Once upon a time, about 5 centuries ago, San Juan, Puerto Rico, was an impenetrable, literal fortress of a city protected by otherworldly beaches.
Today, aside from being the capital of Puerto Rico and one of the most popular cities in the Caribbean, San Juan is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on this side of the atlas. If you’re American, you can even pack for the beach and leave your passport at home!
Note: After you dry off, there are so many things to do in Puerto Rico besides the beach.
Here are the top 7 beaches in Puerto Rico–
Are Beaches in San Juan, Puerto Rico Free?
Every beach on this list is a public beach.
This means they are for everyone to use. The fancy umbrellas and cabanas that you see, however, come at a cost (usually charged by a nearby hotel or resort).
Public beaches with facilities are called Balnearios and charge a fee.
Isla Verde
Isla Verde, which translates to “Green Island,” is a resort strip known for its white-sand beaches and wildlife. This is San Juan’s longest beach, swimmable in most spots, and with calm, clear waters and every amenity you need.
Isla Verde has it all
- Local food spots. Lupi’s Mexican Cantina for delicious food and margaritas or Fela’s Vegetarian for inexpensive and authentic dishes.
- Showers, so you can actually remove the sand from your suit before you go eat or hop in a vehicle.
- Beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas are easy to rent from the luxury hotels that share the beachfront.
Isla Verde Beach is divided into 3 smaller sections–
- Pine Grove a local fav; best for surfing.
- Alambique is a relaxed area, good for palm tree worshipping, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Balneario de Carolina is the best spot for kids and non-swimmers- this area has lifeguards.
Parking
Yes, there is free parking on the street, but it goes so fast that unless you arrive there super early, I wouldn’t plan on finding a spot.
Instead, I recommend footing (pun intended) the parking fee at one of the nearby luxury hotels.
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Condado Beach
Packed with expensive fashion stores, casinos, fine dining, and high-rise condos, Condado is one of San Juan’s most desirable neighborhoods (read: Condado Beach gets crowded).
Nearby at Condado Lagoon, you can take this really cool night kayak tour.
Swimmers Beware: Condado Beach has strong currents, especially near the San Juan Marriott. Nearby, Playita del Condado is a smaller, calmer beach much better for light swimming and snorkeling.
Pro Tip: The famous Ashford Avenue is one of the most expensive in the world, known to be frequented by celebrities and billionaires. The Avenue is located right on the waterfront and is basically one big photo opp.
Parking
There is a parking garage right across from the (absolutely gorgeous!) La Ventana al Mar Park for a daily rate of around $6-10.
Atlantic Beach
Of all the beaches in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Atlantic has equal parts relaxation and socialization. Enjoy a sunny stroll along the shore, with chic hotels, bars, and restaurants nearby.
Atlantic Beach is also close to the hauntingly beautiful San Juan Cathedral and the historic Governor’s residence, La Fortaleza – Palacio de Santa Catalina.
Parking
I suggest the paid parking at one of the nearby resorts- like with most other popular beaches of San Juan, there is free parking, but scoring a spot is a gamble.
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Ocean Park Beach
Ocean Park has only started becoming popular in recent years. Even during tourist season, you won’t feel as overcrowded as Condado or Atlantic Beaches.
The west side of Ocean Park is known by the locals as “El Ultimo Trolley” (The Last Trolley) because this used to be the last place the trolley would stop. El Ultimo has more shade and slightly softer sand than the Atlantic side.
Bonus: On the weekends, you’ll find street vendors selling delicious food, Piraguas (shaved ice), and homemade ice cream.
Tip: At the far end of the El Ultimo Trolley, where the palm and almond trees gather, is the best spot to watch the sunset.
Parking
El Ultimo Trolley has the most convenient parking and access to the beach, but the spots will fill up on the weekend.
Escambrón Beach
Escambrón Beach has several rock formations that protect it from the rough waves of the Atlantic, making it perfect for snorkeling.
The waters here (like the rest of Puerto Rico) are high visibility, and since the beach is frequented by snorkelers, the fish that live in the area aren’t as freighted away by people.
If you plan to take underwater photos, this is the spot you want to do it.
Pro Tip: It’s super easy to rent snorkel gear, or you can bring your own- I love this durable, inexpensive set from Amazon.
Parking
Escambrón Beach is within walking distance from Old San Juan, so if you happen to be staying close by, you can skip the parking wars.
Yes, there is a free parking lot, but spots go fast.
The Most Romantic Beaches in San Juan Puerto Rico
Playa Peña
Playa Peña is one of the most romantic beaches in San Juan, a hidden gem that’s actually away from the crowds. A short walk from Old San Juan, across from the El Capitolio building, Playa Peña is perfect for a romantic balance of seclusion and excitement.
Playita del Condado
Another of San Juan’s most romantic beaches is Playita del Condado, a cleverly hidden oasis in the heart of Condado, on the East corner of the busy, shop-filled Ashford Ave.
I’m obsessed with the view from Playita del Condado, a poetic contrast between the centuries-old fort, Fortin San Geronimo, and the modern architecture of the nearby resorts.
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Resorts by the Beach in San Juan
Luxury resorts by the beach in San Juan
If you’re seeking a luxury vacay experience, look no further than the sophisticated Condado Vanderbilt. This historic hotel combines old-world charm with modern amenities, and the ocean views…breathtaking!
Another beach resort to consider is the Ritz Carlton San Juan. With private ocean-view balconies, a casino, and a pool by the beach, the Ritz San Juan lives up to its name.
Cheap resorts by the beach in San Juan
For those of us trying to stick to a budget, fear not! There are plenty of options for cheap resorts by the beach in San Juan. My top pick is the Coral Princess, which is about 2 blocks from the beach and has a rooftop pool and lovely, clean rooms. Check out other cheap resorts and hotels by the beach in San Juan.
Frequently asked questions
What is the prettiest beach in San Juan?
The prettiest beach in San Juan has to be Escambrón Beach. With soft white sand, glass-like waters, and views of historic Old San Juan in the distance, the beauty of this beach is truly exceptional.
What is the least crowded beach in San Juan?
If you want a more peaceful and less crazy beach experience, check out Playa Peña. It’s a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists, who are busy at Isla Verde or Condado, making Playa Peña the least crowded beach in San Juan.
Where are the safe beaches in San Juan?
The good news is that most of the beaches in San Juan, Puerto Rico, are pretty safe. However, Escambrón Beach and Condado Beach have lifeguards on duty, making them some of the safest beaches in San Juan. I recommend these two options for beginner swimmers or families.
Can you walk from Old San Juan to the beach?
Yes, you can walk from Old San Juan to the beach! One of the closest beaches to the Old San Juan area is Escambrón Beach, which is about a 30-minute walk through the historically captivating streets of Old San Juan.
Is Ocean Park or Condado Beach better?
When determining if Ocean Park or Condado Beach is better, you first have to decide what you’re looking for in a beach. Ocean Park is known for its laid-back, chill vibe, and Condado Beach is more upscale and lively.
So, if you’re seeking a relaxing beach day, I’d suggest Ocean Park, but if you want to lay out with plenty of shops and food nearby, Condado Beach is for you!
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