Visiting La Perla Neighborhood in Old San Juan

Explore the Old San Juan neighborhood made famous by "Despacito."

The music video for the 2017 Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee megahit set off a touristic boom in the colorful barrio built outside Old San Juan's city walls. But long before "Des-pa-cito" got stuck in everyone's head, La Perla's residents and local organizations were already driving a profound transformation within their community.

In the years leading up to filming the video, houses were painted bright colors, murals appeared around the squares, and new businesses started to crop up taking advantage of La Perla's unique vantage point overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Today, visitors can experience a different side of the walled city, and community leaders hope tourism can contribute to the growth and development of what has for generations been one of the most underserved and economically disadvantaged sectors of San Juan.

Where Is La Perla in Puerto Rico?

La Perla is a historic neighborhood tucked along the northern coast of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Located just outside the city’s iconic colonial walls, this colorful seaside community stretches between El Morro fortress and Castillo de San Cristóbal. While it was once known primarily to locals, La Perla has become a popular stop for visitors looking to explore the cultural side of Old San Juan beyond the usual tourist trail.

Colorful street art mural in La Perla, showcasing the neighborhood’s vibrant culture. — Along La Perla, you will find colorful murals.

Is La Perla Safe for Visitors?

Visitors interested in seeing the neighborhood of La Perla will find it welcoming, for the most part, but like visiting any urban setting, please be respectful of residents and use common sense. For instance, ask before taking pictures of people or structures, as you are a guest to the community. While a decade ago, this neighborhood was not a place visitors would typically go, the area is growing and changing, with small businesses emerging and constantly evolving. If you plan on visiting La Perla, doing so on a walking tour during the day paired up with a local tour guide or community leader is recommended. You should avoid visiting alone at night.

History of La Perla

In the 18th century, the slaughterhouse was established outside the city wall, next to the Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery. (The original building called El Matadero still exists and for many years served as a community center.) Slaves had to live outside the city and built the first homes around El Matadero. In the 19th century, the poor of San Juan were forced out and jíbaros, people from the countryside, that emigrated to San Juan also settled in what became La Perla.

In the 20th century, the barrio got a reputation for being dangerous and was neglected by the central government. The community faced pressure from private interests that wanted to develop what is now prime real estate in San Juan, but the community resisted.

Over the last few years, the Junta Comunitaria de La Perla (La Perla Community Board) and other organizations have spearheaded tourism development and restoration projects. The most visible launched in 2017, called "La Perla pinta su futuro" (La Perla Paints Its Future), in which 375 houses were painted bright colors and revitalized. This project is now in its second phase: the development of a microbusiness offering guided tours of La Perla by residents. More projects such as the Carmelo Anthony basketball court renovation, the planting of two community gardens, art and music classes for residents, and even a 5K race have all come forth thanks to community efforts.

Ocean view from La Perla highlighting its scenic coastal location. — View of the Atlantic Ocean from the La Perla neighborhood.

What to See in La Perla

Tucked between the walls of Old San Juan and the Atlantic Ocean, La Perla offers a vibrant mix of street art, community spirit, and coastal views. Here’s what to explore as you wander through this colorful and culturally rich neighborhood. Remember to visit with a local tour guide and avoid visiting at night.

Start at the Main Entrance

Enter the San Juan’s neighborhood of La Perla from the pedestrian path in front of the Museum of San Juan. This route leads you to Colectivo Perlarte, a vibrant local art studio where residents showcase and sell their work. They also host creative workshops and occasional private dinners. Nearby is La Garita, a small restaurant with sweeping views of the ocean and the neighborhood below.

Walk the Malecón

Continue toward the coastline and follow the Malecón, a cement path that runs along the water. This scenic walk offers great views of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Atlantic, along with murals like the powerful Ofrenda, a tribute to Hurricane María victims. The coastline here, known as Guaypao, is a popular surf spot.

The Bowl at La Perla, a local gathering spot in the heart of this Old San Juan community. — The Bowl at the Pearl is the meeting point for residents of the area.

Visit El Bowl and the Community Center

One of La Perla’s main attractions is El Bowl, a colorful skate park that becomes a community pool on weekends. This area often buzzes with local life and photo ops. Nearby, you’ll find the Carmelo Anthony basketball court, where bleachers spell out “La Perla” and rooftops form a giant Puerto Rican flag when viewed from above.

Explore Local Culture and Murals

Check out local chinchorros (informal bars), like La 39, known for live music and dancing on Sunday evenings. Art is everywhere—murals, painted facades, and rooftop displays make La Perla a unique cultural canvas.

Know Before You Go

There are four main entrances to La Perla: three along Calle Norzagaray and one by the Old San Juan Cemetery. Consider booking a tour with the Junta Comunitaria (search La Perla Impacto Comunitario on Facebook). Always be respectful—ask before taking photos of residents or their homes. La Perla is not just a destination; it’s a living community.

More Things to Do & See in San Juan

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Visiting La Perla Neighborhood in Old San Juan

Where Is La Perla in Puerto Rico?

Is La Perla Safe for Visitors?

History of La Perla