While on family vacation in December of 2024, my family and I decided to visit the beach along the San Juan northern coastline.
While we didn't go into the ocean itself, we were able to enjoy a scenic view and some great food & drinks from La Terraza Bar & Restaurant.
La Terraza is a bar & restaurant that is along the roadside of the coastline that is just east of the populated San Juan city area.
Because we arrived early afternoon, parking was very difficult and only got worse as the evening set in.
I'm guessing the best time to visit these popular areas is earlier and in the morning, before the crowds.
We were fortunate that we drove slowly along the roadside and looked for people walking to their vehicles to leave and we ended up grabbing a spot directly in front of this establishment.
La Terraza also had staff roadside that asked if we were going to dine-in and then guided us into a space.
At the time, the staff at La Terraza was very friendly, helpful and seated us at a high-table along the road with a sweeping view of the beach.
Along with these high-tables, customers can also enjoy their open-aired interior seating with table-service. Tables are good for seating groups of 4.
There was also, what appeared to be some construction going on to repair some interior damage, but their restroom was simple & clean, with running water and paper towels.
Their bar area was small and only made for ordering, not seating.
We were able to get rum shots for $4 a piece and mixed drinks for $8 a plastic cup.
Service was friendly & attentive and we were able to order some traditional local snacks including: bacalaito, beef alcapurria, various empanadas (fried pâtés) stuffed with saltfish (bacalao), chicken or beef and these accompanied our drinks perfectly.
Even with all of drinks, 4 shots, 2 drinks and snacks, the bill total was under $55.
We were then able to pay and leave our vehicle parked in front and walk down to the shoreline across the street. This was really nice!
If you walk down the stairs just west of La Terraza Inc, you'll be in the sand and the ocean.
Overall, it was a great experience that made the rest of our beach day easy and I recommend.
On a side note, when we returned later that evening to order more $4 shots, turns out we must have drank at Happy Hour times earlier, because the shots were now $7-8 a piece.
TIP: Make sure to confirm prices BEFORE ordering if drinking on a budget. read more