Midway through our trip to Puerto Rico, we checked into the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. Although we arrived before the official check-in time with a full day planned, the front desk surprised us by having our room ready and checking us in early. That small courtesy made the day far less stressful. For COVID safety, staff confirmed vaccination cards and provided wristbands; masks were required in the hotel’s public areas.
Photo by Audrey Lee
The lobby is striking, with floor-to-ceiling windows that draw your gaze straight to the ocean beyond. The lounge area felt warm and inviting and the grand lobby bar added a touch of elegance. Our room offered sweeping ocean views from two balconies. Spacious and thoughtfully laid out, the suite included a kitchen, dining area, living room, separate bedroom and a large bathroom that connected the bedroom to the entry. The décor and scale felt refined—ideal for a romantic escape or honeymoon.
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- Photos by Audrey Lee
After exploring Old San Juan that day, we returned to warm greetings from the staff and a cold bottle of water—exactly what we needed in the Caribbean heat. I worked for a bit in the comfortable living room seating while my partner relaxed. The bed was comfortable and the sound of waves outside our window made it easy to sleep. The following morning we felt refreshed and headed to the hotel pools.
Photo by Audrey Lee
An attendant set up two loungers for us beside the infinity pool. To the right, bartenders mixed mojitos and served lunch to guests; orders could be delivered to the bar or your chair. We sheltered from the sun at the bar for a bit—I ordered a coconut mojito and an avocado salad, while my boyfriend had chicken tenders and fries. He declared those the best chicken tenders he’s ever had; my salad was light, fresh and full of tropical flavors.
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- Photos by Audrey Lee
After lunch we explored the adults-only pool on the other side of the property, connected by an outdoor walkway. That area felt more secluded, with palm trees, a hot tub, a smaller pool and a private beach entrance—much quieter than the main pool. We ultimately preferred the livelier atmosphere at the main pool and returned to our chairs to spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing and dozing in the sun.
Photo by Audrey Lee
Our stay at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel was comfortable, upscale and thoroughly relaxing. The attentive staff, ocean views and thoughtful amenities make it a strong choice for travelers seeking a refined beachfront experience in San Juan.
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
1055 Ashford Ave.
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907
Tel 787 721 5500