Spa Profile: Vanderbilt Spa at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is a luxury oceanfront property in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Founded back in 1919 by Frederick William Vanderbilt, the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel was the destination of choice among generations of Hollywood royalty, heads of state, and captains of industry. Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico and along the stunning waters of the Caribbean, the property is home to a luxurious sea-inspired spa, Vanderbilt Spa.

The 10,000-square-foot wellness sanctuary is home to the island’s only Hammam, where guests can indulge in relaxing Turkish bath rituals. Although the Hammam is authentic to the Turkish ritual, it is infused with Puerto Rican soul and features locally-inspired sensorial experiences such as Caribbean storm sounds and Tropical scent.

The spa offers a variety of treatments featuring local products like algae and sea salt, in addition to technology-infused modern treatments and energy-focused Eastern therapies. It also enforces cruelty-free and sustainable practices with high-yielding results across its traditional skincare and body work treatments.

We interviewed Spa Director Dagmarie Sanchez, who shared insider tips, recommended treatments to try, and more.

Guests enjoy stunning views from the luxurious soaking tub in one of the hotel’s Deluxe Suites.

Why You’ll Love It: Our guests love the luxurious amenities of the spa, but most of all they love the level of service and knowledge provided by our team members.

Vanderbilt Spa at Condado Vanderbilt includes a private outdoor treatment area next to the ocean.

Key Features: Vanderbilt Spa is a 10,000-square-foot facility with seven treatment rooms, a Hammam, nail salon, relaxation lounge, separate ladies and gentlemen locker rooms, steam rooms, saunas, and a fitness center.

One of the swimming pools at the property.

Spa Snacks: We offer a variety of healthy snacks in the relaxation area that include antioxidant-rich nuts like almonds and walnuts, white and dark chocolate as well as coconut water, tea, passion fruit, acerola or orange juice.

Insider’s Tip: Guest should arrive to the spa 45 minutes prior to their service. Enjoying the sauna, steam room and amenities sets the tone for your treatment and really allows you to relax to the fullest.

Bonus: Indulgence starts right at check in with a glass of champagne or mimosa before your treatment.

Splurge Treatment: I would recommend Cryo Therapy for a splurge. The T Shock treatment is noninvasive and based on the concept of using warm and cold to “shock” the cells. The two components, administered in sequence according to precise therapeutic protocols, produce a localized and deep thermal shock effect. The technician selects a protocol based on the targeted body part and desired outcome. The treatment can be used to reactivate dormant collagen, stimulate elastin and minimize pores, resulting in healthier skin that is smooth and toned.

The spa is also home to the island’s only Hammam where guests can enjoy relaxing Turkish bath rituals.

Unique Treatment: The Hammam Ritual is a traditionally Turkish bath. This unprecedented experience weaves ancient purification rituals with modern techniques to capture a moment in time, a connection with our inner selves, while enveloping you in a sense of mystery. If you are looking for relaxation of the mind, body and soul, this treatment is for you.

The locker room and changing area at the spa.

Insider’s Favorite: My favorite treatment is Craniosacral Therapy, which is essentially gentle, strategic placement of hands at cranium, spine and sacrum. The massage techniques assist release of the body’s connective tissue, or fascia, and help the movement of the fluids in and around the central nervous system. You will have a sense of total well-being by eliminating tension and pain—and boosting health and immunity. Craniosacral Therapy can help with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, migraines and headaches, fascial adhesions, multiple sclerosis, and more.

Vanderbilt Spa specializes in treatments designed to promote personal health and wellness.

Treatments Featuring Local Products/Ingredients: We love to promote local artisans that are creating high-quality, organic products in Puerto Rico. One of our favorites is Tresojas, whose products include fruits, grains, medicinal plants, essential oil, minerals and other natural resources from Mother Earth. We feature a monthly exfoliation special with rotating seasonal scents and ingredients designed only for Vanderbilt Spa.

Featured Products: Our main brands include Natura Bisse, Germaine De Capuccini, FarmHouse Fresh, Coola and Epicuren.