Top Outdoor Activities in San Juan

Condado Beach

On Ashford Avenue, Condado Beach affords its visitors white sand beaches and its beautiful Laguna (Parque Laguna del Condado (Condado Lagoon)). You will find this small beach near the Condado Beach Resort to be an excellent bathing place, but beware that this spot can get quite crowded with locals and their families on weekends. The beach in front of the Condado hotels is actually public, so services are pricey including towel and beach gear rentals. This strip of beach can get rough in the winter season, so take the usual precautions.

La Plazita

The perfect spot for the San Juan crowd to relax after a hard workday, the Plaza de Mercado in Santurce transforms on Friday nights into an open-air party. This party consists of a gathering of hundreds of strangers in the small plaza outside of the market. By day the Plaza de Mercado sells tropical vegetables and fruits as well as freshly prepared meals and pastries. But on Friday nights, it is recognizable for the small bars and stands that serve alcohol and pump salsa music to boost the party. With local Medalla beers and unassuming cocktails in hand, this open-air fiesta is a great place to meet and mix with Sanjuaneros in their relaxed weekend state. - Rachel Hiskes

Parque Laguna del Condado

The Laguna del Condado or Condado Lagoon is one of San Juan's most beautiful and familiar landmarks. It stands between three districts: Old San Juan/Puerta de Tierra (Northwest), Miramar (South) and Condado (East). The lagoon is particularly loved by those who practice kayaking and several other water sports. There are also kayak rentals available on the perimeter of the lagoon. If you decide to partake in this sport, note that the rentals are often quite busy on the weekends. Admission is free.

Paseo Piñones

Starting at the Isla Verde Marriot Resort on route 187, this beach front trail-boardwalk is the perfect Sunday diversion for people-watching, exercising, or just soaking in the amazing views of breaking crystal waves and vibrant greenery over the 20 miles of trails. Most of the trails follow the coast along the Piñones beaches leaving San Juan and heading into Loiza. The rapid change between metropolitan San Juan and traditional Afro-Caribbean life in Loiza is noticeable in the unassuming architecture of the colorful food stands that line route 187. A great way to spend a day riding bikes (rental stands line the trail), to catch great views and then finally relax in front of the beach with some seafood and coconut drinks. - Rachel Hiskes

Casa Blanca

At One Calle de San Sebastián, this colonial house was built as the residence of Juan Ponce de León, the island's first appointed governor. While he never actually lived there, his family resided in the house before the government purchased it for restoration. The residence features beautiful gardens and exquisite colonial architecture. A museum is now housed in the building and it is definitely worth a visit.

Museo del Niño

Located on Calle Cristo, the Museo del Niño (The Kids Museum) is designed to appeal to and inspire children. However, it is both fun and educational for the entire family. Plan on several hours to tour the entire facility. Located in the heart of Old San Juan, this museum offers interactive activities and presentations in both English and Spanish. Charming street scenes of Old San Juan, all built to size and complete with hopscotch courts, give the kids a place to call their own. Call ahead for group tour information.

Trump International Golf Club

Donald Trump has once again expanded American business overseas. This renowned golf club is one of the finest on the Island and features exquisite greens and challenging fairways. With coastal views from nearly every hole, this is one course you'll definitely remember.