If you're looking to escape to the tropics, head to San Juan, Puerto Rico, the destination with the top spot on the New York Times' list of places to visit in 2019. The island's capital and largest city faces the Atlantic Ocean, and it has plenty to offer.
Plan to visit both the Isla Verde resort strip, known for its bars, nightclubs and casinos and Old San Juan, which features colorful Spanish colonial buildings, cobble-stoned streets and 16th-century landmarks. There are also the Paseo de la Princesa bayside promenade, a number of imposing fortresses and the close proximity to El Yunque National Forest, all of which are worth visiting.
Using travel site Skyscanner, we’ve sifted through the cheapest flights between Washington and San Juan in the next few months, including some popular hotel options and favorite local attractions.
(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)
Flight deals to San Juan
Currently, the cheapest flights between Washington and San Juan are if you leave on May 7 and return from Puerto Rico on May 14. Spirit Airlines currently has tickets for $187, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had in April. If you fly out of Washington on April 9 and return from San Juan on April 16, Spirit Airlines can get you there and back for $197 roundtrip.
Top San Juan hotels
Regarding where to stay, here are some of San Juan’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do, and customer satisfaction.
The Hotel El Convento (100 Cristo St. Old, San Juan)
If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Hotel El Convento. The hotel has a 4.9-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $280.
This San Juan boutique hotel is located in the historical district, near the Museo del Nino's, the San Juan Cathedral and Puerta de San Juan. Other attractions include La Fortaleza Palacio de Santa Catalina.
The Marriott San Juan Resort & Stellaris Casino (1309 Ashford Ave.)
There's also the 4.7-star rated The Marriott San Juan Resort & Stellaris Casino. Rooms are currently set at $261/night.
This beachfront resort is close to Plaza del Mercado and Condado Beach. Additional nearby attractions include the Puerto Rico Convention Center.
The La Concha Resort: A Renaissance Hotel (1077 Ashford Ave.)
A third option is The La Concha Resort: A Renaissance Hotel. The 4.6-star hotel has rooms for $209/night. Located in San Juan, this beachfront hotel is near Condado Beach and the San Juan Cathedral.
Featured San Juan food and drink
If you're looking to snag a bite at one of San Juan's many quality eateries, here are a few popular culinary destinations from Skyscanner's listings that will help keep you satiated.
Santaella (219 Calle Canals)
One of San Juan's most popular restaurants is Santaella, which has an average of five stars out of 10 reviews on Skyscanner.
"Local cuisine with a twist!" wrote visitor Eduardo. "Highly recommended."
Acapulco Taqueria Mexicana (2021 Calle Loíza)
Another popular dining destination is Acapulco Taqueria Mexicana, with five stars from six reviews.
"We started out with fried cheese and it was delicious," wrote reviewer Dani. "The tacos are to die for, especially la cochinita."
Jose Enrique (176 Calle Duffaut)
Also worth considering is Jose Enrique.
"Awesome local food," wrote Jasey. "It's a BYOB and there is music and dancing in the streets on most weekend nights."
El Jibarito (280 Calle Sol)
Finally, there's El Jibarito.
"San Juan dining at its best," wrote Aaron. "The friendly atmosphere, the local feel and the celebration of Puerto Rico's history are just the visual appetizers for the culinary delight that is to come."
Featured local attractions
To round out your trip, San Juan offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
Old San Juan (San Juan)
First up is Old San Juan.
"Old San Juan was beautiful," wrote visitor Sofia. "I spent the whole day there with my family. We loved it! There is so much history and great restaurants."
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (501 Calle Norzagaray)
Finally, consider Castillo San Felipe del Morro, which is another popular destination.
Constructed in 1540, this six-story fort hides a warren of prison cells, barracks and hallways and was attacked on many occasions by both English and Dutch forces. It is listed in the National Historic Register.
"El Morro was breathtaking," wrote visitor Sofia. "I went with my family during the sunset. It's located in Old San Juan. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes."
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
