San Juan

San Juan is one of the best places in the Caribbean to mix centuries old charm with beaches and lively nightlife, making it a city you will always remember.

Population418,140
Local time5:27 AM
Area199 km²
San Juan, Puerto Rico.webp
25°C
clear sky
Feels like: 26°C

Best time to travel

San Juan is warm year round, so you can visit anytime. December to April is the busiest season with sunny skies and plenty of events. If you prefer fewer crowds and better hotel prices, May and November are a sweet spot, though there may be brief showers. Summer months are quieter for tourists but can be hot and humid, with the Atlantic hurricane season running from June through November.

Where to stay

San Juan has a mix of city life, historic charm, and beach escapes, so the best area depends on your style of trip. Here are the main places we recommend.

Old San Juan

Perfect for history lovers and those who want everything within walking distance. The area is full of colorful buildings, cafes, shops, and historic forts. You will find boutique hotels, restored colonial mansions, and plenty of Airbnbs in renovated buildings.

  • Calle Fortaleza area has shops, dining, and nightlife close by.
  • Plaza Colón area is near the cruise port and great for short stays.
Old San Juan, San Juan
1/2

Old San Juan. Photo by Jim Grossman. CC by.

Old San Juan, San Juan
Old San Juan, San Juan

Condado

Known for its beachfront hotels, trendy restaurants, and upscale vibe. Condado is popular with both resort travelers and those booking modern Airbnbs close to the beach.

  • Ashford Avenue is the main strip with oceanfront resorts, bars, and shops.
  • Side streets offer smaller boutique hotels, stylish Airbnbs, and quieter stays.
Condado, San Juan

Condado, San Juan

Isla Verde

Home to long sandy beaches and some of San Juan’s largest resorts. There are also many beachfront Airbnbs here, making it a good option for both luxury and budget stays.

  • Carolina Beach area has the widest beach and plenty of water sports.
  • Piñones nearby offers local food stalls and a more casual scene.
Isla Verde,San Juan

Isla Verde,San Juan

Is San Juan safe?

Tourist areas like Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde have a steady police presence and are safe to explore during the day. At night, stay in busy areas and keep valuables secure. Petty theft can happen in crowded places, so carry only what you need and use your hotel safe.

Top things to do

San Juan is a place where colorful streets, local culture, and tropical nature come together, giving you plenty to explore both in the city and just outside it.

Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Step inside this centuries old fort to wander its open courtyards, hidden passageways, and towers overlooking the sea. Outside, the large grassy field is perfect for flying a kite or sitting down to take in the ocean breeze.

San Felipe Del Morro Castle

Del Morro Castle. Photo by Nils Huenerfuerst, CC by.

 Old San Juan and El Morro Castle Walking Tour
Free cancellation
4.9 (430)
Old San Juan and El Morro Castle Walking Tour
2h 30min
$54
Old San Juan Walks; 2 Castles, El Morro and San Cristobal
Free cancellation
5 (34)
Old San Juan Walks; 2 Castles, El Morro and San Cristobal
2h
$39
Old San Juan and San Cristobal Castle Walking Tour
Free cancellation
4.8 (45)
Old San Juan and San Cristobal Castle Walking Tour
2h 30min
$49

Take a day trip to El Yunque Rainforest

A tropical rainforest about 40 minutes from San Juan. Hike through tropical trails surrounded by waterfalls, rivers, and thick green canopy. Cool off in a natural pool, listen to the sounds of the forest, and enjoy views that stretch across the mountains to the sea.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque Rainforest Waterslides and Beach Tour with Transport
Free cancellation
4.7 (4,880)
El Yunque Rainforest Waterslides and Beach Tour with Transport
6h - 8h
$70
El Yunque Waterslide and Waterfall Tour with Food and Photos
Free cancellation
4.6 (1,167)
El Yunque Waterslide and Waterfall Tour with Food and Photos
5h
$59
Small-Group El Yunque Waterslide Adventure & transportation
Free cancellation
4.9 (2,317)
Small-Group El Yunque Waterslide Adventure & transportation
6h
$50

Relax on Condado Beach

Spend the day on soft sand with calm water that is great for swimming or paddleboarding. When you need a break from the sun, cross the street for lunch or a cold drink at one of the many cafés and restaurants nearby.

Condado Beach, San Juan

Condado Beach. Photo by Breezy Baldwin. CC by.

Nightlife

San Juan’s nightlife is a mix of music, dancing, and oceanfront bars, with plenty of places to keep the night going. Here are six of the most lively spots.

  • La Placita de Santurce - Open-air plaza that becomes a vibrant party spot with bars, music, and dancing, especially on weekends.
  • La Factoría - Award-winning cocktail bar with hidden rooms and a mix of salsa and DJ music.
  • Nuyorican Café - Local favorite for live salsa bands and a welcoming crowd.
  • Oceano - Beachfront bar and restaurant in Condado with DJs and a modern atmosphere.
  • Calle San Sebastián - Lively street in Old San Juan lined with outdoor bars, music, and dancing.
  • Brava Nightclub - Upscale club inside El San Juan Hotel with multiple dance floors and late-night energy.

Where is San Juan?

San Juan is on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico, right by the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the city sits on a small islet linked to the main island by bridges, with Old San Juan surrounded by the sea on three sides.

Fun facts

  • San Juan is the oldest city under U.S. jurisdiction, founded in 1521.

  • Piña colada was first created in San Juan in the 1950s.

  • El Morro Fortress took over 250 years to build.

  • Iguanas freely roam the old fort walls and parks.

  • The city’s original name was Puerto Rico, & the island was called San Juan.

FAQ San Juan

Nearby Countries

U.S Virgin Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands flag
few clouds26°C

U.S. Virgin Islands

Where every sunrise brings adventure, and every sunset leaves you wanting more.

Explore U.S. Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands flag
clear sky27°C

British Virgin Islands

Quiet coves and offshore gems make this island group endlessly intriguing.

Explore British Virgin Islands
Anguilla flag
clear sky28°C

Anguilla

Anguilla is a small, tranquil Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches and upscale atmosphere.

Explore Anguilla
Sint.Maarten.webp
Sint Maarten flag
few clouds27°C

Sint Maarten

This island is amazing for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Explore Sint Maarten