Arriving early afternoon in Puerto Rico, we jumped in an Uber and took a short, 15-minute drive from the airport to La Concha.  As it was Tuesday, the streets were not too busy and the hotel lobby was calm. During the weekend, the scene likely would have been more bustling. We were greeted by a staff member who requested proof of vaccination and government-issued ID, and were given a wristband to indicate we were fully vaccinated. All guests are required to be vaccinated and wear masks at all times while moving around the hotel. Hand sanitizer stations were placed around the lobby, in elevators and in each common area.

Photo by Audrey Lee

Check-in was a breeze with the friendly staff and we were off to see our room. The walk through the lobby and to our tower gave us a glimpse at what the rest of the property looked like, with clean lines, and minimalistic, but trendy. Our room was an ocean-front suite with a sitting area, kitchenette, large bathroom and a gorgeous view of the sparkling waves below. We unpacked what we needed for our stay, and enjoyed the view from our balcony before heading to dinner.

After we returned, the sun was setting, so we decided to view it from the pool. The first pool was an infinity pool at the same height as the sand for perfect views of the beach and water. We ordered drinks from the bar and our waiter let us know there were three other pools and two hot tubs to enjoy. We decided to check them out.

Through the lobby, in the center of the hotel complex, was the main pool area. It featured two large pools with water cascading from a waterfall that connected them. By this time, it was dark and the pools were illuminated with lights and the calming sounds of fountains. Seating could be found any way we turned, but with privacy from tropical plants. Frogs began chirping and we felt like we were in our own oasis. The two large pools have heated jets and seating for ultimate relaxation. Although the weather was hot, the heated pool was just what I wanted. Stepping out afterwards, I was shivering, to my disbelief! I covered up in my towel and scurried back to my room for a hot shower.

The next morning, we stopped by Aroma Café, in the lobby. We enjoyed a local favorite, Mallorca — a sweet bread grilled with ham, egg and cheese — along with Puerto Rican coffee. La Concha also hosts a casino right off of the lobby, but we did not get a chance to gamble our luck.

Photo by Audrey Lee

We stayed for an additional night and enjoyed the pools and hot tubs again before departing. The hotel was clean, modern, trendy and had a cheerful and helpful staff. For a stay only 15 minutes from the airport and Old San Juan, this hotel checks all of the boxes for a beautiful tropical getaway.

La Concha

1077 Ashford Ave.

San Juan, Puerto Rico 00907

tel 787 721 7500