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Where to Find the Best Views in San Juan

Here's where to go for the best views in San Juan, from the streets to the suburbs.

Where to Find the Best Views in San Juan
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Jen is a Tahoe-based writer who loves traveling, food, and adventures. She has written about food and drink for the likes of Mashed, Tasting Table, and Getaway Reno/Tahoe. Jen spent 20 years living in China and Hong Kong, and has traveled to more than 75 countries. When she’s not out exploring the world or the great outdoors, you can find her curled up with a good book.

With its colorful streets and buildings, numerous historical attractions, as well as bays and beaches, San Juan is photogenic from all angles. Whether you want to see it from above, from the water, or from a historical high point, here’s where to find the best views in San Juan.

Castillo San Cristóbal

Historic vistas.

The old fort offers some of the best views in San Juan in every direction. Look north to see the Atlantic Ocean, east to see San Juan, south to see Old San Juan, and west to see the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis.

Old San Juan

Streetside views are hard to beat.

Some of the most scenic sights in San Juan are the colorful colonial-era buildings and cobblestone streets in Old San Juan. Get a closer look by walking around the streets of Old San Juan. Some of the prettiest streets include La Fortaleza and Caleta de las Monjas.

People walk on the streets of Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.
The streets of Old San Juan offer picturesque views.Photo Credit: Brian Feulner / Viator

Paseo de la Princesa

Head there for sunset.

One of the most popular promenades in the city, Paseo de la Princesa offers wonderful views along its route. Enjoy sweeping vistas of San Juan Bay and its colorful boats, old city walls, La Fortaleza, Governor’s Mansion, and Raíces Fountain. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset.

Sightseeing cruise

Sail into San Juan Bay.

To get a different perspective on San Juan, take to the waters on a sightseeing cruise along San Juan Bay. Hop on a traditional sailboat or catamaran and pass by landmarks such as El Morro and La Fortaleza.

People take a catamaran to an island off of Fajardo, Puerto Rico for beach time and snorkeling.
Catamaran cruises are a great way to see the sights and explore the island.Photo Credit: Brian Feulner / Viator

Bayamón

The suburbs are scenic too.

A suburb of San Juan, Bayamón is home to several high vantage points that offer expansive city views. Head to the observation tower inside Luis A. Ferre Science Park or to the Julio E. Monagas Lookout Tower inside Julio Enrique Monagas Park.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Sweeping views over the surrounds.

Commonly referred to as El Morro, it is thought to be the oldest Spanish fort in the New World. El Morro offers wonderful and far-reaching views from the top of its six levels, as well as from the open lawn around it.

A view of El Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Don't miss the scenic views from El Morro, San Juan.Photo Credit: Timothy Michael Morgan / Shutterstock

Get the best San Juan views

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