Nungwi

The inviting, turquoise waters of the San Juan strip of beach known as Ocean Park are located between the tourist hubs of Condado and Isla Verde. Although the San Juan coast features many beaches and beautiful sights, many visitors and locals alike still favor the area young people simply call “Ocean.” Its appeal is immediately evident: Ocean Park is a semi-secluded area in the otherwise busy capital, where beachgoers can enjoy both the active scene and the calmer waves while scanning the beautiful Atlantic horizon.

It is not just the sand that is golden here, the name also refers to the upscale – gated and guarded – residential community where most visitors park to access the beach. The area also offers lodging accommodations, including small boutique hotels, bed-and-breakfast inns, and private rentals. Many of these conveniently feature exquisite restaurants right on the beach. More casual establishments can be found along and near Calle McLeary.

Walking east on the beach towards Isla Verde, Ocean Park becomes more open, with easy public access from the Parque Barbosa. The park features some sports and recreation facilities. The beach in front of it is referred to as “El Último Trolley,” since it used to be the last stop in San Juan’s long-gone tram system. When the strong trade winds are in season, it’s not unusual to spot kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts, especially at nearby Punta Las Marías. Sunsets at Ocean Park, however, are always in season.