Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico: 5 Areas & Hotels 

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Planning a trip to San Juan? Lucky you!

We’ve fallen hard for Puerto Rico’s capital. From its colorful Spanish colonial streets to its palm-fringed beaches and lively food scene, there’s a lot to love about this city. But after spending time here, we’ve learned that choosing the right neighborhood can completely shape your trip.

Maybe you want to soak up history in Old San Juan, sip drinks by the water in Condado, dance the night away in Isla Verde, or kick back in a laid-back spot like Ocean Park or Miramar. Whatever your travel style, we’ve got you covered. This guide breaks down the five best areas to stay in San Juan, who they’re perfect for, and our top hotel picks for every budget.

Where to Stay in San Juan Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in San Juan

San Juan is a compact but diverse city, and where you stay can really shape your trip. If it’s your first visit, Old San Juan is ideal—you’ll be surrounded by history, colorful streets, and plenty of restaurants within walking distance. For more of a beach vibe, Condado and Isla Verde both offer sand, nightlife, and resort-style stays. Ocean Park, on the other hand, feels more local and laid-back, while Miramar gives you an urban setting with a quieter pace.

Wherever you stay, getting around is simple—Old San Juan is very walkable, and rideshares like Uber are affordable and reliable for reaching beaches and neighborhoods beyond the old town.

Here’s a quick breakdown of San Juan’s best areas and a great hotel pick in each:

• Old San Juan – The best spot for first-time visitors, this colorful old town is brimming with colonial charm, historic forts, and plenty of shops and restaurants. The Decanter Hotel offers elegant rooms in a 19th-century building, complete with a rooftop terrace and on-site dining.

• Condado – Trendy and upscale, Condado is home to luxury resorts, stylish restaurants, and one of San Juan’s best urban beaches. Condado Palm Inn San Juan offers modern rooms with ocean or city views, two pools, and a prime location at a budget-friendly rate.

• Isla Verde – A high-end beachfront area known for water sports by day and lively parties by night. Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde offers spacious, modern suites with a pool, complimentary breakfast, and easy beach access—your perfect home away from home!

• Ocean Park – A laid-back, residential neighborhood ideal for travelers who want a local vibe with central convenience. Rosalina Ocean Park offers chic, modern rooms and a rooftop lounge, all just a short walk from the beach and neighborhood cafes.

• Miramar – An upscale yet urban neighborhood with a calm atmosphere, perfect if you want a good night’s sleep while still being close to Condado’s beaches. Hyatt House San Juan features spacious studios with kitchenettes, a pool, and complimentary breakfast—our favorite Miramar stay.

Where to Stay in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan

Old San Juan is hands-down the best place to stay if you’re visiting San Juan for the first time. This 500-year-old walled city is the historic heart of Puerto Rico. It’s packed with pastel-colored colonial buildings, blue cobblestone streets, and centuries-old forts overlooking the sea. Sounds pretty charming, right?

Another thing that we love about staying here is that it’s just so convenient! We enjoyed being able to walk to iconic landmarks like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, and the lively Plaza de Armas. There are so many museums, art galleries, and artisan shops around, too.

If you’ve read any of our blogs before, you’ll probably know that we’re huge foodies, which is another reason we feel so at home in Old San Juan! As you wander around this area, you’ll pass street vendors selling piraguas (shaved ice), traditional Puerto Rican restaurants, and plenty of modern fusion cuisine. And when you want to just sit back and take it all in, you can head up to a rooftop bar for a drink with a view.

Evening is our favorite time of day in Old San Juan. As the sun begins to set, the street lamps glow, and live music starts drifting out onto the street. We like to head out, wander, and just see where the night takes us! 

The Old Town’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and while there’s no direct beach access, Condado and Ocean Park are just a short drive away. 

Pros

• Walkable and full of history, culture, and dining options
• Endless photo opportunities with colorful architecture and ocean views

Cons

• No direct beach access
• Cobblestone streets can be tough with heavy luggage or heels

Hotel El Convento – $$$

Hotel El Convento is housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century convent. It exudes old-world elegance while still providing all of the modern comforts you need for a relaxing stay! We love the rooms here because their high ceilings and antique-style furnishings are just beautiful. 

The hotel is steps from San Juan Cathedral and just minutes from the forts, so it’s a dream location for exploring. There’s a great on-site restaurant, but the surrounding streets are packed with fantastic dining options too.

If you want a romantic, historic stay that’s dripping with character, this is the place. Rooms here cost between $275 and $1,000 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Decanter Hotel – $$

The Decanter Hotel is an elegant choice in Old San Juan. It’s set in a charming 19th-century building right in the heart of Old San Juan. Its rooms are bright and airy, with a mix of modern touches and traditional details like wooden shutters and tiled floors.

Some rooms also have private balconies where you can sip morning coffee while watching the city wake up, which is something we always enjoy when on vacation! Our favorite part of this property is the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar because it offers stunning views of the old town, and it’s a great spot for sunset.

There’s also a Caribbean-Italian fusion restaurant and a Mediterranean restaurant on site, so you’ve got three delicious choices, and you’ll also be within walking distance of the old town’s plethora of restaurants and bars. Rooms here cost between $240 and $450 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay at Decanter Hotel here!

Navona Studios – $ 

Navona Studios offers a low-key but stylish stay in the heart of Old San Juan. The rooms are pretty simple but with fun, funky touches, and there’s a cute rooftop terrace area where guests can sunbathe and enjoy the views. 

The building has a lovely colonial façade, and you’re just steps from restaurants, shops, and historic landmarks. We think it’s ideal for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring and don’t need resort-style amenities. Rooms here cost between $100 and $110 USD per night—what a bargain!

See options and book this budget-friendly stay here!

Condado 

Condado is San Juan’s upscale, beachside playground. It’s a sleek stretch of hotels, condos, and trendy restaurants with an unmistakably cosmopolitan vibe. The golden-sand beach here is one of the best urban beaches in Puerto Rico, and it’s the perfect spot to go swimming and sunbathing or try out water sports. 

Condado’s main drag, Ashford Avenue, is lined with designer boutiques, chic cafes, and lively bars, making it a great choice for travelers who want luxury and convenience in one place. We love this neighborhood because it feels like Miami, the Caribbean. It boasts high-rise hotels, trendy nightlife, and tons of international dining options from sleek sushi spots to romantic beachfront restaurants.

Now, this isn’t the most historic area, so it’s less about sightseeing and more about just living the good life. However, Old San Juan is just a 10-minute drive away when you crave a dose of history and culture. We also love heading to Condado Lagoon for paddleboarding and kayaking.

All in all, we think that Condado is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway and groups of friends looking for sunny days on the beach and fun nights out. There are also casinos around for those who like to hit the slots!

Pros

• Beautiful urban beach with swimming, sunbathing, and water sports
• Trendy dining, nightlife, and shopping on Ashford Avenue

Cons

• Less historic charm compared to Old San Juan
• Can feel busy and touristy, especially on weekends

La Concha Resort – $$$

La Concha Resort is Condado’s crown jewel. It offers beachfront luxury and a lively atmosphere to boot! Its sleek, modern design sure makes a statement, from its curved lobby to its oceanfront infinity pool. And the rooms are contemporary and stylish to match, with many boasting private balconies that overlook the sea. 

As you’d expect, the resort has multiple restaurants and bars, including a beachfront bar that’s perfect for sunset cocktails. It’s in a prime location, too, so you’ll be steps from just shops and nightlife for when you do want to get out and explore.

This place is perfect for travelers who want a resort stay without being far from the city’s buzz. Rooms here cost between $425 and $1,000 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Condado Palm Inn San Juan – $$ 

Condado Palm Inn San Juan is a comfortable hotel that puts you right in the heart of Condado without the luxury price tag. The rooms are clean and modern, and many boast either ocean or city views. There are two outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center, and a generous cancellation policy, which is always a nice perk.

The beach is just a short stroll away, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes within walking distance. It’s a great choice for travelers who want convenience, comfort, and a prime location at a more affordable rate. Rooms here usually cost between $230 and $775 USD per night.

Find the best prices and book this stay on Booking.com!

Red Door Inn – $ 

Red Door Inn is a simple but charming guesthouse in Condado. It’s modern with bright rooms, and there’s a relaxing shared garden and terrace for when you want to chill out. The atmosphere is relaxed and homely, so it’s a good pick for backpackers, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a low-cost base in a high-end neighborhood.

You’ll be close to Condado’s dining and nightlife, but with the option to keep things low-key if you prefer. You’re looking at between $185 and $250 per night for a room here, which is a steal for this neighborhood!

Check availability and book this affordable Condado stay here!

Related Read: Once you’ve found the perfect place to stay, check out our 3-day San Juan itinerary for all our favorite activities, restaurants, and more!

Isla Verde

Isla Verde is one of San Juan’s most famous beach destinations. It’s known for its long, golden shoreline and lively, resort-style atmosphere. We think it’s such a fun place to stay, and it’s only minutes from the airport, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a fun-filled beach vacation but are short on time.

And there’s plenty of action here, too. It’s located just east of Condado, and the beach is a real hotspot for water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Then at night, the area transforms into a hotspot for beach bars, casinos, and live music. Isla Verde never stops!

For that reason, this neighborhood is popular with both tourists and locals. It has a vibrant, social feel, and it’s well-suited to those who want to enjoy beach fun by day and then head out at night to party. 

Isla Verde has a fantastic food scene, too. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood and Puerto Rican classics, plus international options. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something suitable around here!

While Isla Verde is not as historic as Old San Juan, it makes a great base for those who want a resort-style beach experience within easy reach of the city. And with the airport only a 5-minute drive away, it’s a convenient spot for quick getaways.

Pros

• Beautiful, swimmable beach with water sports options
• Vibrant nightlife and dining scene

Cons

• Lacks the historic charm of Old San Juan
• Can feel crowded in peak season

TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde – $$$

TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde is a colorful 3-star property that offers comfort and convenience right on the beach. The rooms are modern and airy with bright pops of color, and the beach is just steps from the door. There’s also an outdoor pool, two on-site restaurants, and a sleek rooftop bar with panoramic views. It’s one of the best spots in Isla Verde for sunset drinks!

The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore both Isla Verde and nearby Condado, while still being minutes from the airport. With a fun yet relaxed vibe, TRYP is great for couples, friends, and even families looking for a relaxing and contemporary stay. Rooms here cost between $225 and $435 USD, depending on your dates and the room you choose.

Check availability and book this convenient stay here!

Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde – $$$

Residence Inn by Marriott San Juan Isla Verde is a beautiful all-suite hotel. It’s bright, modern, and spacious, with lots of natural light and a clean design. Meanwhile, the friendly service makes it feel like a real home away from home—and who doesn’t love that?

There’s a complimentary breakfast here, which is always a win in my book, and the sleek outdoor pool doesn’t hurt, either. Isla Verde Beach is just a short walk away if you prefer to swim in the open water, so you get the best of both worlds. We could stay here for weeks on end! Rooms here cost between $260 and $515 USD per night.

Browse available room options and reserve this stay here!

Hotel Villa del Sol – $

Hotel Villa del Sol is a great budget option in Isla Verde. It offers a relaxed, no-frills stay just steps from the beach. The rooms are simple but clean, with air conditioning and comfortable beds. There’s a small outdoor pool for cooling off, and plenty of local eateries and bars within walking distance. 

The hotel’s friendly atmosphere and convenient location make it a solid choice for travelers who want to enjoy Isla Verde’s lively scene without overspending. It has great reviews, a terrace area, and super-friendly staff who will take great care of you. Rooms cost between $150 and $210 USD per night.

See room options and book your stay at Hotel Villa del Sol here!

Ocean Park

Ocean Park is a mostly residential neighborhood that offers a quieter alternative to San Juan’s busier tourist hubs. It has a wide, sandy beach that attracts both locals and visitors for morning jogs, kite surfing, and lazy afternoons under the sun. Unlike the resort-heavy vibe of Condado or Isla Verde, Ocean Park feels more like a local beach community, with small guesthouses, boutique hotels, and casual eateries. We love it! 

What’s great about Ocean Park is that even though it has a residential, beachy atmosphere, it’s still really close to the top attractions! It’s just a 5-minute drive from Condado, and Old San Juan is about 10-15 minutes away. So when you stay in Ocean Park, you can enjoy San Juan’s more energetic areas and then retreat to a more chill-out area whenever you need. 

We also love heading to Ocean Park Beach to swim. It has really gentle waves, so it’s ideal for when you just want to paddle and float! 

If you like a slower pace, friendly local vibes, and days that revolve around the ocean, Ocean Park makes a great base. Just keep in mind that it’s not a nightlife hotspot. The energy here is more about beach walks, bike rides, and sunset views.

Pros

• Quiet, local feel with a beautiful beach
• Still close to Condado and Old San Juan
  

Cons

• Limited nightlife and shopping
• Fewer large hotels or resorts

DREAMCATCHER by DW – $$$

DREAMCATCHER is one of the most unique stays in San Juan. It’s a bohemian-style boutique hotel just steps from Ocean Park Beach. The décor is eclectic and artsy, with hammocks, lush gardens, and cozy seating areas throughout the property.

Rooms here range from stylish suites to more minimal spaces, and many have open-air showers. Think Bali vibes! We love the hotel’s focus on wellness, with complimentary yoga classes and a plant-based breakfast. It’s a peaceful and creative hideaway that’s perfect for anyone who wants a serene escape close to the ocean. Rooms here cost between $275 and $550 USD.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Rosalina Ocean Park – $$

Rosalina Ocean Park is a chic and modern home-from-home in a quiet residential setting. The rooms are bright and tastefully decorated, with comfortable beds and contemporary amenities. For us, staying here really felt like we were staying in a friend’s beach villa rather than a sterile hotel. Yet it’s still sparkling clean, and the rooftop lounge area is perfect for unwinding after a beach day. 

The property is within easy walking distance of Ocean Park Beach as well as a few local restaurants and cafes. It’s a great mid-range choice for travelers who want style and comfort without the high-end resort prices. Rooms here cost between $160 and $300 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Dream Inn PR – $

Dream Inn PR is a friendly guesthouse—in both the personal and financial sense! This affordable property offers compact modern rooms just a short stroll from the sand. There’s a small pool and terrace where guests can socialize, but for the most part, this property has a very laid-back, tranquil feel. 

The inn’s location makes it easy to explore Ocean Park on foot and hop over to Condado for more dining and nightlife options. It’s ideal for travelers who want a low-cost, comfortable base with a local feel. Rooms here cost between $185 and $440 USD per night.

Find the best prices for Dream Inn PR on Booking.com!

Related Read: Want to make the most of your stay? Check out our full guide to the 10 best things to do in San Juan here for unforgettable activities to add to your trip.

Miramar 

Miramar is a charming and creative neighborhood that offers a nice blend of residential calm and city energy. The streets are lined with trees and historic buildings, which gives the area a distinctive character that blends old-world charm with a modern, artsy vibe. Oh, and just FYI, “Miramar” is Spanish for “sea view”! 

There are galleries, local shops, small theaters, and cafés scattered throughout Miramar. We love exploring it on foot because we always seem to find new gems! And there’s no shortage of restaurants, either, from traditional Puerto Rican fare to tasty contemporary fusion. You can enjoy a true taste of the local scene without straying far!

The neighborhood is ideal for travelers who want to experience everyday San Juan life while staying close to major attractions. Condado’s beaches, dining, and nightlife are just a short walk or drive away, and Old San Juan is only about 10 minutes away. Miramar is also home to the Puerto Rico Convention Center and the Bacardi Distillery, so it’s convenient for both leisure and business travelers. 

The evenings in Miramar have a relaxed, sophisticated feel. If you enjoy strolling around, catching live music, and grabbing drinks at cozy local bars, you’ll fit right in here. This neighborhood has personality and a creative pulse, with easy city and beach access. We definitely recommend staying here if you’ve been to San Juan before and are looking to see a different side of the city!

Pros

• Artsy, residential vibe with plenty of local cafés and galleries
• Close to beaches and Old San Juan

Cons

• Limited hotel options compared to Condado or Isla Verde
• Not ideal if you want a bustling nightlife scene

Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences – $$$ 

Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences is a stylish, contemporary property located in the heart of Miramar. Guests love its boutique-style decor, as it boasts a ton of personality, as well as plush, comfortable rooms. There’s a rooftop terrace with a small pool but plenty of seating and sweeping views. Meanwhile, there are lots of galleries, restaurants, and the Bacardi Distillery nearby.

It’s a sophisticated, peaceful base close to both the beach and the city’s cultural spots, so it’s ideal for those who want a mixture of sightseeing and relaxation in San Juan. Rooms cost between $330 and $1,100 USD per night.

Check availability and book this stylish stay here!

Hyatt House San Juan – $$ 

Hyatt House San Juan is a gorgeous hotel with bright, spacious studios and suites in the heart of beautiful Miramar. It’s actually our favorite hotel in Miramar because it has a lovely pool, a well-equipped gym, and it’s sparkling clean from top to bottom. The rooms also have full kitchenettes, which are ideal for those who prefer to self-cater.

Breakfast is included each morning, and the hotel is well-suited for families. We also like the on-site restaurant, which serves great enchiladas and frozen drink specials, just FYI! Rooms here cost between $265 and $485 USD.

Check availability and book Hyatt House San Juan here!

Courtyard by Marriott San Juan Miramar – $ 

Courtyard by Marriott San Juan Miramar is a reliable hotel offering clean rooms and well-maintained amenities. There’s a small pool, on-site dining, and a gym. The rooms are simple and perhaps a little dated in style, but they’re comfortable and have everything you need. This is a great place to stay if you’re going to spend most of the day out exploring and just want a soft bed to sleep in at night.

Rooms here cost between $220 and $400 USD per night, depending on the season and room category.

Browse room options and reserve this affordable Miramar stay here!

Top Activities to do in San Juan

Now that you’ve settled on where to stay in San Juan, it’s time to fill your days with the best experiences the city and surrounding area have to offer. From snorkeling with sea turtles to wandering historic streets and exploring lush rainforest, here are our favorite tours that made the trip unforgettable:

• Snorkel with sea turtles at Escambrón Beach – This guided snorkel tour at Escambrón Beach was the highlight of our time in the water. We loved swimming alongside sea turtles and tropical fish, and the GoPro footage meant we could relive the adventure again and again.

• Discover Old San Juan – We learned so much about the city’s rich history and culture on this Old San Juan walking tour. We explored cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and centuries-old forts while hearing fascinating stories from our guide. It’s the perfect introduction to the city!

• Go night kayaking through Condado Lagoon – This LED night kayak tour was such a unique way to see San Juan after dark. The glowing kayaks, calm lagoon, and city lights made the whole experience both fun and unforgettable.

• Taste your way through the city – We combined two of our favorite things—eating and exploring—on this Old San Juan food tour. We sampled local staples like mofongo, tried tropical drinks, and learned about the island’s food culture as we wandered through the old town.

• Explore El Yunque Rainforest – This El Yunque Rainforest tour was the best way to experience Puerto Rico’s wild side. From hiking lush jungle trails and sliding into natural pools to relaxing at Luquillo Beach, the day struck the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Renting a Car in the Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!

We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean

• Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
• Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
• Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
• Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
• Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
• An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

San Juan is such an incredible city to visit, but choosing the right neighborhood to stay in can really make or break your trip. Don’t worry, though—if you stick to these areas and hotels, I know you’ll have an amazing time. Each one offers something special, so you can truly experience what makes San Juan unforgettable!

If you need help planning more of your travels, check out the rest of our Caribbean blogs here! Whether you’re looking for top areas to stay, full itineraries, or the best activities, we’ve got you covered. Or here are a few of our favorite related blogs to get you started. Cheers!

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