Puerto Rico Guide: Fairmont El San Juan
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel Review: A Slice of Paradise in Puerto Rico
From the moment we arrived at Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, it was clear this wasn’t just another beach resort—it was a full-blown tropical escape with glamorous energy, pristine beaches, and next-level hospitality. Nestled along Isla Verde’s famous shoreline, the property blends mid-century elegance with modern luxury, offering something for everyone: serene poolside lounging, lively nightlife, good dining, and even a casino for those feeling lucky.
Our stay was packed with highlights—mornings spent swimming in crystal-clear waters, afternoons sipping cocktails at the swim-up bar, and evenings soaking up the buzzing lobby scene with live music and craft cocktails. The rooms were spacious and stylish (shout-out to the Le Labo toiletries and Nespresso fix), the service was attentive without being stuffy, and the location made it easy to explore Puerto Rico or simply unwind under a palm tree.
Whether you’re in Puerto Rico for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a fun-filled escape with friends, Fairmont El San Juan delivers barefoot luxury with a side of vibrant energy. Here’s the full breakdown of our stay—the good, the great, and the oh-my-gosh-we-need-to-come-back moments. 🌴✨
Fairmont El San Juan Rooms
Okay, let’s talk about how nice the rooms at Fairmont El San Juan are because, they really nailed it. First off, the second we walked in, we noticed how spacious everything felt—no awkward shuffling around luggage or tripping over furniture. The layout was just right, with plenty of room to actually relax without feeling cramped.
And Le Labo products in the bathroom? Yes, please. Opening those bottles and getting hit with that luxe Rose 31 scent was an instant mood booster. It’s the kind of detail that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself (because you are). Plus, the shower was basically a spa experience—soft towels, great water pressure, and fancy products? Perfection.
Then there’s the Nespresso machine. Waking up and having decent coffee without having to leave the room? Chef’s kiss. No sad little hotel coffee packets here—just actual good espresso to start the day right. And speaking of snacks and drinks, the mini fridge was great for stocking some snacks and beverages enough that midnight cravings weren’t a crisis. (Though let’s be real, with all the amazing food in Puerto Rico, we didn’t need it… but it was nice to have.)
The beds? The linens were crisp, the pillows were just the right balance of soft and supportive, and blackout curtains meant we actually slept in (well, two of us did the third is a morning bird ;)).
Honestly, the whole vibe of the room was elegant but relaxed—no stuffy, over-the-top decor, just a really well-designed space that made it easy to unwind. Whether we were getting ready for a night out or just lounging between beach trips, the room never felt anything but welcoming.
Dining at Fairmont El San Juan
Okay, let’s talk food—because even though we didn’t eat at every restaurant in the Fairmont El San Juan, we definitely made the most of a few spots.
Breakfast at CAÑA: A Buffet Worth Waking Up For
We hit up CAÑA for breakfast a few times, mostly because our 15-year-old basically turned into a buffet enthusiast the second he saw the spread. And honestly? It’s a good spread.
Highlights?
The omelet station – Because nothing says vacation like a fluffy, made-to-order omelet stuffed with whatever you want.
Fresh juices – green juioces, orange, pineapple… all the tropical vibes.
All the carbs – Pancakes, crispy bacon, roasted potatoes, and a very tempting bread-and-pastry section.
The granola bar – Which, okay, sounds basic, but when it’s next to fresh fruit and yogurt? Perfect.
But the real MVP for us? The Mediterranean breakfast salad situation. As the resident vegan of the group, I loved being able to load up a plate with dark greens, hummus, olives, artichokes, pickled onions, and tomatoes. It felt like a way healthier (but still delicious) start to the day.
Oh, and the made-to-order smoothies? Genius. Between surfing and golf, we needed fuel, and sipping on a mango-banana blend while staring at the ocean was peak vacation energy.
Lunch at CAÑA: Meh, But We Survived
We only did lunch at CAÑA once, and… it was fine? The vegan options were slim (basically a cauliflower crust with avocado smash and an Impossible burger), and the rest of the food was decent but nothing memorable. If you’re sticking around the resort, it’ll do the job, but we quickly realized we’d rather grab something more exciting off-property.
EL BISTRO > Starbucks, No Contest
Here’s the thing: There’s a Starbucks on-site, and sure, it’s convenient. But we tried EL BISTRO instead, and oh my god, we made the right choice.
Their iced coffee was actually excellent—strong, smooth, and not just a sugary milk situation. And the vegan options? Overnight oats with coconut milk and lavender—yes, please. Plus fresh fruit cups and (for the non-vegans) those sweet, buttery Mallorca sandwiches that looked way too good to resist.
If you’re in a rush but still want something tasty, skip the ‘Bucks and go here. Zero regrets.
The Verdict?
We ended up eating most of our meals off-property (because Puerto Rico’s food scene is next level), but for a relaxed breakfast and coffee runs, CAÑA and EL BISTRO held it down. Would we have loved more vegan options at lunch? Absolutely. But overall, no real complaints—just a solid resort dining experience with a few standout moments.
Now, if only they’d open a full-on vegan tapas bar next to the pool… a girl can dream.
Nightlife at Fairmont El San Juan: Glam, Drinks & Good Vibes
Let’s just say this—the party doesn’t stop when the sun goes down at Fairmont El San Juan. In fact, that’s when things really heat up. The lobby transforms into this buzzing, high-energy scene where well-dressed locals and vacationers mix over cocktails, sushi, and live music. (And yes, there’s a casino for when you’re feeling lucky.)
The Scene: Chic, Lively & Unapologetically Fun
By night, the whole vibe shifts. The lobby isn’t just a check-in zone—it’s a destination. People gather at the bars, lounge on plush couches, and spill out toward the outdoor spaces, drinks in hand. The crowd? A mix of stylish San Juan locals and travelers who clearly know how to have a good time.
Drinks at the Chandelier Bar: A Must
No night here is complete without stopping at the Chandelier Bar—because how often do you get to sip a cocktail under a cascade of glittering lights? We went full classic with a Sinatra Old Fashioned (smooth, strong, with just the right hint of sweetness) and a dirty martini (because vacation = extra olives, obviously). Both were perfect.
Sushi, Live Music & Casino Energy
If you’re hungry, there’s sushi (because nothing pairs better with cocktails than spicy tuna rolls). And the live music? So good. Depending on the night, you might catch a soulful singer, a Latin band, or something with enough rhythm to make you consider dancing. (No shame if you do.)
Then there’s the casino—small but lively, with just enough slot machines and tables to keep things interesting. We didn’t go full high roller, but dropping $20 on blackjack while sipping an espresso martini? Chef’s kiss.
Beach & Pools at Fairmont El San Juan: Sun, Sand & Swim-Up Bars
Mornings at Fairmont El San Juan were made for one thing: heading straight to the beach. The second we stepped onto the sand, it was obvious why this stretch of Isla Verde is legendary—soft, powdery sand underfoot, warm turquoise water, and just enough waves to make swimming fun without knocking you over.
Beach Life: Lounging, Swimming & Zero Stress
We claimed our beach loungers (with umbrellas, because SPF only does so much) and basically lived our best lives between:
Morning swims in water so clear and warm it felt like a bathtub (in the best way).
Long walks down the shore, toes in the sand, pretending we were in a tropical movie montage.
Beachside service delivering icy drinks and snacks so we didn’t have to move. (Critical.)
Pro tip: Go early. By noon, the beach gets livelier (still not over crowded, but you’ll want that prime lounger real estate).
The Pools: Glam, Fun & Swim-Up Bar Approved
When we weren’t beach-bound, the resort pools were our go-to. The main pool area is huge—surrounded by palm trees, cabanas, and that perfect mix of relaxation and energy. The swim-up bar was a game-changer: nothing beats floating over for a piña colada without fully exiting the water. (Sand-free cocktails = elite vacation math.)
There’s also a quieter adults-only pool if you’re looking for a more low-key vibe, but honestly, we loved the main pool’s buzz—music playing, people laughing, and just enough shade to nap between dips.
The Verdict?
Beach = Best for morning swims, lazy afternoons, and sunset strolls.
Pools = Best for day drinking, socializing, and quick refreshers when you’re done with sand.
Basically, you can’t lose. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’re mentally teleporting back to that lounger with a coconut in hand… 🌴🍹
The Fitness Center: A Cool Escape with Killer Views
When the midday sun turned Isla Verde into a sizzling paradise, the Fairmont’s air-conditioned fitness center became our go-to retreat. Floor-to-ceiling windows flooded the space with natural light while offering dreamy views of the resort’s palm-fringed pools—way more motivating than a basement gym back home.
We hit the cardio machines first, sweating it out on treadmills and ellipticals with a tropical backdrop that almost made running enjoyable. The weight area had enough equipment for a solid full-body session (dumbbells up to 50lbs, cable machines, benches), and everything was clean, modern, and well-maintained. Bonus points for chilled towels and infused water to cool off post-workout.
Was it the most massive gym? No. But with ocean breezes sneaking in through the windows and no wait for equipment, it was a refreshing break from the heat—plus, the swim-up bar was just steps away for a very well-earned recovery cocktail. 🏋️♀️🍹
They also had an outdoor basketball court that was great for our 15 year old to practice shooting hoops.
