The Best Resorts in San Juan, Puerto Rico

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.

It’s always party time at La Concha. Right on the oceanfront in Condado, this hotel offers round-the-clock entertainment, including beach boot camps, wine yoga classes, champagne brunches and poolside DJs. After dark, there’s a high-energy casino, a 13-seat sushi restaurant, a hidden adults-only beachfront terrace and one of the hottest nightclubs in town.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There’s no chance of going hungry at the Condado Plaza Hilton, a modern property sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Condado Lagoon. Start the day at the Starbucks concession, try Italian dishes at Café Caribe and its all-day ice cream parlour, or indulge at 24-hour American diner Denny’s. There’s even a mini market for extra snacks when the munchies strike.