After a day full of sun, sand and maybe some rainforesting, the body is ready for some nightlife. Part of Puerto Rico’s attraction is that this is a very social island and people love to see and be seen. As with most urban areas the social scene tends to concentrate in certain areas where you have a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants offering everything from $1 beers to $20+ mixologist creations.
Top Places to go for Spring Break Nightlife
Here’s where the latest, most popular hot spots are in the metro area. They all have their vibe and attract different groups but generally there’s always a good mix of people.
Isla Verde Ave. nightlife
On this strip the hangout is more “indoor” with excellent restaurants and bars close to the hotel areas. There are cigar clubs and wine bars along with good criollo restaurants. The hotels have a couple clubs, Brava and Chico that stay open till late.
Loíza Street- great for restaurants
A half a mile of restaurants, bars and stores to explore that range from chic to local criollo. This is a great place to bar hop. There’s even a rooftop establishment for outdoor refreshments. Best area is between Ave. José de Diego to the west and Calle Tapia to the east. There are some cool spots right off Loíza Street on the side streets to the south so keep you eyes open for possibilities.
La Placita in Santurce- a nightly block party
By far the most popular spot for visitors with many bars to choose from. Some play Club style music while others offer even live salsa bands and dancing on the street. Just about any day you can find activity here. During high tourism season it feels like a large block party. At times it can get rowdy but it is generally safe. If you walk there avoid solitary roads and walking by yourself and, just as with any large metro area, keep an eye out.
Cerra street in Santurce- local vibe
This is where the locals hangout. Here you can find a wide range of styles. Start at the corner of Ponce de León Ave and Calle Cerra and walk down the hill and check them out. At the bottom of the hill and to the left you’ll also find a cluster of good outdoor hangout spots anchored by the famous El Watusi. (inexpensive drinks and chill on the street).
Condado Nightlife highlights
This is the original tourist strip full of different hotels and small restaurants that run the range. This is a great area to walk up and down the street and discover.
La Verguenza– Magdalena St.- great criollo restaurant, bar with rooftop lounge
La Sibarita cigar lounge- Ashford Ave, sophisticated ambiance
The Oyster Shack– great seafood and outdoor tables
Mario Pagán restaurant– Magdalena St., fine, creative dining.
If you’re looking for upscale experiences or ambiance check out the lobby bars and offerings at the Condado Vanderbilt or La Concha Hotels.
Distrito T-Mobile- many entertainment options
This entertainment and retail district complex is right next to the Convention Center in Miramar. It’s 476,000 square feet of entertainment, dining, and shopping with 10 eateries, an 8-screen movie theater featuring IMAX, a 177 room Hotel, 2 Live Music venues, an outdoor performance plaza and an urban park featuring a zip line and a maze. Walking into the main plaza is like entering a video paradise with huge screens everywhere, including the ceiling. It’s a fun experience for everyone.
Nightlife spots in Old San Juan
Old San Juan has dozens of bars on every street, each with their own personality. The most popular area for spring breakers is San Sebastián Street. Here’s some quick highlights:
La Factoría- one of the top fun bars of the world
La Taverna del Lúpulo- a beer garden with 25+ beers on tap
The Cannon Club- one of the more interesting bars. Steinway piano bar and amazing decoration. Look for a small cannon above the entrance.
El Callejón de la Tanca- at the eastern corner of San Sebastián street. Here the vibe is more local-casual. Be sure to check out the alcapurrias or meat stuffed yuca fritters at Antojitos del Callejón and of course, the spectacular rooftop view and great atmosphere at La Vergüenza.
El Batey Saloon- Cristo Street, a classic dive bar with graffitied walls that hasn’t changed decor since it opened in 1961.
Barrachina- Fortaleza Street, they claim authorship of the Piña Colada along with the Caribe Hilton. Nice indoor patio
Note: There is a closing law in effect in San Juan and Carolina. This will cover Old San Juan, Santurce and Isla Verde. All alcohol sales must end by 1am Sunday through Thursday and by 2am on Friday and Saturday. Hotels in the tourism areas are exempt from the restriction.
