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Things to See and Do
Old San Juan is small but packed with a variety of things to see and do! With virtually everything being at a walkable distance, we know this trip will be hassle free.
Check out some of the things we enjoyed on our visit as well as other recommendations of places to explore.
Why we loved it:
This fun little water front restaurant is located within walking distance of Hotel El Convento. We loved watching the cruise ships come in while enjoying cocktails and small bites.
Chiringas at El Morro
What is it?
Chiringas, or kites, can be found being flown by the dozens in this open lawn near El Morro. The sea breeze makes for perfect kite flying weather. If you are feeling up to it, there are several vendors within the area selling kites!
El Escambrón Beach/Playa Puerta De Tierra
Why we loved it:
Just a quick scooter ride away! We actually walked there and scootered back.(25 minute walk - 5 minutes scooter ride) We highly recommend taking a scooter or car. This is a beautiful beach just minutes away from Old San Juan.
Keep in Mind:
This beach doesn't have many vendors for food and beverages. We recommend packing a little bag.
The Pina Colada Debate
Puerto Rico is the undebated birth place of the Pina Colada! But, who and where it was created, still goes unresolved.
Their claim:
According to the Caribe Hotel, "the recipe was crafted by Ramón “Monchito” Marrero, a bartender who worked at the hotel’s Beachcomber Bar and was commissioned to create a signature cocktail back in 1954. Marrero reportedly spent three months crafting this cocktail..."
An additional claim from the Caribe Hotel comes from Ricardo García - a bartender who claims he came up with original recipe the same year, due to a coconut shortage forcing him to improvise.
Their claim:
In 1963, Ramón Portas Mignot - the third bartender to comes forward and claims the creation. This restaurant is conveniently located in Old San Juan and even features a plaque commemorating the drinks creation.
With one of the best views of the San Juan Bay, the sculpture commemorates a women-led religious procession that took place in 1797. The legend goes that the British Armada was planning to invade San Juan, but were spooked away by hundreds of torches that they saw on land and believing that they were reinforcements they halted their invasion.
This is also where we will be getting married!!
What is it?
Plazuela de la Rogativa
A tiny chapel situated on the edge of Old San Juan. It is known for its healing powers and a supposed divine intervention.
There are tons of restaurants and sites to see in this area. If you aren't a fan of pigeons, we would suggest skipping out on this stop.
What is it?
Capilla del Santo Cristo de la Salud
The oldest church on U.S. soil and the 2nd oldest church in the Western Hemisphere. Located in the same square as Hotel El Convento, this historical landmark is hard to miss!
Fun Fact:
When we visited San Juan to make decisions on venues, this church was 1 of our 2 top contenders for the ceremony. The choice was clear after we learned that there is zero air conditioning and no breeze!
What is it?
​Catedral de San Juan Bautista
Located on the rooftop of the Decanter Hotel, this rooftop restaurant and bar is the best for a relaxing bite. We loved the view, service, and walkability of this location.
Note:
This restaurant seemed to be fairly popular. So, be prepared to wait for a rooftop seat!
Why we loved it:
Beginning at the San Juan gate and ending at El Morro, this 1.5 mile walking path borders the city walls and provides a great view of the bay.
What is it?
Paseo del Morro
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