This 500-year-old Caribbean Capital Has Beautiful Beaches, a Growing Food Scene, and the Best Cocktail Bar in the Region-and Now Is the Time to Visit

""San Juan is the perfect destination. We have the advantage of city, beach, and mountain life all in one place," says Miguel Reyes, lifelong local and mixologist at the storied Caribe Hilton. Indeed, to find such a rich bloom of cosmopolitan vibrancy nestled so harmoniously between lush tropical jungles and azure seas feels like a feat that will inspire even the most well-traveled. With an increasingly diverse culinary scene and cultural and artistic expression blossoming, San Juan's beautiful beaches are merely the cherry on top of a stay rather than the main course."

"The grand dame of San Juan, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel occupies an enviable oceanfront location. Despite more than a century of storied glamour, the property still feels fresh, from its exclusive pool deck with waterfront dining to its intimate spa, home to the only hammam in Puerto Rico. The hotel's 1919 Restaurant, named after the year of its founding, sets the bar high for fine dining on the island."

"Set across 17 acres that kiss some of the best beaches in the city, Caribe Hilton has been the glamorous San Juan home away from home for the stars since 1949. Recently renovated rooms are sleek, reflecting calm Caribbean tones, while the sprawling grounds reveal nine different restaurants and cafes, multiple swimming pools (plus a swim-up bar), and ocean views from almost every angle."

San Juan offers a blend of beaches, urban culture, and nearby mountains, creating varied experiences for visitors. The city features a growing culinary scene and expanding cultural and artistic expression that complement its coastal attractions. Luxury accommodations emphasize both historic glamour and modern amenities, including exclusive pool decks, waterfront dining, intimate spas, and unique facilities such as Puerto Rico's only hammam. Resorts span expansive oceanfront grounds with multiple restaurants, pools, and ocean views, providing options for relaxation and high-end dining. The destination appeals to travelers seeking both beach time and broader cultural and gastronomic exploration.

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