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The culture in Puerto Rico is a vibrant fusion of Spanish, Indian and African origins, and the capital city of San Juan doesn’t fall short in offering amazing experiences and activities to tourists. What makes San Juan so magical is its spectacular activities go on around the clock, so you’ll find something to do at any time, day or night. With a magnitude of activities to immerse yourself in, the city’s nightlife can’t be missed, so start planning your time in the gorgeous and unique destination! Here’s a guide to San Juan nightlife to keep you in adventure mode when the sun goes down.
Embrace the glowing nature
With only five bioluminescent bays in the world and three of them in Puerto Rico, the bays are a must-see for any visitor to the country. The closest to San Juan is the serene Laguna Granda. There are several tour operators offering an experience to sail the bioluminescent bay on a kayak during the sunset, through to when the starry night sky appears. Once it’s dark, the glowing organisms in the water light up when there’s movement on and around it. If, for example, you were to stick your hand into the water and make a fist and open it, you’ll see a magical spark as a result of the organisms’ behavior. Visiting Laguna Granda is truly a mind-blowing treat and an essential for adventurous travelers that want to enjoy the natural nightlife in San Juan.
Experience the quaint and charming Old San Juan
San Juan is separated into Old San Juan and New San Juan, both of which offer a different nightlife experience. Of the two, you should definitely check out Old San Juan. Filled with squares and cobbled streets, visitors are free to wander about and appreciate the delicious restaurants, cafes, and bars. Check out the main square, the Plaza de Armes, which is home to exquisite statues and fountains. If visiting on a weekend, South Fortaleza Street and Paseo de la Princesa are areas lined up with street food vendors and bands playing live music. A celebratory, eclectic vibe runs throughout Old San Juan, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular places in Puerto Rico, often called the real heart of the country.
Enjoy fine-dining across the city
San Juan is a culinary adventurer’s heaven, bursting with an array of fine-dining restaurants in various locations across the capital. As Puerto Rican cuisine is inspired by Spanish, Indian and African influences, the dishes served-up are a treat to the senses, promising to be innovative, wholesome and flavorful. Dine in style and sample the high-end establishments such as: the sensational Perla, the highly-rated Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, the decedent Santaella and the wonderful 1919 Restaurant. Each of these fine eateries offers explosive flavors and local foods in an imaginative way, as well as stunning views of the ocean.
Lounge in style at opulent and unusual spots
If you’re not a keen foodie but want to create some special and unique memories at night time in San Juan, we recommend you make your way to one of the many lounges or bars, where guests can sample exceptional drinks and enjoy the fabulous ambiance. The most opulent lounge you’ll find in the city is The Lobby Lounge at The Ritz Carlton, the place to chill-out and splash-out. For those seeking a special experience without such a high price-tag, the popular and exciting La Factoria bar is an unbeatable spot to visit. For more edgy bars, Cinema Bar 1950 shows international films, while El Bar Bero has the unique décor of a barber shop. Want to savor drinks and sweet treats in one place? The best, without doubt, is the one-of-a-kind Casa Cortes Chocobar.
Hit the dancefloor at nightclubs
San Juan is the birthplace of several music artists who have positively impacted Puerto Rican culture. As a result, there are a number of dance venues and clubs across the entire city dedicated to partying. Whether you want somewhere where you can groove and strut some salsa, merengue, cha-cha, flamenco or reggaeton, you’ll find it in San Juan. Lights, beats and swaying hips are prominent in musical hot-spots such as La Placita de Santurce, Latin Roots and Triana Tapas and Flamenco. If you prefer clubs with more mainstream international tunes and seriously high-energy, head to Club Bravo, Oceano or Funky Buddha.
Endless options
The best thing about San Juan is its nightlife activities suit each and every traveler. If you’re an adventurer at heart, paddle out on a kayak at night at Laguna Granda. If you’re ready to shake your booty, the Old San Juan street parties or the many dancing venues and clubs are waiting for you. If you prefer to relax and tuck into good food and drinks, the abundance of restaurants and bars have their doors open. Whatever activity you choose during the night time, one thing is for certain—the wonderful and warm people of San Juan will meet you there! The locals are welcoming and encourage you to embrace everything their home has to offer. So get ready to have a blast! For more destination guides and accommodation reviews, hotels and vacation rentals, check out Trip101.
This article was has been written and submitted by the staff at Trip101.