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Yo yo! Welcome to your next favourite vacay destinay! I am beyond buzzin’ to whisk you away on an adventure to the vibrant streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico, one of my all-time favourite places to hang out.
From wandering through the cobbled streets of Old San Juan to relaxing on the pristine beaches or getting lost in the rhythmic beat of salsa. Here you’ll find me sippin’ piña coladas, dippin’ in the ocean and trippin’ over the endless amount of things to do.
But it’s not just the sights and sounds that make San Juan so enchanting – it’s the flavors too. Follow the sizzle of alcapurrias and indulge in a fresh Coquito… or two or three!
San Juan is a city I’ve fallen in love with over and over. Taking a stroll through the back alleys, dancing in the street until sunrise then spending a lazy day by the sea. This city has it all in spades. however, San Juan is a relatively large city so figuring out where to stay can be overwhelming. But never fear! I’ve created this guide on San Juan’s five best areas to stay, I’ve categorised each one according to different interests and budgets too, because I’m a bloody dead-set legend!
So, let’s get into it and find which area is best for you and your trip.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in San Juan?
- San Juan Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in San Juan
- San Juan’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in San Juan
- What To Pack For San Juan
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in San Juan
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Where is the Best Place to Stay in San Juan?
So, I hear Ya. You’re eager to just pack your bags and begin your adventure! I totally get that, so without any further delay, let’s get into my top recommendations for places to stay in San Juan.
352 Guest House | Best Hotel in San Juan
Love the convenience of a hotel? 352 Guest House is a chic guesthouse with a colonial edge located in the heart of San Juan’s Old Town. It boasts an incredible location along with spectacular views from the roof terrace, not to mention an amazing breakfast. Rooms are stylish and have all the amenities you could want for an awesome stay close to Downtown San Juan.
Nomada Urban Beach Hostel | Best Hostel in San Juan
Situated in San Juan’s Ocean Park neighbourhood, Nomada Urban Beach hostel provides guests with a Caribbean atmosphere in an excellent location. It’s perfect for solo travellers and has a social atmosphere ideal for getting to know fellow backpackers. All this, alongside the unique option of camping on the hostel’s rooftop/ sun terrace, makes it my favourite in San Juan.
CDM-Beach living @ Condado with pool and parking! | Best Airbnb in San Juan
It’s all about location, location, location with this spacious modern Airbnb in Puerto Rico! Situated in the heart of the sought-after Condado beachfront, you have excellent access to one of San Juan’s largest stretches of coastline. Guests can also enjoy a shared swimming pool along with beautiful terrace views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
San Juan Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in San Juan
Viejo San Juan (Old Town)
Viejo San Juan also nicknamed the ‘old town’ is our top pick to stay in San Juan if you’re visiting for the first time. Home to the city’s historic quarter, Viejo San Juan is known to have some of the most spectacular colonial architecture in the Caribbean.
Isla Verde
Isla Verde isn’t just an awesome neighborhood for its spectacular beaches, it’s also our top pick for where to stay in San Juan for nightlife due to its laid back but vibrant beach bars and parties.
Condado
Condado is hands down one of the trendiest places in San Juan, and even all of Puerto Rico. Known for its spectacular nature parks including Antonio Quiñónez along with luxury hotels, restaurants, and bars, Condado is definitely a place you want to be seen in..
Ocean Park
Ocean Park is one of the safest neighborhoods in San Juan, making it the perfect destination for families. Set amongst nature the area of Ocean Park also has plenty of parks and outdoor activities to keep the kids entertained.
Palmas del Mar
Located outside of San Juan city in the municipality of Humacao, is the beautiful area of Palmas del Mar. Known for its stunning nature parks including The Pterocarpus Forest and the Humacao Nature Reserve, Palmas del Mar is our top pick for nature lovers.
San Juan is the largest city and capital of the beautiful Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. It’s one of the most unique and culturally rich places to stay in the Caribbean and is a true travel gem.
The city has a colourful, vibrant, and fun nature with the perfect combination of rich history and culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and awesome nightlife.
If you’re heading to San Juan for the first time, then you’re probably going to want to base yourself near the hotspots. This makes Viejo San Juan the perfect place to stay. A lively and bustling area in the heart of the city, it offers an endless array of cultural and historic attractions. It’s also well-connected to the area’s fantastic nature parks and beaches.
Looking to party the night away but not up for heading to mega nightclubs? Isla Verde provides the perfect mixture of party and relaxation. With plenty of laid-back beach bars boasting different types of live music, it’s an amazing place to have a few drinks without feeling it too much the next morning.
Ocean Park is the best place to stay in San Juan if you’re looking for a safe neighbourhood with plenty of entertainment for the kids. It’s one of the safest areas in Puerto Rico and offers plenty of outdoor activities including paddle-boarding, swimming, and kayaking.
Are you looking for a swanky and vibrant atmosphere that’s also filled to the brim with natural beauty? Look no further than Condado. It’s one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods on the island and a dream destination for travellers.
With its immense natural beauty, Palmas del Mar should be on any outdoor lover’s bucket list. Whether you’re into your watersports, forest treks, or prefer lounging on the sand, this is the place to be.
San Juan’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now you’ve had a quick overview of the best places to stay in San Juan, let’s check them out in more detail. Whether you’re looking to stay in the city for one night or one month, each area has something a little different to offer.
1. Viejo San Juan (Old Town) – Where to Stay in San Juan for Your First Time
Viejo San Juan is hands down the best neighbourhood to stay in for those who want to be in the heart of Puerto Rico’s history. The district is a great contrast between old and new and today has a fascinating culture to discover.
The immaculate boardwalks and colourful streets are perfect for those looking to explore. If you get peckish, you’ll have hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, many of which come with a beautiful colonial exterior.
Viejo San Juan is also the place to be if you’re looking for somewhere to stay on a budget. There’s lots of affordable accommodation and the area is easily walkable, so you won’t have to pay for transport within the Old Town. It’s the area I always stay in when I visit, usually during January when I’m trying to escape winter!
352 Guest House | Best Hotel in Viejo San Juan
Looking for swanky accommodation with a colonial edge? Then look no further than 352 Guest House. This colonial hotel with modern facilities boasts a plush roof terrace equipped with a hot tub, sun loungers, and a bar. What’s best is the spectacular views from the roof terrace, it’s the perfect spot to watch the ultimate sunset. It’s why it’s one of the best hotels in San Juan.
Condado Palm Inn San Juan | Best Hotel in Viejo San Juan
Another awesome option is Condado Palm Inn. Part of the Hilton group it provides excellent levels of quality in a fantastic location by the coast. With a sun lounge, heated pool and free bike rental, it’s the perfect place to stay in San Juan. There’s even a 24-hour gym so you can get your workout in at any hour.
Fortel Hostel | Best Hostel in Viejo San Juan
Fortel Hostel is situated in the heart of Viejo San Juan (Old Town) and has a modern and replenished design. Heading to San Juan on your own? Fortel is the ultimate place to stay for solo flyers, with incredible shared facilities and socially designed rooms. It’s even better than most hotels in the area if you’re a solo traveller.
Cosy apartment in the heart of Old San Juan | Best Apartment in Viejo San Juan
Looking to spend your day full of adventure but want a comfortable place to kip at night? Then this apartment is exactly what you need. The modern yet cosy studio offers panoramic views of the historical city and is within walking distance of the best local restaurants, plazas and shopping. This means you can enjoy the benefits of being amongst the action while still having a place to relax and escape.
Things to See and Do in Viejo San Juan
- Explore the grounds of Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
- Spectate the breathtaking architecture of La Fortaleza.
- Take a tour of the Casa Bacardi Distillery
- Explore art & history at Museo de las Américas.
- Learn about local history at Casa Blanca or take a historical walking tour.
- Wander the promenade of Paseo de la Princesa.
- Enjoy the food scene at Plaza de Armas.
- Take a guided walking tour of the old town
- Take in an event at the Puerto Rico Convention Center
- Get out of the city and take a day trip to the Arenales Caves for waterfalls and river swimming.
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View on Osprey2. Isla Verde – Best Area to Stay in San Juan for Nightlife
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in San Juan with an uncrowded beach town and crystal clear waters, then look no further than Isla Verde. Located just 7 miles east of San Juan, Isla Verde draws tourists looking to soak up the sun and discover the island’s rich marine life. With an incredible selection of water-based activities including island hopping, swimming, snorkelling, and scuba diving, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained.
Not only is Island Verde home to incredible scenery and amazing water activities but it also gets my vote as the best place to stay if you’re looking to let your hair down on a night out. There is a good selection of bars dotted around the neighbourhood, many of which present laid-back Caribbean vibes perfect to end your day.
Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort | Best Hotel in Isla Verde
After a spot of luxury? This stunning beachfront resort offers beautifully decorated rooms, many of which include balconies boasting stunning ocean views. The Courtyard has a lively feel and provides salsa dancing lessons, live music, and exotic cocktails at the Picante Lounge bar. There’s even a massive swimming pool.
1802 At San Juan | Best Hostel in Isla Verde
The 1802 hostel is located just a few miles from Isla Verde in the heart of Santurce. It’s got an extremely friendly and sociable atmosphere, offering a family-like experience and cosy rooms with a personal approach.
CaribbeanVibes: Walk to Beach, Close to Airport #3 | Best Airbnb in Isla Verde
This open plan apartment provides guests with a rustic interior and with fun facilities including a hammock, a tennis court, and a basketball court. Located on a quiet street, guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere but also only be a short drive away from the area’s beach bars.
Things to See and Do in Isla Verde
- Hit the waves at Pine Grove Surfing Beach.
- Enjoy some watersports at Isla Verde Beach West or take a guided jetski tour.
- Make a visit to Parque Acuático Infantil Aquasol.
- Play volleyball at Carolina Public Beach.
- Explore the underwater world at one of Isla Verde’s best snorkelling spots.
3. Condado – Coolest Place to Stay in San Juan
It’s hard not to fall in love with San Juan’s most sought-after neighbourhood. Condado is by far one of the coolest places to stay in San Juan, given its abundance of restaurants, cafes, and bars along with chic squares with luxurious stores. What’s best is most places are easily walkable from the beautiful white sandy beaches to the vibrant beachside bars.
Visitors also head to Condado for its spectacularly beautiful natural parks, and it certainly isn’t short of them; Antonio Quiñónez and Laguna del Condado are two of the most popular!
AC Hotel by Marriott San Juan Condado | Best Hotel in Condado
Everyone’s heard of the popular chain Marriott; some love it, some think that it’s nothing special! However, I can assure you the AC Hotel in San Juan Condado is definitely something to rave about. With a beautiful, modern and sleek interior along with an incredible outdoor pool, this is without a doubt one of the coolest places to stay in San Juan. There is even an on site restaurant.
Mango Mansion | Best Hostel in Condado
Mango Mansion is one of the best places to be if you’re deciding where to stay in San Juan on a budget! The hotel offers multiple options including small and large dorm rooms along with a few private rooms. It’s close to some of San Juan’s best nightlife scenes and even puts on events for guests looking for a lovely social experience.
CDM-Beach living @ Condado with pool and parking! | Best Airbnb in Condado
It’s all about location with this large and modern Condado apartment! Enjoy immediate access to one of San Juan’s best and largest stretches of coastline, along with some of the area’s coolest restaurants, cafe’s and bars. The studio can sleep up to four guests and provides access to a shared swimming pool.
Things to See and Do in Condado
- Wander along the waterfront at Playita del Condado.
- Grab your beach essentials and soak up the sun at Condado Beach or play some beach volleyball.
- Play watersports at Laguna del Condado (Condado lagoon) or rent a kayak and explore.
- Learn some history at Parroquia Stella Maris Catholic Church.
- Immerse yourself into nature at Antonio Quinonez.
- Go shopping at one of Condado’s chic squares.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Ocean Park – Best Neighborhood in San Juan for Families to Stay In
If you’re looking to get away from the hectic pace of the more central neighbourhoods, then Ocean Park is the best place to stay in San Juan. Located right on the coast between Condado and Isla Verde, the charming neighbourhood is my top pick for families.
Despite its relatively quiet atmosphere, Ocean Park still has plenty of things to do which captivate children and adults of all ages. Adrenaline junkies can spend days surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing, while foodies will enjoy the gorgeous waterfront restaurants.
Trópica Beach Hotel | Best Hotel in Ocean Park
If you’re wondering where to stay in San Juan near the beach, then you’ll love this contemporary and sleek beachfront, boutique hotel just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean. The Tropica Beach Hotel is equipped with pristine facilities including an outdoor pool, hot tub and seafood restaurant.
Nomada Urban Beach Hostel | Best Hostel in Ocean Park
Looking for a great place to stay with breathtaking views? With a modern and sleek interior style but incredibly low prices, Nomada Urban Beach Hostel is one of my favourite hostels in San Juan! It provides guests with a Latin American and Caribbean style atmosphere in a brilliant location. Choose from multiple-person dorms rooms, budget-friendly private rooms and the unique option of camping on the hostel’s rooftop!
The Nook Apt 1 Ocean Park Suites Beachside | Best Airbnb in Ocean Park
This brightly decorated deluxe apartment is a stone’s throw away from some of the best beaches in San Juan, including Ocean Park and Punta Las Maria. The apartment is perfect for beach lovers who want a bit of peace and quiet, as it’s set back from the hustle and bustle in a private gated area.
Things to do and see in Ocean Park
- Soak up the sun at Playa Ocean Park.
- Enjoy the beachfront sports facilities at Parque Dr. José Celso Barbosa.
- Visit the largest Spanish castle built in the new world: Castillo de San Cristóbal.
- Go snorkelling off the coast of Playa Ocean Park.
- Take part in watersport activities including surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing.
5. Palmas del Mar – Where to Stay in San Juan for Nature Lovers
Located just a short drive away from San Juan, in the municipality of Humacao lies the beautiful Palmas del Mar area. An ideal location for outdoor adventurers, Palmas del Mar has a sense of tranquillity while also boasting a great array of activities including snorkelling, scuba diving, and surfing. It’s surrounded by natural wonders including the endearing Pterocarpus Forest, making it the best place to stay in San Juan for outdoor adventurers.
Not only does Palmas del Mar treat visitors with a great deal of natural beauty but it also has a vast selection of great restaurants, laid-back bars, and charming apartments. It’s been considered an exclusive area in the past with its boutique hotels and resorts, however, I’ve managed to find some hidden gems that suit a variety of budgets for your trip to San Juan.
Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Resort | Best Hotel in Palmas del Mar
Only a short drive from most of Palmas del Mar’s main attractions is the luxurious and relaxing Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf Resort. The hotel offers guests an infinity swimming pool, a beautiful terrace, and a fitness center, making it a great value stay if you want to stay outside of Old San Juan.
Park Royal Homestay Club Cala Puerto Rico | Best Budget Hotel in Palmas del Mar
Palmas del Mar isn’t home to many hostels. The Park Royal Club Cala offers Mediterranean-style villas each with a balcony, AC and kitchen. The complex also includes 2 championship golf courses, tennis courts and an outdoor pool. Closeby is a casino and the beach is a short ride away.
SeaCret Villa @ Palmas del Mar – Humacao | Best Airbnb in Palmas del Mar
This beautiful Puerto Rican rental combines a traditional exterior with a modern but cosy interior. It sits a few minutes from the beach and just a short drive from many of Palmas del Mar’s spectacular nature parks. Guests can enjoy access to an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course.
Things to See and Do in Palmas del Mar
- Soak up the sun on the exotic Palmas del Mar beach.
- Explore one of San Juan’s finest nature parks at Pterocarpus Forest.
- Explore the nature reserve of Punta Icacos.
- Go on an adventure to find Secret Beach.
- Be amongst nature at Punta Yeguas.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in San Juan
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of San Juan and where to stay.
What To Pack For San Juan
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What part of San Juan is best to stay in?
If you’re coming for the first time then staying in the heart of the action in Viejo San Juan (Old Town) is ideal. It’s got loads of places to eat, and visit and heaps of fascinating culture.
Where not to go in San Juan?
San Juan is a super safe place to visit so there are no “no-go” areas. However, I do recommend heading to beaches outside of the city if you want a more relaxing and less crowded experience.
How many days in San Juan is enough?
Three to four days is enough to see all the things to do, however, it’s a great place for a proper vacation, so you can easily spend a couple of weeks here relaxing by the sea whilst taking a few days out here and there for sightseeing.
Is it expensive in San Juan?
San Juan is somewhere down the middle, it’s affordable for the Caribbean but it’s not super cheap either. Thankfully, there is a good variety of accommodation options for all budgets.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for San Juan, Puerto Rico
When travelling overseas it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of visiting somewhere new. But always make sure you have decent travel insurance before setting off. That way you can enjoy your trip without worry.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in San Juan
There you have it. Hopefully, now you’ve decided on where you’re going to stay in San Juan you can get into planning your trip to one of the Caribbean’s best-kept travel secrets! I truly hope you fall in love with it just as I have and enjoy the stunning colonial architecture, rich culture, white sandy beaches and tantalising cuisine. It’s one of the coolest destinations in Puerto Rico for a reason and with so many awesome neighbourhoods to choose from, all with something different to offer, San Juan has something for everyone.
If you’re still not sure where to stay in San Juan, here is a short recap of my favourite places:
If you’re looking for awesome nightlife but with a laid-back twist head to Isla Verde. Or maybe you’re looking to jam pack in all the best historical sites? Then make sure you head to Viejo San Juan. If you’re looking for a trendy destination with plenty of outdoor activities and beautiful natural scenery, then Palmas del Mar and Condado should definitely top your list.
Ocean Park is my top pick for where to stay in San Juan, offering a gorgeous and laid back area full of things to see and do!
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in San Juan.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Puerto Rico instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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