This adults-only hotel in Puerto Rico has an infinity pool, a waterfront restaurant, and spectacular views
Most oceanfront hotels sit on the beach. When you gaze outside, you see a giant stretch of sand with the water in the distance. This isn't the case at Condado Ocean Club, an adult-only hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The sandy strip in front of the hotel is so narrow that it's often concealed from sight, making it appear as if you're floating on the Atlantic Ocean. The perspective is similar to being on a ship, but without the movement. One look and it's likely to spoil you for other views.
The interior of Condado Ocean Club is drenched in white, providing a luxurious contrast to the bright blue water outside. The decor is minimal, allowing the ocean to claim its rightful place in the spotlight. With 96 rooms, the property combines the intimacy of a boutique hotel with resort-style amenities, including an infinity pool flanked by lounge chairs and shaded cabanas.
The rooms at Condado Ocean Club feature floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing dazzling views of the Atlantic Ocean or Laguna del Condado. Like the hotel's common spaces, my Premium Oceanfront Room featured a subtle white and dove palette, with occasional blue accent pieces to evoke the water. The alabaster furnishings were modern, sleek, and discreet so as not to compete with the views outside.
The king-sized bed was sumptuous, soft, and inviting. The bathroom was on the smaller side, but rectangular white tiles flowed from the bedroom to the walk-in shower, creating the illusion of extra space. Bathrooms are stocked with Malin + Goetz bath amenities, fluffy towels, and essentials like a hair dryer.
The minibar was packed with drinks and snacks, available for an additional fee. Complimentary items included bottled water and a personal-sized coffee maker with local Puerto Rican coffee.
Social, the on-site waterfront restaurant, is the spot for indoor or open-air seating beneath a shaded rooftop. The dinner menu is divided into two sections. The top portion highlights steaks, chicken, and seafood, prepared as you'd typically expect in the States. The bottom of the menu is written in Spanish and centers on authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. I ordered from this menu after a bit of translation assistance from my server. The Mofongo de pulpo was by far my favorite, featuring smoked, marinated, and grilled octopus, along with mashed plantains, pearl onions, and sautéed garlic. Social also serves breakfast and lunch.
Other culinary options include Sandbox, a beachside eatery specializing in light bites and cocktails on the waterfront at Plaza Del Ancia, and The Deck, serving cocktails and lunch by the pool.
The outdoor deck is a showstopper, featuring a sparkling infinity pool that overlooks the sea. It's the heart of the hotel, with an outdoor bar, loungers, and cabanas with plush sofas. Since Condado Ocean Club is an adults-only hotel, the atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, although the ambiance turns lively during special events, such as live DJ performances on select weekends.
Other amenities include a modern fitness center and an onsite boutique brimming with local goods, sundries, and sunny weather apparel.
Condado Beach is ideally situated to explore San Juan. The hotel is within walking distance of dozens of shops and restaurants.
Old San Juan is a 10-minute Uber ride away. The neighborhood is a magical place, with cobblestone streets, ancient Spanish forts, and pastel-hued 16th and 17th-century architecture. Old San Juan is approximately 7 square blocks, making it easy to explore on foot. For an immersive experience, book a spot on a food tour with Flavors of San Juan to sample heritage dishes at 4 to 5 different restaurants before you return to the hotel for cocktails.
Condado Ocean Club posts special discount codes, packages, and experiences on its website's offers page.
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