Not for traditional types, the shining (hotel) star of Condado Beach -- and, arguably, San Juan -- is this buzzy resort from Marriott’s Renaissance series. La Concha attracts a constant crowd of young patrons -- both guests and locals, who come here often, dressed to the nines. The airy lobby is a chic meeting space by day, and is transformed at night with low lighting and hip music. Trendy restaurants have options like sushi and sake or tapas and sangria; the seashell-shaped Perla has a 4,000-bottle wine cellar. The 232 rooms and suites have bright, sleek decor, and many come with floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean (it's definitely worth the price to upgrade). Food and drink service is provided at the beach and at the three outdoor pools. With long lines for the front desk and slow drink service, the resort can feel short-staffed.

The upscale, 910-room Caribe Hilton is a lively mega-resort with stunning views of Puerto Rico's Atlantic Coast between Old San Juan and Condado. Yes, it can be crowded and busy, but the cruisers, business travelers, honeymooners, and families that flock here don't seem to mind. The hotel's 17 acres include bird-filled tropical gardens, multiple restaurants, a bar, and gorgeous pools. The manmade beach isn't the best, and can be packed, but rooms are modern and comfy, with Hilton's excellent beds, and many have furnished balconies with ocean views.

The vibe at the 382-room El San Juan Hotel & Casino is that of a fun, self-contained, relaxed party. The property features a lively lobby (with salsa dancing on the weekends,) a sprawling freeform pool with swim-up bar, a popular on-site nightclub, and a location right on the clean, white-sand Isla Verde Beach. Rooms are stylish and beach-y, with white bedding and furniture, light wood, bright, tropical accents, and modern touches such as clear lamps and chairs. The bathrooms are modern, too, but aren't exactly spotless or spacious. Just make sure you're happy staying put: There's not much to do nearby, and Old San Juan is at least a $20 cab ride away.