The Best of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico From Local Guides
The Best Hotels, Resorts, Food & Restaurants, Bars & Nightlife, Beaches, Shopping, & Things To Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Old San Juan is the gem of the Caribbean. Originally founded by Ponce De Leon in 1508, Old San Juan's beautiful Spanish architecture, diverse food & dining options, nightlife, beautiful hotels & resorts, and endless shopping options will provide plenty of interesting things to do for any visitor. The area is safe and densely constructed allowing for easy exploration on foot, American currency is accepted, and taxis/Ubers are available for travel to and from the district. Let our local guides show you around "Old Town".
This is the FULL list of all curated experiences in Old San Juan. Each category (restaurants, hotels, etc.) has a link at the top of the section to the map for that category containing contact information, directions, location, etc.
See all our favorite experiences in Old San Juan below or filter by type here: Restaurants & Food | Hotels & Resorts | Bars, Clubs & Nightlife | Things To Do - Activities | Best Beaches | Shopping & Stores
Old San Juan Food, Restaurants & Dining
The diversity and quantity of Puerto Rico's dining and entertainment options set it apart from other Caribbean island destinations. From fine dining to food carts, Old San Juan boasts of wide range of food, restaurant and dining options. See the full list of Old San Juan restaurant & food experiences below and get the map for specific information, contact details, etc.
Marmalade - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
I've lived many different places and I spent a lot of time in New York (some of the best food in the world in my opinion) and Marmalade is one of the few restaurants in Puerto Rico that can compete with the best dining establishments in any major metropolitan food haven. Marmalade is located in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico and if you have a chance to visit definitely do so.
St. Germain - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
St. Germain is a special place and I go there a lot for brunch/lunch in Old San Juan (St. Germain offers dinner service as well). The decor is tasteful and simple with a French country vibe. St. Germain is one of the few places in Puerto Rico with great vegan and vegetarian options on the menu. They also have other options for meat eaters as well. The crowd at St. Germain is generally pretty hip and and well dressed but it is most certainly a casual restaurant. Good prices, solid wines and bubbly by the glass, the bright and open ambiance and great food make St. Germain a solid pick anytime you are in Old San Juan.
Princesa - Cocina Cultura - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Princesa - Cocina Cultura (formerly Princesa Gastrobar) in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is located on the harbor side facing the historic Old Spanish Arsenal piers just off the tree covered Paseo De La Princesa. Princesa's outdoor seating (under an open trellis style ceiling) is surrounded by tropical plants and vines that create a really cool ambiance. The elevated Puerto Rican food here is great all around and many locals call this place their favorite in Old San Juan. Great food, cocktails and ambiance make this a great choice for a well rounded Puerto Rican food experience in Old San Juan.
El Jibarito
El Jibarito might have the best Puerto Rican food in Old San Juan... depending on who you ask. Regardless, the authentic Puerto Rican food here is amazing and affordably priced. They do not take reservations and wait times from 45-60 minutes are common. El Jibarito is generally pretty busy so pack some patience... it's totally worth it.... and try the mofongo.
Pirilo Pizza
Pirilo Pizza has several locations on the island and they are all popular spots. The Old San Juan location is in a really cool 400 year old building and the atmosphere is fun. Pirilo serves unique artisanal pizzas with Puerto Rican influences, provides full bar service, makes great sangria and is generally a good time if you're in the mood for pizza.... so... always.
Santisimo
Santisimo is nestled in the courtyard gardens at the El Convento Hotel. Chef Antonio Perez prepares amazing Puerto Rican world fusion dishes and mixologist Pablo Rodriguez has put together a great cocktail menu. The tropical ambiance is relaxing, the services is outstanding, all-in-all Santisimo is a top fine dining choice in Old San Juan.
Trois Cent Onze
Trois Cent Onze is an intimite upscale French restaurant on Calle de la Fortaleza. The great traditional french menu, extensive wine list and romantic/intimate atmosphere make Trois Cent Onze worth visiting. Additionally, there just aren't that many French eateries in Puerto Rico. Favorites at Trois Cent Onze include the duck and the escargot. Reservations here are recommended due to it's smaller size.
Kaffe Haus Old San Juan
Kaffe Haus is one of the best breakfast/brunch experiences in Old San Juan. The food is amazing, the service is best in class, the coffee is very high quality and the mimosas/sangrias are dangerous. There is usually a bit of the wait but it is generally not more than 30 minutes. This place does what it does exactly right.... a great brunch/lunch experience every time.
Limbers de San Juan
Limbers are traditional Puerto Rica, non-alcholic frozen dessert drinks similar to a "slushie". They come in a variety of flavors and here they are served out of a house at $.75 each here. Great place to stop and grab a cheap cold treat when walking Old San Juan..... especially with kids. Enjoy this treat outside in a nice breezy spot and support a local business. It doesn't get any more local or authentic than this.
Zippops Gourmet Paletas
Gourmet ice cream pops that are amazing and portable. So many different flavors.... so many different toppings.... so yummy. Zippops is easy to get in and out of and it's a perfect quick stop touring Old San Juan. At $4-$5 per popsicle with sugar free/real fruit options, it's a great stop with children and family as well.
Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano
Carli's is one of those unique places where an owner executes his vision and is involved. The food is amazing, the ambiance and decor are spot on jazz bistro, and live piano music from the owner and pianist-composer/restaurateur Carli Munoz is regular. Solid live jazz and piano spots are rare even in Old San Juan. Great tapas, martinis, and an open air terrace round out the experience at Carli's Fine Bistro & Piano.... a worthy choice for any dining excursion in Old San Juan.
Spiga
The amazing couple that owns Spiga is dedicated to their craft. Fresh sourdough, great coffee and possibly the sandwiches in Old San Juan. The warm and friendly service at this great breakfast/lunch eatery is in itself worth patronage. Don't forget to try the cookies... you won't regret it.
Don Ruiz
Don Ruiz is a coffee shop featuring single-origin Puerto Rican house roasted coffees. Don Ruiz brings 4th generation coffee experience to your table in a historic building dating to around 1860. Don Ruiz has great coffee and tasty food and it's one of the few places in Old San Juan with wifi and a good working/studying atmosphere. If you need to get some work done then this hip spot with great food/coffee is likely your best bet in Old San Juan.
Istanbul Restaurant
It's Turkish... if it were just decent then it would still likely make the list... but this place has great food. Good Turkish food is a rarity in Puerto Rico and we are very happy to have Instanbul around. You will find all your traditional Turkish Favorites, baba ganoush, tzatziki, hummus, kebabs, mixed grilled meats, gozleme.... the list goes on and on. Istanbul also has really good service and outdoor seating.... if you are in the mood for great Turkish food then this is your joint.
La Lanterna by Franco Seccarelli
Transport yourself to an open Italian courtyard in the heart of Old San Juan. La Lanterna is said by many to be the best Italian restaurant in Puerto Rico and we agree it's definitely a title contender. This Italian fine dining restaurant is the culmination of Chef Franco's career and he has created a gorgeous experience in the exact same location he opened his first restaurant in 1989. Spend the evening here or grab a bite at the bar where Luciano Pavarotti himself was served in 1992 by chef Franco.
Il Bacaro Venezia
One of the best Italian options in Old San Juan with a very an an awesome and funky interior and ambiance. Wild florals and art cover the walls in bright color that is set off by the dim and cozy lighting. Bacaro is often in the "best restaurant" related conversations. The staff is incredible, the food is great, cocktails are on point and the cool atmosphere takes the cake.
Old San Juan Hotels, Boutique Hotels & Resorts
Early 16th century Spanish architecture and cobble stone streets create a European feeling vibe that drives the style and atmosphere of the luxury/boutique hotels and resorts in Old San Juan. You won't find sprawling beachfront resorts in Old San Juan but you will find a wide variety of very cool boutique hotels and a great collection of high-end and luxury options. See the full list of curated hotel and resort experiences in Old San Juan below and get the map for all specific information, contact details, directions, etc.
Click here to get the The Ultimate Old San Juan Hotel & Resort Guide & Map.
Hotel El Convento - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is one of the most luxurious hotels/resorts on the island. The El Convento was built in 1646 and is the oldest member of the Historic Hotels of America. Located in the heart of Old San Juan, Hotel El Convento is an easy walk from everything that the historic district of Puerto Rico has to offer. Santisimo is the restaurant located in the El Convento and definitely one of the reasons to stay here. The food and ambiance at Santisimo are amazing. Well appointed rooms, service, location and a great restaurant make El Convento a top choice in Old San Juan.
Caribe Hilton - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
The Caribe Hilton in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico is one of the best known hotels/resorts on the island. The Caribe Hilton opened in 1949 and has some great history that is worth a read through on Wikipedia. The hotel and resort has 646 rooms and just completed a $100 million renovation post hurricane Maria. The property's large ocean front pool complex, calm swim beach, tennis courts, on property dining options and numerous amenities set the Caribe Hilton apart. The Caribe Hilton also claims that the Pina Colada was invented here in 1954. It's worth noting that several other places in Puerto Rico, including Barrachina (a restaurant in Old San Juan), also claim that honor.
352 Guest House Hotel Boutique - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
The 352 Guest House is one of my favorite Hotels in Old San Juan. It's located in the heart of Old San Juan in a Spanish building that was constructed in the late 1700s. The building was originally home to settlers and military personnel manning the nearby forts. Additionally, this boutique hotel is located across the street from the only remaining Franciscan building in Old San Juan, the San Francisco de Asís Church built in 1876. The service is amazing and personal, the hotel is full of original details and decor, the menus have a good selection of healthy and vegetarian options and the location is perfect for exploring historical Old San Juan.
Villa Herentia Hotel - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
Villa Herentia Hotel is located in a 249 year old Spanish building that was converted to a hotel between the historic San Juan Gate (Puerto de San Juan) and the Cathedral of San Juan Citadel. The interior and decor are rustic feeling with a funky modern flare that really works well. If you are into rare and unique boutique hotel experiences then you should seriously consider Villa Herentia.... especially if you are into the historic architecture of the building. The staff is great, there is free wifi in rooms and on the property, and you can enjoy starlit skies on the roof-top.
Palacio Provincial
Palacio Provincial is a contemporary sleek new property located in a historic building boasting modern comfort in a historic setting. Contemporary minimalist decor with a flare of artist design and modern amenities really set this establishment apart. The restaurant and bar at Palacio Provincial is also outstanding and definitely worth considering. Consular Restaurant & Bar is open all day long (including breakfast) and the cocktail menu is outstanding. Then there is the amazing roof top, corner set infinity pool overlooking historic Old San Juan.... it's very cool. Palacio Provincial is modern luxury in a historic setting, the best of both worlds.
Casablanca Hotel
Casablanca Hotel is a quirky little eclectic boutique hotel and we love it. The modern funky interior has a luxury boho feel that creates a fun atmosphere and the rooftop is super unique and cool. Casablanca Hotel is known for it's turfed rooftop area and stone baths. Take in a sunset over historic Old San Juan relaxing in a stone bath on a rooftop.... talk about a unique experience.
Casa Sol
Casa Sol is a quaint little bed & breakfast in Old San Juan that was recently featured on Zac Efron's Netflix show "Down to Earth". Casa Sol provides an authentic Puerto Rico experience with modern accouterments and decor. Breakfast is included, the menu rotates daily and Casa Sol prides itself on sourcing the best ingredients from local farmers and growers. Rooms are modern/minimalist appointed with exposed plaster and wood highlights. The outdoor courtyard is quaint and relaxing. The Service is ultra personal and attentive. Casa Sol is a gem in Old San Juan and you should visit if you can.
La Terraza de San Juan
La Terraza is well appointed, modern, clean and it has a great tiled roof deck complete with plunge pool, beautiful gardens, and a bar that serves specialty cocktails and tapas in the evening. La Terraza is solid all the way around but the roof deck is the real gem. Check out La Terraza de San Juan if lounging on rooftops with food & drinks appeals to you ;)
Fortel Hostel
Fortel Hostel is clean, safe and one of the nicest hostels we have ever seen. They offer mixed gender and women only dorms, kitchen, lounge, clean/modern bathrooms, a laundry room and the Oh Shit! Shop (for all those items you always forget). Hostels are a great choice for students, single travelers seeking some social engagement, groups, budget travelers, digital nomads, etc. and Fortel Hostel does the genre justice. If hostels are up for consideration then you should definitely look into Fortel.
Old San Juan Bars, Clubs & Nightlife
Cocktails using fresh local juices and ingredients, craft beers, whiskey/scotch aficionado lounges and cigar bars, late night salsa, international DJs, clubs that pop all night...... Old San Juan boasts a collection of internationally recognized nightlife venues, bars, lounges, and clubs. See the full list of curated bar, club & nightlife experiences in Old San Juan below and get the map for specific information, contact details, directions, etc.
La Factoria
La Factoria in Old San Juan is one of the most iconic bars/clubs in the world. It makes all kinds of "Best of" lists (Frommer's, etc.) all the time. The time I checked it was #5 on Frommer's list of best bars in the world. It's deserving of all the praise and always a blast.
La Taberna Lupulo
La Taberna Lupulo is one of the best bars in Old San Juan. They call it a beer hall officially but it's more than that. They have a great beer list with local craft beers and great selections from all over the world, as well as a solid selection of small batch and unique scotches, whiskeys and bourbons as well. The great food, beer selection and reasonable prices make La Taberna Lupulo must stop on any bar hop in Old San Juan.
The Mezzanine
The Mezzanine is a speakeasy style lounge above the St. Germain restaurant. It's located in the former home of a well-known "nationalista" and leader of the Puerto Rican Independence Movement, Pedro Albizu Campos. Campos spoke 6 languages and earned a degree from Harvard where he would have graduated valedictorian had he not been discriminated against for his mixed racial heritage. Campos was later imprisoned for 26 years after being convicted of attempting to overthrow the United States government. The Mezzanine's atmosphere, cocktails and history make this place a go to pre-drink and after dinner cocktail lounge in Old San Juan.
The Cannon Club - Steinway Piano Bar
The Cannon Club is a stylish and sophisticated haven for music/jazz lovers located in The Gallery Inn in Old San Juan. It's beautiful interior adorned with Venetian chandeliers and impeccable decor create an amazing ambiance worth experiencing. The Cannon Club has a full service bar and a great tapas menu. Live music is played most nights of the week and live jazz can be found on Thursday & Saturday nights. Spend a night in a Humphrey Bogart movie and enjoy the music, cocktails and food at this amazing lounge and piano bar.
Marilyn's Place
Marilyn's place is a super cool little hidden spot with a small bar inside and a few tables outside. Everything is Marilyn Monroe themed (hence the name) and it's a great vibe. The look, feel and small side-street location make this a super cool place to grab a drink.
El Batey
El Batey is one of the best known bars in Old San Juan and likely all of Puerto Rico. You will always get a generous pour at good price at the PR staple. Murals and graffiti cover the walls, the staff is kick***, and the vibe is always great. If you are looking for some local flavor then it doesn't get any better than this. Shoot a game and experience real PR at El Batey.
Douglas
Douglas makes the list due to it's juke box + pool table combo. For many cultures (American, British, Irish, etc.) pool tables and juke boxes are commonplace fixtures in pubs.... not in Puerto Rico. There are very few places on the entire island with multiple pool tables.... juke box and pool tables? None I can think of. The atmosphere here is always fun and Douglas is a stop on our Old San Juan bar hops regularly.
La Cubanita
La Cubanita is known for amazing cocktails..... it's a great pre-game, post-dinner-cocktail or romantic spot for 2. If you are in the market for some seriously good drinks then La Cubanita should be a stop. There is often great salsa music playing and impromptu dancing is regular.
La Garita Yaz
The view, the view, the view. Grab a cold beer (or mojito), some great authentic local Puerto Rican food, and enjoy the amazing view of colorful La Perla rooftops and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a bit of a walk from the main La Perla entrance but keep going. It's worth noting that La Perla can get pretty crazy on weekend or concert/show nights so beware..... you may not want to brave this crowd if it's super busy.
El Adoquin del Patio
Authentic salsa, cool outdoor seating and hangout area and super cheap beer and food. Always a good time to be had here. It's close to the forts and the museum on Calle Norzagaray so it's a great place to stop if those attractions are part of your day. Also a great stop on the way back to Old San Juan proper from La Perla. El Adoquin del Patio is on a little side street next to La Verguenza.
La Verguenza
La Verguenza is on Calle Norzagaray close to the forts, museums and farmer's markets in the area. It's next door to El Adoquin del Patio and has an ocienview upper level to enjoy La Verguenza's good food and moderate prices in style. It can get crowded here and tables with the view can have pretty long waits. If it's crowded put your name in for a table and hang out at El Adoquin del Patio until your table is ready.
Old San Juan Beaches
Due to being surrounded by rocky cliffs and old Spanish forts you won't find many beaches in old San Juan. On the east coast (to the right coming into Old San Juan) as you cross the bridge there are a few great beaches, see them below.
Playa El Escambron Beach - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
One of the few great beaches in Old San Juan, Playa El Escambron is a great beach in general and even more so if you are staying in Old San Juan. There are public bathrooms and showers, life gaurds, places to grab snacks and food nearby, lots of trees for shade, and the sand and water is very nice. Playa El Escambron is also known for snorkeling due to it's proximity to Old San Juan and some super cool underwater statues that can be observed slightly offshore. To boot, parking is only $5.... can't beat that with a stick!
Escambron Beach - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
One of two sister beaches in Old San Juan, Escambron Beach is just the other side of a small peninsula from Playa El Escambron.... Escambron Beach is a beautiful beach with calm water and great snorkeling. All the amenities like public bathrooms and showers, life guards, places to grab snacks and food nearby, and lots of trees for shade are available close by. Escambron Beach is also the closer of the two beaches to the Caribe Hilton where you can grab some food or fancy drinks. Parking for Escambron Beach is $5, the same parking area as Playa El Escambron.
Old San Juan Things To Do, Tours & Activities
Where to begin... There are so many things to do in Old San Juan that it is quite literally staggering. History, culture and location combine to create truly memorable and meaningful experiences for all interests. From tours of old Spanish forts, to deep sea fishing and diving adventures, indulge your thirst for life in "Old Town". To view our favorite things to do in Old San Juan click the link above.
Tour The Spanish Forts - El Morro & La Fortaleza - Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
The first Spanish fortification constructed in Old San Juan was La Fortaleza built in 1533 some 12 years after the first Spanish settlers occupied the region in 1521. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (generally referred to as El Morro) began construction in 1539 and was completed in 1790. In 1898 when the United States took possession of Puerto Rico, due to the Spanish American War, El Morro was designated part of Fort Brooke and used as a military in stallion during WWI and WWII. El Morro and Old San Juan were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Click above to check out these amazing tours.
Tour La Puerta de San Juan / The San Juan Gate
The San Juan Gate ( La Puerta de San Juan) is the only original gate into the walled city of Old San Juan and it is definitely worth a visit. Take a stroll down the beautiful Paseo La Princesa and follow it up to the gate. The gate is beautiful and ornate with a the Latin inscription “Benedictus Oui Venit In Nomine Domini” (Welcome Those Who Come in the Name of God) above. There is a great place to hang out and enjoy the scenery just outside the gate complete with small pier that extends out into the ocean.
Snorkeling at Escambron Beach / Playa El Escambron
Enjoy the beautiful Caribbean waters, swim with the sea turtles, visit a sunken bridge, check out some amazing sunken underwater statues.... snorkeling in Old San Juan is great excursion/activity and highly recommended. There are a couple places right on the beach that provide great snorkeling experiences..... check out Turtle Island Snorkel Co. & Try Scuba Diving - Old San Juan for an amazing underwater experience in Old San Juan.
Visit the Capilla del Cristo
Follow the pedestrian path Calle del Cristo to get the chapel and enjoy one of the most iconic sites in all of Puerto Rico. Check out the amazing paintings by Jose Campeche and Jorge Sen and take in the gorgeous and ornate chapel alter of gold and silver. The belfry at Capilla del Cristo is also beautiful. All-in-all this is one of the most beautiful historic sites in Old San Juan and all of Puerto Rico..... you will likely regret it if you miss it.
Casa Blanca Museum
Casa Blanca was originally built to be the home of the first governor of Puerto Rico, Ponce de Leon. Ponce de Leon died before he was able to occupy the residence and it now operates as a museum showcasing 16th and 17th century artifacts. The incredible ornate woodwork and paintings alone are worth the visit.
Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Juan Bautista
The Catedral Metropolitana Basílica de San Juan Bautista is one of the oldest buildings in Old San Juan, the oldest cathedral in the United States and the second oldest cathedral in the Americas. The original cathedral was constructed of wood in 1521 and was later destroyed by a hurricane. The current building was constructed in 1540 and remodeling/renovation done in 1917. Possibly most importantly the cathedral houses the tomb of Ponce de Leon, Puerto Rico's founder and first governor.
Seminario Conciliar de San Ildefonso
The Seminario Conciliar de San Ildefonso was constructed in 1852 by the first Puerto Rican bishop, Fray Juan Alejo de Arizmendi. The entire structure is beautiful but the dome is certainly the main attraction (although the wood alter is also beautiful).
Teatro Tapia
Teatro Tapia is one of the oldest operating theaters in the United States. It has seating for 640 patrons and it's gorgeous elliptical interior design takes you back to the old world. Check the schedules here and try to take in a show if you can.... it's such a unique experience.
Old San Juan Farmers Market
The San Juan Farmer's Market in Old San Juan is loved by all and a regular stop for locals and tourists alike. Unlike many "farmers markets" this one is full of local produce and goods made fresh by the amazing people Puerto Rico. You will find amazing fresh bakery goods, vegan options, vegetarian options, chocolates made from local Caocao grown in the rain forest mountains.... there is literally way to much to list. There are also many options for fresh made lunches here. Visit the San Juan Farmers Market and support the local economy, participate in sustainable agriculture, do some social good.... and of course get some amazing food. The San Juan Farmer's market operates from 8AM - 1PM on Saturdays ONLY so don't miss it.
Plaza de Colon Artisans Market & Street Vendors
Plaza de Colon is a large plaza and one of the first things you will cone across as you enter historic Old San Juan. This marketplace is not really "official" as in it has no website or real information available. It's just a great place for local vendors to setup and sell their wares.... largely because of it's location that is easily accessible tourists disembarking the cruise ships in San Juan Harbor.... that being said there are more vendors here on the weekends and when the cruise ships dock. You will find artisanal soaps, lotions, oils, handmade local jewelry and art, and much more at this street vendor location.
Beach Day in Old San Juan
There are only a few beaches in Old San Juan but Playa del Escambron & Escambron Beach provide the full spectrum of fun-in-the-sun. These two "sister beaches" are very close together and between the two you can generally find a great spot with easily accessible bathrooms and amenities (vendors, parking, etc.). The water at both beaches is calm enough for easy swimming, there is food and drink close by, and snorkeling is a major attraction here due to the calm waters and underwater scenery (a sunken bridge, underwater statues, sea turtles, etc.). It's also super accessible if you are staying in Old San Juan and you don't want to mess with with getting in and out of the historic district. You can learn more about the beaches in Old San Juan here.
The Best Shopping in Old San Juan Guide & Map
Old San Juan has the best shopping experiences in the Caribbean. We have put together the Ultimate Old San Juan Shopping Guide and we hope you love it. Complete with an interactive map of all of our curated shopping experiences, we tried to create the tool that we wanted to use ourselves. See the full list of curated shopping experiences below and click the link to get the map for specific information, contact details, directions, etc.
CLICK HERE to get the The Ultimate Old San Juan Shopping Guide & Map for additional information, location, contact details, etc.
Collective Request
An all around great women's clothing boutique.... super cute minis, maxis, rompers, tops, shorts and much more. Everything is reasonably priced and the service is always excellent.
Lisa Cappalli
Lisa Cappalli was born in New York where she attended Parsons and spent time in Paris after graduation. Her mother was Maria Milagros Rosa Crespo (Mili Arango) and her aunt was Patti Cappalli.... both prominent fashion designers. Lisa Cappalli's pieces are beautiful and unique, a must see in Old San Juan.
Pink Tree
Pink Tree is a great little shop with a wide range of swimwear and women's clothing in inventory. Pink Tree is moderately priced and great buys abound. Tons of amazing stuff here at great prices... don't miss this one.
Pasarela Alta Moda
Great boutique selections from swimwear/resort wear, to dancing dresses, to super cute accessories (handbags, jewelry,
sunglasses, hats, shoes). Staff is knowledgeable and friendly. A wonderful overall shopping experience in Old San Juan +++++.
Valija
Valija has a ton of really cute clothes at the right price with promotions and sales going on all the time. Pieces here generally range from $25-$50 and they are solid quality... if you need to beef up your vacation wardrobe without spending a fortune this a great place. Everyone I know makes regular stops at Valija.
Concalma
Concalma is a rare place where social good, local artists/artisans, and fashion meet. The Concalma bag line is manufactured at the Cooperativa Industrial Creación de la Montaña in Utuado, Puerto Rico since 2006. We LOVE THIS PLACE for so many reasons.... including the many amazing bags purchased here. Visit Concalma to get a truly unique piece of art and feel good doing it.
Men's Clothing & Fashion Boutiques:
Zafiro Viejo San Juan
One of the few Men's fashion boutiques in Old San Juan. Zafiro carries a hip and trendy line of designers including Psycho Bunny, Eight-X, Project-X-Paris, Secrid, Goorin Bros and many more. The last time I was here I got my man a nice Psycho Bunny t-shirt and he wears it all the time. One of the best stops in Old Town for trendy Men's clothing.
Costazul
Costazul carries men's, women's and children's beachwear and swimwear. Costazul ended up in the men's section because we feel it's just generally more appealing to men due in part to the lack of men's clothing options in Old San Juan. This a great place for swim/beach gear for the whole family. Sunshirts, swimshirts, sunblocks, reef shoes, water shoes, caps, visors, beach tumblers.... everything you need. Costazul carries brands like Pelagic, Columbia, Maui Jim, Salt Life, Costa del Mar and many more. If you are in the market for beach gear don't miss this one... they have it all.
Accessories & Jewelry
El Gapon
El Gapon is an amazing little hat store with a huge variety of men's and women's hats including real hand made options. Widely known as one of the best places in the Caribbean to buy an authentic hand-made Panama hat, El Gapon has great head pieces for all.
Urban Tribe
Urban Tribe has amazing jewelry and accessory creations from local artists including Nelson Enrique. Hand crafted bangles, necklaces, rings... you'll find them all here. Urban tribe always has a beautiful collection of pieces sure to turn some heads.
EB Deisgns
EB Designs has a beautiful collection of Caribbean style jewelry. The jewelry here is unique and affordable. This hidden gem of Old San Juan carries Horn Larimer, Love Q, Veronica's Jewels, Haiti Cherie and Gabrielle to name a few.
Fine Jewelry Stores, Precious Metals & Diamond/Gemstone Dealers:
Coqui el Original
Puerto Rican and Caribbean themed fine jewelry is Coqui el Original's specialty. All their jewelry is 14k gold or .925 sterling silver. Coqui El Original is a 4th generation local business with an impeccable track record of quality, affordability and price.
Diamonds International
This well known diamond and fine jewelry dealer always has the best of the best. From engagement rings, to tennis bracelets, to Rolex & Breitling..... it's all here. Diamonds International is also a very well known duty free destination for cruisers and vacationers alike. Service is always impeccable and the inventory is always stunning. Stop by and marvel at the sparkles...
Blue Diamond Luxury
Blue Diamond likely has the largest selection of fine jewelry and watches in Old San Juan. Some watch brands you'll find here: Hublot, Tossit, Longine, Citizen Bulova, Maurice Lacroix and more. Some jewelry designers they carry: Alex and Ani, Alor, Gucci, Dune, Fope, Hearts on Fire and more. Browse the amazing selection here.... you might find something you love!
Effy Jewelry
Effy Hematian has been designing some of the world's most distinctive jewelery since 1979. Effy Jewelers uses a lost-wax technique to create stunning one-of-a-kind pieces. Effy Jewelry's signature collection is bold and beautiful art featuring Effy's lifelong muse the panther as a focal point.
Gifts, Crafts and Souvenirs
Eclectica
Eclectica has a managerie of imports from the Caribbean, India and many other places. Gifts and trinkets abound and you can wonder around in here and check out all the cool stuff.
Puerto Rican Arts & Crafts
Established in a restored Spanish colonial building in the heart of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Offering oil and acrylic paintings, water-colors, ceramics, silk-screens, sculptures, hand made jewelry, traditional hand carvings, and native gourmet foods. From souvenirs, to gorgeous original oil paintings, this place is always fun to explore.
Cigar Lounges & Smoke Shops
The Cigar House of Puerto Rico
Even if you are not a cigar lover yourself the chances are you know someone who is. The Cigar House has rare and often sold-out-elsewhere cigars as well as all the standards. Everything is fresh and the staff is knowledgeable and polite. Grab a scotch and take in your favorite stogie or pickup gifts for friends.
Smoke It & More
Smoke it & More is basically a great bar where smokers can hangout. They have good tapas, great cocktails made with fresh juices, and solid hookah service. They also carry all smoking paraphernalia you could want... not your typical cigar lounge fare. You can smoke in the lounges and there is a large bar to serve a crowd.
