New, modern hotel that is centrally located in San Juan. The pool and beach area are great.

Just read Plain Vanilla 's review of La Concha and had to comment. In no way, fashion or form is this hotel located in a "vaguely seedy area " of San Juan. San Juan is a very old and very densely populated city, over 500 years old so it is not going to look as pristine as certain areas of North Carolina that have been in existence less than 50 years and are sparsely populated. This is part of the charm of the city. There are stores of the caliber of Gucci, etc within a 3 minute walk from the hotel. A Vanderbilt hotel is being completed next door.These stores and types of hotels do not locate in " seedy areas". There is a lot of construction due to ongoing renovations and revitalization of the area and this does detract a little from the "beauty " of the area. But once completed, be prepared to pay top dollar for what will be one of the most chic and hip caribbean urban experiences. I stayed here in March and will be staying again there next week. The place has a definite South Beach quality and ambience to it. The beach right on property has rough waters, so it is better for lounging. but within 10-15 minutes by car you can be in Isla Verde beach, where you can swim if you so desire. I strongly recommend this hotel for those with a "young and adventorous disposition". For those who merely desire peace and quiet, I suggest resorts outside of San Juan.

Took a long time to decide on hotel and was glad choose this one. Went on a girls getaway and was also considering Marriott Casino down the street (definately book there if have kids, La Concha if adult vacation). Only heard construction noise one morning in room and think wouldn't have if wasn't already awake. Small noise at pool but there is so much construction overall that is it surprising didn't hear more. Would not hesitate not to stay because of it. While lobby was a 'hot spot' on Friday and Saturday night did not hear noise (was on 10th floor) and was on the young side (early 20s). Was not really set up to met people but to socialize with those you were with. Service was excellent, had to have someone come up to change the ipod connection and was done by time returned to room. If looking for towels always were some down at the towel station by the beach. The pool on the beach has a much better breeze than the upper level pools. Service was great except a bit slow ordering breakfast in hotel lobby. Only problem check out - 1st key disabled before check out time so had to go to lobby and get it reactivated. Also two of the three elevators were down for awhile (finally got two of three working) so there was a long wait as everyone trying to get their bags down for checkout - suggest if don't need room until noon, check out early and check bags. Take the barefoot cruise they can set up for you, if you like the water, well worth the $85 per person for the day. Found drinks all over expensive ($10 to $12 for mojito) Columbos (right when leave hotel) for food down the street a less expensive option. When in Old Town try out Blessed Cafe' - bartender Willie (during day) was happy to give suggestions as to where to go. Dragon Fly was as good as everyone says but do make sure to have a drink in their downstair's bar - more atmosphere than upper bar. If had another day would have ventured to the surf side of the island.

We just returned from a four night stay at La Concha and it was wonderful. The service and helpfulness from everyone we came in contact with was excellent. Perhaps we are less needy than earlier reviewers but compared to other hotels on other islands, this one is the best so far. The ocean and beach views from our room was stunning! Our room was large, clean and well-furnished. We weren't in the room much until late afternoon but it was always cleaned by 2PM. This hotel has a very active night life and there are crowds of locals in the lobby and outdoor pool area most every night. One day, the beach pool was closed at noon to build a dance platform for that night's party, preventing us paying guests from using it, which angered us a bit. On a positive note, the music, which definitely could be heard in our room, ended by 10PM. We only ate one meal in the hotel because we're a bit budget-conscious and the food and drink prices are resort-priced! $14 for a hamburger, fries and a 6oz cup of Coke, which they would not refill without charging again, was too much. Fortunately, there are many excellent restaurants within walking distance that are reasonably priced. There is also a Walgreen's a couple blocks away where we could get snacks and water. Speaking of water, the ice and tap water in the hotel is safe to drink but tastes bad. Keep in mind anything you leave in your room is subject to "review" by the cleaning staff. We had some leftover food disappear which we were planning to eat the next night. We complained and were reimbursed by the hotel but we still had to get replacement food. After a long, hot day, that was a hassle. The safe in the room is large and ours was well used! We did not need or want a rental car. The bellstand and concierge gave us excellent instructions on how to take the bus to Old San Juan and water ferry to Bacardi. We had an occasion to call Housekeeping because they neglected to replenish some necessary bathroom supplies (TP). Within 5 minutes they were simultaneously knocking on the door with a fresh supply and calling on the phone to followup. It can't get better than that! We were very pleased with this hotel and will definitely stay again.