InterContinental San Juan

With a facade that sports fussy, curved balconies and a drab paint job, InterContinental San Juan, formerly San Juan Grand Beach Resort & Casino, feels a bit old fashioned on first impression. But its location -- and its stellar lineup of amenities -- make it a hit with a variety of guests. During the high season, it’s popular with U.S. travelers, while local crowds tend to stay here in the low season. Its atmosphere is lively, but not too party-hardy, ideal for couples and families who flock to the resort for its sizable, lagoon-style pool, and direct access to one of San Juan's best beaches. It's popular with business travelers, too, given its numerous meeting rooms and its good Wi-Fi connection. 

The InterContinental San Juan is set in Isla Verde, a touristy district just outside downtown San Juan. It offers direct access to the beach -- Isla Verde’s top attraction -- plus there are tons of restaurants, shops, and bars found within easy walking distance. 

Isla Verde is a popular spot for tourists visiting Puerto Rico for quick weekend getaways, with the airport located less than a 10-minute drive away. But don’t expect any laid-back island charm in this neighborhood -- this area has the feel of a busy, modern city that just happens to be set on the coast. It’s around a 20-minute drive to San Juan’s hopping Condado neighborhood, while Old San Juan can be reached in about 25 minutes by car.  

Guest rooms at InterContinental San Juan are decorated in appealing, neutral colors, along with medium-toned wooden furniture. Clover-patterned headboards and pops of blue artwork add interest to the otherwise simple, conservative decor. Flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi are standard. Minibars are well-stocked with pricey items -- they’re hooked up to a rather strict sensor system. Basic coffeemakers offer free tea and coffee, while closets contain soft robes, slippers, and safes. 

Suites add separate living areas, while Executive Rooms feature extra perks like free breakfast and a separate check-in area. All rooms have tiny balconies, most of which are unfurnished. Classic Rooms offer views of the hotel’s entrance, while upper-level rooms overlook the city, ocean, or pool.

Executive Rooms and Suites feature sleek bathrooms with magnifying mirrors, separate toilets, and glass-door showers with damask-patterned accent walls. Bathrooms in Classic Rooms are more chain-like, with shower/tub combos and round sinks. All bathrooms have lemon verbena-scented bath products by Agraria. 

The standout features at the InterContinental San Juan are its outdoor pool and its fantastic beach -- one of San Juan's best. The large, lagoon-style pool is surrounded with loungers and umbrellas set on a deck that's defined by landscaped gardens and palm trees. There's a swim-up bar, Akua, which also offers regular table seating. Beyond the pool area is Isla Verde Beach, a two-mile strip of golden sand backed by palm trees and high-rise hotels. 

Another considerable perk is the property's plethora of dining options. Tasty Mediterranean fare make Ciao Mediterranean Café a favorite among guests. Sak-I serves Asian-influenced cuisine, and Trattoria Italiana turns out Italian dishes and has outdoor seating overlooking the pool. Ruth’s Chris Steak House is the hotel's sole concession restaurant. The chic lobby bar, Q-Bar, spills out onto a terrace with pool and coastline views. La Bodguita Café and Wine Bar offers grab-and-go items during the day, and becomes a lounge at night. The hotel also has 24-hour room service, but breakfast isn't included in most rates. 

Other amenities include a spa, which is a tad cookie-cutter but pleasant enough. Massages, facials, and other treatments are available, and it has a sauna, a whirlpool, and a steam room, plus there’s a sizable 24-hour fitness center on its upper floor, with ocean views. 

Kids can race around an outdoor playground, part of the resort's kids’ club. There's also a 24-hour business center, as well as 16 meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 600 guests. Wedding planning services can be arranged. Guests should expect a daily resort fee, and parking costs extra, but Wi-Fi is free throughout.