Getting Oriented in San Juan
San Juan's metro area stretches 19 km (12 miles) along Puerto Rico's north coast. Mapping the city is rather like working a jigsaw puzzle; neighborhoods are irregular in shape and sometimes overlap. The areas most visited by tourists run along the coast.
- Old San Juan. Enclosed by its original fortified walls, this superbly preserved enclave of cobblestone streets has more than 800 structures of historic importance, many from the 16th century. Laid out in an easy-to-navigate grid, Old San Juan has enough sights, bars, restaurants, and boutiques to enthrall for days.
- Puerta de Tierra. Just east of the Old City, Puerta de Tierra has a few notable hotels, several parks, and a nice public beach.
- Condado. The most vibrant pedestrian area outside Old San Juan is home to hotels, restaurants, shops, and residences of the moneyed elite. Its main street is Avenida Ashford.
- Miramar and Isla Grande. Bordering Santurce and across the bay from Condado is Miramar, a residential district with great dining options. Isla Grande has the city's municipal airport, the convention center, and the District Live entertainment complex.
- Santurce and Hato Rey. South of Condado and Ocean Park, Santurce—home of the city's main art museums and galleries—melds into Hato Rey, the city's business district.
- Ocean Park. Partially gated and steps from the beach, this primarily residential area east of Condado nevertheless has a few small hotels, lots of short-term rentals, and popular restaurants.
- Isla Verde and Carolina. East of Ocean Park, Isla Verde, home to the international airport, and Carolina have many large hotels and the city's best beach.
- Río Piedras. The Universidad de Puerto Rico and Jardín Botánico are in this residential area.
- Cataño. Primarily industrial, Cataño is best known as the site of the Bacardí rum distillery.
- Guaynabo. A mix of residential and industrial areas, this neighborhood is worth visiting for its historical sights, including the island's first settlement.
- Bayamón. The distillery that produces the island's distinctive Ron del Barrilito rum is in this suburb.
