Beyond the resort’s pristine pools and sun-drenched shores lies the vibrant heart of Old San Juan. Its charm beckons you to explore. Go ahead! When you’re staying at Hacienda del Mar, it’s an easy day trip to the city, offering countless ways to unwind and have fun. 

Follow Old San Juan’s enchanting cobblestone streets to discover hidden passageways, a towering fort, and a cathedral that’ll make it feel like you've stepped back in time. The neighborhood also has pastel-hued storefronts, vibrant murals, and street art. You’ll have plenty of delicious options for a quick bite, sunset drink, or memorable dinner.

Here's how to spend a perfect day in Old San Juan*:

Start your day with a taste of the island right in the heart of historic Old Town:

For brunch classics, head to Kaffe Haus. Pancakes, waffles, omelets and other egg dishes share space with brunch burgers and sandwiches on the all-day menu every day. There’s a large selection of coffee drinks, too. 

Don Ruiz is a fourth-generation coffee shop owner near El Morro National Monument. It’s ideal if you’re more of a grab-a-cup-of-coffee-and-a-pastry breakfast eater. Bonus: Don Ruiz roasts its own beans on-site, so you’ll always have a fresh cup.

If you think chocolate should be a food group, Chocobar is the morning spot for you. There are nearly a dozen hot chocolates offered, plus chocolate French toast, chocolate and vanilla pancakes and waffles, and a full menu of savory options (and yes, coffee, too).

Fueled up and ready to explore, head to El Morro — the iconic castle-like fortress that has towered over San Juan Harbor for nearly 500 years. Now part of the National Park Service, you can explore the six-story citadel's turrets, lookouts, and rooms at your own pace. 

Round your visit out by relaxing on the grassy slopes next to the fortress. It’s a kite-flying hotspot due to the ever-present ocean breezes and provides sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Worked up an appetite for lunch? Try one of these Old San Juan favorites:

Come to La Garita for the overflowing plates of island favorites. Stay for the colorful views of Old San Juan and the azure sea beyond. You’ll find options like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) and creamy piña coladas. 

Café Manolin serves classic local dishes, including mofongo (mashed stuffed plantains), empanadas, and rice and beans.

Barrachina claims to have invented the piña colada in 1963, so it's the perfect spot to sip this tropical favorite. Be sure to pair it with one of the restaurant's fresh fish dishes. And get a seat on the shaded outdoor terrace for great people watching.

After lunch, explore Old San Juan's pedestrian-friendly streets. Pop into shops and sample local snacks. Look for fried crullers, cold coconuts ready to sip with a straw, water ices (called "piragua"), and browse for souvenirs. A good starting point is Calle Fortaleza, lined with art galleries and boutique shops. Don't miss Puerto Rican Arts & Crafts for a wide variety of locally made items. 

For a cool down, visit the Baroque-style Cathedral of San Juan Bautista — the oldest cathedral in the U.S. Take in the black-and-white checkerboard floor, distinctive wood carvings, and trompe-l'oeil ceiling, and tomb of explorer Ponce de Leon. 

Round out your Old Town explorations at Raices Fountain, a popular location to watch the sun set over the Atlantic. It’s easily recognizable from its intricate bronze statues of a ship sailing off to sea and frolicking dolphins. 

Speaking of sunset, it’s time to find a happy hour toast:

With rooftop views and two-for-one happy hour drinks — including sangria and mojitos — it’s hard to beat the aptly named Alfresco Rooftop Wine Bar.

Second-floor balcony seats at The Mezzanine provide views of the bustling street below, plus happy hour specials and tapas.

For something a little more chic, head to Plaza de Armas and order a glass of bubbly at Pio Pio, along with some small bites such as marinated tuna crudo, lobster rolls, and even caviar.

For a vacation-worthy dining experience, check out these spots:

Dress up and have a meal that feels like a celebration at Marmalade (even if you’re simply celebrating being on vacation). Multi-course, prefix menus are filled with elegant takes on island ingredients. (Reservations recommended.)

Secluded Ladi's Restaurant offers seaside dining and unparalleled views of San Juan Bay along with fresh-caught seafood. (Reservations recommended.)

El Jibarito feels like you've been invited to a family party. It's a fun, festive (and affordable) night out, with generous food portions and drinks. Don't miss the whole fried fish. 
 

Use your Ownership to stay at Hyatt Vacation Club at Hacienda del Mar. 

Warm tropical breezes, turquoise waters, and Caribbean elegance surround this oceanfront gem. It’s the perfect place to soak up all the beauty and charm of Puerto Rico. Just 25 miles from historic San Juan along a prime stretch of famous beaches, this secluded seaside resort invites you to experience paradise.
 

Join our Around the Town Scavenger Hunt, sample beverages, or visit the pool at 6 PM daily for the Sounding of the Coqui daily ritual.

Swim a few laps in the junior Olympic-size swimming pool. Spread out and splash with the family in the kids’ pool. Or sip your favorite drink, relax in one of the two hot tubs, and watch as the sky is drenched in the evening sunset glow.

Enjoy direct beach access with a sand volleyball court, beach games, two tennis courts, a basketball hoop, and table tennis. 

Grab a bite — or a full meal — and a cold drink on-site at Mahi Mahi Bar and Grill (operated by a third party).
 
The comfort of a resort with all the right amenities. The intrigue of Old San Juan history. And you. This is a trifecta of vacation perfection. Puerto Rico awaits. 

Book your tropical trip today on The Lounge. 

^* No inquiry has been made into the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, or the qualifications, safety, or quality of the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, and WHV Resort Group, Inc. and HV Global Group, Inc. (collectively, “HVC”) make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance, or any other aspect of such off-site locations, activities, events, or service providers listed herein. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the off-site locations, activities, services, events, or providers. Neither WHV Resort Group, Inc. nor HV Global Group, Inc. assumes liability for attendance at, or visits to, any off-site locations, or the products, activities, or services furnished by independent service providers. Additional fees and costs may apply. Activities and events are subject to change. Some activities or events may require the participant to be in good health and have a certain level of skill.