We were in San Juan in March. We stayed in a hotel in Isla Verde on a wonderful beach that was not rough. (I think the beach at Condado is very rough). While our hotel was just okay, we did see a property that we thought was GORGEOUS!. It was the Intercontinental. The rates are about $250.00 a day and worth it. They have a lovely pool area, so if you don't feel like going out onto the beach you can stay right there. The rooms are newly decorated and very, very nice.
If you feel like fast food rather than hotel food, there are several fast food places nearby and several local restaurants with reasonable prices.
We just loved the beach. A lot of people from Puerto Rico were there on the weekend that we were there and they were having a marvelous time.
Isla Verde is very near the airport. It cost us $18.00 to go there from the port, including 4 suitcases, 2 of which were very large.
You probably can get a room through Priceline.com. Prior to our cruise, we stayed at the Westin Rio Mar , which was lovely, and which we got through Priceline.com for $110.00 a night. Whatever hotel you go to, sign up for the hotel's frequent user card. It will get you an upgraded room even if you use Priceline. The thing with Priceline is that you are not guaranteed a particular hotel, but you can choose according to amenities. If you want a nice place, choose the resort option.
Hope this helps.
