THE FACTS ABOUT THE WATER CLUB

If San Juan continues to build on its growing reputation as a party town, The Water Club will be where the beautiful people come to stay. The 84-room Water Club is a cool operator. Its best asset is a lovely beachside location in Isla Verde, and the aquatic theme washes up all over the place. The sound of breaking waves filters down the corridors and in the bedrooms, each bed is positioned to make the most of the ocean view. In the public areas, white drapes and candles lend a harem-like atmosphere. The decor is by local firm Design Works, which has custom-made some of the furniture and sourced others from ranges such as the Philippe Starck line. There are glamorous cocktail waitresses at Liquid, the first-floor bar, while at the second-floor restaurant, Tangerine, chef Cesar Fernandez has designed a menu of tantalising nibbles. Most compelling of all is the 11th-floor rooftop terrace, known inevitably as Wet. There, white slip-covered sofas, teak columns and tables, and a pool make it San Juan's most seductive late-night haunt. WHEN TO GO New Year's Eve, to celebrate at one of the liveliest parties around WHICH ROOM TO BOOK Suite 904 or 905 for the telescopes and full ocean views CONTACT The Water Club, 2 Tartak Street, Isla Verde, Carolina, Puerto Rico (00 1 787 728 3666; fax: 728 3610). Doubles about £132-£226; suites £540