Wondering if the San Juan Marriott is the right hotel for you?
Continue reading for my review of the hotel and its recent renovations.
When you think of a tropical getaway, San Juan, Puerto Rico should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city combines rich history, stunning beaches, and a lively culture, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. Whether you’re exploring Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets or relaxing on the sandy shores, there’s something for everyone. And when it comes to choosing the perfect place to stay, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino in Condado Beach stands out as a top choice.
The San Juan Marriott‘s location on Condado Beach is unbeatable. Located right on the beach, it offers easy access to a bustling strip filled with restaurants, shops, and more. This prime location ensures that you’re never far from the action, yet still provides a serene retreat to unwind.
The hotel itself is nothing short of spectacular, especially after its recent multi-million dollar renovation. The upgrades have transformed the resort into a luxurious haven where you can easily spend your entire vacation without venturing out. During my recent “noting-cation,” a trip with no planned activities, I indulged in the resort’s various amenities. From lounging in the adult-only pool cabanas and soaking up the sun on the private beach to participating in complimentary exercise classes, every moment was pure bliss.
Reflecting on my first trip to Puerto Rico in 2018, I remember visiting the San Juan Marriott with my family using guest passes. We were thoroughly impressed by the hotel’s offerings even then. So, when I returned in 2024 for a partnership trip with the hotel, I was over the moon. The experience exceeded my expectations, reaffirming why the San Juan Marriott is a top choice for anyone visiting Puerto Rico.
👉Check the Price and Availability of San Juan Marriott Resort here 👈
San Juan Marriott Renovations
After the pandemic, the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino observed a notable shift in their guest demographics, transitioning from primarily business travelers to more leisure and “bleisure” guests, attracted by their prime beachfront location. To better cater to this evolving clientele, the Marriott embarked on a multi-million, multi-stage renovation. One of the standout changes includes the transformation of the elevated area overlooking the pool into luxurious adult-only cabanas, providing a serene escape for guests seeking tranquility.
In addition to the outdoor enhancements, all 531 guest rooms received a significant makeover, adopting a more open concept that embodies the laid-back “beach vibes” that Puerto Rico is famous for. The renovations aimed to create a seamless blend of comfort and style, making each stay more relaxing and enjoyable. And the updates don’t stop there—the Marriott is currently undergoing further renovations to revamp their lobby and outdoor restaurant, ensuring that every aspect of the resort meets the highest standards of modern luxury and convenience.
Continue reading to get the details on the San Juan Marriott’s renovations and my review.
Renovated Guest Rooms
The guest room renovations at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino are very well executed. One of the first things you’ll notice is the replacement of carpet with sleek wood tiles, creating a more modern and clean aesthetic. The color palette has also been updated, shifting from a traditional white to a more contemporary grey, which beautifully complements the serene beach surroundings.
During my stay, I was fortunate enough to be upgraded to a corner oceanfront room, and “spectacular” is truly an understatement. The room featured two balconies offering breathtaking views of both the beach and the pool. It was the perfect setting to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Puerto Rico.
As a mom of twin boys who rarely gets to enjoy uninterrupted TV time at home, I especially appreciated the in-room streaming services. Being able to catch up on my favorite movies and shows while taking in the incredible ocean views and the soothing sounds of the waves was an absolute treat.
The thoughtful renovations have clearly elevated the guest experience, combining style, comfort, and convenience. The new design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures that guests have everything they need for a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay.
The New Adult-Only Cabana Area
The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has truly outdone itself with the addition of the new adult-only cabana area. Located on an elevated level, this outdoor oasis provides a perfect vantage point overlooking the pool and swim-up bar, making it an ideal spot for some leisurely people-watching. The attention to detail in this area is impeccable, offering guests a choice between two types of cabanas. You can opt for a plush and comfortable two-seat cabana or indulge in a cabana featuring a spacious sectional couch, ensuring maximum comfort as you unwind.
The adult-only cabanas are designed to offer an exclusive and relaxing experience, but families are not left out. There are also cabanas near the pool specifically for families, equipped with cozy couches, ensuring everyone can enjoy some luxury. Each cabana, whether in the adult-only area or by the pool, comes with thoughtful amenities like bottled Fiji water and a delicious fruit platter, perfect for a refreshing snack in the tropical heat.
One of the highlights of the cabana experience is the top-notch service provided by the resort’s friendly and attentive waitstaff. You can easily order from an extensive menu, featuring a variety of delicious options, delivered right to your cabana. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a more substantial meal, the convenience of having it brought to you enhances the overall relaxation experience.
If you want the ultimate slice of luxury and comfort, the cabana life is for you.
Upcoming San Juan Marriott Renovations
Upcoming Lobby Renovations
San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is taking its commitment to guest experience to the next level with its upcoming lobby renovations. Recognizing the shift towards catering to leisure and “bleisure” travelers, the hotel aims to create an immediate connection to the ocean as soon as guests walk through the front door. The new design will open up the lobby, allowing for views of the beach. This project is set to transform the arrival experience, making the ocean’s beauty an integral part of the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere.
Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, these renovations promise to elevate the overall guest experience, making each arrival feel like a warm welcome to paradise.
Outdoor Restaurant: Cosecha Renovations
San Juan Marriott’s oceanfront restaurant, Cosecha, is set to undergo renovations aimed at enhancing the dining experience. Currently, the outdoor seating area is arranged perpendicular to the beach, which limits the beach view to those seated closer to the shore. The upcoming renovations will transform the seating layout into an “L” shape, with the majority of the seating running parallel to the beach. This new arrangement will provide more diners with unobstructed views of the ocean, allowing guests to enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
By reconfiguring the seating to maximize ocean views, Cosecha will offer a more immersive and enjoyable dining experience. Guests will be able to savor their meals with the added pleasure of panoramic beach views, enhancing the overall ambiance of the restaurant.
Scheduled for completion in 2024, these changes to Cosecha will align with the broader renovation efforts at the hotel, including the lobby overhaul.
San Juan Marriott Review: My Experience
My experience at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino was nothing short of extraordinary, exceeding all my expectations for a “nothing-cation.” Now, when I say I took a nothing-cation, it doesn’t mean I did nothing at all. In fact, I did a ton, all within the hotel’s impressive array of amenities and services. From relaxing in the adult-only cabanas to enjoying exercise classes, every moment was filled with enjoyment and relaxation. Let’s dig into my detailed San Juan Marriott review and explore all the incredible experiences this hotel has to offer.
Activities
I love a hotel that offers activities that cater to all guests, ensuring a memorable stay for everyone. As one who likes to stay at least a little bit active on vacation, I was impressed by the complimentary workouts provided by the hotel. I personally participated in both mobility and water aerobics classes, which were a great combination of fun and exercise.
Additionally, I noticed other guests enjoying dance classes and yoga sessions, highlighting the diverse range of fitness options available. For those seeking a more personalized fitness experience, the hotel also offers the services of personal trainers.
The resort goes above and beyond to ensure that the entire family is entertained. For kids, there are numerous activities designed to keep them engaged and happy. The family-friendly environment extends to various entertainment options, such as billiards, an oversized Connect 4 game, and other interactive activities that are perfect for all ages. These amenities provide ample opportunities for family bonding and fun, making the San Juan Marriott an excellent choice for travelers with children as well.
Food and Restaurant
There are (4) different restaurants located on the property: Cosecha, Sakana, Cafe Mercado, and Terrazzo. Cosecha is the hotel’s signature, oceanfront restaurant. Here you are able to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Personally, I enjoyed breakfast and lunch here the most.
Sakana is their lobby restaurant which offers Asian cuisine, including fresh, locally sourced fish and sushi. While Cafe Mercado is more of a to-go, coffee shop that offers pastries and easy-to-eat food options. For the pizza lovers, you won’t have to go far. Terrazzo is located right outside of the hotel and offers a variety of pizzas, as well as gelato- a food combination that screams “vacation”.
San Juan Marriot Pool and Beach Area
Which do you prefer, the pool or the beach?
Well, at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, you don’t have to choose—you can enjoy both!
The resort’s beach and pool areas are equally inviting, offering lounge chairs and cabanas with full food and drink service, ensuring a seamless experience no matter where you decide to relax. Whether you prefer the soft sand and gentle waves of the beach or the refreshing waters of the pool, you’ll find everything you need for a perfect day in the sun.
The pool area at the San Juan Marriott is particularly delightful. Throughout the day, the hotel offers complimentary snacks such as popsicles and popcorn, adding a fun and tasty touch to your poolside lounging. The pool also features a waterslide, which, despite my initial trepidation (I screamed the entire time), was an exhilarating experience. The poolside atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, making it a fantastic spot for both relaxation and entertainment.
On the other hand, the beach provides a serene escape with stunning ocean views and the calming sound of the waves. The cabanas and lounge chairs offer a comfortable spot to unwind, and the same excellent food and drink service extends to the beach area, allowing you to savor your favorite refreshments while soaking up the sun.
Conclusion: Is San Juan Marriott right for you?
My time at the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino on a partnership for a nothing-cation was anything but uneventful. Despite the intent to do “nothing,” I found my schedule pleasantly packed with a variety of activities. From the complimentary fitness classes to lounging in the luxurious cabanas, trying my hand at the waterslide, and enjoying the swim-up bar, every moment in this stunning Caribbean destination was filled with joy and relaxation.
However, I must be honest—I missed my kiddos on this trip. Seeing the children at the resort having the time of their lives, with so many giggles and smiles, made me wish my kids were with me. The San Juan Marriott is a perfect place for families to create memories that will last a lifetime. Despite my wonderful solo experience, I look forward to returning with my family to share in the fun and make new memories together.
👉 Check the Price an Availability of the San Juan Marriott Resort here 👈
