San Juan's Beachfront Neighborhood Is A Relaxed Village With Local Eats And Quiet Streets

Many first-time visitors to Puerto Rico's capital head straight for Old San Juan, the historic district famous for its centuries-old forts, colorful festivals, and vibrant nightlife. After seeing its main attractions, consider venturing into other areas of the city to get a better feel for the Boricua lifestyle. One place worth checking out is Ocean Park, one of the city's prettiest and most walkable neighborhoods, beloved by locals for its quiet streets and lively food scene.

Part of the Santurce district on the island's northern coast, Ocean Park is mostly residential. Though the area was traditionally agricultural, it started developing in the early 20th century when San Juan's electric tramway was extended to its beachfront. The neighborhood's laid-back streets, some featuring 1930s-era architecture, are reminders of the past. And according to residents, the historic buildings help to lend the neighborhood "an authentic local flavor."

As one local wrote on Tripadvisor, the neighborhood "still retains a number of interesting early [20th] century buildings, especially on Taft, Cordero, McLeary, Pacific and Atlantic streets and in the gated section, where one can find quite a few notable Art Deco and Spanish Revival houses." Visitors can stroll around Ocean Park's palm tree-lined side streets to enjoy the eclectic architectural display.

Ocean Park's village-like atmosphere doesn't just have to do with the neighborhood's historic architecture: it's also due to the absence of large-scale resorts. In contrast with some of San Juan's more touristy areas, like nearby Condado (home to the sprawling San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino), Ocean Park has mostly private homes, Airbnbs, and a handful of family-run inns. 

Similarly, while the low-key neighborhood isn't especially known for fine dining, it's the perfect place to sample local dishes. Try affordably priced Puerto Rican classics from empanadas to deep-fried cassava at Bebo's Cafe (open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, to 11 p.m. weekends), a local institution. 

"A great spot if you're looking for authentic Puerto Rican food with good service and a relaxed local vibe," wrote one recent visitor on Google. "[Authentic] PR food," said another, noting the prices were more than reasonable. "Grilled chicken breast, rice, and beans [cost] $10.95. Half a pitcher of sangria was so strong for only $12." Find out more about vacationing in Puerto Rico, one of 25 gorgeous islands that won't break the bank.

Elsewhere in Ocean Park, La Coffeetera (open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) serves delicious coffee and creative brunch offerings like avocado stuffed with crispy chicharrón de pollo (fried chicken with a Puerto Rican twist). Choose between a table in the cozy, light-filled interior or dine al fresco on the café's open-air patio.

And if you want to snack on fish tacos and sip tropical cocktails with your feet in the sand, head over to Número Uno Beach House (open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.). "It's a very laid-back atmosphere, solid food, wonderful drinks, and good service," said a past patron on Tripadvisor. "The view of the beach is great. I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting San Juan."

Ocean Park is easily accessible from Old San Juan: it's about 15 minutes away by car or 35 minutes by bus. If you have 1.5 hours to spare, it's also possible to walk between the two neighborhoods. Before arriving in Puerto Rico, read over these unwritten rules tourists should know before visiting San Juan.