With its narrow cobblestoned streets, lovely Old San Juan is best explored on foot. Begin your tour in the southwest corner of the walled city at Paseo de la Princesa, a promenade with a spectacular view of San Juan Bay. Midway down the promenade is La Princesa, a former prison that currently houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. Walk northwest along Paseo de la Princesa toward San Juan Gate, one of the old city's original seaside entrances. You can head into the city through the gate or continue walking the promenade all around the outer border of the colonial walls that surround Old San Juan, which leads to El Morro, the fortress at the tip of the peninsula. If you pass through San Juan Gate, take an immediate right to visit La Fortaleza, the governor's mansion built in 1533, or continue walking eastward toward the Catedral de San Juan, El Museo del Nino and Casa Blanca, which lie a few blocks beyond the gate.
Be sure to linger among the charming streets of the old city, especially in Plaza del Quinto Centenario, Plaza San Jose or Plaza de Armas. Beautiful Spanish colonial buildings border each square.
Nature lovers will want to make time for the dramatic rain forest at El Yunque, about an hour outside the city. For those wishing to stay closer to San Juan, the Botanical Garden at Rio Piedras offers equally striking flora and fauna within 15 minutes of the city center.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
Venture into the tunnels and dungeons of the largest fort Spain ever built in the Americas. Located close to the eastern entrance to Old San Juan, it was built to guard against land attacks. The views of the Atlantic are breathtaking, and the tour guides are extremely knowledgeable and friendly. A folkloric group performs every Monday. June-November daily 9 am-5 pm; December-May daily 9 am-6 pm. US$3 adults, free for children younger than 16. US$5 adults for combined entrance to the Castillo de San Cristobal and Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. Calle Norzagaray (at the eastern end of the street), Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-729-6960. http://www.nps.gov/saju.
Located at the tip of Old San Juan's peninsula, El Morro fortress dominates the landscape, with its massive gold-colored walls glistening in the Caribbean sun. Built in 1539 to defend San Juan Bay, the fort's sprawling stone design, impressive seaside location and rich historical legacy make it one of the city's most popular attractions. There's also a museum, a gift shop, lookout telescopes, and the best views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bay. June-November daily 9 am-5 pm; December-May daily 9 am-6 pm. US$3 adults, free for children younger than 16. US$5 adults for combined entrance to the Castillo de San Cristobal and Castillo de San Felipe del Morro. Calle Norzagaray (at the end of the street), Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-729-6960. http://www.nps.gov/saju.
The current cathedral was built in 1852 (on the site of the original structure, which was built in the early 1500s). Now a popular location for society weddings, the cathedral houses the dramatic white-marble tomb of Ponce de Leon, as well as many stunning stained-glass windows. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Weekday Mass (in Spanish) at noon, Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 9 and 11 am. Free. 151 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-722-0861. http://www.catedralsanjuan.com.
A palatial structure built in 1533, this is the oldest executive mansion in the Western Hemisphere. La Fortaleza is surrounded by luxuriant gardens and overlooks San Juan Bay. Guided tours of the gardens are available Monday-Friday 9 am-3 pm. Reservations recommended. US$3 adults. 52 Calle Fortaleza, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-721-7000, ext. 2211. http://www.fortaleza.gobierno.pr.
The gray colonial building known as La Princesa was once a prison, but now it houses the main office of the government-run Puerto Rico Tourism Co. Occasional special exhibits of regional art and handicrafts are held there. La Princesa is on Paseo de la Princesa, a 19th-century esplanade lined with benches and plazas with outdoor sculptures. It's a great street for strolling. The building is open Monday-Friday 8 am-4:30 pm. La Princesa is located in the middle of the promenade, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-721-2400.
In the 16th century, Spanish soldiers practiced their drills on this square. Today, the plaza is a popular spot to people-watch, relax on a bench or sip coffee at the nearby cafe. The plaza includes San Juan's City Hall, which was completed in 1799 and last restored in 1975. Its ground floor (formerly a jail) houses an information desk and has walking-tour maps of Old San Juan. City Hall is open Monday-Friday 8 am-4 pm. Off Calle San Francisco (between Calle San Jose and Calle Cruz), Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-724-7171.
A statue of Cristobal Colon (Christopher Columbus) dominates this historic plaza on the eastern edge of Old San Juan. Tablets at the base of the statue, erected in 1893 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the explorer's arrival in Puerto Rico, chronicle Columbus' life. Just east of Calle O'Donnel (between Calle Fortaleza and Calle San Francisco), San Juan.
Visitors walking from El Morro to San Cristobal will pass by Quincentennial Square, a large plaza constructed in 1992 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Columbus' arrival in the New World. A 40-ft/12-m totem-pole-style sculpture is the plaza's modern centerpiece, which some have criticized for being at odds with the old city's historic setting. The plaza frequently hosts outdoor music and dancing extravaganzas and is a favorite spot for skateboarders, government workers on lunch breaks and mothers out for a stroll with their toddlers. Just south of Calle Norzagaray, Old San Juan, San Juan.
One of the original seaside entrances to San Juan, the gate was completed in 1639. Known in Spanish as "La Muralla," the gate opened each morning to welcome vendors and visitors on official business and then closed at sunset to keep out pirates. At the end of the Paseo de la Princesa (between Calle Fortaleza and Calle San Francisco), San Juan.
Completed in 1521, Casa Blanca was built for the explorer Ponce de Leon, who died before construction was finished. Generations of his heirs lived in the home, and today the estate houses a museum that concentrates on daily life in San Juan from the 1500s to the present. Open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 am-noon and 1-4 pm. US$3 adults, US$2 children. 1 Calle San Sebastian, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-725-1454.
Young visitors can stage their own puppet show, walk through a pulsating heart and enjoy much more at this interactive children's museum. Open Tuesday-Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm, Friday 9 am-5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 12:30-5 pm. Last admission one hour before closing. US$7 children younger than 15, US$5 adults. 150 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-722-3791. http://www.museodelninopr.org.
A striking 18th-century town house contains this museum devoted to rare books and the art of printing and book binding. Its permanent book collection, thought to be the best in Latin America, has 5,000 volumes, some of which date back to the 1500s. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-4:30 pm. Free. 255 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-723-0354. http://www.lacasadellibro.org.
Established in 1984 by a group of artists, this museum exhibits art produced in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and Latin America from 1940 to the present. It is housed in Rafael M. de Labra historical building, an architectural jewel of the Georgian style. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Sunday noon-4 pm. Free. Avenida Juan Ponce de Leon at the corner of Ave. Roberto H. Todd Parada 18, Santurce. Phone 787-977-4030. http://www.museocontemporaneopr.org.
This museum is housed in a remodeled 1920s neoclassical structure. It showcases Puerto Rico's most-treasured works of art—including works by Puerto Rican artists Jose Campeche and Rafael Tufino. The collection enables visitors to learn about the development of Puerto Rican society and culture from the 18th century to the present day. The grounds also contain a 5-acre/2-hectare sculpture garden. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm (Wednesday till 8 pm), Sunday 11 am-6 pm. US$6 adults, US$3 students, seniors and children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5 and seniors older than 75. No photos or videos in the gallery area. 299 Ave. de Diego, Santurce. Phone 787-977-6277. http://www.mapr.org.
This museum is a work in progress that occupies the second floor of the Cuartel de Ballaja, the barracks that housed Spanish soldiers and their families in the late 1800s. Opened in 1992, the museum has an extensive permanent collection of Latin-American folk art and African heritage items, and a permanent collection of Native American works. Other galleries offer changing exhibits that showcase the work of regional painters and sculptors, but several of the museum's rooms remain empty in anticipation of future collections. Open daily except Monday 10 am-4 pm (Thursday and Friday opens at 9 am). Free. A fee applies to some special exhibits. Cuartel de Ballaja, Second Floor (at the end of Calle Norzagaray), San Juan. Phone 787-724-5052. http://www.museolasamericas.org.
This museum showcases Puerto Rico's African heritage with exhibits of masks, musical instruments and crafts. Open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30 am-noon and 1-4:15 pm. US$2 adults, US$1 children and seniors. Plaza de San Jose, Calle San Sebastian, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-724-4294. http://www.icp.gobierno.pr/myp/museos/m16.htm.
The Spanish cellist, whose mother was Puerto Rican, spent the last decade of his life on the island. The 18th-century house contains the manuscripts, photographs and videotapes of Pablo Casals, in addition to some of his personal artifacts. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm. US$1 adults, US$0.50 children and seniors. 101 Calle San Sebastian, Plaza de San Jose, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-723-9185. http://www.festcasalspr.gobierno.pr.
This museum pays homage to the great athletes of Puerto Rico. Various exhibition halls tell the tales of the island's numerous sports legends such as Roberto Clemente, Gigi Fernandez and Tito Trinidad. Daily except Monday9:30 am-4 pm. US$5 general admission, US$2.50 students and seniors. 3 Bulevar del Deporte, Sector Bellomonte, Guaynabo. Phone 787-731-4923 or 787-731-4924. http://www.museodeldeportepr.com.
Before this architecturally distinctive structure became a museum, it was home to Felisa Rincon de Gautier, San Juan's mayor (1948-64). Exhibits include memorabilia related to her impressive life and career. Open Monday-Friday 9 am-4 pm. Free. 51 Caleta de San Juan, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-723-1897.
This magnificent, 13-level museum features an aquarium, reptile exhibit, interactive and educational exhibits of biblical eras, an indoor miniature golf course and amusement rides. Featured exhibits include the
Journey to Jurassic and the
Hall of the Apostles, and amusement rides include a carousel, merry-go-round and caterpillar roller coaster. Open Wednesday and Thursday 10 am-9 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am-10 pm, Sunday 10 am-6 pm. Ticket prices vary. 24 Calle B Urb. Industrial, Sabana Abajo, Carolina, San Juan. Phone 939-969-0985. http://www.museohistoricodelabiblia.com.
| Parks & Gardens | Top |
To get a feel for the rain forest's mystery and lush beauty, stop first at El Portal Tropical Rain Forest Center, located just inside the entrance to El Yunque. Exhibits range from high-tech multimedia displays to a giant light-up map that shows how the rain forest supplies water to much of the island. At El Portal, you can also obtain maps of picnic areas, drive-up waterfalls and hiking paths. If you follow one of the marked trails, you may see rare plants and animals, such as the melodious
coquis (tiny tree frogs) or the multicolored Puerto Rican parrot. Comfortable clothing and closed shoes recommended. Daily 7:30 am-6 pm, El Portal Tropical Rain Forest Center 9 am-5 pm. US$3 adults, US$1.50 seniors, free for children younger than 16. Groups of 15 or more pay half price. Highway 191 (off Highway 3, about an hour's drive east of San Juan), Rio Grande. Phone 787-888-1810 ext. 7001. http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/caribbean.
A park and open-air plaza in the heart of Condado, the Ventana al Mar features a fountain, a walkway along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, restaurants and more than 2 acres/1 hectare of green area that is perfect for a picnic. The Le Lo Lai folkloric dance-and-music troupe performs in this area. Across the street there is a strip of high-end specialty stores such as Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, Cartier and Christian Dior. Ashford Avenue, Condado, San Juan. Phone 787-721-2400.
Families can go bike-riding and pedal-boating on the lake of this park. A funicular ride lets you see the entire park from 55 ft/17 m up in the air, or take a tour in the miniature train. This park is also home to the Tito Puente Amphitheater. Open Wednesday-Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm. Funicular US$2 adults, US$1 children younger than 11. Train ride US$1. Parking fee. Jesus Pineiro Avenida at Luis Ferre Expressway, Hato Rey. Phone 787-763-0568. http://www.parquesnacionalespr.com/munoz_marin_par.asp.
Upon entering Old San Juan from the hotel strip, you will reach this 22-acre/9-hectare passive park with a central gazebo, fountains, benches, vine-covered trellises and playground. Its opening in 1929 marked the first urban park built on the island. Renovations have maintained the park's historic standing. Daily 24 hours. Free. Luis Munoz Rivera Avenida, Puerta de Tierra, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-721-6133. http://www.parquesnacionalespr.com/munoz_rivera_par.asp.
At this pleasant garden, paths wind through 200 acres/80 hectares of peaceful grounds that include indigenous trees, shrubs and flowering plants. Leave time for a visit to Jardin de Esculturas, where some Latin-American sculptors have created magnificent artworks on the grounds. Daily 8 am-5 pm. Guided tours for groups of 10-30 Monday-Friday at 9:30 am and 1 pm by appointment. Admission is free. Guided group tours cost US$25. English tours available. At the intersection of Highways 1 and 847 (next to the University of Puerto Rico), Rio Piedras. Phone 787-250-0000, ext. 6730-6735, or 787-758-9957. http://www.upr.edu.
| Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries | Top |
The largest rum distillery in the world offers free guided tours that include sample drinks. You'll learn about traditional and modern rum-production techniques, as well as the history of the Bacardi family. A convenient way to get to the distillery is to take a ferry from Pier 2 across San Juan Bay to Catano and then a
publico (open-air car) or taxi to the plant. Most local tour companies also offer excursions to the distillery. Open Monday-Saturday 8:30 am-5:30 pm (last tour at 4:15 pm), Sunday 10 am-5 pm (last tour at 3:45 pm). The one-hour tour begins every half-hour. 165 Carretera, Kilometer Marker 2.5 (in the Catano Industrial area), San Juan. Phone 787-788-1500. http://www.casabacardi.org.
| Zoos & Wildlife | Top |
Kids will have a chance to mingle with the animals at this petting zoo. The zoo has horses, sheep, pigs and cows, and there is also an area with small amusement rides and a covered picnic/cafeteria area. Open to the public Saturday and Sunday noon-6 pm. Admission US$3 children younger than 12, adults US$7. Phone 787-731-6799. http://www.villacampestrepr.com.
| Other Options | Top |
Children will enjoy this place—nine themed museums, a zoo, Torito City, Space Rockets Plaza and the newly renovated planetarium. Open Wednesday-Friday 9 am-4 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am-6 pm. US$5 adults, US$3 children, US$2.50 seniors. Additional fee for the planetarium: US$3 adults, US$2 children. Carretera 167 (near the Plaza del Sol), Bayamon. Phone 787-740-6868.
In San Juan, the ocean calls to natives and tourists alike. The white-sand beaches provide a destination for sun worshippers, and more active vacationers will want to take advantage of the excellent diving and snorkeling sites near the city. Boating is a major sport in Puerto Rico—regattas and racing events are held throughout the year—and it's possible to take boating and sailing outings (with or without a skipper). Various catamarans offer day sailing trips out of the marinas in Fajardo, about one hour east of San Juan. The fishing—both coastal and deep-sea—is outstanding.
Another great diversion is the Paseo Pinones Recreational Trail. Located in the Pinones sector (at Loiza), just minutes from the Isla Verde tourist zone, it's a 6-mi/10-km pathway that attracts cyclists, skaters and joggers.
San Juan's top attractions include its beaches. Whether it's for sun worshipping or watersports, San Juan has just the right beach for you. At the entrance of Old San Juan across from the Luis Munoz River Park is the Balneario El Escambron. This public beach has lifeguards on duty Wednesday-Sunday 8:30 am-5 pm and is handicapped accessible. El Escambron boasts the Blue Flag distinction—an exclusive eco-label. Another Blue Flag beach just east of Old San Juan is Isla Verde Beach. Partially lined by condominiums, luxury hotels and tropical flora, Isla Verde's white-sand beach is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.
A natural rock barrier keeps the waters calm along Condado's shady beach, which is the only spot in the neighborhood not given over to the beachfront hotels and condos. For the adventurous, the lagoon beyond the bridge is great for kayaking and windsurfing. Other popular San Juan beaches are Ocean Park, a favorite hangout of young adults and gays; Punta las Marias, a great spot for windsurfing and other watersports; and Boca Cangrejos.
El Balneario La Monserrate in Luquillo, just a 30-minute drive east on Highway 3 from San Juan, is one of Puerto Rico's best beaches. It offers picturesque white sand, and an offshore reef means tranquil waters and good snorkeling. The view of El Yunque National Forest is captivating. This Blue Flag beach features the Mar Accesible (Accessible Beach) program, which provides assistance for the physically challenged. Expect large crowds on weekends.
Some other favorite beaches are found west of town near the resort community of Dorado, about a 30-minute drive from the city.
Note: It is not considered safe to walk at night on any of the beaches near San Juan, except those in front of the large hotels. (Even then, consult the hotel's concierge or front-desk staff about the safety of the area.)
This bowling alley has 42 lanes and keeps the house rocking with karaoke on Thursday and varied dance music, including salsa, top 40 and
reggaeton with laser light shows on Friday and Saturday. Open Monday-Wednesday 10 am-midnight, Thursday and Friday 10 am-2 am, Saturday 9 am-2 am and Sunday 9 am-midnight. US$14 per hour Monday-Friday till 4 pm, US$22 after 4 pm, US$27 Friday after 10 pm and Saturday after 9 pm for the laser light show and music; US$22 Saturday and Sunday. US$3 shoe rental. Sabana Gardens Industrial Park, Carolina. Phone 787-257-4305.
This 32-lane bowling alley is located on the third level of the island's largest shopping mall, Plaza Las Americas. The establishment features a video wall, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and two bars. Open Sunday-Wednesday 11 am-midnight, Thursday 11 am-1 am and Friday and Saturday 11 am-2 am. US$18-$35 per hour, depending on day and time. Shoe rental US$3. 525 Roosevelt Ave., San Juan. Phone 787-777-5016.
More than two dozen world records have been broken by big-game anglers in the waters off Puerto Rico, where huge marlin, sailfish and tuna swim. The best fishing is near the north coast, also known as Blue Marlin Alley. San Juan's mangroves and lagoons are ideal for light tackle fishing because of the plentitude of tarpon fish.
Offers charter-fishing services. Open daily. US$550 for a half-day (four hours), US$900 for a full day (eight hours) with up to six passengers. Rates include gear, a captain, bait and a cooler of nonalcoholic beverages. A six-hour charter is US$700 for up to six passengers, and split charter rates are US$185 per person (four hours, minimum of two people). Club Nautico de San Juan, 480 Ave. de Fernandez Juncos, San Juan. Phone 787-723-2292 or 787-724-6265. http://www.mikebenitezfishingpr.com.
Offers deep-sea fishing and light-tackle fishing tours. Deep-sea fishing US$525 for a half-day or US$900 for full day with up to six people. Light-tackle fishing US$325 for a half-day or US$425 for six hours for one or two people. Cangrejos Yacht Club, Carretera 187, Kilometer Marker 3.3, San Juan. Phone 787-396-8346. http://www.fishinginpuertorico.com.
Offers deep-sea fishing and light-tackle fishing tours. Deep-sea fishing US$700 for a half-day, US$1100 for a full day with up to six people. Split charter US$185 per person for a half-day, minimum three people. Light-tackle fishing US$325 for a half-day for two people, US$50 for additional person. Deep-sea fishing departs from San Juan Bay Marina, Ave. Fernandez Juncos Parada 10, Miramar, Santurce (Light-tackle tours depart from Cangrejos Yacht Club, Carretera 187, Kilometer Marker 3.3), San Juan. Phone 787-791-6195 or 787-726-5752. http://www.castillotours.com.
An 18-hole golf course about 25 mi/40 km south of San Juan that offers a beautiful mountain backdrop. The course adjoins the Four Points Sheraton Caguas Real hotel. Greens fees US$65-$120 depending on day and season. Rental clubs US$45. 500 Alhambra en Granada Boulevard (behind the hotel), Caguas. Phone 787-653-4653.
Designed by Tom Kite and Bruce Besse, this 36-hole golf course in Rio Grande is a golfer's delight. The course is adjacent to the luxury resort Gran Melia Puerto Rico and will host the PGA Tour in March 2008. Greens fees US$160 and US$145 (after 1 pm) per 18 holes, depending on day and season. Fees include the cart and tees. Club rentals US$40 and shoes US$20. Off Route 3, a 45-minute drive east of San Juan, Rio Grande. Phone 787-657-2000. http://www.cocobeachgolfclub.com.
Quadruple your golfing pleasure with four different 18-hole courses at the Hyatt Hacienda del Mar resort, all designed by golf legend Robert Trent Jones. Greens fees US$115-$194. Club rentals are US$59, and shoes are US$11. Off Road 693 (About a 30- to 40-minute drive northwest of San Juan), Dorado. Phone 787-796-8961. http://hyatthaciendadelmar.hyatt.com.
Designed by Chi Chi Rodriguez, this 18-hole course is not only challenging, but also scenic, with 14 lakes and a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. Open daily 6 am-9 pm (till 6 pm Sunday and Monday). Greens fees US$55-$120 depending on time of day. Club rentals US$45, shoes US$11. Off Road 693 (about a 30- to 40-minute drive northwest of San Juan), Dorado. Phone 787-796-3070. http://www.embassysuitesdorado.com.
Designed by Arthur Hills, this 18-hole course features breathtaking views of El Yunque rain forest and the Atlantic Ocean. Daily 6:30 am-6 pm. Greens fees US$90-$200 depending on season and time of day. Club rental is US$60. 1000 El Conquistador Ave. (an hour's drive from San Juan), Fajardo. Phone 787-863-6784. http://www.elconresort.com.
The Wyndham Rio Mar resort features two magnificent courses. The 18-hole River Course, designed by Greg Norman, is 6,902 yd/6,419 m long and follows the Mameyes River. The 18-hole Ocean Course, designed by Tom and George Fazio, is 6,807 yd/6,330 m long. Greens fees US$90-$200 (depending on the time of day and season) and include shared carts, unlimited range balls and club storage. Club rental is an additional US$55. 6000 Rio Mar Blvd. (a 45-minute drive east of San Juan, off Route 3), Rio Grande. Phone 787-888-6000 or 787-888-7060. http://www.wyndhamriomar.com.
| Spas and Health Clubs | Top |
This modern, fully equipped gym gets a thumbs-up for the ideal gym when away from home. There is also a studio for aerobics, kickboxing, Pilates and yoga and a spinning room. Open Monday-Friday 5 am-10 pm (Friday till 9 pm), Saturday 9 am-7 pm. Daily fee US$15. 1151 Ashford Ave., Condado, San Juan. Phone 787-721-0717.
After all that sightseeing, relax your mind and senses with a massage or facial at this full-service spa. The spa also offers spinning, Pilates, kickboxing and yoga sessions, and features a fitness center for women. Spa open Monday-Friday 8 am-7 pm, weekends 9 am-6 pm. Health studio open Monday-Thursday 6 am-9 pm, Friday 6 am-7 pm, Saturday 8 am-5 pm, Sunday 9 am-1 pm. 1054 Ashford Ave., Condado (near the Window to the Sea), San Juan. Phone 787-722-8433. Toll-free 866-936-7721. http://www.zen-spa.com.
| Horseback Riding | Top |
Whether a first-time rider or a professional polo player, Catch A Dream Ranch will fulfill your fantasy with Western-style riding on multiterrain (8 mi/12 km) 90-minute trails through water, sand and mountains. Bilingual guides give detailed riding instructions to beginners and do not take more than 10 riders at a time. Long pants and closed-toe shoes recommended, pregnant women not allowed, and there is a weight limit of no more than 265 lb/104 kg. Daily from 10 am (pickup from San Juan metro-area hotels varies from 9 am). Reservations required. Prices are US$85 for ages 5 and older (fee includes round-trip transportation and complimentary beverage after trails). Private 13-mi/21-km rides for more experienced riders cost US$150 per person. Payment by cash or traveler's check. Off Route 3 (a 45-minute drive east of San Juan, toward the Wyndham Rio Mar), Rio Grande. Phone 787-409-0155, 787-635-3603 or 787-409-9360.
Experience horseback riding on
paso fino horses through the foothills of the El Yunque rain-forest mountains. Riders can choose either a one- or two-hour guided trail ride. Weight limit per rider of 250 lb/104 kg. Tours offered daily at 10 am and 12:30 and 2:30 pm. Reservations are recommended at least one day in advance. One-hour rides US$30 adults, US$20 children younger than 13; two-hour rides US$60 adults and US$40 children. Route 992, Kilometer Marker 3 (a 45-minute drive east of San Juan, toward the Wyndham Rio Mar), Luquillo. Phone 787-889-5820 or 787-889-4954. http://www.haciendacarabalipuertorico.com.
Just-for-kids pony rides. Trail riding for adults and children also offered. No reservations necessary but calling in advance recommended. US$5 for a six-time circle pony ride, US$35 adults and US$20 children half-hour trail ride. Off Route 3 (approximately a 30-minute drive east of San Juan), San Juan. Phone 787-690-7669.
| Scuba & Snorkeling | Top |
Tropical fish, coral and reefs lie below Puerto Rico's waters, providing excellent scuba diving and snorkeling. The runoff from the hills and cities makes many parts of the coast around San Juan a bit too murky, but the warm shallow waters are great for beginners.
Large ocean swells stirred up from North Atlantic storms can pound the north coast during winter, but the waters are calmer in the summer, making the trip out to the dive sites, and the dive itself, safer and more enjoyable. If you want to try snorkeling off the beach, most hotel shops rent equipment. To go diving, you must be certified, although some shops offer a supervised introductory course for beginners.
Along the metropolitan hotel strip, the waters surrounding the Caribe Hilton and Condado Plaza have great reefs for snorkeling. There are several good dive sites off the east coast of the main island, near the islands of Culebra and Vieques. The watersports centers at most of the larger hotels in San Juan offer boat trips to both islands. In addition, you'll find good diving off the west coast near Rincon (except in winter) and La Parguera. There are dive shops in these towns, as well as in the bigger hotels.
We also recommend, if time permits, a drive to the east coast city of Fajardo where you can board a charter boat for a great snorkel-and-lunch. There are many operators, but we think Traveler Catamaran (phone 787-863-2821 or 787-412-9555), East Island Excursions (phone 787-860-3434) and Salty Dog are among the best.
This PADI and NAUI affiliate offers shore dives at local dive sites in San Juan, where divers can see reefs, feed fish and swim through tunnels. Boat dive trips out of Fajardo usually go to the offshore island of Palominitos. The island picnic package includes lunch and equipment. Transportation from San Juan provided. Equipment rental available. Prices US$60-$140 depending on type of excursion and location. Nomandie Hotel, San Juan. Phone 787-281-8858. http://www.diveguide.com/p2046.htm.
Underwater adventure awaits everyone from beginners to experienced divers. Boat dives, shore dives, night diving and underwater photography are among the many trips offered. PADI certified, this dive center offers excursions at Escambron Beach in San Juan, where the tropical fish are very friendly. Dive trips are also offered outside of San Juan to Fajardo, Culebra, Isabela and La Parguera. Prices US$65-$175 per person depending on type of excursion and location. Transportation available. Calle Buen Samaritano, D-13, Gardenville, Guaynabo. Phone 787-783-6377. http://www.scubadogs.net.
| Tennis & Racquet Sports | Top |
The upscale hotel has one tennis court that is open to visitors. Though it is a beachfront hotel, the tennis court faces the pool view. Open daily 7 am-8 pm. Reservations required. US$20 per hour for visitors, US$10 hotel guests. Phone 787-791-1000.
A good place to pick up a tennis match, San Juan Central Park houses 17 lighted courts. Open Monday-Thursday 6 am-10 pm, Friday 6 am-9 pm, Saturday and Sunday 6 am-7 pm. US$3 per hour 8 am-5 pm, US$4 5-9 pm. Santurce, San Juan. Phone 787-722-1646 or 787-771-8999, ext. 4011.
Two tennis courts that are lighted at night. Open daily 6 am-9 pm. Reservations recommended. US$10 per hour for visitors, US$5 for hotel guests. Racquet rentals US$5. 1309 Ashford Ave., Condado, San Juan. Phone 787-289-6023.
| Other Options | Top |
All-terrain-vehicle enthusiasts can enjoy a two-hour guided tour that takes drivers and passengers up the mountains and through the foothills of the rain forest, as well as along the Mameyes River. Drivers must be 16 or older and must present a valid driver's license or driving permit. No passengers younger than 8 years old. Tours offered daily at 9:30 am and 12:30 and 2:30 pm. Reservations are required and can be made with a minimum of 15 minutes prior to the tour. Two-hour rides US$75 for drivers, US$45 for passengers. Route 992, Kilometer Marker 3 (a 45-minute drive east of San Juan, toward the Wyndham Rio Mar Resort), Luquillo. Phone 787-889-5820 or 787-889-4954. http://www.haciendacarabalipuertorico.com.
This company offers services on the beach fronts of Isla Verde hotels. Have fun riding a wave runner, take a banana-boat ride, or go parasailing and much more. The company also offers tours to the El Yunque rain forest and kayaking in the Bioluminescent Bay at night, as well as light fishing, snorkeling, horseback riding and ATV tours. Open daily 10 am-5 pm. Fees vary per watersport, but the most popular are US$20 for banana-boat rides, US$65 for parasailing and US$70 for wave runner rentals. (behind the El San Juan Hotel & Casino in Isla Verde). Phone 787-643-4510. http://www.waterfun-pr.com.
San Juan lights up after dark. There's always plenty of action in the island's casinos, many of which are located in the larger hotels along the strip in Condado and Isla Verde. Most are entertaining whether you're gambling or not. Casinos open at noon and don't close till 4 am—some stay open 24 hours. Remember that there is a law prohibiting smoking inside establishments in Puerto Rico; this includes bars, casinos, clubs, hotels, shopping centers and restaurants.
Most of the larger hotels also have discos or live-music clubs—the Condado Plaza, Caribe Hilton, San Juan Marriott and El San Juan often have bands playing salsa and other Latin rhythms into the late hours. The Water & Beach Club Hotel is the area's hottest spot: Its ground-floor and rooftop bars attract San Juan's most eligible night owls, and Brava at El San Juan Hotel draws big crowds.
Old San Juan is full of small, interesting music venues. If you're visiting the island mid-January, be sure to participate in the wild festivities of the Fiestas de La Calle San Sebastian (the San Sebastian Street Festival), it is similar to Mardi Gras, but with a Latin kick. You'll usually find the streets around Plaza San Jose packed with partygoers who are either drifting between bars or listening to a plena band (traditional Puerto Rican music) playing on a street corner. On weekends, the nightspots in hotels don't close their doors until 3-5 am. Outside the hotels, clubs usually stay open till 2 or 3 am.
Although San Juan's drinking age is 18, many of the city's trendiest places have a policy that requires patrons to be at least 23-25 years old. The restriction preserves the clubs' exclusivity and their sophisticated appeal.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
This casual establishment in the El Convento Hotel has a restaurant, bar and sidewalk cafe. Thursday-Tuesday from 11 am. 100 Calle Cristo, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-723-9200.
The favorite of many area executives (and others in their 30s and 40s). There's dancing to live music Wednesday-Friday. Delicious Mexican appetizers are served. Open Wednesday-Friday 5 pm-midnight, closed Saturday for private parties. 124 Ave. Domenech, Hato Rey. Phone 787-758-0908. http://www.fridasmexican.com.
Let your hair fall down and get your groove on at this hopping two-floor sports bar that features plasma TVs and giant screens. DJs spin music every day, and live bands play Wednesday-Saturday starting at 7 pm. Must be 21 or older to enter. Open daily for lunch and dinner. B2 Calle Tabonuco, Ste. 600, San Patricio Town Center, Guaynabo, San Juan. Phone 787-641-0533. http://www.doubleteampr.com.
The beautiful Oval Bar in the lobby of the El San Juan Hotel is a favorite gathering spot for locals and tourists to start off the night. Music nightly 7:30-10: Thursday is tropical jazz, Friday is percussion and Saturday is Latin salsa. At 10 pm Thursday-Saturday, the party moves to the El San Juan's Chico Lounge, which presents live tropical music and variety until about 3 am. The dance floor is usually packed with couples twirling to salsa and merengue rhythms. Casual-elegant attire required. 6063 Ave. Isla Verde, Isla Verde. Phone 787-791-1000. http://www.thesanjuanhotel.com.
This hipster cafe has some of the best Latin, jazz and salsa music in town. Expect a packed house Thursday-Saturday, when twenty- and thirtysomethings descend on the bar. It also serves good, reasonably priced food. Wednesday-Sunday from 7 pm. Cover charge US$3-$5 per person. 312 Calle San Francisco, Old San Juan, San Juan. Phone 787-977-1276. http://www.nuyoricancafepr.com.
This bar has good food and good music that attract the locals and tourists; it's also an alternative to the Isla Verde hotel-lounge action. Wednesday is live merengue, Thursday karaoke 9 pm-1 am. Wednesday-Friday is open bar 7-11 pm for US$12, and Friday and Saturday feature live rock bands 11:30 pm-5 am. Sunday is salsa night 9 pm-3 am. Daily 11:30 am-around 5 am. Must be 18 or older to enter. Isla Verde Avenue, Isla Verde. Phone 787-726-2161.
There's always something going on there—live Latin music, karaoke or DJs. Live music on Friday night, and Saturday is karaoke night. Open Wednesday-Friday from 5 pm, Saturday from 8 pm. Open for private parties Sunday-Tuesday. Must be age 21 or older to enter (ID required). 2479 Avenida Isla Verde, Punta Las Marias, San Juan. Phone 787-728-6280.
This exotic rooftop bar and lounge is located at the trendy boutique-hotel San Juan Water & Beach Club. It is a magnet for models and other beautiful people and offers a spectacular view of San Juan and an excellent sushi bar. A DJ spins Friday and Saturday starting at 9 pm. 2 Calle Tartak, Isla Verde. Phone 787-728-3666. http://www.waterbeachclubhotel.com.
An ideal spot if you're looking to relax, talk and drink wine. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the crowd is mixed ages. Restaurant open Tuesday-Friday for lunch and dinner; cafe/bar open Tuesday-Sunday for dinner with live music Friday 6 pm and Sunday 5 pm. 14 Calle Candina, Condado, San Juan. Phone 787-725-9494. http://www.zabopr.com.
| Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
One of the hottest clubs in the area, this semiformal place plays dance, house and hip-hop, as well as other popular rhythms. Must be age 21 or older to enter (ID required) on Thursday and Friday and 23 or older to enter on Saturday. Open Thursday from 9 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 pm. Parties of two or more can make arrangements for table service; reservations required for table service for parties of eight or more. Fashionably elegant attire; no sneakers, T-shirts, jeans or baseball caps. Cover US$11-$16, depending on the night. 6063 Ave. Isla Verde (in the El San Juan Hotel), Isla Verde. Phone 787-791-2781. http://www.bravapr.com.
This lively two-level disco is popular with gay men. Wednesday is urban pop, Thursday is college night, Friday is Klasic Krash House-Tribal-Retro and Saturday is open-bar night for US$20. Open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 pm; open Sunday when Monday is a holiday. Cover varies, depending on night and event. 1257 Ave. Ponce de Leon, Santurce. Phone 787-722-1131. http://www.krashpr.com.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
San Juan's performing-arts scene is always abuzz, with theater, dance and opera performances offered year-round.
Composed of approximately 15 professional dancers, this dance company presents four different shows throughout the year—including an annual production of
The Nutcracker—at the Luis A. Ferre Performing Arts Center and other venues in San Juan. 316 Ave. de Diego, Santurce. Phone 787-724-7032.
Performs September-May at the Luis A. Ferre Performing Arts Center. The orchestra also offers outdoor concerts throughout the island and at different university campuses during its performance season. Saturday 8 pm. 316 Ave. de Diego, Santurce. Phone 787-721-7727 ext. 3041. http://www.sinfonicapr.com.
This group performs three productions annually, one in the spring and two in the fall, at the Luis A. Ferre Performing Arts Center. 316 Ave. de Diego, Santurce. Phone 787-781-6000.
This architectural icon and performing-arts center in Guaynabo has more than 2,400 seats and includes wheelchair access. Office open Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm. Calle Carazo, corner of Avenida Las Cumbres, Guaynabo, San Juan. Phone 787-790-2350. http://www.bellasartesdeguaynabo.com.
This is Puerto Rico's most recent venue addition. The coliseum is located in the heart of the Hato Rey business district. Avenida Milla de Oro (the Golden Mile), San Juan. Phone 787-777-0800 or 877-265-4736. http://www.coliseodepuertorico.com.