by far has the best selection of toiletries and painkillers. There is also another convenience store called Mini Mercado, which is open 24 hours and has a decent selection of food and exactly one variety of shampoo and conditioner each, for those of you who can't make it to the Hilton. It is easy to find at night; the windows are lined with green neon lights. When buying in Puerta de Tierra, (or anywhere in San Juan), look for locally made snacks and products to save a little money.

If you are desperate to shop and have a little bit of extra money, there are stores in the Hilton, although they are expensive and mainly sell jewelry and designer clothes.

Shopping in Old San Juan is diverse, with retailers scattered among many narrow streets. Stores include many fine jewelers, arts, crafts and mercantile shops, two drug stores, and a few branded "outlets", e.g., Coach, genuine with good prices, but discontinued styles. You'll also find numerous cafes and a few fine restaurants. You'll find a well-stocked Walgreens (pharmacy services pending) at the corner of a large square in the central area, and a large CVS (with pharmacy services) opposite the cross-bay ferry terminal. On the weekends, there's a true artisans' market along Paseo de la Princesa (not to be confused with the souvenir stalls that set up immediately next to the cruise ships).

For walkers, the humidity and tropical sun may make the mid-late afternoon temperatures a bit oppressive. Consider going early as stores open (typically 10AM on weekdays).

Puerto Rican rums, other hard liquor, beer and wine are sold at good prices at the grocery store just down the street from Walgreens.

San Juan has a wide range of accommodation, but few budget options of any kind. European-style youth hostels do not exist in the city. Colonial-style city hotels are clustered in Old San Juan, while the big beachfront resorts are mostly out in El Condado and Isla Verde. These hotels are listed in the district articles.

You'll be looking at $100/night for even a basic hotel room, and well north of $300 for a five-star resort. However, discounts are available in summer (low) season. Costs to stay at resorts or near beaches may include "resort fees"; those fees are often substantial and not mentioned until late in the booking process on-line or by agent.

Although Old San Juan is almost entirely surrounded by water, no hotels have beach access. There are a few modern chain hotels near the cruise ship docks, some with casinos. Hotels within the city walls tend to be more colorful.

There are a number of vacation apartments which are walking distance to the beach, comfortable with fully equipped kitchen for saving money meals. You can find these individually-owned apartments in either condos in front of the beach in Isla Verde or in areas in Ocean Park and Condado walking distance to beach.

You might not have the daily housekeeping service but this option is good to receive a more authentic stay rather than in the sterile unchanging hotel. These accommodations can vary from $50-80

• Guesthose De La Tanca, 205 Calle de Tanca, ☏ . Small guest house with rooms from $20-40 per night. Shared bathrooms, can be a little grotty. No air-con, and cheapest rooms have no windows, but balcony rooms are breezy. Between Calle de la San Francisco and Calle de la Forteleza on the Eastern side of the street. Transportation from the airport is $19.50 plus $.50 per piece of luggage. 
• 1 Posada San Francisco, 405 San Francisco St. Directly in front of Plaza Colon. Due to its cleanness and location, it's one of the best budget options in the Old Town. Has a variety for all types of budget options but all having Air-conditioning and kitchen facilities. One floor dedicated to hostel dorm-style accommodations for $23 per person. On a different floor, a guest house section with all private rooms $45 or with satellite TV, $60. 

• Hyatt House San Juan, 615 Ave Fernandez Juncos, ☏ . Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Studio, one- and two-bedroom suites offering views of the Atlantic Ocean and San Juan Bay. 
• Hosteria del Mar, 1 Calle Tapia, (Ocean Park), +1 787-727-3302 or +1-800-742-4276.
• Posada Colonial apartments: Ocean Park/Condado area, minutes from the beach ($70 night complete and private apartment)
• 2 Hotel Milano, 307 Fortaleza St, ☏ , toll-free: , fax: +1 787-722-3379, info@hotelmilanopr.com. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Small but nice rooms (the $80 room). Rooftop restaurant with nice view and lots of great places to eat & drink nearby. Casino nearby. Public parking deck 2 blocks away. Outstanding staff that is truly helpful & friendly. $80/90 to $145/175 for low/high season. 

• SJ Suites, 253 Fortazela, ☏ .  
• La Concha, a Renaissance Resort, 1077 Ashford Ave, ☏ . A modern chic luxury resort in the Condado area of San Juan. Amazing views, restaurants, casino, and nightlife. 
• Condado Palm Inn & Suites, 55 Condado Ave (San Juan 00908, Puerto Rico), ☏ .  
• Doubletree by Hilton San Juan, 105 De Diego, ☏ . Near the airport, the beach, and Old San Juan. Free Wi-fi and a warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival. 
• Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1055 Ave Dr Ashford, ☏ .  
• Acacia Seaside Inn, 8 Taft Street, ☏ .  
• El Canario by the Sea, Ave Condado, 722-8640, ☏ .  
• Casa Castellana, 1218 Calle Luchetti, ☏ , . Refurbished Spanish mansion with complete hot breakfast. 
• Condado Plaza Hotel & Casino, 999 Ashford, ☏ . The only luxury property overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and Condado Lagoon. 
• San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, 1309 Ave Ashford, 787-722, ☏ , toll-free: . Upscale resort. Free wifi, 36” HD flat screen LCD tvs, with laptop connectivity. $264-634. (updated Apr 2017)
• At Wind Chimes Inn, 1750 McLeary Ave, ☏ .  
• Coral Princess Hotel, 1159 Magdalena Ave, ☏ . Condado. Boutique hotel. 
• 3 Hotel El Convento, 100 Calle del Cristo, toll-free: . This small luxury hotel was a convent until the late nineteenth century. A four-story courtyard connects the rooms, and the entire hotel has free wireless internet as well as free afternoon wine and cheese. The deck around the rooftop plunge pool has a world-class view overlooking the town. The courtyard features restaurants and a bar. All of the hotel is accessible by elevator. From $225. (updated Feb 2016)
• 4 Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel, 100 Brumbaugh St, toll-free: . An upscale hotel in the heart of Old San Juan. From $225. 
• The Gallery Inn, 204 Norzagaray Street, ☏ . The only hotel in Old San Juan with Atlantic Ocean views. Spectacular, 300-year-old boutique hotel, art gallery and museum in one. 26 unique accommodations, owned by artist/sculptor Jan D'Esopo. 18 gardens, rooftop deck with panoramic views from the highest point in Old San Juan; seasonal classical concerts; private Cannon Club dining. 

The area holds many excellent hotels and condominiums; some of the latter offer units for rent. Hotels on the beach often charge higher rates than others. Hotels near the airport usually insulate rooms effectively against the noise of aircraft landing and taking off. Nearly all are within walking distance of the above range of restaurants, from fast food to island specialties. These properties are in a high-demand tourist area. As with many similar areas around the world, some properties here may charge resort fees which can be substantial.

• 5 El San Juan Hotel & Casino, 6063 Isla Verde Avenue, toll-free: . Carolina. 15 minutes from the shopping, entertainment, and history of charming Old San Juan. (updated Jul 2017)
• Royal Sonesta San Juan, 5961 Isla Verde Avenue, ☏ . Featuring a superb beachfront location on trendy Isla Verde, steeped in dining and nightlife options. (updated Feb 2021)
• 6 Courtyard Isla Verde Beach Resort, 7012 Boca de Cangrejos Ave, ☏ , toll-free: . A beautiful hotel on the gorgeous beach of Isla Verde minutes from the international airport in San Juan, with several restaurants and a casino. (updated Jul 2017)
• Embassy Suites San Juan Hotel & Casino, Calle Tartak, 791-0505, toll-free: .  
• Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan Resort, 6530 Isla Verde Ave, ☏ , toll-free: . Clean and friendly, business-oriented inn. 
• TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde, 4820 Isla Verde Ave, ☏ .  
• 7 Ritz-Carlton San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino, 6961 Los Gobernadores Ave, ☏ , toll-free: .  (updated Jul 2017)
• 8 San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel, 2 Calle Tartak, ☏ , toll-free: . Pet-friendly luxury boutique hotel on the beach. If you can get a good price on a room, take it as you are on the beach and close to pretty much everything. They offer free beach, towel and umbrella service with your stay, which adds up if you are a beach goer. (updated Jul 2017)

• Caribe Hilton, 1 San Geronimo Street, toll-free: . Check-in: 4PM, check-out: noon. This resort is a great place to stay if you are coming to San Juan to just shop and lounge at the beach, although swarms of taxis await to take you to other parts of San Juan as well. The Hilton actually has its own private beach for guests with beach chairs and other amenities; snorkeling gear can be rented from the hotel. A Starbucks, several expensive restaurants, and luxury shops line the ground level, along with a shop for practicalities such as bath products and painkillers. Guests get one free breakfast for two the first night in either the breakfast and brunch restaurant or your room along with a few other vouchers for on-resort services. This resort is particularly family-friendly, with many amenities for children. The talking parrots in front of check-in should entertain them at the first moment. $180-250 (Book ahead through a travel agent or an online reservation for the best prices). 

Use common sense when going around. The tourist areas, like the Old City, Condado, and Isla Verde tend to be very safe. There is a wonderfully visible, 24-hour police presence in the Old City.

Use caution when riding a bicycle around the city as roads are often crowded and some are unpaved. Be sure to pay attention to the roadway on which you are riding and the traffic.

Pedestrians need to use similar caution in Old San Juan. While traffic usually is slower, the streets are narrow, and sidewalks very narrow, sometimes crowded, with occasional trip hazards.

Ave. Fernandez Juncos is a major road running across the southern waterfront of Puerta de Tierra. Many buses, including a metrobus line, run through this part of the city before entering the bridge to Condado and beyond. While it is safe to ride through this part of town in the day time, it is not at any time of day safe to explore, as this is a run-down area where poverty and drug trafficking can be easily found. At night, it is probably best to take the B-21 bus back to the hotel from Old San Juan which does not go on this street.

Many of the roads that tourists use in Puerta de Tierra are high traffic roads, and the problems that pedestrians face during the daytime while sharing roads with vehicles are magnified at night. Use common sense, and if you feel like you may come to a place where you are not easily seen or there is no sidewalk, walk on lit paths that will show your presence to drivers.

Old San Juan is quite safe. However, it is not advisable to go out alone late at night, unless you have a friend or guide to escort you. If you are traveling by bus, understand that buses that service stations in many of the outlying hotel areas stop running at around 9 or 10PM, and the exact time of the last bus is never sure. If you plan on being out at night in Old San Juan and you are taking the bus in, bring enough money for a taxi in case you stay out too late. Make sure you confirm with your hotel the price you should pay to get back, as cab drivers in Old San Juan are probably the most likely to add a dollar or so to the set fare. Many of the major resort hotels in the area have casinos, lounges, and discos with live music and restaurants which are mostly open until 3-4AM, along with taxis lining the entrance to take people back to their rooms when you're done.

The La Perla seaside neighbourhoods just north of the walls of Old San Juan is deeply impoverished and a hotbed of drug trafficking and crime. Do not go into La Perla unless you are accompanied by a local guide. Do not take photographs or use your cellphone when you are in La Perla, as this could lead to you being assaulted or even killed.