10 Days on the Miracle!: Spotlight San Juan

Balneario de Carolina
When people talk of a "beautiful Isla Verde beach," this is the one they're talking about. A government-maintained beach, this balneario east of Isla Verde is so close to the airport that the leaves rustle when planes take off. The long stretch of sand, which runs parallel to Avenida Los Gobernadores, is shaded by palms and almond trees. Thanks to an offshore reef, the surf is not as strong as other nearby beaches, so it's especially good for children and families. There's plenty of room to spread out and lots of amenities: lifeguards, restrooms, changing facilities, picnic tables, and barbecue grills. Although there's a charge for parking, there's not always anyone there to take the money. Best for: swimming.

Contact Information

Address: Carolina, San Juan, 00979

Cost: Parking $3

Hours: Daily 8-5

Location:Greater San Juan

Balneario El Escambrón

In Puerta de Tierra, this government-run beach is just off Avenida Muñoz Rivera. The patch of honey-colored sand is shaded by coconut palms and has surf that's generally gentle. Favored by families, it has changing rooms, bathrooms, and restaurants. Best for: swimming.

Contact Information

Address: Puerta de Tierra, San Juan, 00902 | Map It
Cost: Parking $5
Hours: Daily 8--5:30
Location:Greater San Juan

Playa de Ocean Park

The residential neighborhood east of Condado and west of Isla Verde is home to this 1-mi-long (1½-km-long) stretch of golden sand. The waters are often choppy but still swimmable—take care, however, as there are no lifeguards on duty. Windsurfers say the conditions here are nearly perfect. The tranquil beach is popular with young people, particularly on weekends, as well as gay men. Parking is a bit difficult, as many of the streets are gated and restricted to residents. Best for: partiers; windsurfing.

Contact Information

Address: Ocean Park, San Juan, 09111
Hours: Daily dawn--dusk
Location:Greater San Juan

Playa del Condado

East of Old San Juan and west of Ocean Park, this long, wide beach is overshadowed by an unbroken string of hotels and apartment buildings. Beach bars, water-sports outfitters, and chair-rental places abound. You can access the beach from several roads off Avenida Ashford, including Calles Cervantes, Condado, and Candina. The protected water at the small stretch of beach west of the Conrad San Juan Condado Plaza hotel is particularly calm and popular with families; surf elsewhere in Condado can be a bit strong. The stretch of sand near Calle Vendig (behind the Atlantic Beach Hotel) is especially popular with the gay community. If you're driving, on-street parking is your only option. Best for: partiers.