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20 Best Places to Visit in Puerto Rico — From Uninhabited Islands to Bioluminescent Bays

With incredible beaches and historic cities, Puerto Rico is a must-visit island destination.

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Everyone from  reggaetoneros  hunting out Bad Bunny's favorite party places to starry-eyed honeymooners drawn by posh beach resorts can agree: Puerto Rico easily lives up to its name as the  Isla del Encanto , the Island of Enchantment. A slew of new  flights to the island offered by Delta  and other major carriers are kicking off this winter, making it easier than ever to enjoy a trip to this tropical paradise —  no passport needed .

Part of the joy of a visit to Puerto Rico comes from scouting out its hidden beaches, visiting tiny, white-sand islets, and hiking to the jungle waterfalls that other travelers missed. With the help of locals and insiders from PADI, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, and Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, from the best surf spots to winding cave systems and the best places to chow down on  local dishes like  alcapurrias  and  mofongo . 

Related:  Travel + Leisure 's Guide to Visiting Puerto Rico

Old San Juan

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The historic heart of Puerto Rico's capital, Old San Juan is vibrant beyond its colorful colonial architecture or its iconic "Umbrella Street," Calle de la Fortaleza. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions before arriving at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a Spanish fortress crowning the western tip of the historic neighborhood and offering spectacular ocean views. End a day of exploring with local bites at one of the neighborhood's countless rooftop restaurants or with a drink at  La Factoría , named the best bar in the Caribbean in 2023.

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The oceanfront Condado neighborhood is the place to be in San Juan, with upscale apartments, the city's best restaurants, and plenty of fantastic shopping. Visit La Placita de Santurce, a favorite destination with locals and visitors alike, for frequent cultural events, street parties, and  Puerto Rican bites  at local spots like La Alcapurria Quemá.

Condado is also home to some of our readers' favorite resorts in Puerto Rico . Among them shines the Condado Collection of hotels and resorts, including  La Concha Resort ,   Condado Vanderbilt Hotel , and  Condado Ocean Club , nestled along some of the most beautiful beachfront in San Juan.

Dorado Beach

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Those looking to enjoy a retreat from energetic San Juan without traveling far will love the palm-fringed, pristine beaches of swanky Dorado Beach. Stay at  Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , perhaps Puerto Rico's most exclusive resort. Known for its championship golf courses and the sanctuary-esque Spa Botánico with treehouse treatment rooms, it offers the bespoke luxury experience you'd expect from a Ritz-Carlton Reserve property.

El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest within the U.S. National Forest System,  El Yunque National Fo rest  is one of the island's natural gems, crisscrossed by hiking trails and home to endless rivers and hidden waterfalls. While El Yunque makes for a popular day trip from San Juan, there's much more to explore than a day trip allows, including  natural swimming holes  like Charco El Hippie and the over 1,500-foot-tall Yokahú Observation Tower with its panoramic canopy vistas. Finish your visit with a stop for farm-to-table Puerto Rican cuisine at nearby  Bacoa Finca + Fogón . 

Related:  T+L's Guide to the Underrated Region of Eastern Puerto Rico

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There are no stoplights on the island of Vieques, just untouched beaches and dreamy boutique accommodations on the largest island off the coast of the Puerto Rican mainland. The most popular attraction on Vieques is the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, which glows blue at night as visitors kayak through its waters filled with phosphorescent plankton. Enjoy a day trip to the island or spend a few nights at  Finca Victoria  in one of 14 unique cabins, treehouses, or guesthouses amidst the lush vegetation of the island's interior.

La Parguera

Discover Puerto Rico

Travelers who can't make it to Vieques to experience Puerto Rico's most famous bioluminescent bay should head to  La Parguera . Located on the island's southwestern coast, La Parguera is home to the only bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico where visitors can swim through the glimmering waters, so make sure to bring your suit. Drive in for the experience, or spend a night in one of the small guesthouses in town and spend the day visiting nearby keys for snorkeling and paddleboarding among the mangroves.

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Located off the eastern shore of the main island of Puerto Rico, the laid-back island of Culebra is tiny but packs a serious travel punch. Home to less than 2,000 permanent residents, it earned a spot on our list of our  readers' favorite islands in the Caribbean in 2023 . Culebra's famed Flamenco Beach often appears atop lists of the world's most beautiful beaches. The abandoned, graffiti-covered U.S. Navy tank at one end of the shore is simultaneously an Instagram icon and a dark monument to the island's past use for naval gunning and bombing exercises.

From Culebra, jump on a 15-minute water taxi ride to the even more remote islet of Culebrita. Impressive beaches with impossibly clear water are the main draw to this speck of an island. Tortuga Beach, named for the numerous sea turtles that nest here year after year, is considered one of the  best beaches in Puerto Rico .

Cayo Icacos

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Yet another of the white-sand keys located off the island's eastern coast,  Cayo Icacos  is an increasingly popular day trip destination in Puerto Rico that beach lovers won't want to miss. Take an excursion from Fajardo to Cayo Icacos by booking a catamaran trip to enjoy the untouched beaches and shallow waters of this uninhabited island for the day.

Río Camuy Caves

Escape the heat of the Caribbean sun at Río Camuy Cave Park  in northwestern Puerto Rico. These limestone caverns have been carved out over centuries by the immense underground river, Río Camuy. While geologists have identified at least 220 caves and 17 miles of natural tunnels, much of the area remains unexplored. Reservations are required, so make sure to book in advance with a registered tour company.

Palomino Island

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"Forget the Maldives, I'll stay in Palomino," muses Bad Bunny in his hit song, "El Apagón." There are no overwater bungalows here, but the white sands and clear seas at Palomino Island certainly warrant a comparison to a Maldivian atoll. The 100-acre, uninhabited island off the eastern coast of the Puerto Rican mainland is for the exclusive use of guests of the  El Conquistador Resort , located just a short ferry ride away.

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On the island's western shores, the town of Rincón reigns supreme as one of the best destinations for surfing in the Caribbean. Numerous beaches offer waves for surfers of all levels, though Domes Beach is where you'll find the massive swells that host an international surfing competition every year. October through February is the  best time to visit Puerto Rico  if you're scouting out waves, but Rincón has plenty to offer year-round, even for those who prefer to stay on the shore.

Desecheo Island

Puerto Rico is home to an impressive array of diving destinations, but few are as famous as the uninhabited Desecheo Island, located just off the island's western coast. With an intricate cave system offering memorable swim-throughs and a dive site so colorful it's known as “Candy Land,” visitors will have plenty to see while enjoying what  PADI  considers some of the best underwater visibility in all of Puerto Rico.

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Surfers and travelers scouting out the best beaches on the island will love Aguadilla, located on the island's western coast. Aguadilla's Crash Boat Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the island, with an intoxicating mix of white sand, water sports, and a party atmosphere fed all day by beach bars and food trucks serving up tropical cocktails and local fare. While the beach offers great visibility for snorkeling, take care when getting in the water; towards the north of the beach is Gas Chambers, one of Puerto Rico's most famous surfing breaks.

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Many travelers skip over Mayagüez, the largest city on Puerto Rico's western coast, and head directly for the area's smaller beach towns. However, Mayagüez can be a convenient base for exploring the best of the western side of the island; its charming historic center and booming culinary scene certainly don't hurt. Mayagüez is also known as the "City of Pure Waters" for its proximity to some of Puerto Rico's best diving destinations, including Desecheo Island and Mona Island.

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Isabela is Puerto Rico's ultimate laid-back beach town, boasting shores that attract everyone from backpackers and surfers to the San Juan elite looking for a weekend escape. Trace the coastline and visit Isabela's most beautiful beaches by renting a bike and hitting the Paseo Lineal de Isabela, a 4.5-mile oceanfront route perfect for morning jogs or contemplating the sunset. Or, head inland to Guajataca State Forest for miles of lush, forested trails, hidden caves, and camping.

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Puerto Rico's second-largest city tends to be overlooked by travelers, but the "Pearl of the South" has the historical charm and cultural weight to warrant a trip. Explore the city's historic plazas and numerous museums, or escape to the countryside for a visit to  Hacienda Buena Vista , a coffee hacienda (among countless others) that once brought Ponce both wealth and fame.

Casa Bacardí

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It wouldn't be a trip to the Caribbean without sampling some of the best local rums. Puerto Rico is home to a few different distilleries, though  Casa Bacardí , located just across the bay from Old San Juan, is the number one destination on the island for visitors curious to learn more about the Caribbean's most famous beverage. An impressive visitors' center and panoramic views of the city make for a great tasting and tour experience, though the unmatched rum selection is the real star of the show. 

Related:  5 Best Tours to Take in Puerto Rico

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Located just 45 minutes west of San Juan, the coastal town of  Manatí  feels a world away from the big city. Come here for stunning, less-crowded beaches like the half-moon-shaped crystalline bay at Mar Chiquita or Los Tubos Beach, known for its perfect surfing pipes. 

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Puerto Rico's  Capital del Sol (Capital of the Sun) is fittingly home to some of the island's most beautiful beaches. Luquillo Beach and Balneario Monserrate are the most popular playas in the area for their size and extensive public beach amenities, but there are several beaches in Luquillo to choose from. Head to Luquillo after a day spent exploring neighboring El Yunque National Forest, or use this town as a base for exploring less-visited areas of the rainforest.

Puerto Rico   Travel Guide

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26 Epic Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico's must-visit attractions range from the adventurous (like daytrips to the jungles of El Yunque , zip line tours , camping in the mountains of Jayuya, and exploring the Cueva Ventana, a mostly undeveloped cave with guided tours) to the

• All Things To Do

Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay (Vieques) Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay (Vieques)

This south Vieques beach might not sound like much, but it's one of travelers' favorite experiences in Puerto Rico. During the day, Mosquito Bay is nothing special as Caribbean beaches go. At night, the waters emit a blue glow from organisms called dinoflagellates that live in the waters and light up when disturbed by boats, paddles or hands dipped in the water. Hundreds of thousands of bioluminescent dinoflagellates live in each gallon of bay water, and the light show put on by these tiny creatures provide is truly a (natural) wonder to behold.

Avoid visiting the bay during a full moon, since the moonlight somewhat spoils the display. Recent travelers recommended going out in a kayak to get the full effect of the glow. Some note that the bay isn't as bright as they hoped.

Old San Juan Old San Juan free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Many visitors flock to Old San Juan for nightlife, but you'll find more locals in La Placita de Santurce, a farmer's market by day that hums with music, dancing, dining, and drinking at night. – Robert Curley

Viejo San Juan is home to a variety of top attractions, including the Castillo San Felipe del Morro (a.k.a. El Morro ) and the Castillo San Cristóbal , the two centuries-old forts guarding the walled city of San Juan. Within the walls you'll find Calle del Cristo, one of Old San Juan's most popular shopping and entertainment districts, and Calle de la Fortaleza, which regularly has art dangling from above. While most visitors take advantage of seeing the historic and iconic sights, wandering the narrow streets and plazas of Old San Juan is an experience in itself. Many of the best tours in Puerto Rico include strolls through the old town's cobblestone streets to view the historic, colorful architecture and experience Puerto Rico's vibrant culture. No need to leave for lunch: Old San Juan is bursting with street vendors and restaurants ready to satiate your appetite. At night, the city comes alive and is filled with a bustling nightlife known for its drinks and Latin dancing.

El Morro (El Castillo San Felipe del Morro) El Morro (El Castillo San Felipe del Morro)

El Morro, which sits within the San Juan National Historic Site, juts out of San Juan harbor and beckons to cruise ships. Construction of the hulking, six-story fortress started in 1539. It was originally built to deter sea attacks, and went on to withstand two world wars and several other battles under the control of the Spanish and, later, the United States. Now, El Castillo San Felipe del Morro (known simply as El Morro) is Puerto Rico's go-to tourist attraction, both for its extensive history and its outstanding vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also walk through the fortress' depths, which include a maze of tunnels, barracks and prison cells. Exhibitions and a park film offer a more in-depth look at the fort's history, and park rangers are stationed around the site to answer questions and lead interpretative programs. A photo in one of the fort's iconic watchtowers is the ultimate Puerto Rico selfie stop.

You'll enjoy exploring more if you wear comfortable walking shoes, as the fort is quite large: it can take up to three hours to explore the whole place on foot. Travelers tend to agree the El Morro is worth visiting whether you're a history buff or not but for a little guidance on the fort's history, consider signing up for one of the best tours in Puerto Rico .

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Culebrita Culebrita free

If you really want to get away from it all, and a trip to Vieques or Culebra doesn't quite scratch that itch, consider a visit to Culebrita. This mile-long coral island, the easternmost point of Puerto Rico, sits offshore of Culebra. Part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, the island is largely uninhabited other than by pelicans, green sea turtles and other wildlife. Daytrippers who come over from Culebra to bask on the Culebrita's half-dozen or so beaches, including the aptly named Playa Tortuga, home to nesting sea turtles. The beaches typically have clear waters and soft white sand. The island also has a number of tidal pools that are popular swimming holes for visitors who disembark from tour boats at a dock on West Beach; Turtle Beach is about a 15-minute walk from the boat dock.

Culebrita Lighthouse is one of the few manmade objects on the island; raised by the Spanish in 1886, the now decommissioned beacon guided ships through the Virgin Passage and Vieques Sound.

Flamenco Beach Flamenco Beach

On the island of Culebra, which sits about 20 miles east of Puerto Rico, visitors will find a beach perfect for families, snorkelers and those looking for a remote spot that boasts a delightful aesthetic from nearly every angle. Flamenco Beach's 1-1/2-mile strip of sand is the most popular on Culebra and is often recognized by travelers and experts as the most beautiful in all of Puerto Rico.

Facilities like bathrooms and showers can be found on-site, and the beach's white sand is peppered with kiosks selling refreshments or offering chairs and umbrellas for rent (about $10 each). Amenities and tranquility are part of the allure of Flamenco Beach, but above all else, travelers simply can't stop raving about the beach's beauty. Some travelers do complain that Flamenco Beach's popularity means it can get a bit crowded on the weekends (despite a lack of upscale resorts or restaurants).  One unusual highlight of the beach is several rusting battle tank hulks in the surf — a reminder that Culebra was once a bombing range for the U.S. military.

Casa Bacardi and other rum tours Casa Bacardi and other rum tours

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The piña colada cocktail was born in 1954 at San Juan's Caribe Hilton . Visitors to the hotel's Caribar can order the original recipe drink as well as more modern takes on this classic poolside refresher. – Robert Curley

A visit to Puerto Rico wouldn't be complete without tasting one of its best-known beverages: rum. The spirit, derived from sugar cane, is one of Puerto Rico's top exports and the island is often referred to as the "rum capital of the world." There are many kinds of rum from traditional white rum to dark rum as well as several producers, including Bacardí , Don Q , Ron de Barrelito , and PitoRico , a smaller brand.

Cabo Rojo Cabo Rojo free

Nicknamed for a notorious Puerto Rican pirate, this town on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico is known for the unspoiled and protected beaches of the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge and the 5,000-acre Boquerón State Forest, both of which have hiking trails as well as beautiful shorelines. Combate Beach in Boquerón is a particular favorite for sunsets and jumping off the pier.

The picturesque Los Morrilos Lighthouse (located in the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge) was built by the Spanish in 1882, is still operational. The lighthouse can be seen from the crescent of La Playuela beach, one of the best on the island, and visitors say the short hike to the lighthouse is more than compensated by the great clifftop views.

Sun Bay (Vieques) Sun Bay (Vieques) free

Mosquito Bay is popular in the evenings, but the island of Vieques' daytime beachcombers like the chalky sands and serene vantage point of southwestern Sun Bay. It's also the only beach on Vieques with public facilities: The approximately 2-mile beach has lifeguards, showers, bathrooms and a small area to purchase food. Plus, the town of Esperanza (and its restaurants and bars) is just a short walk away.

While San Juan's beaches have a distinctly urban vibe, travelers appreciate Sun Bay's comparative seclusion. Reviewers said there's plenty of room to spread out along the beach and it is relatively uncrowded, save for a herd of wild horses. The on-site amenities were also a bonus. In addition, beachgoers say Sun Bay a great family beach; the waves are calm, too. If you're an avid snorkeler, however, you may want to skip these waters as there's not much marine life to see here.

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Cueva del Indio Cueva del Indio free

Aricebo is best known for its incredible observatory , but the north coast town has an interesting attraction below the earth, too. The Cueva del Indio is a natural cavern used by indigenous Taino people who left behind a series of paintings on the cave walls. The artwork is estimated to have been made sometime between 1200 and 1500.

Located on the Caribbean coast, the cave entrance is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and arches (the Siete Arcos), one of which is said to resemble the face of an ancient Taino man. In addition to walking through the cave, visitors can explore the cliffs and beach. The caves have appeared as a location for several movies and TV shows, such as the miniseries "Treasure Island" (2012).

El Yunque National Forest El Yunque National Forest free

The El Yunque National Forest, or simply El Yunque, is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. It's also a particular favorite for vacationers who like to hike, but even if nature really isn't your thing, travelers urge you to make the trip about 30 miles east of San Juan.

Remember to wear layers that can get wet (the highest elevations can receive up to 200 inches of rainfall annually) and pack a water-resistant camera to capture some of the area's splendor. In the evenings, Puerto Rico's tiny coquí tree frogs begin their unmistakable serenade.

Castillo San Cristóbal Castillo San Cristóbal

Spanning 27 acres, Castillo San Cristóbal was built to protect Old San Juan from land attacks. It doesn't receive as many visitors or as much adoration as its sister fortification, El Morro , but visitors are typically just as amazed by the majesty and significant history of the site. Allow several hours to visit both sites.

The forts' stellar shoreline views (not to mention the occasional iguana) draw travelers to the sprawling site. Though the fort tends to draw crowds (especially cruise ship passengers), recent visitors said that due to the sheer size of the complex touring San Cristóbal never feels cramped.

Calle del Cristo Calle del Cristo free

Shoppers should come to Old San Juan prepared to let go of a few dollars. The city's Calle del Cristo is a haven of restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. In addition to popular stores, those walking the street can discover local crafts and artisan shops.

If you're looking to skip shopping altogether, Calle del Cristo is still a worthwhile spot to get a feel for the beauty of Old San Juan. Past travelers routinely praised the churches and centuries-old colonial residences and commercial buildings that line the cobblestone streets.

Camuy River Cave Park Camuy River Cave Park

The Camuy River flows through the third largest cave system in the world — so extensive, in fact, that it underlies parts of three towns: Camuy, Hatillo, and Lares. Accessible via the main entrance in Camuy, the small fraction of the caves open to the public can be explored on guided walking tours offered by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, which manages the nearly 300-acre Camuy River Cave Park. Highlights of the tour include the largest stalagmite in Puerto Rico, glimpses of the underground river (and maybe some bats), and a 450-foot deep sinkhole that allows light from the surface to penetrate the cave.

Daily visitors are limited at the cave, so make reservations in advance; day-of tickets are limited. A number of visitors complained about being turned away from the cave because tours were at full capacity. Also, while many praised the beauty of the caves, others noted that the experience requires a great deal of walking, including up some steep hills. Finally, note that the Camuy River Cave Park may be a bit more rugged than some other "show caves" you may have visited. That said, make sure you wear closed-toed shoes.

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Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Located in the bustling Santurce neighborhood of San Juan, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico houses more than 1,000 works of art created by Puerto Ricans. The collection showcases pieces that date back to the 1600s and includes sculptures, photographs, paintings, drawings and more. The 24 exhibition galleries are housed across two wings. The west wing is a neoclassical building designed in the 1920s, while the east wing is a modern structure designed by Puerto Rican architects. The east wing also features a stained-glass piece by Eric Tabales called Taíno Sun Rising.

Visitors rave about the museum and say that its exhibits helped them better understand the island's history and culture, with an impressive collection despite its relatively compact size.

Condado Beach Condado Beach free

If you're staying in San Juan and want to stretch on the sands, you won't need to venture farther than Condado Beach. For many sun-lovers, that's just fine. Condado is framed by a string of high-rise hotels and resort complexes, plus it's ground zero for water sports and beach bars. Families, however, sometimes forego these sands for one of the government-run beaches, or balnearios — notably Playita del Condado — because Condado beach's tide is often too strong for young swimmers.

According to past travelers, you won't be disappointed with Condado, as long as you recognize it's not a remote strip of sand, but rather a beach that sits alongside a bustling city. But its proximity to so many hotels and resorts makes it all the more tourist-friendly.

Carolina Beach (Balneario de Carolina) Carolina Beach (Balneario de Carolina) free

Located near the Isla Verde resort district in the metro area, lengthy Carolina Beach is a popular public beach among both visitors and locals. Families especially love its white sand, warm water, the on-duty lifeguard and on-site paramedics. What they're not so thrilled with are the crowds. The beach tends to get busy during the weekends, but you can avoid crowds to some extent by visiting during the week.                                                         

There are plenty of vendors nearby selling food and renting water sports equipment. The beach has a volleyball court and a playground for children. It also has a team dedicated to helping wheelchair users, though this service is available Monday through Friday only and must be requested in advance . Another minor drawback is that Carolina Beach's proximity to the airport means you may hear a bit of loud noise from airplanes overhead.

Cayo Icacos Cayo Icacos free

The Reserva Natural Cayos de la Cordillera is a national park that protects the Cordillera Cays, a series of small, uninhabited islands off the east coast of Puerto Rico. Cayo Icacos, aka Icacos Island, is one of the most popular islands thanks to its location just a mile and a half off the mainland coast and its exceptional beaches.

Most visitors come to swim or snorkel for the day — overnight visits are prohibited — and the island's location close to Fajardo makes access easy. For a fee of about $60, water taxis take visitors from Fajardo's Las Croabas neighborhood on the short trip over to Cayo Icacos, making multiple round trips daily from early morning to late afternoon. The island is also a popular stop for charter catamarans doing snorkeling trips. The latter typically supply all you'll need for a fun day on Cayo Icacos, but if you go the water taxi route be sure to bring cash for payment as well as beach necessities (blankets, sunscreen, water and more) since there are no facilities on the island – and that includes restrooms.

Crash Boat Beach Crash Boat Beach free

Despite its name, you won't need to worry about sinking ships at this beach in Aguadilla. Snorkelers regularly trek to Crash Boat Beach for its clear waters and multitude of fish. The beach and its pier are also beloved by sunbathers, fishermen, volleyball players, scuba divers and daredevils who love to jump into the water from the pier. After a day in the sun, stop by one of the area's many food kiosks to refuel or take a short drive to one of Aguadilla's restaurants.

It's no wonder this western beach is one of Aguadilla's most popular spots for travelers of all ages. Repeat visitors said the beach is smaller after Hurricane Maria, but tourists loved the beach's turquoise waters and ample activities. The near-constant crowds don't seem to bother many travelers, but if you're looking for a quiet environment this may not be the beach for you.

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Luquillo Beach (Balneario la Monserrate) Luquillo Beach (Balneario la Monserrate) free

The resort beaches in Condado and Isla Verde are beautiful, but if you tire of the same old scenery, take a 30-mile drive east from San Juan along Route 3 to Luquillo Beach. Families flock to this beach for its reef-protected calm waves, and you'll also see a lot of day-trippers fresh from a jaunt in the nearby  El Yunque National Rainforest .

Luquillo Beach isn't usually crowded, but some visitors say cleanliness can be an issue, both on the beach and in the changing rooms and bathrooms. The natural beauty, however, cannot be denied.

San Germán San Germán free

Puerto Rico's second oldest city is a miniature Old San Juan in the sense that it has street after colorful street of historic colonial-era buildings dating back to the 16th century. Highlights of the historic district include the Porta Coeli, a convent and church dating to 1609 that's now a museum of religious art — one of many art and history museums in the city — and the Iglesia San Germán de Auxerre, consecrated in 1688. The Museo de Arte Religioso Porta Coeli is open Wednesday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Because it's located in the mountains and not on the coast, San Germán sometimes gets overlooked by visitors seeking fun in Puerto Rico's Caribbean sun. But the city once rivaled San Juan in importance as the seat of government for the western half of the island. Visitors can experience local culture at the Fiestas Patronales de San German Auxerre, a July festival celebrating the city's patron saint.

Observatorio de Arecibo Observatorio de Arecibo

The Arecibo Observatory has a rich history. Scientists used the site's massive telescope to collect data about Earth's atmosphere, the solar system's planets, comets and more since its debut in the 1960s. Though Puerto Rico may seem like an odd place for this important device, it was the perfect location. Situated near the equator, the telescope was in the ideal spot not only to study the Earth's ionosphere (its original purpose) but also to study planets. In addition, Puerto Rico could accommodate the space needed for the telescope's reflecting mirror: The dish is 1,000 feet in diameter and 167 feet deep.

In 2020, cables holding the central platform broke and the platform collapsed into the dish, damaging the dish. In 2022, the National Science Foundation announced it plans to open a STEM research facility on-site but funding would not include rebuilding the telescope.

Museo Castado Serrallés Museo Castado Serrallés

Set on a hill overlooking Ponce's historic district, the former home of rum baron Don Juan Eugenio Serrallés houses a museum focusing on the sugar industry and rum production. Additionally, because the city of Ponce purchased the mansion with most of its furnishings, visitors get a glimpse of life in a Puerto Rican estate home in the 1930s.

Built in Spanish Moroccan style and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Serrallés mansion presides over a 2.5-acre property with formal gardens and an oblong pool. The museum complex also includes a Japanese garden and the Cruceta del Vigía, a 100-foot-tall hilltop crucifix with a horizontal sky bridge served by elevators offering scenic vistas of Ponce.

Piñones Piñones free

Afro-Caribbean culture and cuisine draw visitors to Piñones, a small community within the town of Loiza. Settled by formerly enslaved people from the African Yoruba tribe in the 16th century, Loiza is famous for its Festival of St. James, with parades featuring dancers wearing traditional vejigantes masks made from coconuts. But even if you can't make it in July, Piñones makes a great lunch stop on the way to El Yunque , Loquillo or Fajardo. Visitors come to sample frituras like green banana and taro root fritters, seafood pancakes called b acalaí tos and other local food at hundreds of food stands in the seaside community.

Piñones isn't just about food: it's a center for a cherished part of Puerto Rican culture called chinchorreo , gathering where friends and family meet for food, drink and dancing. Loiza lacks the big resorts that are typical elsewhere in this part of Puerto Rico, and it's no accident: locals are fiercely protective of their culture and low-key community life.

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Guavate Guavate free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you can't make it to Guavate but want Puerto Rico's famous roast pork, head to Naranjito or Trujillo Alto, respectively located southwest and southeast of San Juan. Both are less than 25 miles from San Juan. – Robert Curley

For a deep dive into Puerto Rican culture and cuisine, follow la Ruta de Lechón (the "Pork Highway") into the mountains to the barrio of Guavate (in Cayey), home to a string of l echoneras serving roast pork right off the spit with crispy skin and juicy meat. The communal feast is accompanied by live music; cold beer; sides of mofongo, rice and pigeon peas; and other traditional food.

Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park

An admission fee of just $5 gains you entry to what has been described as the most important archeological site focusing on the Taíno people in the Caribbean. The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park is located in the mountain town of Utuado and has a small museum, with visitors also welcome to walk around the excavated remains of stone monoliths, plazas, and ceremonial ball courts, and to view petroglyphs dating to as early as the 13th century. The park also features recreated bohios , thatched-roof homes typical of those built by the Taínos.

The Caguana ball courts, where the traditional game of batey was played, have been designated a National Historic Landmark. The game, played with a rubber ball, was similar to soccer in that all parts of the body other than the hands could be used. Games were also culturally significant in that the games helped Taínos resolve disputes and make important decisions.

Toroverde Adventure Park Toroverde Adventure Park

The town of Orocovis in Puerto Rico's central mountains is home to this high-energy adventure park, located about 40 miles inland from San Juan. Attractions include multiple zip lines, the roughly mile-long Beast (a zip line that attaches you to a harness so you can fly like Superman) and the Monster, a 1.5-mile zip line. High-altitude tours feature multiple zip lines plus crossing suspension bridges.

The park's ToroBikes operate on the longest cable bike system on earth, more than 1,000 feet long. It's just like it sounds: you pedal a bike across a cable suspended in the air. Other attractions include climbing walls and the ToroRoller, a cross between a zip line and a rollercoaster where visitors are suspended from an overhead track.

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45 Places To Visit In Puerto Rico In 2024 (Attractions & Destinations)

• Places To Visit

Puerto Rico has many places to visit, including multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The first Spanish settlement was built in 1508 near Old San Juan. Since then, Puerto Rico has developed into a unique destination that welcomes millions of visitors each year. 

I was born in Puerto Rico, and have traveled extensively across the island. 

In this article, I will cover the 45 best destinations, attractions and places to visit in Puerto Rico.

1. El Morro, San Juan

Located at the northwestern most point of Old San Juan. 

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro — better known as “El Morro”, is one of the most popular places to visit in Puerto Rico. 

The iconic fortress is permeated with 500 years of ancient and modern history and is one of the National Monuments of Puerto Rico.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of El Morro:

Learn more in our article El Morro  – All You Need To Know .

2. Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan

You can’t leave San Juan without taking a stroll through this picture-perfect promenade. 

Adorned with beautiful lamp posts and striking fountains, El Paseo de la Princesa is one of the most historically renowned landmarks of the island.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Paseo de la Princesa:

Learn more by reading our article Paseo de la Princesa – All You Need To Know .

3. Calle San Sebastian, San Juan

Famous for holding Puerto Rico’s largest festival.

Filled with music and joy, Calle San Sebastian is full of restaurants and bars where you can appreciate a lot of Puerto Rican culture and customs.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Calle San Sebastian:

Learn about more activities in San Juan in our article 40 Best Things To Do In San Juan .

4. Las Sombrillas Exhibit — Calle Fortaleza, San Juan 

You’ll love the whimsical look of the hanging umbrellas in Calle Fortaleza.  

Visit this colorful exhibit and take a walk through the cobblestone street admiring the beautiful architecture of the adjacent shops and restaurants.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Calle Fortaleza:

Learn more in our article Old San Juan – All You Need To Know .

5. La Perla, San Juan

The most scenic neighborhood of Old San Juan. 

Located near El Morro, La Perla (The Pearl) is the go-to night spot for people of all ages.

Visit its small rustic bars and enjoy a night of dancing and singing in La Perla.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of La Perla:

6. Plaza del Quinto Centenario (Quincentennial Plaza), San Juan

The Quincentennial Plaza is located at the northern point of Old San Juan.

Meant as the symbol of the new world, a 40-foot-tall tower stands tall in the middle of this commemoration of Columbus’s first voyage to the Americas.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Plaza del Quinto Centenario:

7. El Yunque Rainforest, Rio Grande

Home to over 240 tree species, El Yunque is rich in flora and fauna. 

Explore its hiking trails and magnificent waterfalls of the only tropical rainforest of the National Forest System.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of El Yunque National Forest:

Read more in our article about El Yunque – All You Need To Know .

8. Flamenco Beach, Culebra

Even for the locals, Flamenco Beach is the perfect getaway. 

Complete with white-sand beaches and waveless cerulean water, Flamenco Beach lives up to its reputation as one of the best beaches in the world.

Below is a video touring Culebra:

Flamenco Beach is Located on the Island of Culebra, 20 miles off the coast of Fajardo. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Flamenco Beach:

Read more in our article Flamenco Beach – All You Need To Know .

9. La Placita, Santurce

La Placita de Santurce is another historical landmark of Puerto Rico. 

But you should know that La Placita has a split personality! 

During the day La Placita is a marketplace, but after sunset, it turns into one of the most popular party places where patrons go to restaurant/bar hopping.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of La Placita:

10. La Guancha, Ponce

The picturesque seafront boardwalk of the south.

Take a stroll along La Guancha’s kiosks and restaurants and enjoy the Caribbean flavor of cocktails and food.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of La Guancha:

Learn more about the area in our article Ponce – All You Need To Know .

11. Charco Azul river, Vega Baja

Cave diving in Charco Azul is a must-do!

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Alex Nieves (@alex_78)

Photo Credit: @alex_78

This hidden gem includes a breathtaking view that you can enjoy while swimming in the lake. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Charco Azul:

12. Rio Blanco Campground, Naguabo

A camping ground to relax. 

If you are looking to connect with nature and relish the impressive views all around you, Rio Blanco Campground is what you’re looking for.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Rio Blanco Campground:

13. T-Mobile District

T-Mobile District is an entertainment setting.

There is no other place in Puerto Rico where you can watch a movie, enjoy a delicious meal in a fine restaurant, catch a concert, and zipline all in one place!

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of the T-Mobile District:

14. Mar Chiquita, Manatí

This jellyfish-shaped natural pool is one of a kind. 

Visit Mar Chiquita and relax in aquamarine waters while trying a delicious Puerto Rican fish taco.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Mar Chiquita Beach:

15. La Playuela (Playa Sucia), Cabo Rojo

One of the most popular beaches in the southwest. 

Visit this natural wonder and you will get a perfect tan while admiring the majestic view.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Playa Sucia:

16. Crash Boat Beach, Aguadilla

Crash Boat Beach is known as the island’s party beach. 

The water is excellent for swimming and snorkeling, and the sand is great for dancing as you jump from one kiosk to another.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Crash Boat Beach:

Read more about Crash Boat Beach here.

17. Castillo Labadie, Moca

El Castillo Labadie is one of the historical landmarks of the island.

Take a tour of this century-old structure and learn about Puerto Rico’s culture and history.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Castillo Labadie:

18. Luquillo Kiosks, Luquillo

Only 11 minutes from the El Yunque Rainforest.

Walk through this row of over 50 kiosks where you can eat all kinds of seafood, enjoy refreshing drinks, and buy beautiful souvenirs.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Kioskos de Luquillo:

Learn more in our article Luquillo – All You Need To Know.

19. Balneario La Monserrate, Luquillo

Located just steps from the Luquillo kiosks.

This beautiful beach includes camping and picnic areas as well as bathrooms and showers.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Monserrate Beach:

Read more in our article about Luquillo Beach.

20. La Parguera, Lajas

La Parguera is a waterfront block located in the southwest of Puerto Rico.

Walk through its streets sipping a refreshing Mojito Beach while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of La Parguera:

Later at night you can swim or snorkel in its bioluminescent bay.

Learn more by reading our article Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bays .

21. Poblado, Boquerón

One of the most popular weekend destinations.  

Located in the southwest of Puerto Rico, this fishing village is lined with restaurants where you can enjoy the best tropical seafood.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Poblado de Boquerón:

22. Casa Bavaria, Morovis

Beautiful restaurant with a striking view.

You will not find another place in the world where you can have mofongo and schnitzel in the same place.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Casa Bavaria:

View their menu here.

23. La Cara del Indio, Isabela

This imposing rock sculpture is located at the entrance of the town of Isabela.

This monument was carved in honor of Cacique (Chief) Mabodamaca, who fought fearlessly to protect his people during the Spanish and European invasions.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cara del Indio:

24. Playa Peña Blanca, Aguadilla

A perfect-picture beach.

This secluded beach is a captivating natural scenery. 

If you want to relax you will enjoy the serene waters during summer, but if surfing is your thing best to visit during winter.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Peña Blanca Beach:

Learn more by reading our article Peña Blanca Beach – All You Need To Know.

25. Toro Verde Adventure Park, Orocovis

This adventure park holds one of the longest ziplines in the world.

If you are an adrenaline junkie come and fly over one of the most amazing forests at over 90 mph. 

“The Monster” is a 1.5-mile-long zip line and the main attraction of Toro Verde Adventure Park.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Toro Verde Adventure Park:

Learn more in our article 12 Best Zipline Adventure Parks In Puerto Rico .

26. Cerro de Nandy, San Lorenzo

This restaurant sits at the top of a hill! 

Go up the hill on their 4×4 truck and enjoy a delicious meal while admiring hundreds of miles of splendid forests. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of El Cerro de Nandy:

Get more information by visiting the Cerro de Nandy Facebook page.

27. Cavernas de Camuy National Park, Camuy

Explore this cave system of over 10 miles of wondrous caverns.

Take the Rio Camuy Cavern Tour and discover more than 200 caves and the third-largest underground river in the world.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Cavernas del Rio Camuy National Park:

Learn more in our article 12 Best Caves In Puerto Rico.

28. Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site, Utuado

Learn about Puerto Rico’s indigenous culture.

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site is the Caribbean’s most important archaeological site. It preserves numerous monoliths and petroglyphs of the indigenous inhabitants of Puerto Rico.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of the Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center:

29. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico, Santurce

Enjoy the exhibits of contemporary art of Puerto Rico’s community.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MAC) cultivates a new view of contemporary art. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico:

Learn more on the museum’s website .

30. Mirador de Guajataca, Quebradillas

This lookout point presents the most amazing views of the north coast.

Don’t forget your camera!

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Mirador de Guajataca:

Learn more in our article Mirador de Guajataca – All You Need To Know .

31. Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park (Hacienda Carabaí), Luquillo

This adventure park/ranch is loaded with activities for the whole family.

Visit Hacienda Carabalí and spend the day horseback and ATV riding.

You can also enjoy their mouth-watering steaks and seafood.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Hacienda Carabalí:

Visit the Carabali Rainforest Park website to learn more.

32. Puente Hamaca, Adjuntas

Visiting the Hamaca bridge of Garza Lake is a unique family adventure.

Puerto Rico is full of beautiful forests and landscapes and Puente Hamaca is visually captivating.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Puente Hamaca:

33. Museo de Arte, Ponce

This renowned museum includes over 4,500 works of art.

The Museo de Arte de Ponce includes sculptures, paintings, photographs, and Puerto Rican folk art that dates from the IX century. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Museo de Arte de Ponce:

Note: As of late 2022, the main galleries of Museum of Art of Ponce are currently closed for renovations.

Contact [email protected] or call 787-840-1510 for the most current information.

34. Piñones, Loiza

This ocean drive is lined with kiosks where you can enjoy Puerto Rican cuisine.

Try the best food and drinks in Puerto Rico hopping from kiosk to kiosk while enjoying a day on the beach.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Playa Piñones:

Learn more about the 30 Best Puerto Rican Street Foods.

35. Las Croabas, Fajardo

This park sits in front of the Fajardo bioluminescent bay.

Surrounded by restaurants, Las Croabas is the departing point of many kayaking tours.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Las Croabas:

Learn more about the area in our article Fajardo – All You Need To Know.

36. Playa Jobos, Isabela

This beach is one of the summer favorites.

Ideal for surfing and paddleboarding, this arch-shaped beach is surrounded by bars and restaurants.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Playa Jobos:

Learn more about the area in our article Isabela – All You Need To Know.

37. Plaza de las Delicias, Ponce

Visit the main Plaza of Ponce.

Located in the center of the town of Ponce this plaza includes many historic buildings like the Parque de Bombas and Teatro Fox.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Plaza Las Delicias:

38. Castillo Serrallés, Ponce

Take a tour of Castillo Serrallés Museum.

Learn the history of rum in Puerto Rico in a guided or virtual reality tour.

This setting is also perfect for weddings and social events.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Museo Castillo Serrallés:

39. Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Vieques

This wildlife refuge contains more than 17,000 acres of land.

Learn about endangered plants and animals like the Calyptranthes Thomasiana and the Antillean Manatee.

To learn more in our article Vieques – All You Need To Know.

40. Black Sand Beach (Playa Negra), Vieques

Black Sand Beach (Playa Negra) is one of the most unique beaches in Puerto Rico.

This beach has dark black sand.

If you go to Vieques island you can’t skip visiting this beach.

During heavy rains, volcanic material washes down and ends up at this beach creating a stunning effect.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Black Sand Beach:

41. Toro Negro State Forest, Orocovis

This extensive forest is the perfect venue for hikers.

More than 10 miles of trails, natural pools with waterfalls, and mesmerizing views.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Toro Negro:

42. Plaza Colón, Mayagüez

Another historical landmark.

Visit this 182-year-old town square and enjoy its monuments, and statues and learn the history behind them.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Colón Plaza:

43. Isla Verde, Carolina

At only three minutes from SJU airport the most popular beach in the metro area.

  This 3-mile-long beach is surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and fast food venues.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Isla Verde:

44. Condado, San Juan

This luxurious oceanfront has been the setting of many Hollywood movies.

Condado is the heart of the nightlife of the metro area. 

Hotels, casinos, exclusive shops, nightclubs, and restaurants define the area. 

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Condado:

Learn more by reading our article about Condado .

45. Casa Bacardí Tour, Cataño

The largest rum distillery in Puerto Rico.

Take a guided tour and learn the history of rum Bacardi.

Activities include a virtual mixology class.

Below is a Google Map that shows the location of Casa Bacardí:

FAQ section

Where should i visit in puerto rico.

The best areas to visit in Puerto Rico are San Juan for touring, Culebra for the best tan, Isabela for surfing, Orocovis for adrenaline junkies, and Lajas to see the bioluminescent bay.

What is the prettiest place in Puerto Rico?

Not even the locals can agree on which is the prettiest place in Puerto Rico.  El Yunque and Flamenco Beach are good places to start.

What part of Puerto Rico is most popular?

The Metro area is the most popular, and known as the center of everything.

What is a popular site in Puerto Rico?

San Juan is the most popular place to visit for tourists and locals alike.

Final thoughts

If you are visiting the San Juan metro area, Old San Juan and Condado are great places to explore.

Cabo Rojo, Culebra, and Vieques offer some of the more secluded beaches.

For hikers and outdoor explorers, don’t miss El Yunque and ziplining opportunities .

I also recommend that you check out the bioluminescent bays that Puerto Rico has to offer.

Dimary Hernández Soto

Writer at PuertoRico.com. I have lived in Puerto Rico my entire life. When I’m not writing, I work in the healthcare industry as a Quality Control Specialist. After Hurricane Maria, my teammates and I were responsible for ensuring that life support equipment reached patients in need around the island. 

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15 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

By Alicia Kennedy

Whether you're a city person or a country person, a beachgoer or a hiker, an art lover or an adventurer, Puerto Rico has something—many things, in fact—for your every desire and persuasion. Parties, farmers’ markets, galleries; from the expansive collection at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico to a cave through which to view the rainforest below, to farms ready to welcome you in like you're part of the family, the island makes the most of its 3,500 square miles. Here is a sampling of the many ways you can spend your time during your next trip to Puerto Rico.

Click the link to read our complete Puerto Rico guide .

Editor's note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hours and accessibility of many places are fluid and subject to change. We advise you to contact businesses directly for updated safety guidelines and hours of operation before visiting.

Cueva Ventana Arrow

Cueva Ventana is a cave atop a limestone cliff in the mountainous town of Arecibo about an hour from San Juan . Its name translates to “cave window.” One hikes up and looks through for a gorgeous view of mountains and river. Head over on a weekday, when non-resident tickets are $19 for a 90-minute guided tour. Although the cave isn't recommended for anyone with mobility issues, adventurous travelers who aren't afraid of heights will love it.

Pública Arrow

Pública Espacio Cultural is a large gallery, open to the public, with rotating exhibitions, usually featuring Puerto Rican artists. The spacious gallery provides ample light and room for browsing. Political programming, such as events about sustainable agricultural in conjunction with similar efforts in New York City , help broaden the public's understanding of the Puerto Rican diaspora. They feature occasional fashion and food market pop-ups, and are now the home to Radio Red, a local internet radio station featuring DJ sets and podcasts.

El Yunque National Forest Arrow

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque National Forest is home to an incredible amount of biodiversity—even after Hurricane Maria (although while recovery continues, only about 40 percent of the forest is open to the public). There are 240 tree species alone, making it a must-see on any nature-lover's itinerary. One need not worry about big wildlife, but lizards and frogs—like the island's coqui mascot—abound. Hike the rather easygoing trails to see all the vegetation, small animal life, and waterfalls.

La Estación Arrow

The moment you walk into La Estación, a quirky gas station-turned-restaurant off the highway in Fajardo, you know you're in for a wild ride. It's a little tiki and a little industrial-chic, with indoor tables, outdoor tables, grungy automotive paraphernalia, and leafy jungle vibes. (And the whole place smells like Texas BBQ .) The food here is just as eclectic—you'll find everything from delicate, bright, catch-of-the-day ceviches to fried chicken with mac 'n cheese. But the barbecue is the real showstopper: slow-cooked beef brisket, smoky, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and juicy pulled pork, all stuffed into a plantain "canoe."

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

La Placita de Santurce Arrow

On weekends, La Placita de Santurce farmers' market is a packed-to-the-gills party featuring small bars and restaurants. The central market is housed in a historic building, giving the revelry a truly escapist feel. But the real joy here is getting a rum drink in a plastic cup and walking around while taking in the sights. There are excellent restaurants on the outskirts, as well, including Jungle Bird , Santaella , and Mai Pen Rai.

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico Arrow

Once a hospital, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico was restored and given new life in 1995. The grand building houses the work of the island's artists dating from the 17th century to the present day. The museum, located in the Santurce neighborhood, is a San Juan institution. The permanent collection includes more than 1,000 works ranging from painting to sculpture to installations. Rotating exhibitions, often with a political undercurrent, are part of the appeal. The exchange project Repatriation , for example, showcased the work of Puerto Rican artists living in Chicago .

Castillo San Felipe del Morro Arrow

Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Puerto Rico—the iconic lookout is even on the island's license plate. The fortification dates back to the 16th century, during Spanish rule. There are no guides, but you can hire someone to show you around Old San Juan, including a stop at El Morro. Anyone bored by history or who can't be out in the sun too long should skip it, but the scale and longevity inspire awe among most visitors.

Mercado Agrícola Natural Viejo San Juan Arrow

The Mercado Agricola Natural farmers market takes place on Saturday mornings in the big plaza of the San Juan Museum. Local farmers and makers bring their fruits, produce, and artisanal wares. Because the island imports 85 percent of its produce, supporting local purveyors is an important act of solidarity. Be sure to pick up some of the kombucha, which is made with fruit grown nearby.

El Tour de Vaca Negra Arrow

Vaca Negra is a local maker of fine aged cheeses. They offer tours, for which they gather a small group to learn about what they do, have a cheese tasting, and then make their own cheese that will be available in two months. Make the reservation for brunch here as well as the tour, for the full experience. Most of the people who come to Vaca Negra will be a fan of their cheeses already, or interested in how it's made. The focus on local, agroecological ingredients stands out.

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy Arrow

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy, a natural limestone cave system, is a family-friendly natural wonder. And the Río Camuy that runs through it is the third-largest underground river in the world. It's a grand experience that provides a lot of photo ops, particularly Clara Cave, which you need to visit via a ticketed trolley tour. If you're visiting Puerto Rico for the island's outdoor sights and adventures, don't skip this.

Playa La Pocita Arrow

The beach Playa La Pocita is close to Piñones, the long line of kiosks serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine like alcapurrias and pastelillos. The low price of food and drinks, the free access to the beach, and the fact that an Uber from the city won't cost more than $10 makes this an extremely worthwhile way to spend a day—so long as you have all the beach gear you need with you.

La Factoría Arrow

Dark, dim, and a little grungy, with its scuffed checkerboard floors, worn old couches, peeling walls, and chalkboard menus, La Factoria feels like a clandestine underground speakeasy. The bar is famous for taking Puerto Rican mixology to the next level and the cocktails are refreshingly simple but masterfully made. The signature drink, the Lavender Mule—a mix of vodka, ginger beer, and homemade lavender infusion—is the perfect way to kick off the night.

Boquerón Arrow

This small town on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico is a great reprieve from the busier cities of Rincón , Aguadilla, and Isabela. Here, the water is calm and shallow—so family-friendly—and the kiosks selling oysters and clams, as well as local bars on the main strip, offer relaxed entertainment and sustenance. Don't miss Balneario de Boquerón, one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico . The water is calm; there are trees for shade; and parking and places to eat are not a far walk. This is the spot for those who love a calm day at the beach, as well as snacking on fresh seafood.

Te.ta's Arrow

At Te.ta's you'll be among a crowd of families and friends, usually locals making a day trip out of the San Juan metropolitan area for some fresh air. Te.ta's is a destination; no one simply stumbles upon it. This is comida criollla , or Puerto Rican homestyle cooking, made with local ingredients and a bevy of options for those with dietary restrictions. The portions are big and designed for a hearty appetite or sharing among friends. The house cocktails are impeccable but you can also ask for a classic. There is a housemade sangria available by the pitcher, too. Make a reservation for the weekend, with a big group or as a date, and go expecting to drink, eat, and relax. Because it's off the beaten path, it will impress anyone with an adventurous spirit.

Tamarindo Beach Arrow

While the shore is a bit rocky, this is a quiet and secluded beach and a snorkeler's delight. Turtles and tropical fish abound. This is also the water to visit with a kayak or paddle board. The vistas, too, are picturesque—visitors feel like they've stepped into a postcard. This is a beach for those who have brought their own supplies or have rented them elsewhere on the island. It's a more rugged beach for those who love the outdoors and wildlife. Those who love calm beach life need to visit Culebra, which is a short trip from the east coast of Puerto Rico by ferry or a quick plane ride from San Juan. 

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The 39 Most Beautiful Destinations in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a beach lover’s paradise, and its pristine shores and many attractions make the US territory the biggest tourist destination in the Caribbean. You’ll walk through historic squares lined with Spanish colonial architecture, float in bioluminescent lagoons and take incredible snorkelling trips in the dazzling Caribbean waters. Here are the most beautiful destinations on the island.

1. old san juan.

2. Playa Flamenco

Natural Feature

The pristine white-sand shores and sparkling crystalline waters of Playa Flamenco are regarded as the best on Culebra, a small island about 27km (17mi) off the east coast of Puerto Rico. Indeed, Playa Flamenco is often noted as one of the best beaches in the world. The beach’s name comes from the flamingos that rest in a nearby lagoon in the winter. Visit during the week when the beach is at its least crowded. Some chill time on the pristine white sands is included in the full day ferry tour from San Juan to Culebra.

3. El Yunque National Park

Forest, Park

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Architectural Landmark

This famous surfing town is hugely popular with international travellers, prompting Puerto Ricans to call it “Gringo Paradise”. The waves swell to huge proportions here, but there are also beaches on the south side of town that are great for swimming and relaxing with a piña colada. The area is also popular for humpback whale-watching trips from mid-January to March. There are a range of bookable experience in Rincón, including scuba, snorkeling and chiliboating.

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

7. Río Camuy Cave Park

8. La Parguera Natural Reserve

Natural Feature, Park

9. Lago dos Bocas

10. guánica.

11. Fajardo

12. Toro Negro Forest

This nature reserve is located within the Cordillera Central, the mountain range that spans from the town of Yabucoa to Mayagüez. It covers about 7,000 acres (28 square km) and in addition to the lush foliage, there are rivers and waterfalls inside of the reserve’s borders for visitors to discover and enjoy. One of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful waterfalls, Dona Juaña waterfall, is part of the reserve. There are areas for hikers and restaurants nearby. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

13. San Cristobal Canyon

A natural beauty, the San Cristobal Canyon is an open crevice that extends 500 feet (152 metres) into the Cordillera Central and is home to the Usabon River. It’s fairly easy to view the canyon, but entering it isn’t recommended for everyone, as some mountaineering skills are required. The canyon may take some visitors by surprise, as it seems to open out of nowhere. This is definitely a must-visit attraction for your to-do list. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

14. Tanama River

By traveling to and along the Tanama River, visitors can go hiking, cave tubing, and look at petroglyphs. Many adventures are available, and there are many companies that can guide visitors in these activities, including Tanama River Adventures and Westside Adventures. Make sure to bring necessities such as sunscreen and water for these outdoor adventures to guarantee that your experience will be more comfortable. We recommend booking a spot on the Tanama Eco-Adventure experience. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

15. La Piedra Escrita

Historical Landmark

16. Guilarte Forest Reserve

Found in part of the Cordillera Central, the Guilarte Forest Reserve offers beautiful views; visitors can even see sections of San Juan and Ponce on a good day. There are cabins available in the reserve for visitors, places to go for picnics and some great spots for birdwatching. Entering the reserve is fairly easy as there are various entrance points in a handful of different towns, including Adjuntas and Yauco. Check out the stunning scenery and be in the know about one of Puerto Rico’s great spots. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

17. Cueva Ventana

Park, Hiking Trail

18. Los Morillos Lighthouse

Located at the tip of Puerto Rico’s southwest coast, the lighthouse’s observation deck provides great views, and inside there are interesting photos and park rangers who can give you more information, but the jaw-dropping view is from the cliffs outside the lighthouse. Obviously you must take care to not walk too close to the edge, but if you take the short walk to the cliffs you can turn your back on the world and pretend that there is nothing but you and the sea. Better yet, hike down the trails to La Playuela , walk along the beach, and then hike up the cliffs on the opposite side of the bay from the lighthouse for even more astonishing views. You can also drive down to La Playuela if you don’t want to walk down the cliff trails, and then spend the day at one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico – Playa Sucia. Recommended by Kris Pethick.

19. Cerro Punta

This point has the distinction of having the highest peak in Puerto Rico, and being home to an endangered fern that can only be found here. Since it is 4,389 feet above sea level, visitors can have the unique experience of seeing the east and west coast of the island as long as the weather doesn’t pose any inconveniences. The peak is part of Puerto Rico’s central mountain range and getting there may be a bit tricky but definitely worth the effort. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

20. Cabezas de San Juan Natural Reserve

A 316-acre reserve in northeastern Puerto Rico, the Cabezas de San Juan Natural Reserve houses mangroves and a scientific research center. There are a total of seven ecological systems in the reserve, which is diverse for a relatively small piece of land. The reserve is notably part of the Northeast Ecological Corridor and guided tours are available for visitors. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

21. Arecibo Observatory

The Arecibo radio telescope was built in the 1960s and was managed by Cornell University. Until 2016 it was the largest single-aperture radio telescope in the world, but is now second to FAST in China. Many people know the Observatory from movies like GoldenEye and Contact . From the observation deck you can see not only the telescope itself, but also the landscape for miles around. Recommended by Kris Pethick .

22. Castillo de San Cristobal

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

From the top of the Old Fort, Castillo de San Cristobal , each way you turn you have an incredible view. To the north are the crashing blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean, to the east you can see San Juan, to the south is the soul of the area, Old San Juan, and to the west you can see Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, La Perla, and in the distance Castillo San Felipe del Morro . All amazing scenery, varied and exciting, and a wonderful site at which to take photos. Recommended by Kris Pethick.

23. The Cordillera Central Mountain Range

The central mountain range of Puerto Rico got hit hard by Hurricane Maria, and the people there are still struggling to get roads, bridges, power and water, and much of the foliage was decimated. But this island, just like the people on it, is resilient, and is coming back to its full beauty and strength. The breathtaking views of waterfalls and green valleys may not be as accessible right now, but it will be one day soon and you do not want to miss it. Take any of the small winding roads through the interior, stop at some of the small roadside stands or restaurants for a bite to eat and a cold drink, and take home some of the most amazing photos you will ever see. Recommended by Kris Pethick.

24. Cruceta de Vigia

The Watchman Cross is a 10-story, 100-foot high tower that overlooks Ponce . Visitors can reach the top by elevator or stairs, and then capture panoramic views of the City of Ponce and the Caribbean Sea. Recommended by Kris Pethick.

Magical Places in Puerto Rico Even Locals Don’t Know About

Recommended by Mariela Santos.

25. The Flamenco Beach Tanks

Flamenco Beach in Culebra is one of the most well-known beaches on the same-named Puerto Rican island; it’s a beautiful location for swimming and sun bathing. What some people may not know, however, is that there are still U.S. Navy tanks on the beach that date back to before the Second World War. The beach was utilized as a place for testing and training before and during the war, and the tanks were left when the Navy evacuated the island in the 1970s, after locals protested their activities. Sometimes graffiti is now painted on the Flamenco Beach tanks, which are a reminder of the past.

26. Arecibo’s Birth of the New World Statue

In the same town where the Arecibo Observatory is located, travelers can find a 350ft (100m) statue of Christopher Columbus, called the Birth of a New World Statue . It was erected in Puerto Rico during the summer of 2016, after different cities in the U.S. passed on becoming the sculpture’s home. Created by Zurab Tsereteli, this statue was originally intended to honor Columbus’ 1492 arrival in the “new world.” Notably, this statue is approximately 45ft (15m) taller than the Statue of Liberty in New York City.

27. Pico del Este Radar Station

Inside of Puerto Rico’s stunning rainforest, El Yunque , there are the remains of a radar station on one of the mountains. This tropical rainforest is the only one in the U.S. System of National Forests, and reaching the location of the station is possible by car. No longer in use, over the years the station has been dismantled so visitors won’t be able to see it in its entirety.

28. Aguadilla Treehouse and Park

Whether traveling with children or if you’re a big kid at heart, a visit to the Aguadilla treehouse and park might be the perfect activity. Parque de Colón, which is where the treehouse and park is situated, is close to the waterfront and also includes a boardwalk and a playground. The wooden treehouse is probably the most notable feature of this attraction.

29. Guánica’s sunflower farm

Big, yellow sunflowers are a beautiful sight to see, and visitors to Finca el Girasol in Guánica can see an entire field of this bright flower. Take a stroll through this field and snap away with your camera, and maybe even buy some of the flowers yourself. If you can’t make it to Guánica, there is another sunflower “farm” in the town of Isabela.

30. Guavate

Known as Puerto Rico’s “Pork Highway” by some – due to its population of spit roast joints – visitors can find Guavate within Cayey, in Puerto Rico’s mountainous region. There are numerous restaurants in the area, which is popular with locals for its fun environment in addition to the delicious food. The restaurants can fill up quickly, so it helps to arrive at your desired destination a bit earlier than when you want to eat, especially on the weekends. Conveniently, you can book a full-day tour of Guavate and Charco Azul, departing from San Juan.

31. Guajataca Tunnel

The Túnel de Guajataca is its name in Spanish, and the Guajataca Tunnel dates back to the early 20th century when Puerto Rico was newly under United States rule. Leading to a beautiful beach, this railroad tunnel is approximately 560 feet (170 meters) long and was declared a historic landmark in 2000. Due to the way the tunnel was constructed, very little light passes through, earning it the nickname “El Túnel Negro,” or “The Black Tunnel.” The tunnel is one of the highlights on the full-day West Puerto Rico Tour.

Puerto Rican Islands You Never Knew Existed

Recommended by Kris Pethick .

32. Vieques

One of the most well-known islands of Puerto Rico is Vieques . This is the largest of Puerto Rico’s islands, measuring approximately 21 miles (34 kilometers) long and four miles (six kilometers) wide. This island was once home to a US Naval base, and evidence of that base can still be found today. The island has been transformed into a lovely vacation destination with about 10 beaches of varying sizes, with different types of sand and amenities. Fly into San Juan and then take the short ferry ride from Fajardo to Vieques and experience a little bit of paradise. The most common experience booked on Vieques is an evening kayak on the Bioluminescent Bay.

33. Culebra

Another well known island is Culebra, whose beaches are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. Culebra and its cays offer ample snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities and stunning beaches for swimming and sunning. Be sure to plan a day trip to Culebrita, as you will not want to miss its sugar-white sand and sparkling blue water. You can book a catamaran day trip to Culebra from Fajardo.

34. Isla de Mona

Isla de Mona (Mona Island) is the third-largest island in the archipelago of Puerto Rico, and located 41 miles (66 kilometers) off the west coast of the main island; it is considered a barrio of Mayagüez. Isla de Mona is for the adventurer. It is rugged, rustic, and challenging. Camping is allowed, with a maximum of 100 people on the island at a given time; you must get your permit at least two weeks in advance. This island, too, has incredible snorkeling and scuba diving options. Mona Island is home to over 100 endangered species, including giant iguanas and sea turtles.

35. Monkey Island

Monkeys, specifically rhesus macaques, were brought to this island in the 1930s for a primate study and they continue to thrive there today. Visitors cannot go on the island itself, as only the scientists are allowed, but you can find a number of excursion outlets that offer kayak rental for the 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) trip to the island, which you can observe from the water; if you are not a kayaker, there are boat trips available. The water is very clear and shallow, and there is a sunken barge that can be explored.

36. Palomino Island

You might know El Conquistador Resort from reading about idyllic honeymoon resorts in Puerto Rico, but there is a related spot even more beautiful than the resort on the mainland, and that’s Palomino Island. A private island in the Caribbean Sea, Palomino Island offers a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere where guests can take part in watersports, snorkeling, diving, and horseback riding. The water is many shades of blue and they all look stunning. There are a number of boating day trips to Palomino, mostly departing from Fajardo. Recommended by Mariela Santos.

37. Gilligan’s Island

Gilligan’s Island, of course named after the popular TV show from the 1960s, is a perfect day trip for the family. It is a very short boat ride from Guanica on the southern coast of Puerto Rico. The water is shallow enough for kids to swim around the entire island. Snorkelers can find schools of fish and coral. There are picnic tables, barbecue pits, and composting toilets, so bringing the kids for a day should be easy. There are no shops on the island itself, but you can order food at the ferry in Guanica and they will bring it out to you. If you go during the week during the low season, you will probably have the island to yourself, perhaps for a romantic getaway.

38. Coffin Island

Isla Caja de Muertos, or Coffin Island, lies eight miles (13 kilometers) off the coast of Ponce, also on the southern coast of Puerto Rico. There are ferry rides and catamaran trips available, or you can take your own transportation. As with all of the islands of Puerto Rico, Coffin Island has beautiful beaches and opportunities for snorkeling, including a guided snorkeling tour with underwater signs. There are also hiking trails and a lighthouse to explore, so there is a little something for everyone. You need to bring your own food and water, but there are picnic tables available for your convenience. Coffin Island is a great place to find conch shells.

39. Isla Desecheo

Looking for somewhere different to stay? Book into one of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Rico , or treat yourself to an unforgettable luxury hotel . Inspire your itinerary with the most beautiful beaches in San Juan ; don’t miss the must-see attractions . And, when in the Puerto Rican capital, book yourself a table at one of the best restaurants in San Juan . To discover delicious food, check out the best food festivals in Puerto Rico .

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The 8 best places to visit in Puerto Rico

Jan 14, 2024 • 6 min read

El Yunque is the only rainforest in the US National Parks system, with trails that can range from difficult to challenging © Boogich / Getty Images

Puerto Rico is one of those destinations that just keeps on giving.

On your first vacation in Puerto Rico, you'll visit the more popular spots and well-known historical monuments. Then you'll be back. You'll go off the beaten track. Beyond the bioluminescent bays. Beyond the Puerto Rico beaches everyone raves about.

Visiting this Puerto Rico requires a little bit of research. Probably a rental car and a little insider knowledge from the residents. With more than 300 miles of coastline, the best places to go in Puerto Rico spill out from one end of the island to the other.

If you’re into exploring cities, San Juan has a vibrant museum and arts scene. Indeed, the capital can take you from the beach to the speakeasies in the blink of an eye. Here's where to go in Puerto Rico .

Best for live music

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Loíza to watch live bomba music . Start in Piñones to cruise the kiosk strip and buy delectable fritters, like the famous empanadillas de jueyes (crab empanadas) and the plantain-and-ground-beef delicacy pionono .  El Boricua is a favorite with locals. Arrive early as lines can snake around the establishment.

After that, head over to El Imán Bar to listen to live bomba music and watch the bailaores (flamenco dancer) execute increasingly difficult moves to satisfy the drummers and the crowd.

Local tip: Bomba gatherings are informal and sometimes impromptu. To get a sense of the times and days for activities available in the area, it’s best to check out Corporación Piñones Se Integra , a nonprofit community-based organization in Loíza tasked with preserving the town’s traditional history. 

2. Isla Verde

Best for craft beer

The ubiquity of Medalla advertisements in Puerto Rico makes you think it’s the only beer on the island. It may be the best local light lager – and at US$2 to $5, one of the cheapest – but in the last 15 years, the likes of Ocean Lab Brewing Co.  in Isla Verde have made Puerto Rico a haven for Caribbean craft beer lovers.

Local breweries across the island use old European and new American techniques to create beers with flavors unique to the island, like passion fruit, quenépa (Spanish lime), and mango. At Ocean Lab Brewing Co., try the crisp Mayawest lager and the Mambo passion-fruit wheat beer

Local tip: Elsewhere,  Boquerón Brewing Co , in the beach town of Cabo Rojo, has some excellent fruity experimental beers and ales. For a super-unique sip, take a trip South to Señorial Brewing Co  in Ponce for their elusive quenépa fruit beer. 

3. Santurce, San Juan

Best for street art and museums

Thanks to its central location – and its historical ties to music and culture – the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan has long been a meeting place for artists. Each year, top muralists and graffiti artists add to the district's creative reputation at the Santurce es Ley festival, a street party that invites artists from Puerto Rico and around the world to spruce up buildings with their art. 

To see the best work, head to the Tras Talleres and El Gandul areas of Santurce. There are similar projects in Yauco, like Yaucromatic, and art installations in Ponce that offer an excellent account of the creative scene on the island.

Similarly, this San Juan neighborhood is home to some of the  most interesting museums on the island. Head to the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico , an architectural wonder in the middle of the district, or try the more experimental Museo de Arte Contemporáneo , housed in the city's only brick building.

Local tip: There are tons of small museums around the island dedicated to preserving hyper-local history and events. Another favorite of ours is the Museo de Artes Populares de Caguas , which focuses on traditional Puerto Rican folk art and woodwork. 

4. Old San Juan

Best for rooftop bars

Most of Old San Juan is worthy of a photograph or four, but hidden on the city's rooftops are some of the trendiest bars and terraces – and many have premium views of the island's fabled sunsets.

Some of the best include La Catedral at the Decanter Hotel, the perfect spot to admire the architecture of the Catedrál de San Juan over afternoon cocktails, and  Scryer Rum & Barrelhouse , a tasting house complete with rooftop lounge that offers rum-based cocktails and a look at the distilling process. If you’re up for a party, La Vergüenza , overlooking the La Perla neighborhood, is your spot for salsa and live music.

5. Arecibo 

Best for history

Often overlooked by tourists, Arecibo is one of Puerto Rico’s oldest towns. Officially established in 1616, it has reinvented itself numerous times throughout history – from pirate cove to the site of important astronomical discoveries at the now-defunct Arecibo Observatory . While the town center has seen better days, young business owners are slowly turning its storied buildings into high-concept restaurants and bars.

During the weekend, head to La Buena Vida  on Calle Gonzalo Marín for craft beers and creative, made-to-order pasta. Follow that with drinks at W Bar on Avenida de Diego, a hidden whiskey bar with a trendy tropical decor. If you’re still hungry, Ocean View Food Park  offers fusion cuisines, including Mr Don’s famous ramen, and fried chicken at Tori House.  

6. El Yunque

Best for wild swimming

As the only rainforest in the US National Parks system, El Yunque has myriad species of plants and a series of life-giving rivers, many of which are swimmable.

Hiking trails in Puerto Rico can range from difficult to challenging, but if you want to do some wild swimming, take the Angelito Trail – a 20-minute walk down a muddy pathway that leads to the Río Mameyes.

Other wild swimming spots include the Las Paylas River, which has a fun natural slide that drops you into a tranquil fish-filled pool and Las Tinaja. Book a visit to either with a tour guide as access is via unstable terrain and some moderate climbing.

Local tip: Check the weather before heading to a river. If it’s raining, don’t go – flash floods claim many lives each year. A telltale sign of a flash flood is debris, such as mud and sticks, starting to appear in otherwise clear waters.   

7. Cordillera Central

Best for hiking

Full of lush green landscapes, creeping fog and fresh air, the Cordillera Central mountain range offers some prize hiking. It also gets peppered by afternoon rains, so pack a rain jacket.

To explore the most panoramic walk, start in Cayey, right off the Luis A Ferré Expressway. When you reach Guavate, stop to eat at one of the many restaurants serving one of Puerto Rico's most iconic dishes : lechón (whole-hog roast). 

Continue up the mountain on Road #1 to take in the rolling hills and rocky mountain peaks. There are also plenty of chinchorros  (food stalls) along the way to Aibonito, where you can stop for mojitos, tacos and artisanal drinks.

Local tip: Head out early in the morning to give yourself ample time to stop along the route. The town centers of Aibonito, Coamo and Orocovis are picturesque and offer great eats and local history. 

8. El Poblado de Boquerón

Best for partying 

A sleepy seaside town during the week, El Poblado (which means town square) in the Boquerón sector of Cabo Rojo turns into a massive street party at the weekend. Expect live music, karaoke and delicious street food. 

Fill yourself up at Pelican’s Boquerón restaurant, where you can find a variety of local dishes like fried fish and mofongo  (fried plantain mash with garlic and olive oil). Then barhop your way through the square and dance the night away. Keep up your energy with a giant bacalaíto (codfish fritter) from the cart on the square. You won’t be sorry. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated January 2024

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44 BEST Places To Visit in Puerto Rico (Cities, Beaches, & More!)

Explore the top 44 places in Puerto Rico for the ultimate Caribbean vacation. From cities and beaches to hidden gems, find where adventure meets relaxation for every traveler.

For travelers looking for the ultimate Caribbean vacation, it doesn't get much better than Puerto Rico. This small island is where you can find relaxation and adventure. If you're interested in visiting this charismatic island, you may be wondering where the best places to visit in Puerto Rico are.

An underrated town in Puerto Rico is Luquillo. This small town has a lot of character and beautiful beaches. The oldest part of the island is Old San Juan , which has a lot of history. The best family-friendly spot is Aguadilla Pueblo, with fun activities for all ages. For the best nightlife scene, we suggest Isla Verde.

While Puerto Rico may be small, many wonderful places are hidden within this island. If you're planning your first trip to Puerto Rico, you've come to the right page. Today, we're going to discuss the best places to visit while you're here and why you need to check them out.

Vieques is a majestic destination that people around the world have fallen in love with. In this area, there are many places to explore where you can appreciate the natural beauty of Puerto Rico.

Why Should You Visit Vieques?

Vieques is known for its selection of all-natural beaches and water activities. When you explore this city you can find both black sand and white sand beaches. It's also home to a wildlife refuge where visitors can see animals, like wild horses.

• Location: Vieques, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 70° to 88°F/ 21° to 31°C
• Best Month To Visit: April & May
• Best Activities: Snorkeling, Bird watching, Hiking, Horseback riding, Paddle boarding, Swimming

2. San Juan

For a great cultural experience, we recommend visiting San Juan. This is the largest city and the capital of Puerto Rico. Visitors can learn a lot about this Caribbean island in San Juan.

Why Should You Visit San Juan?

San Juan has attractions for every traveler. Nature enthusiasts can explore the trails. There are plenty of beautiful beaches where you can relax in sun. Visitors can also enjoy a lively nightlife scene.

• Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 66° to 89°F/ 19° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: May & June
• Best Activities: Beach lounging, Hiking, Cocktails at bars, Visiting the casino

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico

3. El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest is one of the main tourist hotspots in Puerto Rico. This rainforest park spans 29,000 acres. It is one of the best destinations for people that love exploring nature.

Why Should You Visit El Yunque National Forest?

El Yunque National Forest is a place where you can spot a diverse selection of wildlife. There are 97 species of birds in this forest, including the endangered PuertoRico parrot. It is also home to several species of reptiles, amphibians, and bats.

• Location: El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 61° to 75°F/ 16° to 24°C
• Best Month To Visit: December through April
• Best Activities: Hiking, Bird watching, Visit the observation tower

Rincon is best known for its sunsets. When the sun goes down, the sky lights up with vivid shades of red, orange, and purple. This is an excellent destination for anyone who wants to spend time by the beach.

Why Should You Visit Rincon?

If you want to enjoy a relaxing vacation, Rincon is the place to go. This leisure town encourages people to enjoy a slower pace. You are likely to come across many friendly faces and plenty of fun activities.

• Location: Rincon, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 90°F/ 20 to 32°C
• Best Activities: Snorkeling, Surfing, Dining out

Related Read: Do You Need A Passport To Go To Puerto Rico?

Ponce is a picture-perfect town. Many visitors make time to stop in Ponce during their trip to get a glimpse of the world-famous architecture. This place is also known for its exotic native flowers, including several types of heliconia and sintenisii.

Why Should You Visit Ponce?

Ponce is a great place to learn more about Puerto Rico's history and culture. This town is where you can find the highest number of museums on the island.

• Location: Ponce, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 70° to 90°F/ 21° to 32°C
• Best Activities: Visiting landmarks, Museums, Shopping

Culebra has all the things visitors are looking for in a Caribbean vacation. There is a whole other world to explore in Culebra underneath the water where you can find seagrass beds, coral reefs, and marine life.

Why Should You Visit Culebra?

The scenery makes Culebra a top-choice destination for tourists. Visitors find sanctuary in the all-natural beaches and mangrove forests. Culebra is one of the best spots in Puerto Rico to unwind in nature.

• Location: Culebra, Puerto Rico
• Avereage Temperature: 73° to 90°F/ 23° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: November through March
• Best Activities: Scuba diving, Snorkeling, Boating

7. Aguadilla Pueblo

Aguadilla Pueblo is a fun destination in Puerto Rico for all ages. Visitors never get bored, as they can explore nature, unwind a the beach, or check out local attractions in the town.

Why Should You Visit Aguadilla Pueblo?

Beaches are one of the main reasons people travel to Puerto Rico. Aguadilla Pueblo has stunning beaches with crystal clear water. This area offers some of the best locations for surfing.

• Location: Aguadilla Pueblo, Puerto Rico
• Avereage Temperature: 64° to 90°F/ 18° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: December & April
• Best Activities: Surfing, Museums, Visit the lighthouse ruins

Some of the most charming hotels in Puerto Rico are located in Fajardo. This is a popular tourist destination because there is a lot of activity happening. One of the main attractions in the area is the marinas.

Why Should You Visit Fajardo?

Fajardo is a wonderful spot to stay because it's nearby other islands and cities. You can explore more of the island and natural reserves when you stay here. On top of that, Fajardo is famous for its breathtaking views.

• Location: Fajardo, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 70° to 32°F/ 21° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: September & October
• Best Activities: Boating, Kayaking, Swimming

9. Old San Juan

Old San Juan is the oldest settlement in Puerto Rico. This neighborhood is part of the San Juan district and there is a lot of history within it.

Why Should You Visit Old San Juan?

This is one neighborhood that every visitor needs to explore. The buildings are colorful, the food is divine, and the people are always in a cheerful mood. Events like the Umbrella Sky Project add more color to this area.

• Location: Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 66° to 90°F/ 19° to 32°C
• Best Activities: Walking tours, Food tours, Drink pina coladas

10. Castillo de San Cristobal

Castillo de San Cristobal is a famous historic site in Puerto Rico. This area attracts visitors that want to learn more about the city's history. The site also boasts captivating military architecture.

Why Should You Visit Castillo de San Cristobal?

Some of the best views on the island can be found at Castillo de San Cristobal. This hotspot has a breathtaking view of the Caribbean sea and the city of San Juan. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour to enjoy this site at their own pace.

• Location: Castillo de San Cristobal, San Juna, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 75° to 90°F/ 24° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: January through March
• Best Activities: Self-guided tours

11. Rio Camuy Cave Park

Another way to enjoy Puerto Rico is underground. When you visit Rio Camuy Cave Park, you can explore a large underground cave system with exquisite natural beauty.

Why Should You Visit Rio Camuy Cave Park?

Rio Camuy Cave Park is the 3rd largest cave system in the world. There are over 10 miles of formations to explore in these caves. It's an excellent place for a day tour, but it's only open on Wednesday through Sunday during the day.

• Location: Rio Camuy Cave Park
• Average Temperature: N/A
• Best Month To Visit: December through May
• Best Activities: Cave tours

12. Crash Boat Beach

Crash Boat Beach is one of many gorgeous beaches in Puerto Rico. Visitors have fallen in love with this beach because of the clear turquoise water. Its natural beauty makes it one of the most popular beaches on the west coast.

Why Should You Visit Crash Boat Beach?

Crash Boat Beach is an excellent place for your first time snorkeling or scuba diving. It's a safe beach with a calm current and clear underwater views. When you get hungry, you won't have to go far. There are several waterfront restaurants on this beach.

• Location: Crash Boat Beach, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 88°F/ 20° to 31°C
• Best Month To Visit: May & September
• Best Activities: Swimming, Surfing, Diving, Snorkeling

13. Laguna Grande

Laguna Grande is one of three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. There is a microorganism in the water called dinoflagellates, which creates a blue glowing effect on the water.

Why Should You Visit Laguna Grande?

If you're looking for an activity for when the sun goes down, Laguna Grande is a great spot to visit. The glowing effects of the water are best to see at night, especially on moonless nights.

• Location: Laguna Grande, Fajardo, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 90°F/ 20° to 32°C
• Best Activities: Kayak tours, Adventure tours

14. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Another very popular tourist attraction in Puerto Rico is Castillo San Felipe del Morro. This site has a lot of history. It was originally used to deter sea attacks and has been through 2 wars.

Why Should You Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro?

This tourist attraction was originally built in 1539. Today, people visit to tour through the mazes and cells, while also learning more about the area's history.

• Location: Castillo San Felipe del Morro, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Activities: Tour the fort and exhibits

15. Catedral de San Juan Bautista

The most famous religious building in Puerto Rico is the Catedral de San Juan Bautista. This cathedral dates all the way back to 1521, making it the 2nd oldest religious building in the Western Hemisphere.

Why Should You Visit Catedral de San Juan Bautista?

There are a few attractions within this cathedral that draw in visitors. The stained glass windows are a work of art. Many people also visit to see the mummy of St. Pio and the tomb of Ponce de Leon.

• Location: Catedral de San Juan Bautista, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: December
• Best Activities: Enjoy artwork and historical artifacts

16. Mosquito Bay

Mosquito Bay is the brightest bio-luminescent bay in the world. This place is famous for the flashes of blue light that people see around their boats when they tour the bay at night.

Why Should You Visit Mosquito Bay?

This is one of the most magical places in Puerto Rico at night. Tours can be arranged in the evening to ensure that visitors are safe and get to make the most of their journey on the bay.

• Location: Mosquito Bay, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 72° to 88°F/ 22° to 31°C
• Best Month To Visit: January & February
• Best Activities: Guided tours

17. Cayo Icacos

Cayo Icacos is a very popular small island on the eastern side of Puerto Rico. A lot of travelers enjoy the beach in this area because of the pristine turquoise water. It's an excellent place for diving and water activities.

Why Should You Visit Cayo Icacos?

There are several small islands in Puerto Rico, known as cays. Cayo Icacos is the largest of all of these islands. Visitors have more places to explore when they visit this cay.

• Location: Cayo Icacos
• Best Month To Visit: December through March
• Best Activities: Hiking, Swimming, Snorkeling

18. Isla Verde

Isla Verde is an excellent tourist destination for people of all ages. There are various outdoor attractions to explore. People can enjoy water activities and lounge by the beach. Isla Verde also has a very lively nightlife.

Why Should You Visit Isla Verde?

Travelers love Isla Verde because they can have an enjoyable vacation without going over their budget. This area has plenty of top-rated hotels that are close by restaurants and attractions.

• Location: Isla Verde
• Average Temperature: 72° to 90°F/ 22° to 32°C
• Best Month To Visit: January through May
• Best Activities: Hiking, Shopping, Nightlife

19. Luquillo

Luquillo is a small town that is very popular for its beaches. Travelers love visiting the beaches in this town because the waves are soothing and palm trees create the right mood.

Why Should You Visit Luquillo?

It's not just the beaches that make Luquillo an excellent destination. The landscape in this town is well worth exploring. On top of that, there is easy access to the nearby mountains.

• Location: Luquillo, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: December & January
• Best Activities: Visit parks and beaches

20. Santurce

If you want to visit a modern and urbanized area of Puerto Rico, we suggest visiting Santurce. There is a lot for visitors to experience within this city, like great cuisine and art murals.

Why Should You Visit Santurce?

One of the top reasons to visit Santurce is for the art scene. This city has several murals, exhibits, and museums to explore. Santurce is also known for its trendy nightlife scene.

• Location: Santurce, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Activities: Art galleries, Local restaurants, Nightlife

21. Condado Beach

Condado Beach is one of the best places for tourists to stay. There are several resorts along this beach that allow guests to enjoy a tropical vacation at its finest. This beach stretches for several miles throughout San Juan.

Why Should You Visit Condado Beach?

Condado Beach is in the perfect location for travelers that want to enjoy a balance of relaxation and mingling. Guests can enjoy lounging by the beach during the day. When the sun goes down, they will find plenty of restaurants and bars for entertainment in San Juan.

• Location: Condado Beach, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 73° to 86°F/ 23° to 30°C
• Best Activities: Swimming, Spas, Surfing

22. Pinones

Pinones is famous for two things: the restaurant scene and the mangrove forest. This area has the best authentic cuisine in Puerto Rico. It's also home to the largest mangrove forest on the island.

Why Should You Visit Pinones?

Pinones is rarely mentioned in tourism, but locals believe it's one of the best places on the island. It's considered the soul of Puerto Rico and is known for its community and authentic culture.

• Location: Pinones, Loiza, Puerto Rico
• Best Time To Visit: September through December
• Best Activities: Biking, Exploring, Dining out, Tours

23. La Parguera

La Paraguera is a delightful spot for all things nature. Visitors that love being outdoors won't get bored with the assortment of activities here. You can enjoy everything from bike rides to scuba diving.

Why Should You Visit La Paraguera?

The third bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico is La Paraguera Bay. There are various tour companies in the area that provide boat ride and kayaking tours at night when you can see this bay glowing.

• Location: La Paraguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 91°C/ 20° to 33°C
• Best Activities: Boat tours, Hiking, Scuba diving

24. Seven Seas Beach

If you want to visit Puerto Rico to spend time in the water, Seven Seas Beach is one of the top places to consider. This area is perfect for most water activities because the water is calm and crystal clear.

Why Should You Visit Seven Seas Beach?

This public beach has facilities to enjoy spending the entire day there. Guests will have access to a barbecue area, restrooms, and more. There is also an option to reserve an area to camp overnight.

• Location: Seven Seas Beach, Fajardo, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: August, October, & December
• Best Activities: Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming, Paddle boarding

25. Isla Desecheo

Isla Desecheo is one of the most talked about places in Puerto Rico for diving. Many professional divers have given this area a 5-star rating for diving activity.

Why Should You Visit Isla Desecheo?

This tiny island offers a unique diving experience. However, it's only recommended that experienced divers who are confident with their skills attempt this area. It's popular because of its unusual path of underwater tunnels.

• Location: Isla Desecheo

26. Museum Of Art Puerto Rico

Art is a big part of Puerto Rico's culture. Visitors can see works of art all over this island, from murals to colorful buildings. Museum of Art Puerto Rico is one location where you can enjoy work from some of the island's most talented artists.

Why Should You Visit Museum Of Art Puerto Rico?

Guests can enjoy more of Puerto Rico's culture at this museums. The colorful works of art leave people feeling inspired. Visitors can also arrange a guided tour to make the most of their visit.

• Location: 299 Avenida de Diego Santurce, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: November through January
• Best Activities: Guided tours, Enjoy art

27. The Pork Highway

Meat lovers are going to want to travel to the Pork Highway while they're in Puerto Rico. Pork is a staple of Latin American cuisine and the locals know how to cook it to perfection.

Why Should You Visit The Pork Highway?

If you want to try some mouth-watering food on the island, you should take the journey to the pork highway. On this stretch of road, you will find over a dozen restaurants that specialize in slow-roasted pork.

• Location: The Pork Highway, Cidra, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 61° to 84°F/ 16° to 29°C
• Best Month To Visit: June & July
• Best Activities: Eat delicious pork-based dishes

Manati is home to some of the best nature reserves in Puerto Rico. It's a gorgeous area that's known for its limestone hills, lush greenery, and white stone beaches.  A lot of visitors have fallen in love with this destination, naming it the best town in Puerto Rico.

Why Should You Visit Manati?

This town is blossoming with beautiful places to explore. Visitors can find springs, rainforest waterfalls, and an array of beaches. Manati also has a historic downtown where you can see architecture and monuments that date back to the 19th century.

• Location: Manati, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 66° to 88°F/ 19° to 31°C
• Best Activities: Tours, Beach days, Hiking

29. Carolina Public Beach

Carolina Public Beach is one of many beautiful beaches that people enjoy visiting while they're in Puerto Rico. Visitors enjoy dipping their toes in the white sand at this beach. It's also popular for swimming because the water is crystal clear.

Why Should You visit Carolina Public Beach?

Carolina Public Beach is a family-friendly destination in Puerto Rico. There are fun activities for all ages. Some of the most popular attractions are the volleyball court and the kids' water park. This beach also has many waterfront restaurants to grab a bite to eat.

• Location: Carolina Public Beach, Carolina, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: May
• Best Activities: Water park, Swimming, Dining out, Volleyball, Water sports

30. Faro Los Morrillos

Faro Los Morrillos is the home of the famous Cabo Rojo Lighthouse . This attraction is a short but challenging hike that offers stunning views to people that attempt it. Once visitors have reached the top of this limestone mountain, they will have a breathtaking view of the Caribbean sea.

Why Should You Visit Faro Los Morrillos?

If you're looking for adventure with picture-perfect views, you will enjoy Faro Los Morrillos. One of the reasons this place is popular with tourists is that every single angle of this cliff provides an amazing view of the town and the sea below.

• Location: Faro Los Morrillos, Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 91°F/ 20° to 33°C
• Best Month To Visit: January through April
• Best Activities: Hiking, Photography, Explore the lighthouse

31. La Poza del Escambron Beach

If you're visiting San Juan and want to enjoy some water activity, La Poza del Escambron Beach is the best spot to go. It has been named the #1 beach for diving and snorkeling in the city. This allows guests to have a fun snorkeling experience without having to travel across the island.

Why Should You Visit La Poza del Escambron Beach?

La Poza del Escambron Beach is a family-friendly beach that has received nearly perfect reviews. People love to spend the day relaxing here because the weather is nice, the sand is kept clean, and the water is calm.

• Location: La Poza del Escambron Beach, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Activities: Snorkeling, Diving, Swimming, Paddle boarding, Relax in the sun

32. Fortin San Juan de la Cruz

Fortin San Juan de la Cruz can be found on Isla de Cabras. This historic landmark dates all the way back to 1610 and it's approximately 80 square feet. It's one of the most famous landmarks in San Juan, but it can be challenging to find.

Why Should You Visit Fortin San Juan de la Cruz?

Fortin San Juan de la Cruz is an interesting landmark for guests that want to learn more about the island's history of war. Another reason why this is one of the best places to visit is that it offers amazing views of San Juan Bay and Boca Vieja Cove.

• Location: Fortin San Juan de la Cruz
• Best Month To Visit: May through August
• Best Activities: Hiking, Photography, Enjoy the view

33. Isla de Cabras

Isla de Cabras is a popular tourist destination for people of all ages. Part of the reason this area is so captivating to travelers is that there are stunning views of the water and a wide variety of recreational activities, like kayaking and fishing.

Why Should You Visit Isla de Cabras?

May people choose Isla de Cabras for a family-friendly vacation. Adults find the scenery relaxing while children find the activities exciting. Smaller kids can have fun on the island's playground, while older kids enjoy water sports and nature walks.

• Location: Isla de Cabras
• Best Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, Biking, Nature walks, Kayaking

34. Mar Chiquita

Manati is home to many glorious beaches, and the most stunning of all is Mar Chiquita. This famous beach is known for its oval shape and love for its crystal clear turquoise water. The water is also surrounded by soft golden sand.

Why Should You Visit Mar Chiquita?

This popular beach is where you can go to enjoy soaking up the sun. If you're in the mood to pull up a beach chair and spend the day relaxing, this beach won't disappoint. When you feel like going for an adventure, you can hike along the unbeaten paths.

• Location: Mar Chiquita, Manati, Puerto Rico
• Best Activities: Swimming, Sunbathing, Exploring

35. La Placita de Santurce

If you're visiting the Santurce area, you need to stop by La Placita district. This is the historic area of Santurce. It was originally founded as a market over 100 years ago. Today, it's one of the most bustling areas in Puerto Rico.

Why Should You Visit La Placita de Santurce?

This is an excellent place for adults to visit. You can have fun in the town all night long. La Placita is home to many great restaurants, bars, and pubs. You will be able to find places with great music, dancing, and friendly people.

• Location: La Placita de Santurce
• Best Activities: Stroll Downtown, Shopping, Dining out, Nightlife

36. Balneario Punta Salinas

If you're looking for a safe beach to bring your family, Balneario Punta Salinas is a great choice. There is a lifeguard on-site at this beach. Balneario Punta Salinas is managed by the Toa Baja Municipality, so there is a $5 fee to get in.

Why Should You Visit Balneario Punta Salinas?

The water is clear and calm at Balneario Punta Salinas. One of the highlights is that you may be able to see endangered sea turtles in the water. These animals are protected and visitors must leave them alone.

• Location: Balneario Punta Salinas
• Best Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, Picnics, Kayaking

37. Casa Bacardi

Bacardi is one of the most famous brands of rum worldwide, especially white rum. This brand originates from Puerto Rico. If you want to learn more about the history of this world-famous rum brand, you should visit Casa Bacardi in San Juan.

Why Should You Visit Casa Bacardi?

If you're in San Juan, you can arrange a tour at the Casa Bacardi. Visitors get to start the tour off with a welcome cocktail. They host rum tasting tours, legacy tours, and mixology classes. There's also a gift shop on site where you can snag some Bacardi merchandise. You can also enjoy rum pairing and chocolate pairing.

• Location: Casa Bacardi, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Best Month To Visit: March through May
• Best Activities: Learn drink combinations, Rum tasting

38. Isla Culebrita

Islas Culebrita is best known for its calm beaches. If you want to spend your day lounging by the beach, this place won't do you wrong. Once visitors put their feet in the sand and take in the views, they instantly feel more relaxed.

Why Should You Visit Isla Culebrita?

Sometimes you crave a vacation that is 100% about relaxation. That is what you will get on this small island. It's very quiet here, especially at night. This is why Isla Culebrita is one of the best places to go when you want to escape the busy city life.

• Location: Isla Culebrita, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 73° to 90°F/ 23° to 32°C
• Best Activities: Relax in the sun, Swimming, Kayaking, Hiking

39. Dorado Reef Public Beach

One of the most intriguing beaches in Puerto Rico is Dorado Reef Public Beach . While this beach is public, it's in a location that makes it feel private. You can enjoy all the fun activities of a public beach without the crowds.

Why Should You Visit Dorado Reef Public Beach?

There are boulders in this water approximately 150 feet away from the shore. These help to keep the current calm, leaving excellent snorkeling and diving conditions for guests. The water is clear, allowing snorkelers to see more of what's underneath.

• Location: Dorado Reef Public Beach, Dorado, Puerto Rico
• Best Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, Surfing, Paddle boarding

40. Cueva del Indio

One of the main attractions in Puerto Rico is Cueva del Indio. This famous cave is surrounded by cliffs that face the Atlantic ocean. Some of the unique features are the carvings that were made by Tairo natives.

Why Should You Visit Cueva del Indio?

This prehistoric rock site is fascinating to explore. Guests are able to go on a 90-minute walking tour to get the full experience. While this tour is a lot of fun for adults, it can be too strenuous for children or anyone who is recovering from any injury.

• Location: Cueva del Indio, Arecibo, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 63° to 90°F/ 17° to 32°C

41. Monte Choca State Park

Monte Choca State Park is a popular location because large bamboo trees grow here. Visitors come here for a leisurely hike where they can take their time and enjoy the scenery.

Why Should You Visit Monte Choca State Park?

There are just over 244 acres of tropical forest to explore here. Visitors can stay at the campground on site if they want to spend a few days and enjoy all of the park's activities.

• Location: Monte Choca State Park, Corozal, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 66° to 93°F/ 19° to 34°C
• Best Month To Visit: February & March
• Best Activities: Camping, Hiking, Fishing

42. San German

San German is a popular area for travelers that enjoy learning about the area's history. There are over 250 historic buildings in this city. It's a great destination for anyone who's interested in learning more about old-world architecture.

Why Should You Visit San German?

The 2nd oldest city in Puerto Rico has a lot to offer visitors. You can enjoy historic attractions, a day at the waterpark, or even a scenic drive. Many visitors enjoy a stroll through the town looking at the architecture.

• Location: San German, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 61° to 91°F/ 16° to 33°C
• Best Month To Visit: February
• Best Activities: Museums, Waterpark, Hiking, Shopping

43. Playa Ballena

Playa Ballena is one of the most underrated places to visit in Puerto Rico. This long beach is located within Guanica's Dry Forest. Since it's somewhat hidden, it's not as busy as other beaches on the island.

Why Should You Visit Playa Ballena?

Playa Ballena is a very romantic setting. It's surrounded by lush forests and exotic flora. You can also enjoy a mesmerizing sunset in the evening.

• Location: Playa Ballena, Yauco, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 68° to 91°F/ 20° to 31°C
• Best Activities: Swimming, Picnics, Watch the sunset

44. Cueva del Viento

One of the most talk-about caves in Puerto Rico is Cueva del Viento. Travelers enjoy this location because the cave tour is similar to a maze.

Why Should You Visit Cueva del Viento?

There are several caves throughout the island. However, Cueva del Viento has gained a lot of attention because you get a more in-depth cave experience. During this tour, visitors can see the fascinating features of the cave formations up close.

• Location: Cueva del Viento, Isabela, Puerto Rico
• Average Temperature: 55° to 93°F/ 13° to 34°C
• Best Month To Visit: November & December
• Best Activities: Cave touring

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37 Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico – Tourist Attractions and Places To Visit

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

The oldest colony in the world, Puerto Rico is full of charm and history in addition to sugary sand beaches and turquoise waters framed by the lush hills. If you want to enjoy some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico but don’t know where to begin your journey, take a look at my guide that will help you plan your itinerary.

Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States, but it has a Caribbean flair and a distinct identity. English and Spanish are the two official languages of Puerto Rico, although the majority of the population speak Spanish.

Brief Puerto Rico History

Before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1493, Puerto Rico was inhabited by the indigenous Taino People.

Columbus initially named the island San Juan Bautista, but it was soon renamed Puerto Rico (Rich Port) after large deposits of gold were discovered in its rivers. Under Spanish rule, the island became a strategic military outpost and was repeatedly attacked by the Dutch and English.

Following a series of uprisings in the late 1800s, when residents demanded freedom from Spain, Puerto Rico become autonomous. In 1898, Puerto Rico became an official U.S. territory as a result of the Spanish-American war.

Best things to do in Puerto Rico: an overview

Whether you want to explore popular corners of Puerto Rico or explore hidden gems that only locals know, the island will not disappoint you. Many travelers spend only a few days in San Juan and nearby areas, however, Puerto Rico is so much more than that!

From the lush rainforest with waterfalls and hiking trails to beautiful white-sand Caribbean beaches and rich colonial history, this island is full of diverse landscapes and opportunities for adventure that demand time and effort.

1. Explore Old San Juan on foot

Where to stay in San Juan:  Sheraton Old San Juan

Puerto Rico has a strong cultural identity with rich history and traditions, and there’s no better place to experience it than Old San Juan – one of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico.

👉 Click here to book a walking tour of Old San Juan with a local guide

The heart of the island, Old San Juan is home to El Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo de San Cristobal as well as many historic buildings. El Castillo San Felipe Del Morro in particular offers an incredible lesson in the island’s history.

The entrance costs $20, but if you have America The Beautiful Pass, you can enter for free.

Many tourists stay for a day in Old San Juan, but If you have extra time, consider spending more time there. A good way to learn the history of this place is to take a walking tour of San Juan or one of rum tasting tours .

I recommend the sailing tour of San Juan where you can enjoy the grand views of this beautiful city from the water while learning about its history.

Most popular tours of San Juan, Puerto Rico

2. tour castillo san felipe del morro .

Castillo San Felipe Del Morro (or El Morro) is a historic fortress dominates San Juan’s landscape, but there’s a long history behind this place. 

Built in the 16th century to defend Puerto Rico against the pirates roaming the waters of the Caribbean, Castillo San Felipe Del Morro has seen many battles and to this day this huge fortification has many cannons and other forms of artillery that were used against unwelcome guests. 

Spare a couple of hours for your tour of Castillo San Felipe Del Morro. This is a big museum under an open sky, and there’s so much to learn here! The exhibit takes you through different parts of the fortress where you can see what life looked like here back in the day.

👉 Click here to rent a car in San Juan for your road trip around Puerto Rico

A city helicopter tour is an excellent way to get a bird-eye view of the Morro and the entire San Juan. 

Address: 501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico 

3. Take a sunset cruise from San Juan

Enjoying the Island of Enchantment from a boat during the sunset is a perfect chance to see the incredible skyline of this city light up in warm colors! 🤩 There are many local companies in San Juan that sell these tours but your best is to book them online.

4. Learn the culinary culture of Puerto Rico

If you are a foodie, you will love San Juan’s signature food tours!

Sampling local food is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture an history of this Caribbean island and you can do it during a guided food tour that includes stops at family-run establishments. Your guide will introduce you to the culinary culture of San Juan and show you hidden gems that you might not find on your own.

5. Learn how to make Caribbean rum

In the Caribbean rum is more than just a drink, it’s part of the culture.

While you can try this signature drink, learning how to make rum is a whole different experience! This mixology class takes place at the famous Ron del Barrilito distillery where you’ll have your own bartending station as you learn to make three classic drinks from some of the top masters of the area.

6. Go ATV riding

One of the most fun adventures from San Juan is the ATV tour of the El Yunque National Forest .

The off-road ATV experience is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. You and your group will spend 1-2 hours riding through the rainforest and enjoying its spectacular scenery. One of the best things about this tour is that it’s limited to a small group which means you get more attention from your guide.

Best ATV tours from San Juan

7. soar above the jungle on a zipline.

Riding ATV is an excellent way to whet your appetite for adventure, but soaring above the jungle on a zipline will give some adrenaline rush!

JungleQui Zipline Park at El Yunque National Forest is one of the most popular places for zip-lining in Puerto Rico.

Joining this tour will allow you to skip waiting in line on the day with your pre-booked admission ticket, which covers 11 different ziplines and one rappelling route, for ultimate thrills and panoramic views of Puerto Rico’s lush jungles.

Best zip-lining tours in Puerto Rico

8. learn history of puerto rico at museo de las americas .

Located in the old Army Barracks, Museo De Las Americas is one of the best museums in Puerto Rico where you can learn the history of the island.

Here you can find interactive exhibits and art galleries telling you the Pre-Hispanic history of Puerto Rico and the region when the island was inhabited by the indigenous Taino people. 

Address: Calle Beneficencia, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico 

9. Sip on some Pina Colada 

You. Can’t. Leave. Puerto Rico without trying Pina Colada – the signature drink of this Caribbean island. You can find Pina Coladas everywhere in Puerto Rico – on city streets, bars and restaurants, so take a moment and sip on this delicious drink made from rich pineapple juice, coconut cream, and rum. 

10. Make a stop in Ponce 

Ponce is the second-largest city in Puerto Rico that is often missed by tourists. And yet, Ponce is worth a stop, as it’s home to some of the best under-radar things to do in Puerto Rico with colorful colonial architecture, parks, restaurants, and historic monuments. 

Here are top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico located in Ponce:

• Castillo Cerralles
• Parque de Bombas
• Hacienda Buena Vista
• La Guancha Paseo Tablado

Throughout the year, Ponce hosts festivals, cultural events showcasing the vibrant culture of the Caribbean. One of the best festivals in Puerto Rico, Ponce Carnival is held in Ponce every year before Easter and brings many people, good music, and food to the streets of the city. 

11. Visit Ponce Historic Museum 

The museum is located in the historic Casa Salazar-Candal District of Ponce and provides a closer look into the history of the island and showcases its art and culture. 

Address: Museo de la Historia de Ponce 53 Calle Reina Isabel, Ponce , Puerto Rico

12. Explore cave system at Camuy River Cave Park 

One of the biggest cave systems in the world, Rio Camuy Cave Park has over 200 caverns with impressive stalactites and stalagmites that you can explore all day long.

The huge subterranean network of caves stretches far below the surface of the island, and you can visit it on a guided tour that will take you through the different parts of this impressive underground system.

Address: Carr. 129 K. 18.9, Quebrada, 00669, Puerto Rico

13. Take a trip to Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center 

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center is a testament to Puerto Rico’s indigenous tribes who had their own distinct identity and culture.

The island has changed since it was discovered by the Spanish conquistadors and the indigenous Taino people ceased to exist due to diseases that were brought to the island by Spaniards. 

The Caguana Indigenous Center is home to some of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico. The most famous of them are the so-called Taino Stonehenge, part of the indigenous ceremonial site built in a circle that contains petroglyphs and serves as a testament to the island’s history. 

The best way to visit this place is with a tour.

Address: Carr. 111 Km. 12.4 Utuado, 00641, Puerto Rico.

14. Spend a day in Cabo Rojo

Where to stay in Cabo Rojo: Blue House Joyuda

Located at the southwestern tip of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is the small coastal region popular among locals for weekend getaways.

Among the top highlights of the area is the historic Los Morellos Lighthouse on top of the Limestone cliffs. Built by Spaniards in 1877, this lighthouse is still functional and it helps the ships to find their way through the Mona Passage that connects the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

To get here, drive on an unpaved road, park your car by the side and walk uphill for a couple of minutes.

15. Sunbathe on Playa Sucia

To the left side of the lighthouse, you will find a crescent-shaped Playa Sucia (Or La Playella) – one of the most beautiful places in Puerto Rico.

More popular with locals than tourists, it means “Dirty Beach” in Spanish. But don’t worry, this place is nothing like its name, and is considered as one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. The name most likely comes from the fact that you can find some seaweed here depending on the season.

PRO TIP: Playa Sucia doesn’t offer any facilities, unlike more touristy beaches in the area. Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, as the sun here can be pretty strong.

👉 Click here to book a guided tour of Puerto Rico’s west side

16. snap some photos of salt flats.

One of the most popular places to visit in Puerto Rico for photography is the salt flats (or Salinas De Cabo Rojo) that boast many shades of orange and pink.

The salt flats are part of the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge where you can do bird watching and hike trails. The area has an interpretive center where you can learn about salt production watch the process of salt mining from an observation tower.

17. Tour Puerto Rican Coffee Farms

Everybody knows Puerto Rico as a rum destination, and you can sample this famous drink around San Juan, and even take organized rum tours.

But not everybody knows that Puerto Rico also produces world-class coffee!

Although the island currently faces a labor shortage in the coffee industry, it doesn’t take away from the fact that Puerto Rican coffee is worth trying! Visit one of the local haciendas where coffee is produced, and you can do it with an organized tour. 

18. Stop in foodie capital Mayaguez 

Where to stay: Holiday Inn

The foodie capital of Puerto Rico and a center of tourism on the island’s west coast, Mayaguez is famous for its delicious sweet bread that you can try in many local bakeries like Massa Artisan Bakery and Panaderia La Candelaria. 

If you are a foodie, visiting Mayaguez restaurants is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico, but that’s not everything that there is to this place: this town also boasts cool museums and art galleries and is a great starting point for those travelers who want to explore some of the best national parks in Puerto Rico.

19. Catch the wave in Rincon

Where to stay in Rincon: Rincon of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel

A laid-back surf town on the west side of Puerto Rico, Rincon is home to some of the best surfing beaches in Puerto Rico, and a sizable expat community.

Nicknamed “the surfing capital of the Caribbean,” Rincon a great place to relax, and enjoy delicious food at one of many food trucks that this area has to offer.

Some of the most popular beaches for surfing in Rincon are Domes Beach and Maria’s Beach. You can also visit a more quiet Balnearos beach where you can swim and snorkel.

In winter, Rincon beaches facing the Mona passage are great for spotting humpback whales who come migrate to the region to escape the freezing waters of the North Atlantic Ocean.

20. Soar above the trees at Rainforest Zipline Park 

Rainforest Zipline Park provides an incredible opportunity to explore Puerto Rico’s lush rainforest in a fun way. Soar above the spectacular scenery in one zip-line stretching as far as 2,300 feet. 

If you don’t have a car, the best way to visit it is by taking a organized tour.

Address: Road 191, Kilometer 1.1, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, 00745

21. Dive to see Spanish shipwrecks 

Puerto Rico is known for its spectacular coastline that attracts water sports enthusiasts from all over the world.

You can explore many shipwrecks dating back centuries that can be found off the coast of Culebra and Rincon. You can book a tour with one of the local companies to explore these historic treasures. 

22. Swim in Cascada Gozalandia

Puerto Rico might be famous for its beaches, but the heart of the island also has plenty to offer with tropical forests and incredible waterfalls.

One of my favorite waterfalls in Puerto Rico is Cascada Gozalandia, an off-the-beaten-track waterfall located on the west side of the island near the small town of San Sebastian. To access the waterfall, you need to take a paved 0.6-mile trail.

PRO TIP: Cascada Gozalandia is about 40 minutes from Rincon and is a perfect stop if you traveling north toward Isabella or Arecibo.

👉 Another option is to take a tour that combines a stop at waterfalls with Cueva Ventana.

Address: Sec Lechuza, San Sebastián 00685, Puerto Rico

23. Make a stop in Arecibo

Where to stay in Arecibo: Marenas Beach House

Arecibo is a small coastal town located on the northern shore of Puerto Rico.

Home to the Arecibo Observatory where iconic radio telescope collapsed in late 2020, Arecibo also boasts many other landmarks including Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park, Cambalache State Forest, and Lago Dos Bocas, a spectacular lake where you can take a boat ride.

24. Hike around the cliffs to see Cueva Del Indio

Cueva Del Indio is an impressive collection of rock bridges, arches, and cliffs that have been formed by the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. To enter the area, you have to pay a fee at the entrance after parking your car. Bring your camera, as this area offers some great opportunities for photography.

25. Discover biodiversity at Humacao Nature Reserve 

A top destination for eco-tourism on the island, Humacao Nature Reserve is home to the incredible biodiversity of this island. One of the best free things to do in Puerto Rico, the reserve is home to many iguanas and coqui frogs, among other species. 

The reserve is home to many unique ecosystems that can’t be found anywhere else on the island such as mangroves, swamps, and lagoons. It’s a perfect place to visit if you want to get off the beaten track.

  Address: Park Entrance Road, Punta Santiago, Humacao, Puerto Rico, 00791, Puerto Rico 

26. Take a guided tour of La Cueva Ventana

A deep cave that is shaped like a window, La Cueva Ventana is one of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico that overlooks a sprawling valley below.

Also inside the cave, you can find some petroglyphs (or rock carvings) that were left by Tainos who lived on the island before the arrival of Christopher Columbus.

The best way to explore La Cueva Ventana is by taking a guided tour where you can learn the history of the area and its place in Puerto Rico’s culture.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget to wear proper hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the hike to the cave is pretty strenuous.

27. Go on a hike in El Yunque National Forest

No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a visit to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, and one of the most beautiful places in Puerto Rico.

Located an hour away from San Juan, El Yunque National Forest boasts over 28,000 acres of lush rainforest.

Visiting El Yunque is great if you need some exercise after lazying on the beach. Here, you can marvel at stunning waterfalls, hike scenic trails through the rainforest and take a refreshing dip in natural pools. This place gets about 120 inches of rain per year, which means there’s a good chance you might see some rain.

Best tours of El Yunque National Forest

When I hiked El Yunque, the rain here was very sporadic, but a good pair of hiking shoes came in handy, as trails were muddy. Open hours are from 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. every day except for Christmas. Don’t forget to make your reservation online ahead of your visit at:

Right outside the park, you can also find a zipline, which is a lot of fun, if you want to take a thrill ride through the lush rainforest.

28. Explore Fajardo – a hidden gem of Puerto Rico

Fajardo is a small town on the eastern coast of the island.

Many travelers skip Fajardo, and yet, this town was the original beach destination of the island and to this day, it has tons of activities. One of the best things about staying in Fajardo is that from here, you can easily get on a boat trip to nearby islands such as Culebra and Vieques. 

29. Relax on Seven Seas Beach 

Situated on the northeastern side of the island, Sean Seas Beach (or Playa Seven Seas) is one of Puerto Rico’s best-kept secrets.

Easily accessible from Fajardo, Seven Seas Beach is one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico, and the best part is that it has very few visitors.

This half-moon-shaped beach boasts soft white sand and crystal clear waters. Nearby, you can find casual eateries and small restaurants with typical Puerto Rican food.

Parking is available near the beach. 

30. Take a trip to Isla Culebra

Where to stay on Isla Culebra: Aleli Cottages  

Part of Puerto Rico, Isla Culebra is a small tropical island with more than 10 beaches where you can swim, snorkel, and surf. Its pristine nature and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect getaway if you are tired of being on the road after exploring Puerto Rico for days in a row.

👉 Click here to book a day tour of Isla Culebra from San Juan

My favorite beach on Culebra was Flamenco beach. Its gorgeous crystal-clear waters and white sand have earned its title of one of the prettiest in the Caribbean and one of the best beaches in the world. In the evening, grab some food in downtown Isla Culebra and walk around its quiet streets.

My top pick is Culebra Coffee, a local eatery that offers delicious salads, sandwiches, and smoothies that can also be made vegan and vegetarian on request.

Best tours of Culebra Island from Puerto Rico

Since Isla Culebra is part of Puerto Rico, you can take a quick flight from San Juan, so you can spend a night on the island.

You can also book a boat snorkeling tour from the island of Puerto Rico that will bring you to Culebra. Since Isla Culebra is small, you can explore the island by renting a cart at the airport.

FUN FACT : Isla Culebra sits halfway between Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and if you make it to Tortola’s Beach on the northeastern side of Isla Culebra, you can even see St. Thomas, the main town of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the distance!

31. Enjoy Playa Flamenco 

Often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Flamenco is an unmissable stop on your Puerto Rico itinerary. Many travelers fly to Isla Culebra just to see this incredible crescent-shaped beach, and once you get here, it’s easy to see what makes it so popular. 

👉 Click here to book a fun trip to Playa Flamenco from San Juan

The beach boasts perfect white sand and crystal clear waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It’s also a perfect place to chill, relax and spend a lazy afternoon taking in the incredible scenery of this place. To get here, you can rent a golf cart in one of the many shops around Culebra Island. 

32. Take a boat ride to Isla Culebrita 

Right near Isla Culebra, you will find its small cousin, Isla Culebrita which can be accessed by a quick boat ride from Culebra. 

33. … Or Vieques Island

Where to stay on Vieques Island: Hacienda Tamarindo

To the south of Culebra sits Vieques Island, another popular getaway for Puerto Rico travelers. Similar to Culebra, Vieques offers a low-key atmosphere with untouched landscapes. And just like Culebra, it also has a small airport with daily flights to San Juan.

Vieques is home to Bioluminescent Bay (also known as Mosquito Bay), one of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico which can be accessed via a boat tour.

Most of the island is designated as a National Wildlife Refuge and there are many bays and beaches where you can relax, swim and snorkel.

Popular stops on Vieques include Sun Bay Beach, the Ceiba Tree, and the small town of Esperanza where you can grab a bite and find accommodations.

PRO TIP: Whether you want to visit Isla Culebra or Vieques, spend more than just a day on your trip. While taking day-long snorkeling or sailing trip from the main island of Puerto Rico is a good option, if you don’t have a lot of time, both of these islands have a lot to offer. Culebra can be explored in about a day, but Vieques demands 2-3 days.

34. Kayak in Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay (Vieques)

Home to unique bioluminescent organisms that glow in the dark, Mosquito Bay is one of the most mysterious – and beautiful places to visit in Puerto Rico on the eastern side of Vieques Island.

The moniker of this area comes from the pirate El Mosquito who was using this place as a hideout and contrary to what you might think, it has nothing to do with mosquitos.

The best time to visit Mosquito Bay is at the night when the waves light up in blue glitter – one of the most incredible natural sights in the Caribbean. You can arrange tours of Mosquito Bay with one of the local operators as swimming is not allowed here, and you can only get close to this stunning natural sight by kayak. 

35. See magnificent horses on Vieques 

Vieques is home to wonderful beaches where you can find thousands of free-roaming horses. You can easily spot them while walking around and say hello from the distance – these gorgeous animals are wild and free and enjoy the freedom on this island. 

Be respectful and keep your distance.

36. Grab some street food in Santurce 

Walking through Santurce is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico for art lovers.

A colorful neighborhood of Puerto Rico, Santurce boasts a great up-and-coming art scene with many artsy cafes and cool food trucks where you can sample local delicacies. Miramar Food Truck which is open daily from 12 p.m. until 11 p.m. is particularly popular among locals and visitors, as well as Peru Food Truck and Que Toston. 

37. Say hello to monkeys on Cayo Santiago 

Also known as the monkey island, Cayo Santiago has the largest settlement of monkeys in Puerto Rico that have been imported here years back. Although you can’t visit the island, you can wave to the monkey colonies from the boat if you take a snorkeling tour of the area. 

FAQ’s

What should I not miss in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is full of charm, history and gorgeous scenery. You need time and effort to discover the island, simply because there’s so much to do here. If you have limited time in Puerto Rico, spend your time in San Juan and take day trips to popular destinations like El Yunque National Forest or take a full-day tour to Isla Culebra to see some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

Renting a car for your trip to Puerto Rico

The best way to explore Puerto Rico is by renting a car. Public transportation is not always reliable, and having car rental is the best way to get around the island and enjoy some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico at your own pace.

I recommend and use DiscoverCars that offers great inventory of cars and competitive prices.

Where to begin your Puerto Rico trip?

Start your trip in San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, and drive around the island clockwise. From San Juan, go through Ponce, the second largest town in Puerto Rico, and continue toward Cabo Rojo. From there, head north to Rincon and Isabella and make your way east to Arecibo before arriving in San Juan.

Weather permitting, spare the east side of Puerto Rico for later, and explore El Yunque National Forest and the islands of Vieques and Culebra, if you have extra time.

What are the best tourist attractions in Puerto Rico?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions attractions in Puerto Rico are Old San Juan, El Morro and El Yunque National Forest. Many popular tourist attractions in Puerto Rico can be visited with a guided tour or a quick day trip from San Juan.

What are 3 things Puerto Rico is known for?

Puerto Rico is known for its rum, gorgeous beaches and bioluminescent bays.

What is the most visited part of Puerto Rico?

San Juan, Santurce, Cabo Rojo, Rincon and El Yunque National Forest are some of the most popular parts of Puerto Rico. Islands of Vieques and Culebra also attract a fair number of travelers. If you are staying in San Juan, make sure to get out and explore the beautiful countryside of Puerto Rico where you can spend some time in the nature.

What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico?

If you are looking for nice sunny weather, the best time to visit Puerto Rico is from December through April. This is the high season in Puerto Rico and most of the Caribbean, which is perfect for spending time outside and exploring the island.

May through October is the hurricane season in the region, with frequent rainstorms, however, prices also tend to be lower on accommodations, tours, and car rentals in Puerto Rico during this time.

What is the best month to go to Puerto Rico?

The best months to visit Puerto Rico are April, May and June. That’s when the high season is over and the rainy season hasn’t started yet. March is also a good time to visit Puerto Rico, as the weather is pleasant and it’s not quite as busy as during winter.

How many days in Puerto Rico are enough?

I recommend at least a week in Puerto Rico to have enough for some of the main tourist attractions and also have enough time to explore the island’s hidden gems. 10-14 days in Puerto Rico is a better amount of time that will allow you to enjoy some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico and explore the neighboring islands of Vieques and Culebra.

Do I need a passport to go to Puerto Rico?

Whether you need a passport for your trip to Puerto Rico depending on your nationality. Americans don’t need a passport to go to Puerto Rico, but many other nationalities do. Check Puerto Rico’s requirements for your country before booking your trip.

What to bring in Puerto Rico

• Go PRO – Puerto Rico is an action-packed destination, and if you want to capture your adventures, I recommend bringing a GoPro with you.
• Insurance – Don’t get on a road without having good insurance. I recommend World Nomads Travel Insurance for all trips because of its comprehensive policy that covers accidents, hospital visits, canceled flights, and theft.
• Reef Safe Sunscreen – If you plan on getting doing snorkeling in Puerto Rico, you should grab a reef-safe sunscreen before you leave on your trip. Regular sunscreen can be extremely harmful to coral reefs and marine ecosystems, and you should use reef-safe sunscreen if you plan on doing water adventures.
• Cash – Credit cards are widely accepted in Puerto Rico, but if you want to grab fresh fruit at a local market or buy a snack at a roadside food stand, be ready to pay in cash. The good part is that Puerto Rico uses U.S. dollars, so you will not need to exchange your money unless you are coming from overseas.

Best things to do in Puerto Rico: final word

Puerto Rico boasts incredible geographic diversity, colorful history, and warm, friendly locals. It is also home to untouched rain forests, pristine coastlines, and plenty of sunshine.

There’s a good reason why Puerto Rico has become one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean, particularly among travelers from the United States. As an American, you don’t need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, and there are plenty of daily flights from the United States to Puerto Rico.

42 Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico – Top Attractions & Places To Visit

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 15, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, you should know that the list is huge.

There’s a reason why Puerto Rico is considered one of the best vacation spots in the Caribbean.

Not only does it offer tons of attractions, but it also boasts a dual nature that has been fascinating visitors for centuries.

On one hand, Puerto Rico is a mecca for vacationers and honeymooners. There’s sun, surf, rum and adventure around every corner.

You can swim in beautiful beaches and zipline through exotic rainforests; you can jump from towering cliffs and descend into creepy underground caves.

There’s no limit to cool experiences to have on the island.

On the other hand, there’s a deeper side to Puerto Rico.

It has some of the oldest, most carefully-preserved architecture in the world, and it’s filled with landmarks of great cultural and historical value.

You can learn a lot about pre-Columbian civilization with a trip to its museums, galleries, churches, cathedrals and military fortresses.

Which Puerto Rico do you want to see? What kind of trip do you want to have in the Caribbean?

If you’re wondering what to do in Puerto Rico, here are just a few ideas!

Table of Contents

1. Flamenco Beach

Chad Zuber / Shutterstock

If you’re traveling to Puerto Rico, you want to go to the beach. That’s a fact.

No one flies to Puerto Rico to see its air-conditioned government buildings. You want fun in the sun.

The good news is that Flamenco Beach will live up to your daydreams and then some.

Not only does it offer white sand and blue water that shimmies on the horizon, but it also boasts bathrooms, lifeguards, food kiosks, volleyball nets and tourist stations where you can rent equipment for things like snorkeling and scuba diving.

It’s a tropical paradise that will give you just about every vacation experience that you could want in Puerto Rico.

Are you keen to test yourself against the waves? Hit the horseshoe bend for great surfing opportunities.

Are you traveling with family? Let the kids build sandcastles while mom and dad sip piña coladas under the shade of a lounge chair.

Flamenco Beach is such a picture-perfect destination that it’s often ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean by travel guides.

If you’re looking for amazing places to visit in Puerto Rico, grab your towel and do the flamenco.

2. Castillo San Felipe del Morro

FER737NG / Shutterstock

There’s a bloody history of conquest behind the bright, rum-soaked beaches of the Caribbean.

Everyone wanted a piece of the New World, and everyone was willing to fight to get it. Nowhere is this more apparent than the Castillo San Felipe del Morro .

Known to locals as “El Morro,” the Castillo San Felipe del Morro is a gargantuan citadel that was built in Puerto Rico in the 16th century to defend the island against pirates, soldiers, slavers and anyone else who wanted to test their strength against its massive walls.

It has an entire assembly of cannons, turrets, bunkers, sentry towers, lighthouses and other places of interest.

Today, of course, it’s a lively tourist attraction where people take selfies while kids play hide-and-seek in the hidden nooks of the great stone garitas.

Families fly kites on the grass. Vendors sell snacks.

Once upon a time, however, the Castillo San Felipe del Morro was the most important fortress in Puerto Rico, and its huge walls will take your breath away when you realize how much history that they’ve seen.

Address:  501 Calle Norzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico

3. The Pork Highway

Crystal Eye Studio / Shutterstock

Officially known as La Ruta del Lechón, the Pork Highway is exactly what it sounds like: a three-mile stretch of road where every restaurant specializes in pork.

The most popular type of pork is lechón, a special dish in Puerto Rico that involves spit-roasting an entire pig with a blend of sauces and spices.

It’s considered the main attraction of the highway, so be prepared to see all kinds of open-air smoke pits with whole pigs slowly turning on skewers.

If you don’t like lechón, the Pork Highway has other tasty items to offer as well.

You might enjoy morcilla (blood sausage) or arroz con gandules (rice and beans), or you might be tempted by various stews, sandwiches, casseroles and veggie dishes.

If it’s made in Puerto Rico, the Pork Highway probably has it.

Another draw of the Pork Highway is its festive atmosphere. The restaurants are loud and crowded, and there’s always drinking and dancing to go along with the roasted pig.

It’s one of those places where you can make a dozen friends before you finish a single meal.

The Pork Highway is basically one big block party. If you want to cut loose in Puerto Rico, drive down the highway and prepare yourself for a great time.

4. Toro Verde Adventure Park

Get your blood pumping with a trip to the Toro Verde Adventure Park in central Puerto Rico.

It offers ziplines, rope courses and rock climbing challenges that are guaranteed to make you pee your pants a little when you realize just what you’ve gotten yourself into!

The park’s main attraction is “The Beast,” which is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest zipline in the world.

You’ll be strapped into a horizontal, full-body harness that will send you careening through the open air for 4,745 feet.

Other attractions include “The Wild Bull,” a series of hanging rope bridges that will sway in every direction as you cross them, and “Escape If You Can,” an adventure course that includes everything from ziplining to rappelling down a rock wall.

Thrill seekers won’t want to miss Toro Verde Adventure Park. Puerto Rico is a crazy place, but some of its vacation spots are even crazier.

If you laugh in the face of danger, this is definitely one of the top things to do.

Address:  PR-155, Orocovis, 00720, Puerto Rico

5. Old San Juan

emperorcosar / Shutterstock

With cobbled streets, busy plazas and colorful homes that stack together like building blocks of yellow, blue, green, orange and turquoise, Old San Juan is one of the most vibrant places to visit in Puerto Rico.

It’s technically a historic district, and you can see evidence of its past in the abundance of churches, cathedrals and colonial homes.

There are even tourist attractions in the form of ancient tombs that hold the remains of famous Spanish explorers.

If you’re a history buff, this is one of the most educational places in Puerto Rico.

Most visitors, however, come to Old San Juan for commerce. There are shops and museums; there are casual sidewalk cafes and fancy candlelit restaurants.

A free trolley rambles through the neighborhood if you want to hop between destinations.

Old San Juan tops our list of best places to go in Puerto Rico.

Whether you’re headed there for the markets or the memorials, you definitely won’t want to miss it!

6. Isla Culebrita

There’s a certain charm to the lively, rowdy crowds of Puerto Rico, but no one will blame you if you need to escape the noise every once in a while.

This is why places like Isla Culebrita exist.

Isla Culebrita is an uninhabited island off the coast of eastern Puerto Rico. It’s only about a mile long, and access is restricted to ferries and water taxis.

Many tourists don’t even realize that it exists.

Its isolation, however, makes it one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico. The beaches are neat and clean; the shopping centers don’t have long lines.

You can dive for coral reefs or wade through tide pools without anyone else around.

There are also fun landmarks to explore on Isla Culebrita, including an old-fashioned lighthouse and a special beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.

You can take your time with these attractions since there won’t be busy crowds hurrying you along.

If you need a break from the chaos of the mainland, consider jetting off to Isla Culebrita.

It’s one of the hidden treasures of Puerto Rico, and in the true spirit of a pirate, it’s yours for the taking.

7. Museo de Las Americas

Borrie / Shutterstock

There are many museums in Puerto Rico, but only a handful are actually about Puerto Rico. The Museo de Las Americas is one of these precious places.

It has artifacts, tokens and textiles from dozens of indigenous groups that lived in Latin America before it was colonized, and it can take you on a multi-continental journey through history.

One of the coolest things about the Museo de Las Americas is that it’s housed in a series of old army barracks.

In the 1800s, the doors led to bedrooms, kitchens, cafeterias and jails; today, they lead to art galleries and recreated scenery rooms.

Another fun thing about the museum is that it’s more than just a series of objects behind glass. They don’t celebrate it as an exciting attraction in Puerto Rico for nothing!

There are interactive stations where kids can touch and hold things; there’s an audio-visual room where adults can learn more about tribal traditions through short, informative films.

The Museo de Las Americas has a lot going for it. Not only will you be awed by its location, but you’ll also take in the important people and places of Caribbean history.

The Museo de Las Americas is one of those places in Puerto Rico that will be both entertaining and educational.

Address:  Calle Beneficencia, San Juan, 00926, Puerto Rico

8. Mayaguez

If you like to eat, Mayaguez is the city for you.

It’s home to everything from fine dining establishments to open-air cafes with big, colorful umbrellas, so you’ll have plenty of options when your stomach starts growling.

A fun fact about Mayaguez is that it’s known for the creation and production of several famous dishes in Puerto Rico:

• Brazo Gitano is a type of sweet dessert roll made with jelly-filled sponge cake.
• Sangria de Fido is an alcoholic drink made with rum, fruit juice and burgundy wine. The creator was offered $250,000 to sell his recipe to a big-name liquor brand, but he refused.
• The coffee of Puerto Rico is known around the world for its rich, smooth flavors. The beans are harvested in volcanic soil with a perfect amount of shade and rainfall, so they’re in high demand as a luxury product.

Mayaguez will let you enjoy all of these delights, and it has a few other intriguing menu items, too.

If you’re looking for good places to chow down in Puerto Rico, stop by Mayaguez.

9. El Yunque National Forest

Dennis van de Water / Shutterstock

Covering more than 28,000 acres, the El Yunque National Forest is a lush, humid rainforest where dense foliage covers everything from slithering snakes to croaking tree frogs.

It’s the only tropical rainforest in Puerto Rico, and visitors come from all over the Carribean to witness both its beauty and biodiversity.

Hiking is the most common activity in El Yunque National Forest.

It has all kinds of sightseeing trails for rivers, crags, waterfalls, meadows and mountains, so your camera will get a nice workout as you go exploring.

Maybe you can start a Puerto Rico scrapbook!

If you want a little more excitement than just walking around, consider camping, swimming, biking or picnicking in one of the forest’s designated recreational areas.

You can also stop by the visitor’s center for information on any tours or nature walks that are on schedule.

Oh, and if you’re looking for Puerto Rico travel hacks , here’s one that could save your life:

Don’t travel to El Yunque National Forest during the rainy season!

It already gets a ton of precipitation to sustain its flourishing ecosystem, so during the rainy season, the area can become downright flooded.

The best time to visit the forest is during the drier months of Puerto Rico.

10. Los Morrillos Lighthouse

Photo Spirit / Shutterstock

Located in the city of Cabo Rojo on the southernmost tip of Puerto Rico, the Los Morrillos Lighthouse is one of those gorgeous places that you can only find in the Caribbean.

It’s perched on top of white limestone cliffs that are surrounded by salt marshes and lagoons, and the waves crash against the cliffs with a violence that’s startling but beautiful.

The lighthouse itself is a simple structure; you’ll find many just like it in Puerto Rico.

However, the views from its observation deck are top notch, and the friendly staff will take you on a tour anytime.

You can also explore the grounds surrounding the lighthouse. The sea is a good 200 feet below the cliffs, and there are no guard rails to hold you back.

Venture close enough to the edge and you can even see where parts of the limestone have crumbled beneath the feet of past visitors.

It’ll be too dangerous for the kids, but daring adults can toe the cliffs and test their luck. Make a memory of Puerto Rico that you’ll never forget!

Address:  Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Aneta Waberska / Shutterstock

Ponce is a bustling city in Puerto Rico where you can find everything from pink houses to pineapple ice cream shops.

It has such a vibrant, colorful atmosphere that it’s been called “the most Puerto Rican city in Puerto Rico.”

What makes Ponce so special?

For starters, it’s filled with some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

Whether you’re a fan of parks, plazas, museums, shopping malls, restaurants, monuments or movie theaters, Ponce will keep you busy.

Another great thing about Ponce is that it hosts dozens of festivals throughout the year.

Some of them are local carnivals and parades that showcase the art and culture of the Caribbean; others are international marathons and music events that draw massive crowds.

Ponce is definitely one of the best places in Puerto Rico. If the tourist attractions don’t reel you in, the local culture will.

12. Cayo Santiago

Cayo Santiago is a small stretch of land off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico.

From a distance, it looks like any other tropical Caribbean landscape filled with hills, beaches and cliffs.

When you get closer, however, you’ll see the furry little heads peeking through the tree canopies, and you’ll realize why “Cayo Santiago” translates to “Monkey Island.”

Cayo Santiago was created when a group of monkeys was imported from India to Puerto Rico in the 1930s.

Researchers wanted to study their behavior without human interference, so they let the monkeys run wild on an unclaimed island.

They probably didn’t expect the monkey population to swell to 1,000, but that’s the circle of life for you.

Humans aren’t allowed on Cayo Santiago, but you can go snorkeling or kayaking in the surrounding waters for a closer look at the curious little creatures.

There’s also a sunken barge nearby for further diving fun.

The best things to do in Puerto Rico are the ones that you can’t experience anywhere else. They’re unique to the island and its inhabitants.

Cayo Santiago is one of these unforgettable places, so call up your travel planner and ask them to perform some monkey business.

13. Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

Sasha Fenix / Shutterstock

If you’re willing to travel a little outside of the actual island of Puerto Rico, hop on a ferry and visit the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge .

Hundreds of species call it home, including birds, lizards, monkeys, manatees and sea turtles. There are even wild horses roaming the shoreline!

As for activities, you’ll have your choice of fun things to do and amazing places to visit on both land and sea.

If you want to splash around, you can swim, snorkel and scuba dive; if you prefer to stay dry, you can go hiking, biking or horseback riding.

You can also check out the visitor’s center for cool exhibits of seashells and manatee skeletons.

Lots of people wonder what to do in Puerto Rico, but only a few realize the potential of a destination just a bit off the coast.

Don’t be afraid to go beyond the boundaries of your map and visit the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

Address:  State Rd 997 km 3.2, Vieques, PR 00765, United States

14. Arecibo Observatory

You don’t have to be a scientist to appreciate the world’s largest radio telescope.

Towering more than 1,600 feet above the lakes and fields of Puerto Rico, the Arecibo Observatory is a testament to the power of man and the importance of scientific research.

It operates 24/7 and transmits data to people from all over the globe.

It’s one of the best places in Puerto Rico for scenic views, too.

You can take a tour of the observatory through the science and visitor center, and when you’re done learning about its value to everything from radar astronomy to atmospheric science, you can end your visit with a climb to the observation deck.

You’ll be so high that the birds will be below you!

There’s a reason why the Arecibo Observatory has been featured in films and shows such as GoldenEye, The X-Files and Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.

It’s a sight that manages to be both humbling and empowering, and it’s a top-tier destination in Puerto Rico.

Address:  PR-625, Arecibo, 00612, Puerto Rico

15. Jose Enrique

Jose Enrique isn’t like any other restaurant in Puerto Rico. If you’re looking for unique dining establishments, this one takes the whole empanada.

The first thing to know about Jose Enrique is that it’s based in a simple green house without any signage.

If not for the enticing smells wafting from the windows, you could walk right past it without even realizing that it’s there.

It also has a relaxed, informal atmosphere where locals and tourists mingle freely. Reservations aren’t accepted; it’s first come first served.

The menu is written on a whiteboard that the waiters carry from table to table, and it changes every day, so you might be eating almojábana on Monday and plátanos maduros on Tuesday.

Some people might not like the casual setting of Jose Enrique, but it’s one of the best places to experience Puerto Rico like a native.

If you aren’t one to stand on ceremony, you can find the house, kick off your shoes, order something delicious and even bring your own beer.

Jose Enrique welcomes anyone who can appreciate good food and a festive atmosphere.

Address:  176 Calle Duffaut, San Juan, 00907, Puerto Rico

16. Guajataca Tunnel

Are you afraid of the dark?

Known to locals as “The Black Tunnel,” Guajataca Tunnel is a pitch-black underpass carved into the side of a river canyon that stretches for more than 500 feet.

It used to belong to the national railway system, and in its heyday, it connected several different regions of Puerto Rico for the quick, easy transport of things like sugar cane.

Today, Guajataca Tunnel is a ghost site that’s been forgotten by the transportation department.

It’s become something of a tourist attraction as people dare each other to walk through its completely lightless caverns.

If you can make it to the other side, you’ll be greeted with dazzling views of Guajataca Beach.

If you lose your nerve, you’ll have to double back and take one of the outdoor walking trails.

Guajataca Tunnel is one of the more low-key things to do in Puerto Rico, so don’t expect it to provide hours of entertainment.

It’s just a fun challenge for anyone who is already traveling through the area.

It’s the kind of thing that can become a great story when you’re back home from your trip to Puerto Rico; you just have to be brave enough to attempt it!

Address:  Av. Noel Estrada, Isabela, 00662, Puerto Rico

17. Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center

Christopher Garrick / Shutterstock

Before it was “discovered” by explorers, Puerto Rico was home to a number of indigenous tribes. They had their own art, culture, tradition, medicine and athletic games.

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center ensures that none of it will be forgotten.

Founded on 800-year-old soil, the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center carefully preserves the landmarks of the area while also inviting visitors to take a walk in the shoes of the people who came before them.

Its most famous attraction is the collection of “ball courts” where the Taino people played games among large, carved stones decorated with monoliths and petroglyphs.

There’s also a small museum filled with artifacts and a botanical garden where traditional Taino plants are grown.

History buffs won’t want to miss the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center.

The Caribbean wasn’t always a boozy tourist destination, and it’s important to remember the native people that nurtured the land before anyone else had even heard of Puerto Rico.

Address:  Carr.111 Km. 12.4, Utuado, 00641, Puerto Rico

18. Plaza Las Americas

It’s okay to experience a little dizziness when you walk into Plaza Las Americas .

Not only is it the biggest shopping mall in Puerto Rico, but it’s also the biggest shopping mall in the entire Caribbean!

Three stories are home to everything from upscale fashion boutiques to modest phone kiosks.

There are more than 300 businesses in total, and they’re spread across a staggering 2.2 million square feet of retail space.

There are stores, restaurants, offices and fountains; there’s a food court filled with menus from all around the world; there’s even a cineplex that runs both English and Spanish movies.

Speaking of languages, you’ll find the Plaza Las Americas to be very accessible to tourists who are new to Puerto Rico.

While a lot of the signage is in Spanish, many of them have English printed right below it, and the logos of famous brands tend to be universal anyway.

If your pesos are burning a hole in your pocket in Puerto Rico, make a stop at the Plaza Las Americas.

You’ll end the day with your arms filled with shopping bags and your heart filled with the joy of retail therapy.

Address:  525 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan, 00918, Puerto Rico

19. Gilligan’s Island

SVongpra / Shutterstock

Yes, you read that correctly!

Though it’s officially named Cayo Aurora, this small piece of land is more commonly known as Gilligan’s Island, and it can provide a real-life taste of the tropical paradise that you saw on TV.

Gilligan’s Island is one of the lesser-known islands of Puerto Rico. It’s located off the coast of Guanica, a more popular beach destination, and it’s quite small.

You can explore the entire thing by foot.

What the island lacks in size, however, it makes up in beauty. The waters of Gilligan’s Island are breathtakingly clear, and the waves are always calm and mild.

It’s one of the best places in Puerto Rico to observe marine life.

Whether you’re swimming, snorkeling or kayaking, you can see every shade of the colorful fish darting below the surface.

You’ll also enjoy the solitude of Gilligan’s Island.

It’s never as crowded as the big beaches, so you can teach the kids to swim or cuddle up with your sweetheart by the mangrove trees without any interference from loud tourists.

Take a three-hour tour with the Gilligan’s Island of Puerto Rico.

You won’t find the Professor or the Skipper here, but you’ll enjoy plenty of other Caribbean delights!

20. San German

John Kershner / Shutterstock

San German is the second-oldest city in Puerto Rico, and as soon as you see its cobblestone streets and square-cut colonial buildings, you’ll realize that it never really left its past behind.

Hundreds of historical sites might make it obvious, too.

San German is a premiere destination for travelers who are interested in the history of Puerto Rico.

It boasts churches, cathedrals, museums, plazas, cemeteries and cultural centers as far as the eye can see.

From preserved art collections to authentic stained glass windows that depict important religious events, San German has it all.

Another nice thing about San German is that it’s very walkable.

Most of its important landmarks are within 30 minutes of each other, so you can take a stroll and visit all of the best places in a single afternoon.

San German isn’t for everyone. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, for example, you might want to look for more death-defying things to do in Puerto Rico.

But if you’re someone who enjoys ancient scrolls and scrubbed tombstones, San German will be right up your cobbled alley.

21. Mosquito Bay

Located just off the coast of Puerto Rico, Mosquito Bay is one of the most stunning sights in the world.

It’s home to thousands of bioluminescent organisms that make the water sparkle like bright blue gemstones!

The exact science of Mosquito Bay is something of a mystery, but it’s thought that the organisms have a natural luminescence that thrives in the nutrient-rich waters of Puerto Rico.

There are two other bays like this around the island, but Mosquito Bay is the brightest.

You might question the wisdom of visiting places with names like “Mosquito Bay,” but rest assured that the title has nothing to do with bloodsucking insects.

It comes from an old pirate named El Mosquito who used the bay as a hideout.

You won’t get stung or bitten when you visit, and you’ll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you paddle through its bioluminescent waters.

The one downside of Mosquito Bay is that you’ll have to paddle; swimming isn’t allowed, so you’ll need to take a kayak ride to get close to the sparkles.

The best time to visit is at night. The moon will light up the glittering blue waves like something out of a movie.

If you’re looking for amazing things to do in Puerto Rico, put Mosquito Bay at the top of your list.

It’s one of the rarest sights in the whole Caribbean, so it’s worth going a bit out of your way.

22. Palmas del Mar

https://youtu.be/B-2OSGPKLqk

Are you visiting Puerto Rico for more than a weekend or spring break? Are you looking for cool places to see that won’t require extensive travel away from your hotel?

You might want to consider a long-term vacation rental in Puerto Rico, and you might want to look into places like Palmas del Mar.

Palmas del Mar is a sprawling resort community that covers more than 2,500 acres.

It has all of the traditional fares like beaches, restaurants, tennis courts, golf courses and horse stables, but it also offers essentials for everyday living like schools and banks.

People aren’t just tourists in Palmas del Mar. They’re residents.

If you choose to join the community, you can either buy or rent from the network of vacation homes and beach villas in the area.

It’s the long-term solution for people who aren’t just in the Caribbean for short-time fun.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Puerto Rico that aren’t single-serve hotels, consider Palmas del Mar.

It will offer all of the amenities that you need for a great tropical trip.

23. Casino del Sol

Gambling is completely legal in Puerto Rico, and you can’t throw a rock in places like San Juan without hitting a hotel or resort with a casino attached.

The only question is which casino will give you the highest chance at a jackpot!

While not the biggest or grandest building in the area, Casino del Sol has a good reputation as a gambling establishment.

It offers more than 14,000 square feet of slot machines and card tables, and that isn’t even getting into its raffles, lotteries and off-track horse betting.

There’s a little something for everyone no matter how they like to roll the dice.

Casino del Sol is also just a heartbeat away from the famous Picante Lobby Bar and Lounge of Puerto Rico, so when you’ve worked up a thirst at the blackjack table, you can step aside for a minute and enjoy a cocktail at the bar.

You might even be able to catch a night show with a singer or salsa band.

Sink your feet into the plush carpets of Casino del Sol and take advantage of the lax gambling laws of the Caribbean.

You won’t be able to enjoy this experience anywhere else, so it’ll be exclusive to your Puerto Rico vacation!

Address:  7012 Calle Avenue Boca de Cangrejos, Carolina, 00979, Puerto Rico

24. Cueva del Indio

Mia2you / Shutterstock

History can take many forms, including artwork carved into cave walls between the years of A.D. 1200 – 1500. This is what you’ll see when you visit Cueva del Indio.

Located in La Piedras, Puerto Rico, these caves are a prehistoric rock site where history comes alive in a series of paintings, sculptures and petroglyphs.

Not only will you get to venture deep into the moss-covered tunnels that make up the cave network, but you’ll also be able to look at genuine artwork left behind by the indigenous people of Puerto Rico.

Another nice feature of Cueva del Indio is that it won’t cost you a dime.

It can be put on your list of “free things to do in Puerto Rico” for the days when your budget is stretching a little thin.

If you enjoy art, culture and indigenous history that dates back to pre-Columbian times, consider a visit to Cueva del Indio.

It’s one of those beautiful places that has to be seen to be believed.

Address:  Arecibo 00612, Puerto Rico

25. Playa Sucia

LeanneMarie1215 / flickr

Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Sucia is so pristine that you might feel guilty about laying down your towels and drink coolers.

You’ll need to get over this instinct if you want to fully experience a beautiful Puerto Rico destination!

The water is the first thing that you’ll notice.

It’s so clear that you can see every grain of sand between your toes, and it’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, wading, diving and paddle boarding.

There are some fun places beyond the beach as well.

A lighthouse is within walking distance, and a wildlife reserve is a short drive into southern Puerto Rico if you can tear yourself away from the water.

The single best thing about Playa Sucia, however, is its paradore.

Paradores are old-fashioned Spanish inns that will treat you like royalty, and Puerto Rico has strict guidelines to keep them authentic.

Being able to bunk in a paradore is a real treat, so it’ll be the icing on the cake of your exotic beach vacation!

Another quick travel hack: “Playa Sucia” occasionally goes by the name “La Playuela,” so you might see it listed differently on maps of Puerto Rico.

It’s just a regional thing. It’s the same beach.

26. Casa Bacardi

Irina Mos / Shutterstock

You aren’t really vacationing in the Caribbean until you’re sipping on a fruity cocktail with an umbrella stick. Fortunately, Casa Bacardi can turn these daydreams into a reality.

Casa Bacardi is the distillery of the world-famous Bacardi brand. It offers tours, tastings, mixology classes and other special events that celebrate their passion for liquor.

Visitors can take the afternoon and learn all about the secrets of a good daiquiri or the history of the mojito.

Famously, the Casa Bacardi tours will get you buzzed from the moment that you step into the building.

The first drink is complimentary, but you’ll be tempted with all kinds of cocktails and coconut drinks as you complete the tour.

If you take a mixology class, you can even drink your creations when you’re done!

There’s no shortage of good-time drinks in Puerto Rico, but if you’d like to taste some of the very best that the island has to offer, consider a trip to Casa Bacardi.

Address:  PR-165, Cataño, 00949, Puerto Rico

27. Las Cascadas Water Park

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Las Cascadas Water Park used to be the largest aquatic park in Puerto Rico.

It might still hold that title, but it’s hard to be sure with the rise of so many luxury attractions in the greater Caribbean area.

Either way, Las Cascadas Water Park will definitely keep you cool on a hot day.

You can splash in rides, rivers, tunnels and kiddie pools, and refreshing drinks and frozen desserts are only a kiosk away.

If you feel like testing your bravery, you can strap in for El Laberinto (“The Maze”) or El Torbellino (“The Twister”).

If you’d prefer something calmer for the kids, try Rio Tropical Pasivo (“The Tropical Lazy River”).

Visit Las Cascadas Water Park for some good old-fashioned summertime fun.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if it’s the biggest aquatic park in Puerto Rico.

It will still let you throw yourself down a gigantic purple water slide, and that’s the most important thing.

Address:  2 Puerto Rico, Aguadilla Pueblo, Aguadilla 00603, Puerto Rico

28. Humacao

Mtmelendez [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

You can tour local churches and museums; you can hike to the top of an astronomy tower; you can dive into the depths of its snorkeling sites.

If you’re looking to have the best time in Humacao, however, you’ll wait until the festival season.

The city transforms itself every year with celebrations that draw people from all over Puerto Rico.

The Breadfruit Festival is probably the most famous.

Held every September, it celebrates the versatility of this exotic Caribbean fruit by dishing it up in every way that you can imagine.

There are savory breadfruit skewers with meats and veggies; there are tart breadfruit desserts that will jolt your tongue with every bite.

The festival will also keep you entertained with arts, crafts, games and sports that celebrate Puerto Rico.

Another big festival is the Fiesta Patronal held in December.

Originally a religious occasion, it’s evolved in recent years to become a fun, festive event that includes everything from live concerts to flower parades.

If you like rubbing shoulders with partygoers in Puerto Rico, you won’t want to miss Humacao.

It’s a hot spot for cultural celebrations, and you might even form some new friendships that will last when your vacation is over.

29. Charco Azul

Rafael Torres / flickr

Go off the beaten path in Puerto Rico with a trip to Charco Azul.

It’s located deep within a forest in the Cayey region, and you’ll need to walk down several trails and across a series of bridges before you reach it.

Literally translated as “blue pond,” Charco Azul offers a bit more than its name suggests.

It’s a freshwater swimming hole that extends a good 30 – 40 feet across, and it can reach depths of 10 – 15 feet in the center.

You’ll be able to swim, dive, float, tube and observe the fish with ease. You’ll also be able to relax in a quiet, natural setting.

While it’s true that Charco Azul isn’t a grand destination in Puerto Rico, it’s one of those beautiful and tranquil places where you can enjoy an afternoon splash without any stress.

A small waterfall will provide gentle background music as you swim, and a couple of boulders will act as diving spots if you’re feeling courageous.

Many tourists can’t even find Charco Azul on a map of Puerto Rico, and the locals would like to keep it that way.

If you’re planning a trip to this aquatic oasis, keep it hush-hush!

30. Kikita Beach

Puerto Rico is home to hundreds and hundreds of beaches, so it takes something amazing to make one shoreline stand out from the rest.

Kikita Beach has that kind of shoreline.

Known as the surfing paradise of Puerto Rico, Kikita Beach is heaven for anyone who wants to practice their aerials and alley-oops.

It’s surrounded by cliffs and rocks that give it amazing waves, but the water itself is clear and mild, so it’s the perfect setting for finally nailing those tricks.

Swimming is discouraged at the beach because of the choppy nature of the waves, but the rest of your family doesn’t have to sit in silence while you surf.

They can explore the rocks, observe the marine life, play in the sand and eat some seafood at the local dining establishments.

Kikita Beach might be known as a surf spot, but it has other amenities to offer as well.

Are you looking for cool, natural places to visit in Puerto Rico? Consider Kikita Beach.

If you can’t master a cutback there, you can’t master it anywhere.

31. Hacienda Buena Vista

Jcastro521 [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Hacienda Buena Vista is an agricultural complex built around a 19th-century coffee plantation where history, culture and java all come together in a heavenly-smelling brew.

Once upon a time, Hacienda Buena Vista was one of the most important coffee plantations in Puerto Rico.

It harvested beans that were shipped all around the world; even the Vatican couldn’t get enough.

Today’s coffee farms operate differently.

They tend to be impersonal, high-volume areas meant for the mass production of future lattes, and that “original touch” element has been lost everywhere except for specialty farms like Hacienda Buena Vista.

Instead of conforming to the new standard, it still operates the same old-fashioned machines that it did in 1833.

Visitors to Hacienda Buena Vista can walk the grounds, crank the machines, feed the livestock and learn more about traditional coffee harvesting in Puerto Rico.

They can also enjoy authentic, freshly-brewed Spanish coffee until they burst.

Hacienda Buena Vista is one of the best places in Puerto Rico if you need a fix.

Not only will you enjoy its brews, but you’ll learn a little something about where they come from as well.

Address:  Km 16.8, PR-123, Ponce, 00728, Puerto Rico

32. Pinones

Jennifer Cachola / flickr

Pinones is one of the most unusual places to go in Puerto Rico.

It’s not a city, and it’s not really a neighborhood. It’s mostly just a strip of land along a local highway where people go to eat.

What makes Pinones different from other stomach-patting places?

It specializes in chinchorros or roadside food stalls where you can find all kinds of traditional Caribbean dishes.

From sweet fried bananas to sticky rice bowls filled with pork and pigeon peas, chinchorros serve it all.

The locals have even turned them into a verb: to chinchorrear means to wander from stall to stall and enjoy various foods and snacks.

Pinones isn’t the only region in Puerto Rico where you can chinchorrear, but it’s the best.

It’s absolutely packed with tables, chairs, grills, fire pits, smokehouses and food trucks.

You’ll have your choice of menu items, and you’ll get to enjoy a festive atmosphere to boot.

Consider a trip to Pinones if you’re looking for memorable things to do in Puerto Rico.

You’ll never forget the time that you ripped into a platter of meat skewers under a dirt-stained umbrella while little kids ran around your feet to the sounds of their grandmother’s old-fashioned radio.

33. Camuy River Cave Park

Tinapat Kotumrongsak / Shutterstock

Say goodbye to the sunlight with a trip to Camuy River Cave Park .

As the largest underground cave system in Puerto Rico, Camuy River Cave Park is one of those places that feels forgotten by time.

As you venture deeper and deeper into the complex labyrinth of tunnels, caverns and sinkholes, you’ll hear the flutter of bat wings and the pitter-patter of water dripping from stalagmites and stalactites.

The sunlight will slowly fade and disappear. The rocks will become bigger than humans.

It’s perfectly safe, of course; there are lights and walkways for visitors, and tour guides are everywhere to point out sights that you might have missed.

You can even take a trolley ride through the caves if you’re tired or disabled. Puerto Rico is always accommodating.

The amenities don’t take away from the atmosphere, however.

They don’t dim the jaw-dropping beauty of an underground cave network that’s more than 45 million years old.

If you want to marvel at the scenery that’s straight out of Batman, consider a visit to Camuy River Cave Park.

Address:  Quebrada, Camuy 00669, Puerto Rico

34. Seven Seas Beach

Jason Patrick Ross / Shutterstock

Located in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, the Seven Seas Beach is a great place to string up a hammock.

In addition to white sand, blue water and pink alcohol, you can also use the location as a central hub for further travel.

You see, Fajardo is a well-connected city. It’s right on the eastern shore of Puerto Rico, so it’s a viable launching pad to dozens of other islands and islets.

It’s also the home of Puerto del Rey Marina, the largest marina in all of the Caribbean.

As for the Seven Seas Beach, it will offer tons of opportunities for water adventures in Puerto Rico.

It’s only a few miles from well-known snorkeling and scuba diving sites, and it’s home to cool tourist attractions such as lighthouses, luxury resorts, mangrove fields and sugar cane refineries.

You might not want to spend your entire trip at the Seven Seas Beach, but if you’re just looking for good places to drop your bags before you go exploring deeper in Puerto Rico, it will serve you well.

35. Guanica State Forest and Biosphere Reserve

Christian Ouellet / Shutterstock

A trip to the Guanica State Forest and Biosphere Reserve is one of the most unique things to do in Puerto Rico.

It’s located within the “rain shadow” of its mountainous landscape, so instead of being a humid, muggy rainforest, it’s a “dry forest” that receives very little precipitation throughout the year.

What does this mean for the views?

They’re still beautiful, but they look different from other nature reserves. They have a stark, craggy appearance with rocky cliffs and dry fields of cactus-like shrubs.

You might forget that you’re in Puerto Rico when you’re standing in the middle of a desert!

One flaw of the Guanica State Forest and Biosphere Reserve that it can get pretty hot; temperatures can climb as high as 100°F in areas without shade.

The best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening when the sun isn’t blazing directly overhead.

You’ll enjoy a more moderate climate, and you’ll get to see the sunset over the hills as well. The glow will look different than anywhere else in Puerto Rico.

36. La Guancha Boardwalk

Alberto Loyo / Shutterstock

Maybe you like munching on shaved ice as you stroll down the beach.

Maybe you like playing arcade games or pushing your kids on a swing set.

Maybe you like salsa dancing with complete strangers!

Anything can happen at La Guancha Boardwalk, so it’s easily one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico.

As its name suggests, La Guancha Boardwalk is a boardwalk that faces the Caribbean Sea.

For the people just passing through, it sells snacks and souvenirs from kiosks and food stalls; for visitors who want to sit down and kick up their feet, there are bars, cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.

There are also fun, active things to do at this Puerto Rico boardwalk.

You can feed the tarpon at a special pier where they gather in numbers; you can rent a pedal boat to go exploring in the water.

You can play games at the arcade or the playground. You can watch a sidewalk artist work his magic or join an outdoor jam session with a street band.

Some boardwalks can be hit or miss in Puerto Rico, but La Guancha Boardwalk is a home run.

Whether you’re looking to eat, drink, shop or just people-watch, it’s one of the top things to do on the island.

Address:  Calle C, Ponce, 00716, Puerto Rico

37. Cemi Museum

https://www.flickr.com/people/ganbei/ [ CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

They can have all kinds of faces and forms, including ones that are quite animal-like; the most important part is that they’re created with reverence.

The Cemi Museum takes this idea and ramps it up to 11.

The entire building is shaped like a cemi: Its front doors open in the mouth, and visitors walk through the face and into the humpbacked, frog-shaped body.

Once inside, you’ll be treated to a collection of indigenous murals and artifacts that date back centuries.

Some of the more uncommon objects include things like carved tongue depressors that were used in religious ceremonies with ritual vomiting.

The Cemi Museum is one of the more obscure destinations of Puerto Rico, but that’s exactly what makes it worthwhile.

Where else can you examine vomiting instruments while standing inside of a gigantic stone god from hundreds of years ago?

The Cemi Museum is an unusual but awesome attraction in Puerto Rico.

Address:  PR-144, Jayuya, 00664, Puerto Rico

Brian P Egan / Shutterstock

Rincon means “corner” in Spanish, and the city is tucked away in the northwestern corner of Puerto Rico.

It isn’t mentioned in a lot of travel guides. It isn’t considered one of the major points of interest of the island.

If you like to wander off the beaten path, however, you’ll find Rincon to be a hidden gem of Puerto Rico.

The major draw of Rincon is surfing.

It hosted the World Surfing Championship in 1968, and once surfers realized that they’d been missing out on the wild waves of Puerto Rico, they started flocking to Rincon in droves and never stopped.

Rincon is also a great observation spot for the annual migration of humpback whales.

The best time to visit is between January and March; hundreds of these majestic creatures will pass by the beaches of Puerto Rico as they move into different Caribbean waters for the season.

Rincon isn’t one of the boisterous places of Puerto Rico. It’s quiet and calm, and it will let visitors enjoy a tropical getaway without the noise and traffic of a major tourist town.

If this describes your ideal vacation, put Rincon on your list of potential destinations!

39. Santurce

Juan Cristobal Zulueta / flickr

Puerto Rico is known for its crazy, colorful locations, but Santurce takes the cake.

Graffiti is sprayed on buildings and bridges with elaborate, larger-than-life murals; houses come in every shade of the rainbow.

Old shipping containers are painted with bright colors and converted into food trucks.

If it sounds trendy, you’re absolutely right.

Santurce has been called everything from “a hipster haven” to “the Brooklyn of Puerto Rico,” and it’s known for being hip, stylish and artistic.

Things weren’t always this way.

Santurce used to be a poor, unsafe neighborhood, and you can still see the remnants of harsher times in its run-down buildings and cluttered strip malls.

Travel tips often advise tourists to be careful walking around Santurce at night.

For the most part, however, Santurce has been gentrified to the point of becoming one of the major points of interest of Puerto Rico.

It’s a neighborhood where art lives on the walls and bars have salsa dancers spilling onto the streets.

It’s loud, happy, boozy and genuine, so it’s worth a visit if you want a taste of authentic Spanish culture in Puerto Rico.

The Eloquent Peasant [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

It doesn’t look like much on a map, but if you’re willing to peer a little closer, you’ll realize that it has many neat opportunities for tourists.

For example, did you know that horseback riding is alive and well in Ciales? People ride their ponies right through the town square.

This kind of thing isn’t possible in the busy, crowded streets of major Puerto Rico cities, but it doesn’t raise an eyebrow in a quiet town like Ciales.

Ciales is also a nice pit stop on the way to other Caribbean adventures.

It’s right on the route to the famous Yuyu Cave, and it’s just a short drive from Tres Picachos State Forest where you can hike through the vegetation to reach beautiful, picturesque waterfalls.

You don’t have to do wild things in Puerto Rico to have a good time.

You can enjoy your trip with nothing more than a good coffee cafe or a pet to a friendly horse, and Ciales can provide that.

It’s one of the best places on the island for lazy, leisurely fun.

41. Rio Abajo Forest Reserve

Jennifer Stone / Shutterstock

Covering more than 5,000 acres of central Puerto Rico, the Rio Abajo Forest Reserve is one of the craziest places in the Caribbean if you enjoy unusual geography and topography.

It’s basically several forests packed into a single area, and depending on your compass, you might wind up in a dry cave, humid rainforest, barren sinkhole or lush ravine.

It’s recommended that you hire a tour guide for your trip to the Rio Abajo Forest Reserve.

While there are some places in Puerto Rico that are safe to explore on your own, the ever-changing conditions of this particular forest can make it hard to navigate without help.

If you’re willing to put in the effort, however, the Rio Abajo Forest Reserve is definitely one of the coolest places in Puerto Rico.

It’s even home to several different endangered species.

Because of the diverse environmental conditions of the area, things like parrots, boa constrictors and broad-winged hawks can share the same land.

The forest is one of the only places to see these rare creatures in the wild, so grab your camera and click that shutter!

42. San Juan Catamaran Sunset Sail

IM_photo / Shutterstock

As the curtain closes on your vacation in Puerto Rico, say goodbye to the island with the San Juan Catamaran Sunset Sail.

It’s the perfect way to bid adios to all of the places that have brought you joy, wonder, excitement and buzz.

You’ll start your sailing adventure by boarding a 37-foot catamaran in the bay.

The captain will offer you complimentary beverages of beer, punch, sparkling wine or rum and coke.

Once you’re away from the shoreline of Puerto Rico, he’ll cut the noisy engine and let the sails do the rest of the work, propelling you through the wind and water as the sun sets over San Juan.

The views will be incredible.

You’ll pass everything from El Morro to the Governor’s Mansion, and it will sparkle with the reflection of the water and the warm glow of the sunset.

You might even spot a few dolphins swimming along the side of the catamaran.

Say a gentle farewell to your vacation with the San Juan Catamaran Sunset Sail.

It’s a beautiful, peaceful activity, and it’ll be the perfect way to end your trip to Puerto Rico.

Start Planning Your Trip To Puerto Rico

These are just a few ways to live it up in Puerto Rico.

Whether you’re interested in thrill-seeking adventures or quiet explorations of historical sites, there’s a little something for everyone on this famous Caribbean island.

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Puerto Rico, start with these suggestions!

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1. exploring the unique tropical biodiversity of el yunque national forest.

Dale Cruse , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

2.  Time Travel through History While Exploring Vibrant Old San Juan

Image by Simao Esteves from Pixabay

3.  Kayak under the Mesmerizing Bioluminescent Waters of Mosquito Bay

4. Paradise Found at Puerto Rico’s Pristine Flamenco Beach

Image by Boris Elsner from Pixabay

5.  Step Back in Time While Exploring the Massive Castillo San Felipe del Morro

6. the stately la fortaleza is a glimpse of the political history of the americas.

David , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7.  Marvel at the Beauty of Puerto Rico’s Cueva Ventana Natural Limestone Arch

8. relax in the el morro promenade , 9. immerse yourself in centuries of artistic expression at ponce’s fine arts museum.

Gillfoto , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

10. Explore the Unique Biodiversity sheltered in Guanica’s Rare Dry Forest

11. marvel at the gigantic arecibo radio telescope site.

Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

12. Descend Into the Spectacular Camuy River  Underground Caverns 

13.  soak up the puerto rican coastal experience at vibrant luquillo beach .

Jimmy Rivera , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

14.  Rincon Lighthouse

Edriverspr , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

15.  Marvel at San Juan’s Elegant Cathedral

Gonce , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

16. Puerto Rican Adventure at Toro Verde Park

17. unwind along the condado lagoon .

Thief12 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

18.  Puerto Rico’s Remote Getaway of Culebrita

JRick1 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

19. Museum of Contemporary Art of Puerto Rico

20.  take it all in with a sip at casa bacardi.

Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Written by Lana Law Updated Jan 12, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

San Juan is a beautiful capital city with soft-sand beaches, a multitude of cultural attractions, and a vibe that could easily make it a destination for an entire vacation. Historic forts, colonial architecture, fine dining, museums, and many more things to do are all within easy walking distance. Beachfront luxury hotels and resorts can be found right in San Juan and neighboring districts.

At the heart of the city is Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , where colonial architecture mixes with contemporary Puerto Rican culture. The old buildings are now home to many of the city's attractions and tourist establishments.

San Juan is also a major cruise ship destination and is known for being one of the largest home-based cruise ports in the world . Depending on the number of cruise ships in port, the city can either be very quiet or extremely lively.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of top attractions in San Juan.

See also: Where to Stay in San Juan

1. Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo)

2. fuerte san felipe del morro (el morro), 3. castillo de san cristóbal (fort san cristóbal), 4. paseo de la princesa, 5. san juan cemetery (santa maria magdalena de pazzis cemetery), 6. san juan cathedral (catedral de san juan), 7. museo de las américas, 8. condado and ocean park beach, 9. isla verde beach, 10. la fortaleza, 11. museo de arte de puerto rico, 12. san jose church (iglesia de san josé), 13. puerto rico museum of contemporary art (museo de arte contemporáneo de puerto rico), 14. plaza las americas, map of tourist attractions in san juan, puerto rico, where to stay in san juan for sightseeing.

Wandering the streets of Old San Juan is the main attraction of a visit here. It may be historic but it never gets old.

Showcasing almost 500 years of history, the area is a window to the past, with historic forts and Spanish colonial architecture setting the scene. This World Cultural Heritage Site is the second oldest city in the Americas and the oldest city under the US flag.

The seven-square-block area contains more than 400 beautifully restored 16th- and 17th-century colonial buildings, many of which contain shops, restaurants, museums, hotels, and other public buildings.

The most dramatic feature, and the real showpiece of Old San Juan is the Fuerte San Felipe del Morro , known more commonly as El Morro , set out on a point of land overlooking the sea in the San Juan National Historic Site.

Experience the city's real charm by simply wandering the streets, admiring the old architecture, and enjoying a meal on an outdoor patio. Other highlights are Fortaleza , the San Juan Cathedral , and Castillo de San Cristóbal .

As you stroll, be sure to pop into some of the museums, many of which are worth stepping into just to appreciate the architecture of the structure housing the collections. This whole area can be explored on foot, although the walk out to El Morro fort adds considerably more to the length of a walking tour.

Protecting the entrance to San Juan Bay, the fort, commonly referred to as El Morro, is dramatically perched above the sea on a point of land jutting out into the ocean.

A designated National Historic Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site , El Morro was built in 1539. Construction continued for another 250 years to make it one of the largest Spanish forts in the Caribbean. A majority of the additional construction took place between the 1760s and 1780s, when many of the walls you see today were added.

The fort today is a maze of ramps, outposts, barracks, dungeons, and tunnels, dotted with small, circular sentry boxes called "garitas." These garitas are unique to Puerto Rican forts and have become a national symbol.

The area approaching the fort is an open lawn looking out to incredible views on every side, either back towards San Juan, including a view to San Juan Cemetery, or out to sea. This huge space is a popular area to fly kites in the steady breezes off the ocean.

El Morro is a National Park and an admission is charged to enter.

While El Morro gets all the fame, Castillo de San Cristóbal is equally fascinating and well worth a visit. San Cristobal is bigger than El Morro, and is the largest fort the Spanish ever built in the New World.

Spread over 27 acres, it features five independent units connected by moat and tunnel, each designed to be self-sufficient should the others fall. The fort was built between 1634 and 1790 to guard the eastern gate to what is today, Old San Juan. It was designed to protect against a land attack , making it quite different from El Morro, which was designed to guard against attacks by sea.

Depending on how hot it is, you can walk from El Morro to Castillo de San Cristobal in about 25 minutes . If it's too hot for you, plan on a lunch stop along the way. One option we like, if you're looking for an authentic vibe is La Verguenza restaurant . Head up the stairs to the balcony area for amazing views out over the ocean while chowing down on fish tacos.

Your national park admission is good for here and El Morro.

This pleasant walkway winds its way along the bayfront and provides exceptional views out over the water. With its wide sidewalks, the Paseo de la Princesa, dating from 1853, is the perfect place to visit for a stroll after spending time in the narrow streets and alleys of Old San Juan.

Along the way, you'll pass by tinkling fountains with impressive statues. If the heat gets to be a little too much, cool down under large trees that provide welcome relief from the sun. On one side of the street is the bay and on the other, the steep city walls.

Positioned along the coast, adjacent to El Morro , and high above the ocean, is the beautiful San Juan Cemetery. Elaborate tombstones, statues, above-ground graves, and a circular red-domed Neoclassical chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalene are some of what makes this cemetery. Most outstanding though is the captivating seaside setting.

You can gaze over the cemetery in the distance from El Morro. This is one of the most fascinating views from the fort, looking out over the entire shore, including the cemetery. You can also look over the cemetery from above by walking down Cemetery Street and crossing the lawn.

The chapel in the cemetery dates to the 19th century, and many of Puerto Rico's earliest colonists are buried here.

Dating back to 1540, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, also known as the Cathedral of San Juan, is one of the most important religious sites in Puerto Rico . The church is famous for being the final resting place of Ponce de Leon, the Spaniard who undertook the quest for the Fountain of Youth.

One of the lesser-known facts about the church is that it is the second oldest structure in the Western Hemisphere . However, the church has aged well, with the generous support of its parishioners. Inside it's immaculate, and the stained-glass windows glow as brightly, if not more so, than the day they were created.

The Catedral de San Juan Bautista is a working church and the seat of the Archdiocese of Puerto Rico.

You can appreciate the view of the building from a bench below the shady trees in the small Plaza de la Catedral, just across the street. Or, if you happen to be staying at El Convento Hotel, also across the street from the cathedral, you can enjoy a great view over the structure from the pool deck.

Address: Calle del Cristo #151-153, San Juan

Housed in former army barracks dating from 1880, the Museo de las Americas, in Old San Juan, explores the history of Puerto Rico, with a focus on the art, the ethnic groups, and the colonization of the country. Permanent exhibits offer a solid overview of the country's history, but temporary exhibits round out the experience, with interesting themes that include anything from contemporary art to traditional practices. This museum is a good place to start before embarking on a tour of the country's cultural and historic sites.

In front of the museum is a lovely space with flowers, grass, and a fountain that looks out to El Morro and the ocean. At the front of the grounds is a statue of Don Ricardo Alegria.

Address: Calle Beneficencia, San Juan

The Condado district lies on a piece of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Laguna Condado. The district was originally developed as San Juan's first tourist zone in the 1950s, creating a mini Miami Beach on the doorsteps of the city.

This is a modern area and a real contrast to Old San Juan. The main reason to visit Condado is for the beach or dining.

The main axis of the town is Avenida Ashford, along which stand a number of luxury hotels and resorts. Condado offers a broad selection of accommodations and facilities in all price ranges.

In the eastern area of the district is Ocean Park, a one-mile-wide beach encompassing residential homes and beach retreats. The white-sand beach is clean and very popular with locals. There are no facilities or change rooms here.

Condado is also home to the huge Convention Center , with shopping, theaters, restaurants, and space for festivals and exhibitions.

If you want to step off a plane and be on the beach in mere minutes, Isla Verde is the place to stay. A gorgeous Blue Flag-certified beach of golden brown sand is protected from the large waves by a large offshore reef. Hotels and condos line the beach and finding a place to stay is easy.

If you are staying in Old Town and are looking for a day on the beach, this is one of the best places to come, head to Carolina Beach, chair and umbrella rentals are available and parking is easy to come by in the large lot. If you are looking for pools and more of a vibe, the Vivo Beach Club is located nearby.

Isla Verde Beach is located east of Condado and Ocean Park, count on a 15-minute ride from Old San Juan.

La Fortaleza was completed in 1540 as a defense against the Carib Indians and other foreign invaders. It was occupied twice by invaders; first by the Earl of Cumberland in 1598 and then by the Dutch General Bowdoin Hendrick in 1625 when fire damaged the building.

The Fortaleza eventually lost its military value and became the residence of Puerto Rican governors , a role it still maintains today. La Fortaleza is the oldest governor's mansion still used as such in the Western Hemisphere, with more than 150 governors having lived or stayed here. The building itself has undergone many changes in its long history. The result is a blend of 16th-century military architecture with the refinements of the 19th century.

You can only visit the museum on a tour. Check at the Visitor Information Center for tour details. La Fortaleza and the surrounding streets are sometimes closed to the public without notice. Barricades are erected and security will stop you from going anywhere near the building.

Address: 52 Calle Fortaleza, San Juan

The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is one of the highlights of San Juan, and is a prominent player in the Caribbean cultural scene. The building, which was opened in 2000, was constructed around a 1920s hospital building. The older portion of the building displays the museum's permanent collection and is the first thing you will see as you enter.

The main focus of the permanent collection is work from the 17th century through to contemporary works . A good way to get a better understanding of all the cherished pieces is to take one of the free tours offered on Saturday at 10am or Sunday at 2pm.

The newer portion (the east wing) is a five-story structure containing a multi-story atrium, a theater with seating for up to 400 people, a sculpture garden, and a popular restaurant. Other rooms are available for workshops and exhibitions. In total, the museum contains more than 130,000 feet of space used to display the excellent permanent collection in 24 halls and to host temporary exhibitions.

Address: 299 Avenida de Diego, Santurce

Dominican friars built the Iglesia de San José in 1532, making it one of the earliest examples of Spanish Gothic architecture in the Americas. Unlike the San Juan Cathedral, this church is quite small, with a modest façade, but the vaulted interior gives it an airy feel.

For almost 300 years, the Spanish explorer Ponce de León was buried here until his body was moved to the San Juan Cathedral in 1913. The 18th-century Puerto Rican artist, José Campeche, is also buried here.

Beside the church is Plaza de San José , a pleasant open area with a few tables and umbrellas for eating.

You can walk from the church, past the Galeria Nacional Instituto de Cultura Puertorriquena, and through the Plaza del Quinto Centenario, which looks out over the ocean. The plaza has an interesting clay and granite totem pole called El Tótem Telúrico . Created by Puerto Rican artist Jaime Suárez, it celebrates the 500th anniversary of Columbus' first voyage to the New World.

From here you can walk down Cemetery Street to see the cemetery, or out to El Morro.

Address: Calle San Sebastián, San Juan

Founded in 1984, this museum is the place to see the work of Puerto Rico's finest modern-day artists. Changing exhibits showcase the museum's collection of modern island-made prints, paintings, posters, and sculptures. Some of the most notable artists to have their work on display include Myrna Baez and Naomi Ruiz, among many others.

Located far from the Old City inside Sacred Heart University in the Barat building, the museum can be tricky to find. As the exhibits change frequently, be sure to contact the museum or visit their excellent website to find out about the most current exhibits.

Address: Edificio Histórico Rafael M. Labra, Ave. Juan Ponce de León, esquina Ave. Roberto H. Todd, Parada 18, Santurce

When the culture, beaches, and heat of San Juan have taken their toll and it's time for a little escape, the Plaza las Americas might be the answer. This modern indoor shopping plaza is the place to come for a little retail therapy or to pick up something that was left at home or lost at the airport.

This is not the place to find traditional Puerto Rican souvenirs and trinkets; this is a large mall with US chain stores, the latest fashions, American restaurants, movie theaters, and some unique stores. It is considered by Puerto Ricans to be the best mall in Puerto Rico. Although it might not be at the top of the must-do list, this is a great rainy-day option.

Address: 525 Ave Franklin Delano Roosevelt, San Juan

We recommend these charming hotels, near top attractions and the cobbled streets of Old San Juan:

• Condado Vanderbilt Hotel : This 5-star luxury beachfront hotel is one of the best hotels in the city. Created in Spanish Revival-style, it offers butler service, an ocean-view pool, and a deluxe spa. Located in Condado, it's just a short drive from Old San Juan.
• Decanter Hotel : This mid-range hotel in Old San Juan is set in a 19th-century colonial-style building with a rooftop terrace and 24-hour concierge.
• CasaBlanca Hotel : For something a little quainter, try this affordable boutique hotel. Its decor is Moroccan themed, and the property features a rooftop deck with soaking tubs. This is a great choice for a romantic getaway.

More on Puerto Rico

Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico: 42 Top Attractions and Places To Visit

Y ou’ll have many options when it comes to things to do in Puerto Rico. For a good reason, Puerto Rico is widely regarded as one of the Caribbean’s top tourist destinations.

Puerto Rico is a popular destination for tourists and couples on honeymoon, and it has a dual nature that has fascinated tourists for decades. Puerto Rico has many things to do, including adventure, rum, surfing, and the sun.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, you can jump from tall cliffs, explore dark underground tunnels, bathe in gorgeous beaches, and zipline through exotic jungles . The island has many opportunities for fun activities.

You can learn a lot by visiting the museums, galleries, churches, cathedrals, and strongholds of pre-Columbian civilization. Make sure your Caribbean vacation includes these great Puerto Rican attractions!

>>Check the best price and deals on things to do in Puerto Rico

1. Explore the Streets of Old San Juan

As any traveler can attest, Old San Juan has plenty of things to do in Puerto Rico. A day spent exploring the streets of San Juan will feel like traveling back in time.

When visiting Puerto Rico, some things to do include visiting the Casa Blanca Museum, the Cathedral of San Juan , the renowned Santa Maria Cemetery from the 19th century, and all the sidewalk cafés and candlelight restaurants, and lovely plazas.

Don’t leave San Juan without strolling around Paseo de la Princesa, Plaza de Armas, the city’s historic center, and the striking and recognizable San Juan Gate. There are many more things to do in San Juan.

2. Castillo San Felipe Del Morro

Visiting Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the many things to do in Puerto Rico. This vibrant and rum-soaked beach has a terrible history of conquest, as people battled to claim a piece of the New World.

Exploring the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as “El Morro” to the locals, is one of the places to visit in Puerto Rico. This gigantic castle was constructed in the 16th century to protect the island from invaders.

Puerto Rico also makes for one of the best island vacations . Things to do in Puerto Rico include exploring the old fortresses built to protect the island from pirates, soldiers, slavers , and anyone else who dared to test their strength against its thick walls.

It’s a complete set of fortifications, including guns, turrets, bunkers, sentry towers, and lookout posts. The big stone Garitas are now a bustling heritage site where youngsters play hide-and-seek in their nooks and crannies.

Many families in Puerto Rico enjoy spending time together on the meadow flying kites. Various refreshments are available from street vendors, making it a great thing to do in Puerto Rico.

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the most significant things to do in Puerto Rico, with its massive walls and rich history sure to leave anybody speechless.

3. El Yunque National Rainforest

After exploring Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest is the perfect option if you want more things to do in Puerto Rico.

El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the American national forest system, provides outdoor enthusiasts in Puerto Rico with plenty of things to do.

From thrilling excursions to a stunning view of the north coast and several waterfalls, tidal pools, and rivers to bathe in, El Yunque Rainforest offers something for everyone.

One of the most popular things in Puerto Rico is to take a day trip to El Yunque National Forest. You may either join one of the group trips or hire a vehicle from Discover Card and explore on your own.

4. Check Out Examples of Latin American and Caribbean Art at the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico

For all those looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico (MAC) invites art enthusiasts and interested tourists to check out its art venues used to produce, educate, and conserve art by and for the community.

One of the things to do in Puerto Rico is to visit the art space to see diverse works of art from Puerto Rico and other parts of Latin America that highlight history, tenacity, and inspiration.

It is housed within a school with a beautiful courtyard and is open Friday through Sunday for museum hours.

5. Toro Verde Adventure Park

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, visit Toro Verde Adventure Park in central Puerto Rico for an adrenaline-filled experience.

The park offers a variety of thrilling activities for all levels, such as zip lines, rope courses, and rock climbing. Get ready to get your heart racing!

The Beast is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico. The Guinness Book of World Records says it is the longest zipline. A full-body harness will horizontally restrain your whole body as you fall 4,745 feet into the air.

For things to do in Puerto Rico, Toro Verde Adventure Park is a must-see for adrenaline junkies. There’s “The Wild Bull,” a series of swinging rope bridges that wobble in all directions as you cross them, and “Escape If You Can,” an adventure course with ziplining and rappelling down a rock cliff. Puerto Rico has plenty of weird tourist attractions!

It is one of the best things to do if you like a good chuckle in the face of potential harm.

6. Mosquito Bay

Visiting La Parguera in Lajas, Mosquito Bay on Vieques Island, and Laguna Grande in Fajardo are some things to do in Puerto Rico, as they are the three electrogenic bays in the country.

Kayaking is one of the popular things to do in Puerto Rico if you’re staying in San Juan, Vieques, or Fajardo. Secure your space on one of these trips today!

Mosquito Bay is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico. Even after Hurricane Maria, Mosquito Bay, the world’s brightest luminescence bay, continues to amaze tourists with its light.

7. Explore Culebra Island

Culebra Island is a beautiful tropical paradise, full of things to do in Puerto Rico, like exploring marine life and relaxing on the white-sand beaches.

Flamenco beach is widely regarded as one of the greatest beaches in the world and is just one of the many things to do in Puerto Rico. This region is known for its pristine shores and clear, turquoise seas.

Consider taking a catamaran cruise to Culebra Island, which provides transportation, food, drink, and beach activities.

Try your luck on the best hookup sites & adult sex apps for casual sex and adult dating if you don’t have somebody to bring to Culebra Island.

8. Isla Culebrita

When searching for things to do in Puerto Rico, one may find the fantastical Isla Culebrita for some quiet time to recharge away from the noisy and vibrant crowds.

Isla Culebrita, located in the eastern part of Puerto Rico, is a deserted island that offers a unique experience. With its short length of around a mile, it can only be accessed by ferries and water taxis, making it a great option for things to do in Puerto Rico.

Many visitors aren’t aware of everything to do in Puerto Rico. But because of its seclusion, it’s one of the top tourist destinations in Puerto Rico. The retail complexes have few lengthy lineups, and the beaches are tidy and clean .

When visiting Puerto Rico, there are many things to do, such as exploring tidal pools or diving for coral reefs. On Isla Culebrita, there are even more interesting sites to discover, such as a vintage lighthouse and a unique beach where sea turtles lay their eggs.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, you may enjoy exploring the sights at your own pace. You may take a quick flight to Isla Culebrita if you want a break from the mainland, or if you want to be a genuine pirate, you may want to explore one of Puerto Rico’s best-kept secrets.

9. Las Cavernas Del Rio Camuy National Park

Exploring the Camuy Cave System is one of the top things to do in Puerto Rico. It is the third-biggest underground river in the world, full of stunning stalagmites and stalactites.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, you won’t miss the limestone caverns spanning three towns, including spectacular stalagmites, stalactites, and picture-perfect sinkholes.

10. Make a Beeline for Gilligan’s Island

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, add Gilligan’s Island to your itinerary. This idyllic island is beloved by residents and is the perfect spot to relax on the beach, go on a kayaking adventure, or take a boat tour.

11. T-Mobile District

Eat, drink and socialize in front of massive LED displays in a public plaza.

San Juan’s T-Mobile District is the newest and hottest thing to do in Puerto Rico. The district offers elegant Puerto Rican cuisine, cutting-edge performance venues, ziplining, a VIP movie theater, and a large public plaza with LED displays intending to unite people.

12. Try the Water Sports at Flamenco Beach (Playa Flamenco)

Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico is particularly scenic for those looking for things to do, with its sapphire-blue waves and white sandy beaches . It’s the perfect place to sit back and relax without high-octane water sports activities.

13. Mayaguez

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, Mayaguez is your city. You’ll have many options when you get hungry since it’s home to everything from sophisticated dining businesses to outdoor eateries with large, vibrant umbrellas.

Mayaguez is a great place to visit when looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, as it’s credited with the invention and manufacture of numerous well-known Puerto Rican dishes, including

One of the things to do in Puerto Rico enjoys a delicious dessert roll called a brazo gitano prepared from sponge cake filled with jam.

Sangria de Fido is an alcoholic cocktail with rum, fruit juice, and burgundy wine. It is an invention from Puerto Rico, and the inventor even turned down a $250,000 offer from a well-known alcoholic beverage company to license it. This is a great thing to do in Puerto Rico!

Puerto Rican coffee is known for its exceptional taste and aroma and is highly sought after as a luxury product. The beans are grown on volcanic soil that receives just the right amount of shade and moisture, making it one of the top things to do in Puerto Rico.

Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, is the perfect destination for exploring the diverse culinary scene. With plenty of tempting treats to try, it’s one of the top things to do in Puerto Rico.

14. Piñones

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, Piones is the place to go.

This coastal community is known as the “fritter capital of the world” and is lined with numerous food stands selling authentic Puerto Rican fare like alcapurrias, bacalaitos, and mofongo.

In addition to the excellent cuisine, you may cool yourself in the refreshing waters of La Pocita nearby.

15. Explore the Cultural Amusement Park, Arecibo Lighthouse, and Historical Park

The cultural theme park next to the Arecibo Lighthouse is a must-see in Puerto Rico . The park’s displays and information cover the whole timeline of Puerto Rico’s history, from the island’s Taino era to Spanish colonization.

One of the things to do in Puerto Rico is to climb the lighthouse, and if you buy a ticket to the Splash by the Lighthouse park, you get to do it for free. It’s possible to see whales well out in the distance, depending on the season.

Pack your swimsuit to take advantage of Playa Poza del Obispo’s calm waters.

16. Enjoy the Atmosphere on a Sunset Cruise

Romantics, pay attention. Sailing excursions and sunset cruises are one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico and are enjoyed by tourists of all types.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico enjoys the vivid, pink-tinged sunset. It contrasts with the brilliant blue ocean and reflects off the historic streets of Old San Juan after setting sail from San Juan abroad, either a vintage schooner or a contemporary catamaran.

17. Condado Lagoon

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to get out on a kayak or paddleboard and explore the tranquil Condado Lagoon. This is a great way to get some exercise and find some excitement.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, why not rent a kayak with lights and paddle about when it’s dark to see San Juan’s night skyline in a new light?

18. Walk Through the Historic Guajataca Tunnel

Exploring the old Guajataca Tunnel, also known as “The Black Tunnel,” is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to explore the old railroad tunnel that was once used to transport sugar cane and now serves as the entrance to the stunning Guajataca Beach.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to visit the Mirador de Guajataca for some of the best ocean views on the island and stock up on tasty treats from the local market on the way.

19. Los Morrillos Lighthouse

Exploring the Los Morrillos Lighthouse near Cabo Rojo on Puerto Rico’s southernmost peninsula is one of the many things to do in Puerto Rico. This breathtaking location is sure to take your breath away.

It is on top of salt marshes and lagoons, bordered by white limestone cliffs violently battered by startlingly beautiful waves.

Exploring a lighthouse is one of the things to do in Puerto Rico - the country is home to many of them. The helpful personnel will give you a tour at any time, and the views from the observation deck are excellent.

Exploring the area around the lighthouse is one of the many things to do in Puerto Rico. Be careful, however, as there are no guard rails to prevent falling since the water is around 200 feet below the cliffs.

Visiting the edge of Puerto Rico is one of the many things to do in Puerto Rico. If you go up close enough, you can even see where pieces of the limestone have crumbled under earlier visitors’ feet.

For brave adults looking for things to do in Puerto Rico , why not try your luck on precarious cliffs? Make a lasting impression on yourself by seeing Puerto Rico!

20. Feel the Thrills of a Jet Ski Ride!

Jet skiing is among the many incredible things to do in Puerto Rico, especially along the northern coast.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to race down the coastline and take in the stunning scenery.

Visiting the San Jose lagoon is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. The mangroves found in the lagoon provide stunning views.

Whether you rent your kayak or join a tour, it’s sure to be a beautiful experience.

21. Cueva Del Indio

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, explore Arecibo’s Cueva del Indio. This historical site features a stunning view of the seashore and Taino petroglyphs that were etched onto the cave walls hundreds of years ago.

Be sure to wear shoes with a grip since it might be challenging to descend to the cave.

22.Take a Snorkeling Tour to Icacos Island

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is snorkeling at Icacos Island.

Icacos is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. It is abundant in marine life and color due to being a component of the Cordillera Cays Nature Reserve, a protected area for research and protection.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to take a boat tour; not only do you get to spend time on the water, but tour operators also provide lots of entertainment, such as music, food, and cultural insights .

When visiting Puerto Rico, there are many best things to do on board the ship for adults and children.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Puerto Rico, consider visiting Ponce, a lively city with pink homes and pineapple ice cream stores .

The city of Puerto Rico has been nicknamed “the best place to do things in Puerto Rico” because of its vibrant culture and activities.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Puerto Rico, you’re in the right place. Puerto Rico is full of exciting activities, making it a great destination for travelers.

When it comes to the best things to do in Puerto Rico, Ponce stands out. Many great attractions in the city provide some of the best experiences on the island.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Puerto Rico, Ponce has you covered when it comes to the best things to do in Puerto Rico; there is no shortage of entertainment options for its visitors.

There is something for everyone, from parks, plazas, museums, retail malls, restaurants, monuments, and movie theaters.

Ponce also has a fantastic festival calendar with hundreds of events every year. There are plenty of options when looking for the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

Some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico include regional carnivals and parades that highlight Caribbean art and culture and well-attended international marathons and music festivals.

24. Experience Horse Riding

Riding horses over the beautiful countryside is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico and should not be missed on any trip.

Hacienda Campo Rico, Carabali Rainforest Park, Ricon, and Vieques are all great options for tourist attractions in Puerto Rico. Riding your horse through the ever-changing landscape , from the countryside to meadows, mountains, and beaches is an experience not to be missed.

25. The Pork Highway

Try the finest roast pork from Puerto Rico.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, La Ruta del Lechón in Guavate is worth a visit. This street has eateries specializing in roast pig, “chicharrones,” and fried pork chops .

Along with sampling the greatest regional Puerto Rican cuisine, you can dance, listen to music, and purchase handmade items from street sellers.

26. Rent a Mini Boat

Are you looking for things to do in Puerto Rico? Why not explore Puerto Rico’s seas and historic Old San Juan at your own pace?

Boating is a popular thing to do in Puerto Rico, offering a great chance to breathe in the fresh air and that distinctive Caribbean sea wind with a little boat hire.

When planning things to do in Puerto Rico, take your time, stop at a few little deserted islands, and stroll along the white sand beaches.

27. Cayo Santiago

There are several amazon resorts in Puerto Rico . For those looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, why not check out the little island of Cayo Santiago, located off the coast?

Things to do in Puerto Rico include admiring the typical Caribbean scene from a distance, complete with hills, beaches, and cliffs.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, visiting Cayo Santiago, or “Monkey Island,” is a must. As you approach the island, you’ll see the tiny hairy heads poking through the treetops, and you’ll understand why they gave it its name.

When a troop of monkeys was brought to Puerto Rico from India in the 1930s, Cayo Santiago was born, making it one of the top things to do in Puerto Rico.

The monkeys were allowed to roam on an uninhabited island because researchers wanted to observe their behavior without human influence.

They probably did not anticipate the number of things to do in Puerto Rico to increase to 1,000, but that is how life works.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, you can kayak or snorkel the nearby waters of Cayo Santiago to get a closer look at the enigmatic creatures.

When looking at things to do in Puerto Rico, a sunken barge nearby makes great diving fun. Other activities unique to Puerto Rico are some of the best ones to undertake since they are exclusive to the island and its people.

If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico, call your travel agent and ask them to arrange a trip to Cayo Santiago - it’s a spot that will stick in your memory forever.

28. Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico, take a ferry to the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to observe the wildlife. The island has many different animals, including birds, lizards, monkeys, manatees, and sea turtles. Even wild horses graze along the coast!

When visiting Puerto Rico, there are so many best things to do in Puerto Rico, from a variety of entertaining activities to breathtaking locations to see, both on land and the water.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is go hiking, bicycling or horseback riding, swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving . The tourist center has several intriguing displays, including shells and manatee bones.

People worldwide are looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico, but only a few know about the hidden gem that lies only a short distance from the ocean.

One of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico is to go outside the borders of your map and visit the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

29. Sunbake at Crash Boat Beach

Crash Boat Beach, located in Aguadilla, is one of the most popular and fun things to do in Puerto Rico, with its stunning views and white sand beaches .

Puerto Rico is full of fun things to do, from its picture-perfect beaches and clear seas to its many restaurants and cafes. It’s no wonder why it’s such a popular tourist destination.

30. Try the Local Delicacies on a San Juan Food Tour

Are you looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico? Look no further than Old San Juan! With bustling activity, laughter, and plenty of food , it will surely satisfy anyone feeling peckish.

Exploring San Juan’s cobblestoned streets on a food tour is one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico. Enjoy the variety of local cafés and restaurants on offer while being guided by a multilingual local guide.

When exploring Puerto Rico, one fun thing to do is sample some well-known regional specialties like sofrito and plantains. You’ll also get a free rum drink and discover everything about the fascinating architecture.

31. Pink Salt Lakes

One of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico is to visit the island’s most visited salt lakes.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico, make a brief detour to Cabo Rojo’s Pink Salt Lakes on the western side of the main island to get a stunning photo of the salt lakes.

Exploring the pink salt lakes at the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge is one of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico. Don’t forget that the shade of pink might change depending on its surroundings.

32.Toro Verde Adventure Park

One of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico is experience America’s longest zipline.

One of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico is to take a trip on the longest zipline on the whole American continent. It’s a must-do for adventure-seekers.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico , the Toro Verde Adventure Park is a great place to check out. They have attractions like climbing towers and zipline bicycles , and you can also discover their zipline.

33. Arecibo Observatory

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico, consider visiting the world’s biggest radio telescope - it’s a great way to comprehend the magnitude of it without being a scientist.

The Arecibo Observatory is one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico. Standing more than 1,600 feet tall and visible from miles away , it is a testament to human ingenuity and the value of scientific study in Puerto Rico.

It’s always on, sending fun things to do in Puerto Rico to users worldwide.

Visiting the observatory is one of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico. Guests may learn about the observatory’s role in fields like radar astronomy and atmospheric science on a guided walk of the scientific and tourist center before ending their journey on the facility’s viewing deck.

One of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico is to go parasailing and experience the beautiful view from high up! You’ll be able to see the birds flying below you!

The Arecibo Observatory is one of the most popular fun things to do in Puerto Rico. It has been featured in movies and television programs, including GoldenEye, The X-Files, and Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.

Puerto Rico has many fun things to do that are both humbling and inspiring.

34. Learn About Local Culture at the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center is one of the oldest and most significant archaeological sites ever unearthed, making it one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico.

When you come here, whether by yourself or with your family, you will acquire fascinating information about the indigenous people who inhabited this area before it was colonized.

35. Guajataca Tunnel

Are you looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico? Check out the almost 500-foot-long Guajataca Tunnel, which runs through the wall of a river canyon, known as “The Black Tunnel.”

The Puerto Rican national railway system was once a popular way for people to enjoy fun things to do in Puerto Rico, such as the rapid and simple transit of goods like sugar cane between various parts of the island.

The Guajataca Tunnel in Puerto Rico is a great spot for ghost town enthusiasts looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico. It has been seemingly forgotten by the transportation administration and now serves as a haunted ghost town.

Exploring the pitch-black depths of Guajataca Beach is one of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico. Challenging each other to make it to the other side will reward you with breathtaking panoramas.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Puerto Rico, Guajataca Tunnel is a great low-key option. It’s a great place to explore, but if you’re scared, you can always take one of the outside paths back.

This is only one of the fun things to do in Puerto Rico for those who happen to be in the neighborhood.

It’s the fun thing to do in Puerto Rico that you can tell your friends and family about when you get back, but it takes some boldness!

36. Roar Through the Jungle on an ATV

If you’re looking for what to do in Puerto Rico, an ATV tour is an exciting option. Visitors are shown around a private ranch full of lush vegetation and exotic wildlife for two unforgettable hours.

37. Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route

Don’t miss out on Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route if you’ve previously traveled the Pork Highway.

A culinary scene is a great option for those looking for things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico. There are several routes to choose from, such as the Pork Highway, Piones, and La Ruta de la Longaniza. However, even many natives of Naranjito don’t take advantage of the Gastronomic Route.

If you’re looking for things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a great place to start is the Naranjito Gastronomic Route. This stretch of road has bakeries, cafes, and watering holes .

You may also locate Puerto Rico’s well-known delicacy of a roasted pig at Lechonera Cedro Abajo. Lastly, don’t miss the city’s cable bridge, a must-see when traveling the Naranjito Gastronomic Route.

38. Surf Some Waves at Domes Beach

There are many great places to surf in Puerto Rico, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned expert.

Domes Beach, Sandy Beach, Maria’s Beach, and Surfer’s Beach are among the most well-known surf spots, and they are worth a visit due to their consistently exciting vibes.

The nation is great for surfing because of its quiet seas .

39. Learn About the Indigenous People of Puerto Rico and Their Essence on the Taíno Route

Suppose you’re interested in learning more about the intriguing origins of the Puerto Rican people. In that case, you may want to take an excursion along the Táina Route, designed to take you back to a period when the island’s inhabitants lived in hierarchical systems and efficiently cultivated the land.

Discover the Taino sites of La Piedra Escrita, Cara del Indio, and Reserva Marina La Cueva del Indio (petroglyphs).

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center is the social and ceremonial epicenter of the indigenous people of Caguana.

40. Explore the Sunflowers at Finca El Girasol

See Puerto Rico’s natural beauty amid a field of golden sunflowers.

Take your time getting lost in the field’s golden splendor, and bring your camera to catch the ideal shot of the towering flowers swaying in the breeze. Please respect the local customs and refrain from picking flowers while visiting Finca El Girasol.

In the end, you will have the option to purchase freshly cut flowers.

41. Mar Chiquita

Enter a natural pool created by rock formations on the seashore.It will quickly become one of your favorite beaches in Puerto Rico. Mar Chiquita is Spanish for “small sea.” One of the most popular attractions in Manat is this stunning natural pool.

This beach has an incredible landscape, plush golden sand, and turquoise waves that smash against massive rock formations. Visit in the afternoon to take in the sunset’s spectacular display of colors.

42. Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center was established on 800-year-old soil. It protected the area’s monuments while encouraging tourists to step into the shoes of the Taino people who lived there before them.

The center has a small museum with antiques and a garden containing native Taino flora . Remembering the indigenous people who lived in and cared for the Caribbean before Puerto Rico was discovered can help us appreciate the region in a new light.

What To Do in Puerto Rico: FAQs

Here, we answer a few frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

How To Get to Puerto Rico?

There are three airports in Puerto Rico , but the major one is in San Juan, called Luis Munoz Marin International Airport.

Booking an airport transfer in advance will ensure you get the most convenient and pleasant transport between the airport and your hotel.

Where To Stay in Puerto Rico?

One of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico is the Hyatt Place Bayamon near downtown San Juan and Cerro Gordo Beach.

It has comfortable rooms, a stylish lobby, and excellent dining options. The Comfort Inn & Suites is great for families to relax and enjoy the pool or lounge chair.

Where to stay in Puerto Rico if you plan on playing golf? Stay at the Wyndham Palmas Beach & Golf , which has an infinity pool and excellent dining options.

Can I Visit Puerto Rico on a Budget?

Yes, you can visit Puerto Rico on a budget. When you first arrive in Puerto Rico, learn about all there is to see by signing up for a free walking tour , which is offered in most of the island’s largest cities.

Discover the beauty and allure of Old San Juan as your guide shows you some of the most significant structures, the vibrant houses that line the streets, and the city’s artistic landmarks.

Where To Go Next After Puerto Rico?

St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a nonstop fun location with amazing scuba diving, kayaking, and ziplining.

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic is the most visited destination on the continent, with a staggering variety of attractions. Visit the cocoa farms and manufacture your chocolate.

What Are the Top Activities in Puerto Rico?

Walking around San Juan, going to the beach, eating at Chinchorros, shopping, checking out El Yunque National Forest, and kayaking in one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays are all must-dos for every visitor.

Is It Dangerous To Go to Puerto Rico Right Now?

Travelers to Puerto Rico should examine the most recent covid data, adhere to public health rules, and consider purchasing travel insurance just in case.

What Do Locals Do for Fun in Puerto Rico?

When looking for things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, visitors can enjoy visiting the mall, the movies, or the beach for entertainment.

Bars and chinchorros are popular for the nightlife, and La Placita de Santurce, Piones, Calle Loza, and Ro Piedras are popular locations for late-night reunions.

Can You Drink the Water in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico’s tap water is drinkable and safe to consume . The Safe Drinking Water Act, which the EPA designed, governs water safety in Puerto Rico.

Should You Tip in Puerto Rico?

In Puerto Rico, leaving a tip is not required, although it is customary in restaurants, hotels, and on excursions. Puerto Ricans routinely leave tips, even if it’s only the required 15%.

What Months Should I Visit Puerto Rico?

December through May are the most favorable for a trip to Puerto Rico since they fall after the hurricane season and before the summer peak season when costs are higher, and crowds are heavier.

Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico: Final Thoughts

Other attractions on the Enchanted Island make it worth returning to again and again, such as the island’s more than 300 beaches, the raucous nightlife of La Plaza del Mercado de Santurce, and the misty vistas of waterfalls in the Yunque tropical rainforest.

There are a lot of exciting activities to do in Puerto Rico, and we picked 61 of the greatest ones for you to try. Have a safe trip!

Related Articles:

Best Hotels In Puerto Rico

Best Place To Stay In Puerto Rico

Resorts In Puerto Rico

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

©2023 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

The 20 Best Hotels In Puerto Rico

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, keri bridgwater , contributor, forbes vetted.

E veryone loves a good comeback story, and years after the devastation of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Puerto Rico has resiliently bounced back to its lively and lovely self. With its melting pot of Spanish, Taino and African cultures, there’s a distinct rhythm to the heartbeat of this Caribbean archipelago that keeps travelers coming back year after year. Its warm sea breezes, colorful historic buildings, flavorful rums and local cuisine tantalize the senses, enticing both first-timers and repeat visitors.

The best hotels in Puerto Rico make exploring the Island of Enchantment a breeze. Our top overall selection, the Fairmont El San Juan , has been a staple of the island since 1958 and still exudes Gilded Age excellence today. For luxury lovers, the exclusive Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a favorite among celebrity A-listers. And for great value, the design-forward El Blok on the island of Vieques offers travelers beautiful accommodations at an approachable price. Below, the best hotels in Puerto Rico in 2024.

Best Hotels In Puerto Rico, At A Glance:

Best hotel in puerto rico overall: fairmont el san juan, best high-end hotel in puerto rico: dorado beach, a ritz-carlton reserve, best boutique hotel in puerto rico: don rafa boutique hotel & residences, best value hotel in puerto rico: el blok, best hotel for couples in puerto rico: villa montaña beach resort.

• Best Hotel For Families In Puerto Rico : Caribe Hilton

Best Beachfront Hotel In Puerto Rico: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

Best adults-only resort in puerto rico: condado ocean club, best all-inclusive resort in puerto rico: copamarina beach resort & spa, best wellness hotel in puerto rico: finca victoria.

Fairmont El San Juan ocean villa.

Fairmont El San Juan

Who Will Love It: Global jet-setters and socialites

All-Star Amenities: Well & Being Spa; Four pools and luxury cabanas with butler service; Local adventures and concierge desk; Boutique shopping gallery

What Not To Miss: Drinks in the Chandelier Bar

Location: San Juan

Designed by modernist architect Morris Lapidus and opened in 1958, El San Juan Hotel became a favorite among the Old Hollywood elite and is still considered one of Puerto Rico's most iconic establishments. After a $65 million renovation, the hotel joined the esteemed Fairmont Hotels & Resorts portfolio in 2020, but despite modern updates, its magnificent lobby and adjacent Chandelier Bar still exude Gilded Age ambiance. Its 388 guest rooms include city, pool or ocean views from Grand Tower accommodations or a tropical garden setting in one of the newer Banyan Villa Rooms.

Stroll along a prime stretch of Isla Verde Beach, reserve a private cabana at the El San Juan Beach Club or luxuriate by any of the four meticulously restored swimming pools. The tri-level Well & Being Spa offers a range of weekly workouts alongside traditional spa treatments and eight onsite restaurants—including steakhouse Meat Market and poolside Puerto Rican concept Caña—meaning travelers won’t even need to leave the grounds to find a great meal. Club Brava, speakeasy Chico Cabaret and the Foxwoods El San Juan Casino round out late-night entertainment options.

An ocean view room at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.

Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for over-the-top luxury and exclusivity

All-Star Amenities: Suites with oversized soaking tubs and rainforest showers; two stunning golf courses; private beach; photography concierge

What Not To Miss: A Spa Botánico treatment; cabana time at the Positivo Pool; walking the Rockefeller Nature Trail

Location: Dorado

Puerto Rico’s exclusive Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is the island’s ultimate luxury resort with eco bona fides. Conservationist Laurance Rockefeller, son of philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., purchased the property in the 1950s and developed it into the natural sanctuary it is today. While now under different ownership, it has stayed true to Rockefeller’s vision with an aura of exclusivity and reverence for nature and local culture. Located on 1,400 Atlantic Coast acres, and a favorite among Hollywood A-listers, this property is where travelers can find total privacy and tranquility. Coastal-inspired guest rooms, suites and residences are palatial, with separate living areas, large bathrooms and verandas or rooftops with plunge pools and outdoor showers. Each guest is assigned a personal ambassador who can arrange spa appointments, dinner reservations and the like. At destination Spa Botánico, treatments draw inspiration from nature including the two-hour Manos Santas Ritual. Outdoor activities like sailing, kayaking and hiking arranged through the Jean Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program are also popular here. Of the resort’s four restaurants, its newest is an Italian-inspired concept, Flor de Sal, which opened in 2023 and highlights dishes cooked on flavored salt blocks.

A palette of bold jewel tones, mid-century modern style furnishings, and over thirty works of art by Puerto Rican artists feature across the six-story hotel.

Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences

Who Will Love It: Fans of 1950s glam

All-Star Amenities: Rooftop pool and restaurant; fitness center; self and valet parking

What Not To Miss: Morning yoga on the sun deck and drinks at the Grand Lobby bar

The 36-room Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences enjoys a prime location in Puerto Rico’s upscale Miramar neighborhood, which puts it within a few minutes walk of Distrito T-Mobile and a short taxi or rideshare across the bridge to Condado or into Old San Juan. Accommodation styles range from classic rooms and luxurious suites equipped with Galanz retro fridges and Nespresso machines to fully furnished two– and three-bedroom residences and penthouses with kitchens and separate living and working areas designed for extended stays. Palettes of bold jewel tones, mid-century modern style furnishings and over thirty works of art by Puerto Rican artists are highlighted across the six-story hotel, which also provides plenty of space to relax and unwind. There's a rooftop pool and fusion restaurant, Canvas, whose dishes blend French, Asian and Puerto Rican cuisine and whose terrace affords panoramic views of the city skyline. Downstairs, there's a serene courtyard and eye-catching Grand Lobby anchored by a glamorous 1950s-inspired bar where locals mix with hotel guests over cocktails and conversation most evenings.

Each of the rooms feature pillow top beds made up with plush linens, private balconies and peekaboo showers with glass walls.

Who Will Love It: Fans of modernist design

All-Star Amenities: Aesop bath amenities; complimentary beach chairs and Turkish towels

What Not To Miss: Live music and a game of Dominos at street-level bar La Tertulia

Location: Vieques

Puerto Rican architect Natanial Fuster took inspiration from coral reefs surrounding the island of Vieques when designing El Blok hotel, whose sensual curves and reinforced concrete provide a sense of sanctuary and an ethereal underwater ambiance. With nightly rates from $190 for standard Estandar rooms, the adults-only hotel offers design-loving travelers a great place to stay at an approachable price point. Each of the 30 rooms feature pillow top beds made up with plush linens, private balconies and peekaboo showers with glass walls but no phones or televisions. Buzzy signature restaurant Placita is considered one of the best in Vieques and a convivial meeting spot for guests and locals alike with many of its dishes cooked on a mesquite-fired grill. Street-level bar La Tertulia features plenty of lounge space as well as a fire pit and is a great place to catch live music most nights. El Blok is conveniently located across from the beach and along the El Malecon, making it slightly noisy but within easy walking distance of everything in Esperanza.

Villa Montaña Beach Resort is laid-back and elegant.

Villa Montaña Beach Resort

Who Will Love It: Free-spirits and romantics

All-Star Amenities: Grass tennis courts; complimentary parking and use of beach cruiser bikes and snorkel gear; Egyptian cotton sheets; pet friendly

What Not To Miss: The Romance Room package, which includes Champagne and rose petals, and a private gazebo dinner at sunset.

Location: Isabela

Set amid lush tropical grounds on three miles of secluded beachfront, the upscale yet low-key Villa Montaña Beach Resort is tucked away in the Isabela region on Puerto Rico’s more remote northwest corner, making it popular with couples and an in-demand destination for weddings. Terracotta tile floors, wicker furnishings and hand-woven textiles lend a bohemian coastal aesthetic to accommodations, which range from cliffside hotel rooms to one-, two- and three-bedroom garden view and oceanfront villas with kitchens and private pools. Lounging on the private beach or beside the main swimming pool are popular ways to spend time here, but guests stay busy with activities like snorkeling and surfing (Villa Montaña can arrange classes, rentals and transportation to local breaks) or borrowing complimentary beach-cruiser bicycles to explore Paseo Lineal de Isabela, a 4.5-mile cycling and jogging trail that hugs the coast and passes famous beaches like Jobos and Montones. All-day restaurant Eclipse serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, highlighting Puerto Rican flavors and local produce across its Caribbean-style dishes.

Best Hotel For Families In Puerto Rico: Caribe Hilton

The Caribe Hilton has a secluded beach.

Caribe Hilton

Who Will Love It: Stylish families looking to balance chill time with fun activities

All-Star Amenities: Oceanfront swimming pools; wave and beach wing guest rooms; Zen Spa Océano

What Not To Miss: Piña Colada tasting at swim-up bar Bagua (noon to 12:30 pm) and seeing tropical fish on a SeaTREK helmet diving excursion

Established in 1949 as the first Hilton hotel outside the United States, the iconic Caribe Hilton resort occupies a sprawling 17-acre peninsula just minutes from historic Old San Juan. The secluded beach, hammock garden, tropical gardens and bird sanctuary are relaxing places to spend time, but children really get the VIP treatment in the Kids' Zone, which features a fountain pool, outdoor playground and daily activities like spike ball tournaments. Poolside movie screenings, s'mores stations and off-property activities, including a behind-the-scenes caretaker tour of the Manatee Conservation Center research lab that includes helping feed the gentle giants, are popular with families. Eight standalone restaurants and dining concepts span casual beachside fare and upscale international cuisine to Puerto Rican specialties, while each of the 652 guest rooms–decorated in a palette of mid-century white and seafoam–have private balconies and garden or ocean views. Parents will appreciate access to free childcare services that means they can spend an afternoon at the full-service spa and stop by the Caribar to sample various takes on Puerto Rico's national drink, the piña colada, which was reportedly created at the hotel in 1954.

The oceanfront swimming pool at the St Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Puerto Rico.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

Who Will Love It: Well-heeled travelers looking for a tropical getaway

All-Star Amenities: St. Regis butler service; Iridium Spa; marble bathrooms with rainforest showers

What Not To Miss: Pre-dinner drinks at the St. Regis Bar; taking time to appreciate the hotel’s collection of works by renowned Latin American artist Fernando Botero

Location: Rio Grand

A secluded two mile stretch of beachfront and proximity to the El Yunque National Forest add to the polished appeal of the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, which can be reached in around 40 minutes by car from San Juan. The 139 guest rooms and suites here are decorated in shades of white, soft gray and turquoise courtesy of Puerto Rican designer Nono Maldonado, whose ocean-inspired theme also carried over into the grand five-bedroom residence Casa Estancia. Amenities range from a spa, tennis club and boathouse with water sports, to an ocean-front golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Set back from the beach amid lushly landscaped gardens, curtained cabanas and St. Regis deck chairs flank the main swimming pool, but golf carts can whisk guests down to the Beach Club and quieter second pool with an adults only section. The concierge is happy to arrange activities, including nature walks, biking and kayaking. Multiple dining outlets include the taverna-style Paros Restaurant for Greek and Mediterranean dishes, and the St. Regis Bar for canapés and cocktails.

Condado Ocean Club cabanas.

Condado Ocean Club

Who Will Love It: Grown ups seeking a stylish oceanfront stay without their kids – or anyone else's

All-Star Amenities: Infinity pool and private cabanas; Fitness center; On-site boutique; Detox juice bar

What Not To Miss: Sundowners at Social

Location: Condado

Condado Ocean Club, formerly known as Serafina Beach Hotel, underwent a chic rebrand after Hurricane Maria. Steps from sandy shores, within walking distance of the upscale Condado neighborhood, and a 10-minute ride from historic Old San Juan, it's a prime choice for couples desiring resort luxury with easy urban access. Generously sized accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows that provide wow-factor views of the Atlantic Ocean or Condado Lagoon. The pool deck, complete with an infinity pool and waiter service until midnight, is a hotspot featuring weekend DJ sets, while the third-floor Atlantic Ocean Terrace suite is perfect for hosting gatherings. Culinary experiences abound, too – guests can savor island-chic cuisine at Social, indulge in beachside cocktails at Sandbox, and re-invigorate with fresh juice shots at Detox. For off-site adventures, the resort's concierge team can happily facilitate everything from sunset strolls in Old San Juan to horseback riding in the foothills of El Yunque National Forest.

Pool at Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa.

Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a low-key tropical hideaway with everything covered

All-Star Amenities: Private beach; swimming pools and hot tubs; tennis court and fitness center

What Not To Miss: A beauty ritual at Ni Spa; the tasting menu at La Cata by Restaurante Alexandra

Location: Guánica

Situated on the southwestern side of the island, Copamarina Beach Resort enjoys stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and nearby mountains. Although Puerto Rico isn’t technically home to many true “all-inclusive” resorts, the property has vacation packages ranging from romance to diving with optional meal plans. Guests can also dine a la carte at Restaurante Alexandra, which showcases contemporary Puerto Rican dishes, and the more casual La Palmas. Plantation-style shutters and bamboo furniture create a classic tropical ambience across the 104 guest rooms, suites and villas, all with private balconies or patios. Nestled amongst 20 acres of tropical gardens and framed by a half-mile private beach, the property features two social hub swimming pools, a fitness center and tennis courts, plus activities like snorkeling and kayaking. Guests can also enjoy exclusive access to Gilligan’s Island on a private boat from the hotel dock. Spa lovers should take advantage of the indigenous-inspired beauty services that grace the menu at Ni Spa, with the Earth-Grounding Body Treatment a particular standout. For those looking to explore, nearby attractions include the Guanica Dry Forest Reserve and Bioluminescent Bay.

Best Hotel In San Juan, Puerto Rico: Aire de O:live

Aire de O:live bedroom view.

Aire de O:live

Who Will Love It: Fans of eco-conscious design and spa-like serenity

All-Star Amenities: Rooftop pool; Spa rainfall showers; Vegan toiletries

What Not To Miss: Japanese robatayaki at rooftop restaurant KUMO

Location: Isla Verde

An earthy but sleek reimagining of the San Juan Water and Beach Club, Aire de O:live is located in an exclusive residential corner of Isla Verde. Billed as a chic Caribbean beach hotel for modern sun seekers, high-touch eco details abound—from ceramic water bottles and vegan toiletries to low-energy lighting and sustainable and organic materials (namely wood, rattan, ceramics and cotton) used throughout common areas, rooms and suites. Every room has its charm, but a heated plunge pool and Zen garden in the Agua de O:live Suite is a tough act to follow. Japanese fusion bar and restaurant KUMO graces the rooftop and offers panoramic views over the Atlantic and the beach below. A perfect spot for sunny lunches or an evening date, its dishes are inspired by authentic flavors of Japan and South America—best paired with an original craft cocktail or glass of wine. But with Isla Verde Beach on your doorstep, the Kumo Beach Experience is a tropical elevated experience that should not be missed.

Best Historic Hotel In Puerto Rico: Hotel El Convento

Hotel El Convento is located in a 17th-century convent in Old San Juan.

Hotel El Convento

Who Will Love It: Culture hounds and history buffs

All-Star Amenities: Rooftop swimming pool; fitness center; 24-hour valet parking across the street

What Not To Miss: Afternoon cocktails in the Alegría Patio Bar; manager’s nightly wine and cheese reception on La Veranda Terrace

Location: Old San Juan

The yellow and white Spanish Colonial exterior of Carmelite convent turned upscale Hotel El Convento is an eye-catching landmark in the heart of Old San Juan. Dating back to the 17th century, while arched doorways and mahogany beamed ceilings remain, its 58 guest rooms feature modern luxuries such as Bose sound systems, mini-fridges, goose-down pillows, and Aveda bath products. Andalusian tile floors, tapestries, and chandeliers add to the conquistador-era aesthetic. There are two restaurants, including Patio del Nispero, which serves Puerto Rican dishes and is named after the Nispero tree growing below it, and Alegría Patio Bar for wine and cocktails. The hotel is within walking distance of museums and local landmarks like the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista and San Felipe del Morro Fortress, but for a change of pace and scene, guest perks include privileges at sister property El Convento Beach Club in nearby Isla Verde, that come with day passes to the beach, the use of towels, umbrellas, and lounge chairs.

Best Bed And Breakfast In Puerto Rico: Puertas At El Quenepo

Some rooms have terraces with hammocks, perfect for watching the world go by from the second-floor perch.

Puertas At El Quenepo

Who Will Love It: Free spirits and slow travelers

All-Star Amenities: Onsite restaurant and bar; breakfast baskets; rainfall showers; communal terraces with sea views; access to beach chairs, coolers and towels

What Not To Miss: Dinner and drinks at El Quenepo

This jewel box-sized bed and breakfast on the island of Vieques has six lovely rooms, each tastefully decorated in sophisticated Caribbean cottagecore style with four-poster beds, Spanish tile floors and local artwork. Some, like “Papelillo” (Viequenese for bougainvillea), have terraces with hammocks, perfect for watching the world go by from the second-floor perch. Thoughtful extra touches include French presses and freshly ground coffee with breakfast baskets delivered each morning. A new pavilion in the garden provides a magical spot for guests to sit and mingle while watching the hummingbirds, with plans to add hammocks and more seating there this fall. Located on the Malecón in the village of Esperanza, local restaurants, bars and shops are within walking distance. However, the inn’s El Quenepo restaurant has been an island go-to since 2007 and shines at showcasing local ingredients, specifically catch-of-the-day seafood from local fishermen. There’s a two-night minimum, but the Viequenese owners recommend four nights or longer so guests can go beyond the Bioluminescent Bay and rent a vehicle to explore remote beaches and new hiking trails.

Best Hotel For Business Travelers In Puerto Rico: Condado Vanderbilt

Condado Vanderbilt guest rooms are sleek and stylish.

Condado Vanderbilt

Who Will Love It: Jet-setters and corporate travelers

All-Star Amenities: Beach Club; swimming pools; boutique fitness center; impressive dining options

What Not To Miss: Sunset from the infinity pool; the Hammam Ritual spa service

Constructed by the Vanderbilt family in 1919, the beachfront Condado Vanderbilt in San Juan's upscale Condado neighborhood seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern amenities. While retaining iconic features like the Art Deco lobby and grand staircase in its Spanish Revival-style building, the hotel expanded with the addition of two contemporary towers. The 317 guest rooms, including 100 suites, offer luxurious amenities such as Italian linens, marble bathtubs and French Press coffee makers. Corporate long-stay packages with ocean-view suites attract business travelers who can access the hotel's 24-hour business center and executive business lounge access. Dining options abound, too, with four restaurants and bars, including Michelin-starred chef Juan José Cuevas' 1919 Restaurant, where reservations for the paired 1919 Wine Dinner Series and sommelier-led Cellar Experience can also be made. With Condado Beach and additional fine dining and luxury shopping along Ashford Avenue, dubbed Puerto Rico's Rodeo Drive, on the hotel’s doorstep, there is plenty to explore outside of office hours, too.

Best Design Hotel In Puerto Rico: Hix Island House

A terrace with forest views at Hix Island House.

Hix Island House

Who Will Love It: Minimalists who want to get off-grid

All-Star Amenities: Yoga and Pilates pavilion; swimming pool; Frette linens; Neeva Gayle nightshirts

What Not To Miss: Sunrise yoga and languid afternoons beside the swimming pool

Architect John Hix designed his strikingly modern, back-to-nature hideaway on Vieques using Wabi Sabi principles. Surrounded by casuarina pine and palm trees, the sustainable concept was designated the Caribbean's first all-solar-powered hotel. Its four airy, open-plan casa styles feature separate loft spaces, private patios, kitchens and dining areas with Caribbean sea views. Ideal for early morning laps and aprés beach hangouts, the swimming pool serves as the 13-acre property's photogenic social center. While there's no restaurant, upon arrival each loft comes stocked with breakfast essentials like coffee, tea, bread and jam. Drive down the hill to the town of Esperanza for groceries or to grab dinner at one of the oceanfront restaurants. Guests are encouraged to digitally unplug while on property although Wi-Fi is available in the lobby. Join one of the daily restorative yoga and pilates classes, book a massage, or borrow beach chairs, towels and cooler bags from the Hix Island House team to spend a day on the coast.

Best Hotel For Golfers In Puerto Rico: Royal Isabela

Royal Isabela has just 20 spacious casitas.

Royal Isabela

Who Will Love It: Nature lovers and golfers

All-Star Amenities: Farm-to-table restaurant; saltwater swimming pool; library; grass tennis court

What Not To Miss: Cocktails at the Croquet Bar; a cooking class with the chef

Perched on a bluff near the 19th-century town of Isabela, Royal Isabela boasts a sustainably maintained 18-hole golf course designed by renowned architect David Pfaff. The property offers panoramic Atlantic Ocean vistas at every hole, as well as a luxurious clubhouse and eco-sensitive initiatives that include the use of solar-powered golf carts and water conservation. In keeping with the resort's environmental ethos, signature restaurant, Jota, uses ingredients from the onsite garden, locally caught fish and produce sourced from family farms. The Caribbean's historic sugar mills inspire resort architecture, and its 20 freestanding casitas feature airy bedrooms with wood-beamed ceilings, private terraces and plunge pools. Guests can spot humpback whales here between January and April or look for dozens of bird species across the property, including snowy egrets and scarlet tanagers. For hiking, surfing and paddle boarding excursions on the nearby Guajataca River, new director of guest experiences, Jorge Pérez, is the resort's go-to "Adventure Maestro."

Best Hotel For Foodies In Puerto Rico: El Pretexto

El Pretexto's hilltop location offers guests stunning sunset views.

El Pretexto

Who Will Love It: Fans of agro-tourism and travelers who love to cook

All-Star Amenities: Organic garden; optional yoga and massage sessions

What Not To Miss: Wandering through the orchard; family-style dining around the picnic tables

Location: Cayey

A self-proclaimed "culinary farm lodge" with free-roaming chickens in the Cayey Mountains just an hour from San Juan, El Pretexto is a dream destination for food-loving adult travelers. The property specializes in week-long culinary stays organized by owner Crystal Diaz—guests visit area markets and producers, meet local chefs and learn to make regional dishes through hands-on cooking classes. Whether staying for two nights or five, everyone gets to experience lovingly prepared and locally sourced breakfasts often made with fresh eggs from the resident hens, although it's possible to add farm-to-table dinners (Tuesday and Saturday), massages and yoga classes to bookings. El Pretexto frequently hosts pop-up dinners, too, so there's a good chance one of Puerto Rico's best chefs could be in the kitchen whipping up traditional Puerto Rican dishes like sofrito and pasteles, using ingredients from the farm. Accommodations—including five guest rooms split between two villas—are rustic but comfortable, with farm-style furniture and fine linens.

The Casa Botanic Ayurvedic Wellness Center has two treatment beds and a bathtub for therapeutic herbal soaks.

Finca Victoria

Who Will Love It: Anyone interested in a holistic retreat to reset

All-Star Amenities: Ayurvedic wellness center; saltwater pool; organic cotton sheets; vegan breakfast

What Not To Miss: Morning yoga; an ayurvedic consultation and nighttime stargazing

Ayurvedic medicine might not come to mind when thinking about a Caribbean getaway, but this boutique hotel has made a name among wellness seekers looking to restore mind and spirit. Finca Victoria features an outdoor saltwater pool, organic garden and sun terrace, plus new split-level structure Maloka for hosting yoga classes and other ceremonial gatherings. Decorated with vintage furniture and eclectic décor, each of the 12 rooms tells its own story—choose between treehouses, a new addition 1973 vintage Airstream and petite sea-view cabins, including one named after Finca Victoria founder Sylvia De Marco. Alternative modalities at the Casa Botanic Ayurvedic Wellness Center range from western massage to Chinese medicine, and the space has two treatment beds and a bathtub for therapeutic herbal soaks. For extended stays, consider a Panchakarma Detox. Packages are individually tailored but include a private consultation, Dosha test, personalized medicinal and herbal rituals, daily yoga and Ayurvedic meals.

Best Hotel For Cruisers In Puerto Rico: Aloft San Juan

Guest rooms are equipped with plush platform beds and 55-inch LCD TVs, ranging from kings and queens to a loft corner room with city views.

Aloft San Juan

Who Will Love It: Cruise ship travelers looking for a lively social scene

All-Star Amenities: Swimming pool; fitness center; three restaurants; complimentary Wi-Fi; pet-friendly program

What Not To Miss: Cocktails and a game of Pool in the Re:mix Lounge

Location: Miramar

Aloft San Juan offers cruise ship travelers a convenient stay near the Pan American Pier, but its prime Miramar neighborhood location also puts them within reach of attractions like Old San Juan and entertainment hub Distrito T Mobile. Guest rooms are equipped with plush platform beds and 55-inch LCD TVs, mini-fridges and a desk for working. Rooms range from kings and queens to a loft corner room with city views and suites with partial bay views. The hotel's contemporary and stylish design creates a welcoming atmosphere, most notably in the lobby, which doubles as an event space for the hotel’s Art Meets Fashion Series, which partners with local creatives, including artist Sofia Maldonado and fashion designer Herman Nadal. Guests can buy snacks at 24-hour grab-and-go pantry, Re:fuel, enjoy music and cocktails at WXYZ bar and relax at the rooftop pool and bar while taking in views of the city and the nearby harbor. Four-legged travelers are welcome, too, thanks to the pet-friendly program, Arf.

Best Hotel For Active Travelers In Puerto Rico: Tres Sirenas Beach Inn

The pool deck at Tres Sirenas is right on the water.

Tres Sirenas Beach Inn

Who Will Love It: Surfers and adventure travelers

All-Star Amenities: Oceanview pool with daybeds; common spaces with hammocks

What Not To Miss: Standup paddle boarding at sunset; cocktails at the Tiki Bar

Location: Rincón

World-class waves and stunning beaches attract surfers and adventurous travelers to Rincón on the western side of Puerto Rico, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic. Sitting in a prime oceanfront spot is the dreamy guesthouse Tres Sirenas (Three Mermaids). This two-story villa has an elegant residential feel with just five tastefully decorated accommodations, including two oceanfront rooms, one pool studio and two sea view apartments. Outdoor common areas provide ample space to relax and share a similar boho aesthetic with colorful rugs and woven basket light fixtures. Popular surf breaks are just a mile away, while kayaks and standup paddle boards can be rented onsite. The hotel’s staff are happy to arrange private yoga sessions, candlelit dinners on the beach and surf lessons, but lounging beside the oceanfront pool or leisurely swims at the beach are encouraged, too. Tres Sirenas doesn’t have a restaurant of its own, but breakfast is included and there’s a pint-sized bar for guests. Given its popularity and petite size, minimum stay requirements include four nights during high season and a full week over major holidays.

Best Airbnb In Puerto Rico: Selva Rainforest Retreat

Framed by mountain and ocean views with a striking pool deck and gazebo, you'll want to spend plenty of time outdoors.

Selva Rainforest Retreat

Accommodations: Three bedrooms, three bathrooms

Who Will Love It: Nature-seekers looking for a magical escape who appreciate modernist design

All-Star Amenities: Heated swimming pool; HDTV with Roku; Bluetooth sound system; fast Wi-Fi; beach essentials; pets allowed

What Not To Miss: Swims in the saltwater pool and stargazing from the gazebo

Location: El Yunque

Surrounded by a private hiking trail, this upscale hideaway in the El Yunque Rainforest feels deliciously remote and secluded, yet is under an hour from San Juan and a short drive to the Blue Flag Luquillo Beaches. Framed by mountain and ocean views, modernist architectural details abound outside, while its interiors feel clean and spacious and feature natural materials, including lime-wash walls, custom concrete and wood furniture. Each of the three bedrooms has a brutalist-style ensuite bathroom with an outdoor shower. With a striking pool deck and gazebo, you'll want to spend plenty of time outdoors—swimming, sunbathing, sitting beside the fire pit, stargazing and listening to the coqui tree frogs at night. After booking, guests can access a digital guide that highlights standout local sights—nearby waterfalls and the El Yunque National Forest, the best places to eat and the bioluminescent bay in Fajardo (one of only five bio bays in the world), which is 20 minutes away. For more great Airbnb options in Puerto Rico, check out our guide to the Best Airbnbs In Puerto Rico .

What Is The Best Area To Stay In Puerto Rico?

The capital city of San Juan provides a sense of having almost everything Puerto Rico has to offer at your fingertips: walkable historical landmarks, plus easy access to great beaches, vibrant nightlife, restaurants and a new white hot art scene to rival that of Miami. Its proximity to other regions for day trips makes it an attractive option too—whether hopping on a ferry over to one of the Spanish Virgin Islands, driving south to second largest city, Ponce, or east to Río Grande for a round of golf at the Rio Mar Country Club.

What Side Of Puerto Rico Is Best?

With six key regions across the island, there is a “best side” for every type of trip to Puerto Rico. Surfers will dig the waves and laid-back vibes of Rincón on the westernmost side of the island, while nature lovers will love exploring the eastern side of the island, including the municipality of Rio Grande and the plentiful hiking trails and waterfalls within El Yunque National Forest. For coffee culture and an authentic hacienda experience, the central mountains are popular. While historic city Ponce, or the ‘Pearl of the South,’ is home to important art museums, the tropical off-shore isle Vieques rewards with laid-back beach bars, the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay, and free roaming horses.

Is Puerto Rico Expensive To Visit?

With prices similar to the U.S., Puerto Rico might not be the cheapest destination in Latin America, but the island ranks as one of the most affordable to visit in the Caribbean—and one of its most desirable. High season runs November through April when hotel prices peak, while low season coincides with hurricanes and inclement weather between June and November, making it a more economical time to plan vacations.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. The travel section is overseen by Vetted’s senior travel editor, Astrid Taran , a 7-year industry veteran who’s visited over 35 countries. The writer of each of our hotel roundups is handpicked based on their area of expertise, whether they are area locals or avid travelers who have visited the destination frequently—and all have bylines in other reputable travel publications. Further, this story is regularly checked to ensure that all prices and information are as current as possible. It was last updated in April 2024.

About Keri Bridgwater, Your Puerto Rico Guide

I have a soft spot for writing about hotels but some of my favorite travel assignments include riding out in search of wild horses in Arizona, flying in the back of a USAF subsonic trainer jet over Huntington Beach and driving luxury cars around Paris and Madrid. Puerto Rico piqued my interest after reading The Rum Diary and while I explored several corners of the island, chasing waves in Rincón tops my must dos for a return trip. Based in San Diego, I’m often on assignment and have reported on the post-pandemic reopening of Phuket for Marie Claire , why horses draw visitors to Iceland for Fodor’s Travel , the pros of skiing in Switzerland for Matador Network and the best hotels in Lake Tahoe for Travel + Leisure .

More Travel Stories:

• Best Airbnbs In Puerto Rico
• Best Hotels In Miami
• Best All-Inclusive Resorts In The Caribbean

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Puerto Rico’s southern coast is the island’s best-kept secret

Take it from a guayama native: the caribbean coast is worth exploring from end to end.

The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind.

Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation transforms into clusters of cactuses and shrubs, painting an arid landscape against the distant view of the Caribbean Sea.

Ranging east to west from the town of Yabucoa to Cabo Rojo, the southern coast of Puerto Rico is rich in culture, food, beaches and nature. But beyond all the tangible attractions, locals say the spirit of hospitality makes the place unique. “Our greatest asset is the people, who make people feel at home,” says Milexys Rosado Romero, the owner of Hacienda Tres Casitas , a farm stay in Cabo Rojo.

I learned this growing up in Guayama, where neighbors traded mangoes for papayas. My parents were always inviting people for coffee, or my dad might arrive home with a bagful of fresh seafood he got from a friend he ran into at the beach.

Unfortunately, no reliable public transport options exist, so renting a car is the best bet to reach the smaller towns and unspoiled beaches. Highway 52 traverses the island from north to south, taking you from San Juan to Guayama in around 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Ponce in two hours or less. Highway 2 takes you west to Cabo Rojo and up the western coast, and Route 3 takes you along the eastern coast with scenic ocean views of Patillas and Maunabo.

If traveling during the fall, you may catch surfers in Guardarraya Beach in Patillas. It’s hard to get lost as you can easily find lesser-known beaches via Google Maps, with good cell coverage throughout the region.

Many of the lodgings offered on the southern coast, from the luxury Copamarina Beach Resort to the kid-friendly Combate Beach Resort , have been owned by local families for generations. Farm stays, small inns known as paradors and vacation rentals dominate the accommodations, making for a relaxed scene.

I recommend visiting from Wednesdays to Sundays for a livelier scene and more dining options; earlier in the week is perfect for having the beaches all to yourself.

Low-key beaches in Cabo Rojo

Even the Caribbean Sea beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Rico are in chill mode, more relaxed than their choppy Atlantic Ocean counterparts in the north.

With small waves and shallow waters, Combate Beach, on the southwest corner, is ideal for families. Make it a day-long affair with a passion fruit mojito at Annie’s Place with picturesque sunset views.

For a more rustic beach experience, go to Playa Sucia, one of Puerto Rico’s southernmost beaches. While there, hike the trails leading to El Faro de Cabo Rojo and Puente de Piedra for 360-degree views of a colorful mix of Caribbean blues, sandy-colored rocky enclaves and green mangroves along the coast. Walk a mile and a half north of Playa Sucia, and you will encounter the Salinas de Cabo Rojo, with colorful yellow-shouldered blackbirds flying over the pink salt flats.

Boquerón is a neighborhood known for its stands of local fish, oysters and clams. You can also take a dip at its small sandy strip. The neighborhood is vibrant, with music blaring throughout the many kiosks and beachside restaurants, most specializing in seafood. You don’t have to go far inland to find roasted pork at Camino Los Charros. Rosado also recommends La Catumba Lechonera among the many restaurants that specialize in pork.

Restaurants on the rise in Guayama

“Guayama esta pegao” — in style, according to what I’ve heard from many friends across the island.

A coastal city on the southeastern side, it is known for having a charming plaza (town square) with homes and buildings dating from the 1800s. One of these historical homes houses Gallo Pinto , a restaurant by chef Ángel David Moreno Zayas that has become a destination with dishes like grilled oysters, bone marrow with beef tartare, and fried red snapper.

“I’ve worked in many kitchens in San Juan and the mainland United States, but I wanted to open my restaurant in Guayama,” says Moreno Zayas of his hometown. “It started as a casual place because we were recovering from the pandemic, but now we’ve incorporated more fine-dining elements, and the reception has been spectacular.”

After a feast at Gallo Pinto, one must save room for ice cream at one of Guayama’s classic spots, Rex Cream. Owned by Chinese-Cuban immigrants, the Louke Chang family, it’s a mandatory stop. A scoop of salty-sweet corn ice cream with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon is perfect for a walk along the plaza.

At Pozuelo, a fishermen’s neighborhood beyond the city center, go to El Arcoiris for one of my childhood favorites, the octopus salad with a side of tostones. Or bite into a crispy alcapurria — a fritter made of banana and root vegetables — at El Fogón de Susa as you stroll along the beach.

You can find one of the most impressive wine lists in the south at Prime Market , where local couple Laury Cordero Sabater and Antonio Palau transformed an old home along Route 3 into an ample outdoor patio with a menu specializing in steaks.

Art and culture in Ponce

It’s hard to find Puerto Ricans prouder of their hometown than Ponceños. I’m not disputing their pride, because the city has so much to offer, especially in terms of arts and culture.

“Start with a walking tour of the city center of Ponce to learn about the history of Ponce and gain an orientation of the city,” says Melina Aguilar Colón, the founder of Isla Caribe tours. “One of the sights not to be missed is the Parque de Bombas de Ponce,” she said. Initially built in 1882 for the Exhibition Trade Fair, the Ponce firehouse is a symbol of the city; the distinct red-and-black-striped facade was an inspiration for the Ponce flag.

After walking through the city center, go for cocktails along Paseo de la Salsa Cheo Feliciano, named after the pioneering salsa singer José Feliciano. At El Marlin 107, William Collazo, a big name in Puerto Rico’s cocktail community, mixes drinks with tropical infusions like coconut water, guava and mangoes. On the weekends, expect live music along the street where you can test your salsa skills. For dinner, head to Chef’s Creations, where you catch chef Jorge Rivera cooking over a wood-fired grill in his restaurant’s patio.

Although the city has suffered structural damage during Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by an earthquake in 2020, Ponce has focused on reconstruction and updates to many of its cultural institutions. The Teatro La Perla, a cultural hub for performance art, is set to reopen in 2025 with plays and musical performances. The Art Museum of Ponce , home of the iconic “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton (which is currently on loan to the Royal Academy of Arts in London), recently reopened its doors after extensive repairs.

Ponce is also considered the birthplace of plena music, one of the traditional sounds of Puerto Rico. Deeply infused with African beats, plena tells the story of the Puerto Rican people from the early 1900s. You can learn more about plena and other Puerto Rican music like bomba and danza at the Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña, a small museum in the city center.

El Bosque dry forest and bioluminescent bays

According to Aguilar Colón, “everybody knows about El Yunque rainforest, but nobody talks about El Bosque Seco de Guánica, the dry forest on the island’s southwest coast.” I agree.

One of the things that makes Puerto Rico unique is the contrast of ecosystems in a relatively small island. Walking along the trails, you will notice the different varieties of cactuses, Guayacán trees and mangroves as you get closer to the shoreline. Birdwatchers will rejoice with the sights of sparrow hawks, hummingbirds and brown pelicans. The dry forest is one of the island’s hottest places, so ensure you bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Next to Guánica, in the neighboring town of Lajas, there’s another natural phenomenon. La Parguera is home to one of the three bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico. Because of overpopulation, it’s not as bright as in Vieques, but it’s still worth a trip if you’re in the area.

The local dock offers boat rides, and you can also find kayak tours taking you deeper into the bay for better views. Beyond the bay, the Parguera is known for its bustling scene on the weekends with plenty of bars, restaurants and bands.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus is a travel and food writer, digital content creator and the author of “ The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico .” She divides her time between Brussels, D.C. and western New York. Follow her on Instagram @diningtraveler .

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

Paris, Puerto Rico and more made the top 20!

For anyone feeling a sudden urge for summer wanderlust, Google unveiled its top 20 destinations that travelers have already taken an interest in for any upcoming warm weather getaways.

From domestic to international locations, Google shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with "Good Morning America" to help people start planning summer vacation spots or shape an ideal itinerary.

Much like snubs and surprises during awards season, there are a couple of places that fell out of favor since last year as well as some new additions that made this year's list.

Check out all the spots below.

Top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights

The search engine technology company said the list reflects people in the U.S. searching on Google Flights for travel anytime between June 1 through August 31, 2024.

Cancun, which previously came in at number one during summer, dropped to number six, while Tokyo is on the rise, with Madrid and San Juan new to the summer location lineup.

1. London 2. Paris 3. Tokyo 4. Rome 5. New York 6. Cancun 7. Orlando 8. Las Vegas 9. Seattle 10. Athens 11. Los Angeles 12. Miami 13. Barcelona 14. Dublin 15. Fort Lauderdale 16. Honolulu 17. Denver 18. Madrid 19. Boston 20. San Juan

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The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three.

Newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year.

Travel trends on Google search

Google gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from U.S. users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer.

Searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January.

Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys.

The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa, the famed California wine country, and Key West, home to the southernmost point in the Continental U.S. with historic landmarks.

Finally, La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

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Puerto Rico Is A Top Golf Travel Destination—For You And PGA Tour

The Puerto Rico Open finished with a dramatic playoff Sunday, but it was hardly the end for the event. In fact, while I was attending the tournament—one of the most spectator friendly in all of golf—the PGA Tour and Puerto Rico Tourism Company announced a two-year extension of the longest running PGA Tour event in the Caribbean, since 2008. “The Puerto Rico Open beautifully showcases what visitors can expect when playing golf here,” said Brad Dean, chief executive officer of Discover Puerto Rico. “Watching top-echelon players compete on one of...

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Download this courtesy guide to optimize your travels and experience in Puerto Rico.

Top Puerto Rico Tourist Attractions: An Unforgettable Caribbean Adventure

Key takeaways – top puerto rico tourist attractions, takeaway 1: puerto rico offers a diverse range of attractions.

Puerto Rico, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes, truly has something for everyone. From exploring the charming streets of Old San Juan and visiting its iconic citadel to immersing yourself in the beauty of El Yunque National Forest and the Camuy Caves, there is no shortage of natural wonders to discover. And let’s not forget about the fascinating Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico and the impressive Museo de Arte de Ponce. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, Puerto Rico has it all.

Takeaway 2: Beaches and sunsets that will take your breath away

For beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, Condado and Dorado Beach are the perfect spots to soak up the sun and have some fun in the water. And if you’re looking for unspoiled beauty, Vieques island with Playa Flamenco as a prime attraction will leave you mesmerized. But perhaps one of the most unique experiences awaits at Bio Bay in Vieques where microorganisms create bioluminescence that glows when disturbed. And let’s not forget about those incredible sunset views on the west side of Puerto Rico – they are truly breathtaking!

Takeaway 3: Immerse yourself in history and culinary delights

Don’t miss out on exploring San Juan’s historic landmarks such as San Juan National Historic Site, Casa Blanca Museum, and Cathedral of Santa Maria. These sites beautifully showcase colonial-era architecture and hold great historical significance. And when it comes to food, Puerto Rico won’t disappoint! Take part in food tours or visit local craft breweries to taste delicious cuisine and craft beers. Oh! And make sure to visit El Morro during both day and night – the experience is completely different, but equally amazing. In conclusion, Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of attractions, from historical landmarks and natural wonders to beautiful beaches and culinary delights. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, this Caribbean paradise has it all. So don’t miss out on exploring Puerto Rico’s rich history, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes – it’s an experience you won’t forget!

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Here’s a Youtube Video about Top Puerto Rico tourist attractions

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Exploring the Rich History and Vibrant Culture of Old San Juan

When it comes to top Puerto Rico tourist attractions , one place that always tops the list is Old San Juan . With its 500 years of rich history, the old city holds a unique charm that is simply irresistible. By the way, when you’re wandering around these ancient streets, be sure to visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro , a stunning 16th-century citadel offering unrivaled views.

Venturing into the Tropical Paradise of El Yunque National Forest

In any case, if you’re a nature enthusiast like me, a visit to Puerto Rico would be incomplete without exploring its only tropical rainforest in the United States’ national forest system – El Yunque National Forest .

As one of the most unique San Juan attractions , this beautiful paradise offers waterfalls, hiking trails and unique flora and fauna that are guaranteed to take your breath away.

Unearthing the Mystery of Camuy Caves and Experiencing the Charm of Casa Bacardi

The breathtaking natural wonders of Puerto Rico don’t stop at El Yunque. Now that I think about it, your trip should also include exploring another hidden gem – Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy . It’s an underground cave system like no other.

All things considered; if rum fascinates you or if you’re always up for trying something locally produced do not miss out on visiting Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico . You’ll get a first-hand experience in rum production along with tasting some excellent local rum.

Soaking up the Sun: The Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

If you’re anything like me, a beach lover, then Puerto Rico’s Condado and Dorado Beach are just the place for you.

These aren’t just any ordinary beaches; they’re some of the most popular sights in Puerto Rico. You’ll find everything from sunbathing to water sports here.

Discovering Puerto Rico’s Historic Landmarks: San Juan National Site, Casa Blanca Museum, and Cathedral of Santa Maria

You see , this beautiful Caribbean island isn’t only about sun and sand.

It also houses some of the most astonishing historical places in Puerto Rico. Be sure to check out Casa Blanca Museum and Cathedral of Santa Maria . They hold immense historical significance.

A Culinary Journey: From Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine to Craft Beers

Puerto Rico isn’t only rich in history and natural beauty but also offers an unforgettable culinary journey.

From authentic local cuisine to delicious craft beers at local breweries, there’s something for every gastronome here.

Adventures at El Morro: Daytime Excursions and Nighttime Experiences

Naturally, a robust discussion on top attractions cannot leave out “ Culebra Island visit” .

And within it lies El Morro, a must-visit sight offering distinct day & night experiences.

The West Side: Puerto Rico’s Hidden Gem for Beaches and Sunsets

Last but not least on this list of top Puerto Rico tourist attractions is the west side of the island itself – an often overlooked but much-loved gem for its stunning beaches and breathtaking sunsets.

Choosing Your Accommodation: The Allure of Old San Juan

When it comes to your stay, settling in Old San Juan would be an excellent choice. After all, its accessibility to major attractions, coupled with the city’s historic charm and vibrant culture, makes it popular amongst tourists.

In conclusion, from ancient forts to lush rainforests, from tranquil beaches to fascinating museums- Puerto Rico offers a plethora of mesmerizing attractions for every kind of traveler.

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Exploring the top Puerto Rico tourist attractions is just the beginning of your adventure. After that, if you’re interested in experiencing more of Caribbean life, you might wonder if you can visit Cuba from Puerto Rico. According to our post at Can Puerto Rico Go To Cuba , it’s absolutely possible and a whole new experience waiting for you. A trip to this island wouldn’t be complete without checking out some of the best accommodations around. For families, we’ve compiled a list of the finest resorts on offer in our post at Best Puerto Rico All-Inclusive Resorts For Families . These resorts offer activities and amenities that guarantee an enjoyable stay for everyone in the family. Puerto Rico is renowned for its beautiful coastlines and sandy beaches. Therefore, it’s essential to know whether these beaches match up to their reputation. Find out what we think about these beach paradises in our post at Does Puerto Rico Have Good Beaches . This should help steer your itinerary towards soaking up some sun on these fantastic beaches! If after an exciting yet tiring day touring around top tourist spots, you’re looking for a place that offers not only comfort but also style and convenience – Airbnb could be your solution! The island has a cool range of Airbnb options as discussed in our post at Cool Puerto Rico Airbnb . Choose from luxurious villas with private pools or cozy beachfront homes making your stay a memorable one.

My Personal Take about Top Puerto Rico tourist attractions

Hi there, it’s your friendly globetrotter Steve back with another exciting trip to share! As someone who’s explored every nook and cranny of the island, I’m here to guide you through the top Puerto Rico tourist attractions, from lush rainforests to crystal clear waters and vibrant city life. Now that I think about it, Puerto Rico isn’t merely a vacation spot; it’s an unforgettable Caribbean adventure wrapped in history, food, and culture. You see, from hiking El Yunque – America’s only tropical rainforest – to diving into the surreal bioluminescent lagoons at night or exploring Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets brimming with colonial charm; In each corner of this tropical paradise awaits an incredible experience just for you.

In any case, my dream is for everyone to explore all these astounding locations – really feel the heartbeat of this wonderful island. I truly believe that a journey to Puerto Rico is not just a trip; it’s also an encounter with ourselves. Puerto Rico awaits you! “,

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Turisteando en Puerto Rico (@turisteandoenpuertorico_)

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Frequently Asked Questions about Top Puerto Rico tourist attractions

1. what are the top tourist attractions in puerto rico.

Some of the top tourist attractions in Puerto Rico include Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest, Camuy Caves, Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico, Museo de Arte de Ponce, and beautiful beaches like Condado and Dorado Beach.

2. What can I do in Old San Juan?

In Old San Juan, you can wander around the charming streets and immerse yourself in its 500 years of history. Don’t forget to visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro for stunning views of the city.

3. Which is the only tropical rainforest in the US national forest system?

The only tropical rainforest in the United States’ national forest system is El Yunque National Forest. It offers breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna.

4. Where can I experience Puerto Rican art?

You can experience Puerto Rican art at Museo de Arte de Ponce, which houses an impressive collection of international art.

5. Which beach is known for its bioluminescent bay?

Vieques Island is known for its unspoiled beauty and Playa Flamenco beach. It also offers Bio Bay, famous for its bioluminescence caused by microorganisms that glow when disturbed.

6. Why should I visit Old San Juan at different times of the day?

You should visit Old San Juan both during the day and night to experience different atmospheres. During the day, you can explore its historic charm, while at night, you can witness a vibrant nightlife full of energy and entertainment.

Now you know Top Puerto Rico tourist attractions , but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like PR. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Puerto Rico journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.

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