San Juan: Neighborhoods

Old San Juan Stroll quaint cobblestone streets framed by brightly colored colonial buildings brimming with cafes, shops and, come evening, a thriving nightlife scene.

Miramar Just east of Old San Juan, this quiet, tree-lined, residential neighborhood shelters beautiful colonial homes. It’s also the jumping-off point for day trips to Vieques and Culebra islands.

Condado Hit the streets of waterfront Condado for designer clothing, jewelry, and the occasional open-air fashion-show. A strong undercurrent makes the beach here better for strolling than swimming.

Santurce Technically, massive Santurce encompasses Condado and Ocean Park, but beyond these beachy neighborhoods, the vibe is rougher and more metropolitan. Find art museums and bars and restaurants frequented by locals.

Ocean Park Lined by a series of smaller hotels, this quiet, occasionally rocky stretch of sand links Condado and Isla Verde. Souvenir shops and restaurants line streets.

Isla Verde Exclusive resorts, casinos and high-rise apartments front blue-green waters and golden swaths of sand along one of the island’s most popular strands. Weekends draw crowds of sunbathers and water-sports aficionados.