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Your Trip to Puerto Rico: The Complete Guide

Puerto Rico is a crown jewel of the Caribbean, a tropical island with great weather year-round and a wide assortment of fantastic attractions. Whether your visit is for a week or a month, you won’t run out of things to do, places to go, and wonders to experience. You may love the beaches the most, or the climate in general, or the deep forest ecosystems, or the mountain peaks and valleys, or the rich and diverse cultural milieu. Whatever your preferences, when you come to Puerto Rico, you’ll find endless delights to enjoy and experience.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : The weather in Puerto Rico is ideal during the late fall, winter, and early spring. Temperatures stay warm and comfortable, and there is less rain and humidity than at other times of the year. Summer and the approximate months are sweltering and humid in Puerto Rico, and also represent the beginning of tropical storm and hurricane season . However, because summer is less busy, better deals on travel, hospitality, and recreation can often be found at that time of the year.

Language: Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico   . A fifth of its citizens speak English fluently, but visitors who speak English exclusively will seldom have difficulty being understood.

Currency: The U.S. dollar. Puerto Rico is a part of the United States.

Getting Around: Outside the capital city of San Juan, good public transportation options in Puerto Rico are limited. This means you’ll likely have to rent a car if you want to explore different parts of the island. Taxis are expensive in Puerto Rico and should only be used sparingly, although the service is dependable when you need them. Boat rides are another way to explore the area if you plan to travel along the coast. Uber is an option in the metro area (San Juan and surrounding towns), but they’re scarce the further west and south you travel.

Travel Tip: Not everyone knows it, but there is more to Puerto Rico than just the main island. Just a few miles off the southeastern shore, you can find the small islands of Culebra and Vieques , each of which has been blessed with abundant natural beauty. Formerly used by the U.S. military for various training activities, both are now autonomous and open to receiving tourists. Both small islands are accessible by ferry or a short airplane ride, and a day spent on each would truly complete your trip.

Things to Do

Puerto Rico is one of the few places in the world where you can see and experience the ocean, arid land, forest, and mountain ecosystems and geological features on the same trip. Its culture is active and vibrant, its monuments and museums have faithfully preserved its history and cultural diversity, and there are so many breathtaking beaches you could spend your entire vacation just lying in the sun and enjoying them. Fishing, swimming, snorkeling, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, zip-lining, bird watching, boating: name your favorite form of recreation, and your Puerto Rican vacation can include it.

The list of most memorable and enjoyable tourist attractions in Puerto Rico includes:

• Beaches : Puerto Rico’s most populated cities are almost all located along its contiguous coastline. Virtually all feature clean, sparkling, well-maintained beaches that are considered among the world’s most attractive. In all, Puerto Rico has more than 270 miles of coastline and more than 300 beaches,  some of which are crowded but many of which are quiet and secluded.
• National Forests: The interior region of Puerto Rico is a haven for nature enthusiasts. One of its most visited nature sanctuaries is El Yunque National Forest , the U.S. forest system's only tropical rainforest   . Toro Negro in the southeast, and the desert-like Guanica Dry Forest Reserve in the southwest corner , are two other popular destinations.
• Old San Juan : Old San Juan is the cultural and historical birthplace of Puerto Rico’s capital city. While walking its streets or strolling on its trails, you encounter an impressive array of specialized museums, many historical sites, colorful public art displays, great restaurants and clubs, amazingly well-preserved colonial architecture, and picturesque views of the sea.

Discover more things to do in Puerto Rico, including the best things to do and things to do with kids .

What to Eat and Drink

Puerto Rico does have its own distinct type of cuisine , which is known as cocina criolla , comidas criollas , or Creole cooking. It is a unique blend of Spanish, American, African, and indigenous cooking styles and ingredients, and it creates a broad menu of tasty mixtures that offers something to please the taste buds of every traveler (often at “mom and pop” restaurants and food trucks found off the beaten path). Puerto Rico is also an ideal destination for seafood lovers, as would be expected given its sea-blessed location. Some of the most delicious seafood can be found in restaurants in smaller cities and fishing villages, where fresh-caught fare is the norm.

Puerto Rico is the top rum producer in the Caribbean. Birthplace of the piña colada   , the island serves up plenty of tropical cocktails and other beverages made from local ingredients. While the coffee industry is no longer as prosperous as it once was, Puerto Rican coffee is still some of the highest quality found anywhere, and coffee shops that serve a variety of coffee drinks are standard on the island—offering tasty alternatives to Starbucks.

Find out more about the best restaurants on the island, and learn more about the best bars in San Juan .

Where to Stay

Even if you plan to explore extensively outside the city limits of San Juan, the capital city may still be the best place to stay. Puerto Rico is not a large island, and you can reach Ponce on the southern coast and Mayaguez on the west coast (the next two largest cities) in two hours or less from San Juan. Budget and luxury hotels alike are widely available in San Juan, Ponce, Mayaguez, and in smaller coastal cities like Arecibo and Ceiba, as are inexpensive Airbnb facilities, giving you a wide range of suitable options if you’d like to stay near the beach and the ocean during your time on the island.

Before you make your reservations, read more about the best places to stay in Puerto Rico , including the top hotels on the island and the top hotels in San Juan .

Getting There

Tourists coming to Puerto Rico will arrive at one of three major airports:

• Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan
• Rafael Hernández International Airport in Aguadilla
• Mercedita/Ponce International Airport in Ponce

Most tourists fly into the airport in San Juan, since this large, modern facility is designed to handle heavy two-way traffic. If you’re coming specifically to Mayaguez or other locations in western Puerto Rico, the international airport in Aguadilla could be an option, and visitors to southern Puerto Rico may be able to fly directly into Ponce. But service to these two airports is far more limited, meaning San Juan will be your likely arrival point in most instances.

Culture and Customs

It's a good idea to learn at least a little basic survival Spanish, if not more, before you arrive in Puerto Rico. If you venture outside the typical tourist areas, you'll certainly need it, since English is not commonly spoken. Puerto Ricans everywhere will appreciate your attempts to use Spanish, even if your knowledge of the language is sparse, and as long as they see you’re trying, they will usually go out of their way to help you as best they can.

Tipping waitstaff and taxi drivers is normal in Puerto Rico. You should expect to pay the same 15-20 percent range you’d pay in the continental United States. It is generally considered rude not to say “please,” “hello,” and “thank you,” in Puerto Rico, even to people you only encounter briefly or casually. If you say it to them in Spanish ( “por favor,” “hola,” and “gracias” ), your gesture will be noticed and appreciated.

Money-Saving Tips

The cost of living in Puerto Rico is somewhat higher than in the United States. Many goods must be imported to the island, accruing extra expenses that are ultimately passed on to consumers by retailers.

Consequently, you'll want to save money any way you can while you're on the island. Here are a few money-saving tips that can keep you within the confines of your budget:

• Rent from Airbnb or stay at a hostel: The prices for quality accommodations at Puerto Rican Airbnbs are surprisingly cheap. Homes, rooms, and apartments are well-maintained and generously furnished, and it usually isn’t hard to find places within walking distance of nearby beaches. Staying at a hostel is another budget-friendly possibility if you don’t mind sharing accommodations with other travelers.
• Buy your lunches or breakfasts at kioskos: Street vendors selling all types of food from carts or small stands (called kioskos) are common in Puerto Rico, especially in more populated areas. Prices at these food stands are significantly less than you’d pay in a sit-down restaurant, and the food is both diverse and tasty.
• Soak up as much free history, culture, and nature as you can: In Puerto Rico, museums, and historical sites (like the fortresses at El Morro and La Fortaleza ) are often free to enter. When they aren’t, the price of entrance is usually quite low, rarely more than $10. Walking tours won’t cost you a penny, and the historic district of Old San Juan is highly recommended for this type of activity. Popular national forests like El Yunque and Guanica Dry Forest are also free to enter and explore. The beaches, of course, are Puerto Rico’s most famous free attraction, and at many beaches, you’ll be able to park at no cost as well.
• Travel during the off-season: June to November is hurricane season in Puerto Rico, and the heat, humidity, and rainfall can be quite prodigious. But it is much easier to find deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, and tours if you travel in the summer or fall . If you are at all worried about being in Puerto Rico at this time, because of the weather, you can purchase travel insurance to help alleviate your concerns.

Find out more about the best free activities in Puerto Rico , which will help you get the absolute most out of your marvelous Puerto Rican vacation.

Discover Puerto Rico. "Facts About Puerto Rico."

Discover Puerto Rico. " Best Beaches in Puerto Rico ."

United States Department of Agriculture . "El Yunque National Forest."

Discover Puerto Rico . "Culinary & Cocktails."

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The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary

Plan your dream Puerto Rico itinerary with this detailed guide to beautiful beaches, buzzy cities, underground caves and amazing activities.

Looking for your own little slice of paradise? Puerto Rico is a very special Caribbean island, with pristine beaches flanked with palm trees, colourful corals surrounded by kaleidoscopic shoals of fish, and lush rainforest packed with incredible wildlife.

There’s so much to see and do on this beautiful island – the only problem is that you’ll have a hard time fitting everything into your Puerto Rico itinerary!

Whether you like lounging on the beach catching some rays, or racing around on a quad bike, you’ll find plenty of fun activities in Puerto Rico. The island is also steeped in fascinating history, and boasts some excellent museums. Plus, there’s colonial architecture to explore, a vibrant music scene to enjoy and some of the best slow roast pork specialities you’ll ever taste.

However, most people come here to experience the magnificent landscape and idyllic coastline – you could say Puerto Rico is Mother Nature at her best.

So, are you looking for some Puerto Rico travel advice? Trying to decide what to put on your Puerto Rico itinerary? To help you decide, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

9 Amazing Things to Do In Puerto Rico

1. take a stroll around old san juan.

Old San Juan is one of Puerto Rico’s finest cultural attractions, and there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than by exploring the historic centre of this picturesque district on a walking tour. The vibe today is relaxed and laid back, but this old town has a history of turmoil, which has left its mark on the historic buildings and the ravaged fortress, Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

You can hear stories of intrigue, smuggling and revolt as you explore this impressive castle by the sea – one of the most popular things to do in San Juan. It’s also an excellent place to sample some traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.

The sights, sounds and smells of Old San Juan are simply charming, making this a must on any Puerto Rico itinerary.

2. Take A Trip To The Deserted Icacos Island  

Lush, green and surrounded by pristine Caribbean waters, Cayo Icacos is a beautiful destination for a day trip. This completely deserted island just off the Fajardo coastline is surrounded by postcard-perfect shimmering turquoise waters and lush reefs, offering some of the best snorkelling in Puerto Rico.

There’s no camping permitted, and you’ll need to organise your own transport by boat, which will involve some planning. An easy way to make the trip is to book onto a tour like this one , which takes you to the island on a stylish catamaran.

A trip to Cayon Icacos is a very special addition to any Puerto Rico itinerary, and one of the best ways to experience a real taste of the Caribbean.

3. Go Scuba Diving in Paraguera

Paraguera is one of Puerto Rico’s hidden gems – a beautiful coastal town near one of the best coral reefs Puerto Rico has to offer. Get your Puerto Rico snorkelling fix at the Paraguera Wall. With colourful corals and incredible biodiversity, it’s one of the best places to observe marine life around the island.

Paraguera is also one of only three places in Puerto Rico (along with Mosquito Bay and Luaguna Grande) where you can observe bioluminescent phytoplankton. These tiny microorganisms light up when disturbed, creating incredible visual displays in the water after dark.

Seeing the glowing waters of the bioluminescent bay at night is simply unforgettable and easily one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

4. Visit El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest within the US National Forest Service, El Yunque is one of Puerto Rico’s most popular attractions. This enchanting forest covers 28,000 acres on the north eastern part of the island, and receives a whopping 120 inches of rain a year.

The lush, green vegetation sustains a wonderful diversity of animals, insects, and birds, including the legendary coquí frog, an important symbol of Puerto Rican culture and identity.

After a few days on the beach, El Yunque is the perfect place to cool down, as it is dotted with natural pools where you can take a refreshing swim. To get the full experience, why not book onto an El Yunque Rainforest and Waterslide Tour ? This tour is filled with unforgettable adventures in the wilderness which you’re guaranteed to want to add to your Puerto Rico itinerary.  

5. Go Horse Riding At A Private Ranch

Hiking is a popular activity in Puerto Rico, but for something different, how about seeing the sights on horseback? This fantastic tour will take you deep into the lush countryside around San Juan where you can go wildlife spotting from the back of your very own trusty steed!

It’s a lovely way to venture through the lush forests and take in the views of the towering mountains east of San Juan, all while learning more about the traditions of the island. Whether you’re an expert jockey or a complete novice, this is one of the most unique and fun things to do in San Juan.

6. Hang Out On The Beach

Puerto Rico is known for its beautiful coastline. It’s home to miles of pristine white sand beaches where you can easily spend a day (or a week!) paddling in the warm turquoise waters and topping up your tan.

If you’re looking for the best beaches for paddling and snorkelling, head to Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo. With dreamy palm trees, golden sand, and a lovely sheltered bay where you can swim in peace, it’s a great option for a beach day in Puerto Rico. Cabo Rojo is another popular option, especially for snorkelling.

Perhaps the best beach in Puerto Rico is trickier to reach! It’s located on the outlying island of Culebra, nestled in a sheltered bay with shallow water and jaw dropping scenery. It’s definitely off the beaten path, but if you go, it’s likely to be the highlight of your Puerto Rico itinerary!

7. Visit the Camuy Cave Park

One of Puerto Rico’s most popular attractions is the Camuy River Cave Park – an extensive cave network stretching for 286 acres underground. Shaped millions of years ago by the relentless course of the River Camuy, this impressive subterranean system is decorated with stalactites and stalagmites, occasionally opening up into vast caverns and sinkholes.

Step away from the lush green forests above ground and descend into a completely different world, where you’ll encounter strange wildlife and beautiful rock formations. This fabulous site should definitely be on your Puerto Rico itinerary.

8. Get Your Thrills On A Jet Ski or ATV Tour

Life in Puerto Rico is pretty relaxed and easy going, but if you’re looking for some thrills during your stay, you’ll get them on one of these brilliant tours. Finding the pace of life too slow? Hop on board an All Terrain Vehicle and enjoy a few carefree hours zipping around the fabulous Puerto Rican landscape on this popular ATV tour !

Alternatively, head out to the northern coast and tour the coastline all the way through the San Jose Lagoon to the beach of Isla Verde. I’d recommend taking a look at this awesome jet ski tour – definitely one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico if you’re looking for a little adventure!

Finally, if you’re still looking for that adrenaline high, head to the Toro Verde Adventure Park, where you can enjoy an epic 2.5km zip-line known as ‘the monster’. Wow, that sounds like fun!

9. Visit Cueva del Indio

Although Puerto Rico’s architecture is dominated by its Spanish colonial history, the island has a much longer cultural legacy. The Cueva del Indio is an ancient cave that contains a large number of petroglyphs made by the indigenous inhabitations of the island, prior to the period of Spanish colonisation.

Combine this fascinating spot with a trip to the ‘Taino Stonehenge’, an impressive stone circle covered in even more petroglyphs, which functions as a sacred ceremonial site for the indigenous Taino people. Peel back the layers of Puerto Rico’s rich history, and uncover a new side to this remarkable island.

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

Villa montana beach resort.

With colonial-style décor blended with rustic touches, luxury furnishings, and some of the best views on the island, the Villa Montana Beach Resort is our pick of the resort options in Puerto Rico.

The site itself covers three miles of beautiful golden beach, and offers everything you’ll need for a blissful stay in Puerto Rico. The friendly staff can organise tours and daily activities like scuba diving or horse riding, and the dining options are varied and simply delicious!

Without doubt, Villa Montana Beach Resort is one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.

Hotel El Convento

If you’re looking for a unique, quirky hotel in the heart of San Juan, look no further than Hotel El Convento. Built in 1646, and once the site of an important convent, the building was converted into a smart and stylish boutique hotel in the 1990s.

With colourful décor, comfortable rooms and bags of character, this is one of the most unique places to stay in Puerto Rico. It’s also perfectly located for exploring the city, within walking distance of all the major sites.

With a rooftop pool and a lovely shady courtyard, it’s also a wonderful place to take refuge on a hot day. A swim here is one of the best things to do in San Juan!

Blue Horizon Boutique Resort

Located on the island of Vieques, just off the coast of Puerto Rico, the beautiful Blue Horizon Boutique Resort is one of the most popular luxury accommodation options on the island.

The ocean views are breathtaking, and you can admire them in style as you sip a cocktail in the beautiful infinity pool at sunset. Rooms are tastefully decorated with comfort as a priority, and the local staff can organise all kinds of tours and excursions on and around the island.

It’s no wonder that this historic boutique resort is one of the most popular places to stay in Puerto Rico.

What To Pack For Puerto Rico: Useful Items

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect Puerto Rico itinerary. What’s at the top of your list?

Just a reminder, if you are flying to the States,  you will need an ESTA USA . This is an electronic visa that you can easily apply for by filling out an online form. In just a couple of hours you’ll receive your ESTA without having to visit an embassy or consulate.

Whether you’re looking for a one week or 14-day trip, I hope this post has given you plenty of ideas for things to do in Puerto Rico. Have an amazing time!

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary”

I could spend a year in Puerto Rico and never run out of stuff to do. So much adventure and beauty to explore in many places!

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The Ultimate Puerto Rico 5 & 7 Day Travel Itinerary

Puerto Rico is a compact island that can easily be traversed in a week if you’re in a hurry. That said, putting together the perfect Puerto Rico itinerary isn’t always an easy task.

You can hit the highlights in as little as a 4 day itinerary. Plenty of people also plan 5 day itineraries with most people staying in Puerto Rico for one week.

We’d recommend staying longer that if you want to spend more time getting off the beaten track or spend a few extra days lounging on the beaches. Trust us, it will be worth it.

Not only does it have beautiful tropical weather, but the island is easy to access from the states and for US citizens, you don’t need a passport to visit.

Don’t leave home without   Lonely Planet Puerto Rico (Travel Guide)

Putting Together A Puerto Rico Itinerary

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is hot, sunny, and tropical for the entire year; no matter when you visit the island, you’re guaranteed warm weather. 

Puerto Rico has a wet and dry season, with the wet season seeing a high chance of hurricanes (devastating hurricanes hit the country in very recent history).

The wet season falls between April and November, while the dry season falls between December and March.

Peak season is December through to February when winter sun-seekers start to arrive. Compared to other Caribbean islands , it’s never too busy on Puerto Rico, except over Christmas and New Year.

The wet season is great if you don’t mind risking thunderstorms and a potential hurricane. Prices are low, and the crowds are incredibly thin on the ground. 

Getting Around Puerto Rico

The quickest way to travel around during your Puerto Rico itinerary is to rent a car or driver or take taxis. The taxi network is extensive and easy to use, with little hassle when it comes to prices.

However, if you’re on a budget, this can be an expensive way to get around, so we’d recommend taking shared taxis between towns. These help you split the costs, and they are surprisingly easy to use and find. 

If you’re looking to save even more money, you can take the public buses. These are more limited, of course, but can get you between major destinations on the cheap.

In San Juan, you can use the urban rail network to get around. 

If you’re traveling out to Culebra Island or Vieques, you’ll need to take a local ferry or join an organized boat tour. You could also enjoy sunset sailing cruises or catamaran tours to get around coastal areas. 

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Ideal 5 Days in Puerto Rico Itinerary

While Puerto Rico seems like a small country, many people are surprised at how spread out the best sites in the country are. This means that you need some time to see the best of Puerto Rico.

If you’re combining your visit to Puerto Rico with other islands or hopping on a cruise, chances are you will probably only spend 5 days in Puerto Rico. This is the absolute least amount of time you need to hit the highlights.

5 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrive in San Juan
• Day 2: Old Town San Juan
• Day 3: El Yunque Rainforest
• Day 4: Fajardo
• Day 5: Fajardo
• Day 6: Depart San Juan

I will not lie, this is going to be a rushed and shallow overview of what Puerto Rico has to offer. However, you will get a good taste of what the island is famous for.

San Juan is the island’s capital, and the perfect start and endpoint for your Puerto Rico itinerary.

San Juan’s Old Town is packed full of colonial history dating back as far as 1521, but there’s much more to see in the other, less trodden parts of the city too. 

Take a tour of the Barcardi Rum Distillery, lounge on nearby beaches, or take in the museums and historical sites of the Puerto Rican capital. 

Things To See in San Juan:

• Old Town San Juan (See below for more info)
• Castillo San Felipe del Morro: This imposing fortress overlooking the harbor was one of the first permanent structures built by the Spanish in the 16th century when they first began colonizing Puerto Rico. It remains a potent image of power and colonialism to this day.
• Bacardi Rum Distillery Tour: World famous Barcardi Rum can trace its lineage to San Juan, where it’s still distilled and bottled in the capital. Take a rum tour to learn about this iconic alcoholic spirit and sample a few cocktails! 
• Lounge at Condado Beach: You don’t have to travel far to find some of the best beaches to add to your Puerto Rico itinerary. One of the most beautiful beaches you can visit near the city is Condado Beach, a popular hangout for locals and tourists. 
• Museo de las Americas: The finest and most encompassing museum in San Juan is the excellent Museo de las Americas. Set in a colonial-era army barracks, you can delve back into every era of local history. 
• Stroll along Calle Fortazela: The most colorful street in San Juan is Calle Fortazela, renowned for its street art and hanging umbrellas. Take a stroll to breathe some color into your Puerto Rico itinerary.

Old Town San Juan

Whether you are staying outside of the main city of San Juan or within the city limits, you must not miss a visit to the spectacular Old Town .

This area of the city is preserved since its founding by the Spanish colonists in 1521 and you can wander among the narrow lanes exploring huge forts that sit right up against the ocean.

Just taking the time to wander in and out of the old buildings along some of the blue cobblestone streets that still function from the 16 th century, will be a highlight of your time in Puerto Rico.

Be sure to go inside at least 1 of the main forts and if you have time, check out the museum.

Looking for lodging in this fantastic area of Old San Juan? There is no shortage of great accommodation choices for every budget in this area. Two favorites of ours are  Hotel El Convento and Condado Vanderbilt Hotel.

Things To See in Old Town San Juan:

• Alcadia: San Juan’s City hall, built-in 1602.
• The Institute of Puerto Rican Culture
• Casa Blanca: The western end of Calle San Sebastián, Ancestral home of the Ponce de Leon family, now a museum.
• La Fortaleza: The western end of Calle Fortaleza, Oldest governor’s mansion in continuous use in the New World.
• San Jose Church: (1532) The second oldest church in continuous use in the New World.
• San Juan Cathedral: 153 Calle Cristo. (1540) Burial site of Ponce de Leon.
• San Juan Gate: Traditional entrance to San Juan.
• Ballaja Barracks: Museum of Americas highlights colorful folk art.
• La Casa del Libro: Museum of the art and history books through five centuries.

The coastal tourism hub of Fajardo is the best base in Puerto Rico for exploring the eastern shoreline and the beautiful offshore islands of Culebra and Vieques. 

You’ll find excellent hotels and resorts, beautiful beaches, and easy access to the dense, jungle scenery of El Yunque National Forest.

Things To See in Fajardo:

• El Yunque National Forest (see below for more info)
• Culebra Island: Take a short ferry ride away from Fajardo, and you’ll find one of the must-visit destinations on your Puerto Rico itinerary. Culebra Island is full of beautiful beaches (Flamenco Beach is the most famous), fantastic nature reserves, and colorful coral reefs.
• Culebrita Island: Little Culebra is a deserted island paradise that makes for a wonderful escape from civilization. Enjoy the beaches and take in the diverse underwater world surrounding Culebrita Island. 
• Vieques: Another ferry ride or boat trip away from Fajardo takes you to the spectacular tropical climes of Vieques, one of Puerto Rico’s most popular islands. As well as beaches and lovely island scenery, Vieques is famed for its mangroves and bioluminescence.   (See more below)
• Cay Santiago: Otherwise known as Monkey Island, this island isn’t home to any humans – but is home to a huge population of monkeys that are being studied!

El Yunque National Park

If you like nature and are looking to get away from the rush of the city or the sun of the beach, then head inland to the only rainforest registered with the National Park Service in the United States .

You can arrange tours that will take you to the best sights, waterfalls and swimming holes of the park on a day trip from San Juan. Or you can rent a car and explore on your own.

You could spend days in the park checking out the many hiking trails and hidden waterfalls. Sights you shouldn’t miss on a visit to the park include the Sierra Palm Forest, Mt Britton Tower, the Dwarf forest and La Mina Falls.

Spend an adventurous day exploring two of Puerto’s most incredible natural wonders on this full-day excursion to hike in the El Yunque Rainforest and kayak at the island’s famed Bioluminescent Bay.

This Puerto Rico outdoor adventure also includes round-trip hotel transport, professional guide, and national park fees.

Nighttime Dip in a Bioluminescent Bay

There are three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico and it was of the main highlights for a visit to this island paradise. What causes it?

This natural phenomenon is caused by oceanic plankton that comes near to the shore and then lets off an ultramarine illumination when the water is disturbed.

The water is best experienced more than 6 days after a full moon for the best illumination.

The best ways to experience the bio bays include snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking through the plankton filled waters.

The closest and most popular place to have these experiences is in Fajardo, the closest bio bay to San Juan.

Fajardo is a small city and in Puerto Rico located in the east region of the island, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, north of Ceiba and east of Luquillo.

Fajardo’s beaches are bounded by calm, clear teal water ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Day and Nightly trips are offered by kayak by local companies who give educational tours about the Bioluminescence.

You can also spend your day’s island hopping. Near Fajardo, are the great Islands of Icacos, Palominos, Palomino, and Diablo. 

If you are looking for a great place to stay in Fajardo consider the Las Casitas Village, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Boasting a private beach and rave reviews about their amenities and great views.

Ideal 7 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary

7 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary (One Week) Overview:

• Day 6: Ponce or Arecibo
• Day 7:Ponce or Arecibo
• Day 8: Depart San Juan

Head to the southern shoreline to escape the tourist crowds and soak up the local cultures and traditions. Ponce is Puerto Rico’s second-largest city; it’s a hub for art, music, food, and much more. 

The annual Ponce Carnaval is one of the best events that you could add to your Puerto Rico itinerary if you can time your visit right. 

Things to See in Ponce:

• Ponce Carnaval: In the week that leads up to Ash Wednesday (the day that Lent starts, before Easter), Ponce hosts Puerto Rico’s most exciting festival. Ponce Carnaval is legendary. For a week, you can party, dance, eat, and enjoy the vibrant parades and performances of the Ponce locals. 
• Museo de Arte Ponce: Delve into the local art scene as you explore the galleries and exhibits of Puerto Rico’s most popular gallery. 
• Hacienda Buena Vista: Head into the countryside to visit this historical, colonial-era coffee plantation and learn more about history, agriculture, and culture in Puerto Rico in the 19th century. 

Arecibo 

Along the northwest coast of Puerto Rico, you can explore the coast, mountains, and countryside of the Arecibo region. 

Known for its dramatic outdoor scenery and exciting adventure travel opportunities, Arecibo is a great place to get closer to nature. 

Things to See in Arecibo:

• Camuy River Cave Park: (See more below)
• Cueva Ventana: This vast cave is well worth the hike through the jungle to get here. Known as the Cave Window, you have breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys from the entranceway. 
• Cueva del Indio: This weather-beaten, coastal cave is home to ancient cave drawings composed in past centuries by the now lost indigenous Taino culture. There’s little left of Taino culture today, so this is one of the best archeological sites to visit on your Puerto Rico itinerary. 
• Arecibo Lighthouse: Enjoy spectacular views over the windswept coastline of Puerto Rico from the iconic Arecibo Lighthouse, a historical monument dating back to 1898. 
• Arecibo Observatory: On a tall hilltop in the highlands, you can visit what was once the most powerful telescope on the planet. Learn more about astronomy at the intriguing visitor’s center located by the Arecibo Observatory. 

Camuy River Cave Park

The Camuy Caverns are part of a large cave system in Puerto Rico. The caverns are part of a large network of natural limestone caves and underground waterways carved out by the 3 rd largest underground river in the world, the Río Camuy.

Discovered in 1958, there are at least 10 miles of caverns, 220 caves and 17 entrances to the Camuy cave system. Only a small part of the cave park is open to the public.

The 268-acre park that was built around the cave system features tours to some of the caves and sinkholes and is easily one of the most popular natural attractions in Puerto Rico.

Tips for Planning Your Puerto Rico Itinerary

Costs and budget.

As Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, the US Dollar is the primary form of currency.

Cash is widespread, and there are plenty of ATMs and banks in the towns across the island (including several branches of US banks).

Credit or debit cards aren’t so widely excepted outside of the tourist areas, so always carry cash when you can. 

There can be significant differences in prices and costs for travelers. Public transport can cost just a few dollars for a cross-island trip, but a private taxi from a hotel to San Juan could cost upwards of USD 25 for short journeys. 

Local food (try the Lechon!) is cheap, but again, expect to pay a premium for restaurant meals in hotels or tourist locales.

Accommodation is limited in scope and mostly aimed at midrange travelers upwards, rather than budget travelers .

Expect to pay more than 100 UD per night for decent accommodation (this will increase exponentially in peak season at resorts). 

Safety in Puerto Rico

Your Puerto Rico itinerary should come off without a hitch because it is a very safe tourist destination.

Petty theft and crime do exist though, especially in poor neighborhoods in San Juan and tourist destinations. Be vigilant on the beaches, and always look out for your belongings. 

The reality is that there’s no more danger here than there is anywhere in the USA.

The only major danger comes from natural disasters, which, sadly, can be fairly common.

The island has spent some time recovering from devastating hurricanes and frequently gets rattled by earthquakes, so keep an eye on the news and the weather when you’re visiting.

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has accommodation suited for almost any level of budget or any style of travel. From real budget options like Hotel Melia Ponce , backpackers hostel  Mango Mansion , or luxury resorts like Dorado Beach-Ritz Carlton Reserve .

The majority of the accommodation can be found in San Juan, generally in the areas overlooking the beaches of the city’s foreshore, giving easy access to both Old San Juan, the beach and transport to other parts of the island.

Puerto Rico is a large place though and there are plenty of other options around the territory, and if you prefer a quiet stay, it may be best to look further afield from San Juan. 

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

More on the Caribbean:

• 28 Bucket List Things to do in Puerto Rico
• 7 Exotic Places to Travel Without a Passport
• Roatan Honduras: Everything to Know Before You Go
• 9 UNREAL Things to do in Caye Caulker, Belize
• 21 Bucket List Things to do in Antigua
• 40 Bucket List Things to do in Barbados
• 25 Bucket List Things to Do in Cuba
• The Perfect Cuba Itinerary: Two Weeks in Cuba
• The Only Guide to Roseau Dominica You Need
• THE Guide to Surfing in Jamaica

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

3 thoughts on “The Ultimate Puerto Rico 5 & 7 Day Travel Itinerary”

If you are driving from San Juan to Ponce you should detour when you reach Salinas east towards Guayama. You will see the most beautiful Plaza of the island and a Catholic Church with profound French influences. It is worth spending one to two hours around this town.

We are looking to come in March. Is the island ready for tourists after the hurricane? Also any idea when El Yunque will be open? It sounds so amazing!

Hi Jen, I can’t say for sure. I would recommend contacting the Puerto Rico Tourism Board to get up to date information on the current situation in the island. I know a lot of humanitarian trips are underway at the moment, but I am not 100% sure on the statue for tourism. Cheers!

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4 Days in Puerto Rico: The Ultimate Itinerary (2022)

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Introduction to Puerto Rico

Planning a trip for 4 DAYS IN PUERTO RICO can be fun but overwhelming, especially because there is so much to see and do in a short time during your trip to the island.

I love Puerto Rico. It is my absolute favorite travel destination. So it is super exciting for me to put together a 4-Day Puerto Rico Travel Itinerary for you.

This Puerto Rico itinerary will include my favorite things to do, delicious food to try, and some insider tips to explore the island in and out of San Juan (the capital city) during your 4 days in Puerto Rico.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure  here .

4 Days in Puerto Rico Itinerary

Before we go any further, let me introduce myself. I am Kristina, and I have been traveling to Puerto Rico since I was a little girl.

I created this 4 day Puerto Rico itinerary to help guide you on your vacation, whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family. So let’s get started planning your Puerto Rico vacation!

Day 1 in Puerto Rico: Old San Juan, Rum Tour & Dancing

Old San Juan is my favorite area of San Juan, Puerto Rico. It is full of Puerto Rico’s old-town charm and is so romantic. Am I the only one who is a total sucker for cobblestone streets!?

It is home to El Morro Fort, Paseo de la Princesa, trendy Fortaleza Street, and La Fortaleza, the governor’s residence.

Be prepared to walk ALOT in Old San Juan and wear sneakers or sandals (the streets are old and mostly cobblestone).

You will want to use an uber for this day of your trip. Traffic and parking can be difficult in Old San Juan. Using Uber will be much easier than using a rental car.

Breakfast at Chocobar Cortés

Chocobar Cortés , affectionately known as Chocobar, serves up a delicious breakfast. It opens every day at 8 am, and most dishes are infused with chocolate!!

Yelpers love their Fried French Toast and Chocolate Waffles. They also have a location in Condado in the lobby of the Condado Palm Inn Hotel .

Morning Adventure: Old San Juan

When you are done with breakfast, take a walk around Old San Juan. When you reach Calle del Cristo, you can find Parque de Las Paloma or Pigeon Park, trendy shops, restaurants, and more.

You will be within walking distance of La Fortaleza, the governor’s mansion, located at the end of Fortaleza Street.

Fortaleza Street is known for its canopy that hovers overhead. The theme changes frequently.

Be sure to visit San Felipe del Morro , a 16th-century Spanish fort and Unesco world heritage site. The fort is massive and gives insight into the rich history of the incredible island of Puerto Rico. It costs $10 to enter for anyone over 15 years old. Kids are free.

When you look east of El Morro fort, you will see the Old San Juan Cemetery (Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery). This cemetery is where many famous Puerto Ricans are buried.

When you finish exploring El Morro, head to Paseo de la Princesa. This promenade offers breathtaking views overlooking San Juan Bay along the city walls.

There are also plenty of great places to shop in Old San Juan. Mariel Arts and Crafts is a great place to check out, especially if you’re looking for Puerto Rican crafts or jewelry.

There are also many walking tours here that can help you see the most in just a few hours.

Lunch: Mofongo, please?

Old San Juan has several excellent restaurants. Be sure to stop at one for lunch.

This is a great time to sample traditional food, specifically mofongo: a dish made of plantains that are mashed and then fried. No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without trying it!

Some of the best places in Old San Juan to try mofongo:

El Jibarito PR :  Try their trifongo (mofongo made of green plantain, sweet plantain, and cassava). This spot is an Old San Juan institution!

Cayo Caribe :  Popular with locals; for a good reason, their food is delicious!

Afternoon Adventure: Ron De Barrilito Distillery Tour

No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a visit to a rum distillery! So hop in an uber from Old San Juan and head to the Ron de Barrilito Distillery in Bayamon.

It is a short ride away.

Most tourists gravitate towards the Bacardí Distillery. But most Puerto Ricans know Ron De Barrilito is a hidden gem known by a few tourists but worth the trip!

The rum is one of the most popular brands in Puerto Rico, and they offer tours of their distillery in Bayamón.

I love that they offer a much more affordable tour with a complimentary cocktail at the end (Bacardí used to do this, but they stopped after the pandemic).

Ron de Barilito also provides pricier mixology classes and rum tastings .

Either option is great.

Dinner & Dancing at La Placita

Get your dancing shoes ready because we are headed to La Placita de Santurce, also known as La Placita. This is a market (by day) that converts into one of the hottest nightlife spots in Puerto Rico!

My favorite restaurant in Puerto Rico is located in La Placita. La Alcapurria Quemá is a small restaurant specializing in alcapurrias: fritters made of root vegetables stuffed with meat.

This is a great, casual and affordable place for dinner. Everything I have ever ordered here is mouth-watering, and you will be eating some of the best Food in Puerto Rico.

If you want something more upscale in La Placita, check out Santaella!!

After dinner, walk around and enjoy the music and atmosphere. Bad Bunny and Salsa music will be playing everywhere.

There is plenty of dancing to be had! You cannot leave Puerto Rico without a night in La Placita!

Day 2: El Yunque Rainforest

Breakfast at a local panaderia.

Head to a Panaderia for Puerto Rican Breakfast before heading to El Yunque National Forest.

My favorite bakery close to El Yunque is Puertorrican Bakery in Rio Grande. Try a couple of different types of pastries, and don’t forget the coffee!

Puerto Rican coffee is some of the best in the world, and you can find it everywhere on the island. It’s usually served hot (café con leche) and is delicious.

I recommend ordering a question (phyllo pastry stuffed with sweet cream cheese) or a ham, egg, and cheese sandwich on Pan Sobao. Pan Sobao is a soft, fluffy Puerto Rican bread perfect for sandwiches.

Morning Adventure: El Yunque Rainforest

Puerto Rico is home to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. El Yunque is a must-do on your 4-day Puerto Rico Itinerary.

Be sure to book your reservation for El Yunque Rainforest as soon as possible because they sell out fairly quickly. Check the website regularly for the dates of your trip.

Entrance only costs $2, and the cost is per vehicle, NOT per person. In addition, the only road after the welcome center is paved, safe, and easy to navigate; therefore, you can enter with your rental car.

You cannot visit El Yunque via uber. You risk getting stranded with no ride back.

There are many ways to explore El Yunque. You can take a guided hike or explore on your own.

Visiting Waterfalls in El Yunque Rainforest

My favorite activity is to take a dip in one of the many waterfalls in El Yunque. So bring your water shoes, a swimsuit, and a towel.

Some falls require a longer and more strenuous hike than others to reach. Still, there is something for everyone, no matter their experience level.

If you are traveling with children, are short on time, or are not an experienced hiker, visit Juan Diego Falls. This waterfall is so easy to reach!

Juan Diego Falls is close to the main road and is only a 0.4-mile hike round trip. The trail is direct and easy to follow for the most novice hiker.

When you reach the falls, you can enjoy the cool refreshing water or the view. It is accessible to most people.

If you are an avid hiker, check out more advanced trails, such as Mt. Britton Trail (45 minutes one way) and La Coca Trail (1.5 hours one way and probably the most intense). At the end of La Coca Trail, you will reach La Coca Falls, one of the most popular falls in El Yunque Rainforest.

Always use your judgment. People have been lost, injured, and even died because they overestimated their abilities on some of these trails.

Lunch Options

There are two great lunch options when visiting El Yunque Rainforest.

The first option is to pack a lunch from your hotel or Airbnb and enjoy a picnic in the park. There are designated picnic areas within El Yunque National Forest, so this is an easy and affordable option for those traveling on a budget.

The second option is to stop at the El Punto del Rico Coco food truck. This is one of the highest-rated food trucks on the island and serves up some of the best food you will have in Puerto Rico.

Unfortunately, it is only open on weekends, so  El Yunque Food Truck Family Park  is a fun place to check out if it is a weekday.

There are various vendors, which is an excellent alternative since it is open daily.

Afternoon Adventure: ATV Tour or Luquillo Beach

Option A: Spend the afternoon at Carabalí Rainforest Park on an ATV or horseback riding tour.

Option B: Spend the afternoon at Luquillo Beach.

Both options are great. It just depends on what you’re in the mood for.

If you choose to go on the ATV tour , you’ll get to explore the El Yunque Rainforest in an all-terrain vehicle. So you can see the forest from another angle without hiking for miles.

Their one and two-hour tour includes a stop at the Mameyes River. You can also opt for their horseback riding tour in el Yunque or on the beach .

Your second option is to spend the afternoon at Luquillo Beach; you’ll get to relax in calm waters and soak up the sun.

Luquillo beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, so it does get crowded, especially on the weekends.

The view of the mountains in the distance is unbeatable.

No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time. If you are ambitious, it is possible to visit El Yunque, the ATV tour, and Luquillo Beach in one day (I know from experience)!

Dinner at La Estacion in Fajardo

After a long day of exploring, you’ll want a good meal, and I recommend La Estacion in Fajardo for dinner. It has been voted one of the best restaurants in Puerto Rico by Condé Nast Traveler and one of the top ten restaurants in the Caribbean by Fodor’s.

The restaurant is located in an old gas station, which is part of its charm. The food is also excellent, and they have a great selection of Puerto Rican BBQ dishes.

The service is good, and the portions are large, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a filling meal. Be sure to make a reservation because this place is popular!

After dinner, head to your San Juan Hotel to get some rest or head to Laguna Grande, a Bioluminescent Bay in Fajardo.

If you explore the bay, remember that you’ll have to make it to the Culebra ferry early the following day. So, you may want to book a hotel in Fajardo or Ceiba for the night.

Day 3: Flamenco Beach, Culebra

Culebra is a small Caribbean island off the east coast of Puerto Rico known for its beaches.

Blue clear waters and excellent snorkeling are characteristic of the island.

Flamenco Beach is Culebra’s most famous beach and is also consistently ranked as one of the top beaches in the world. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is powdery white.

Flamenco is a must-see when visiting Puerto Rico. I was so excited to include it in this 4-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary.

Getting to Culebra

There are a few ways to get to Culebra, but the most popular and affordable is the ferry from Ceiba . The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes.

If you get seasick, the ride can be choppy, so come prepared. Your doctor can help you with preventative treatment before your trip.

The ferry must be booked ahead of time. If you do not have a ticket, you can arrive at the ferry terminal as early as possible and try to get on a ferry, but there are no guarantees. Seats are limited, and priority is given to residents.

The ferry currently costs $2.25 one-way for non-resident adults and $1 for non-resident children, seniors, and those living with disabilities.

You can also pay a small fee to bring beach umbrellas, coolers, and other items on the ferry to make the most of your beach day.

Other options to get to Culebra include flights from San Juan or private charter boats.

Things to Do in Culebra

Once you arrive in Culebra, you’ll have plenty of time to relax on the beautiful pristine beaches. You can spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.

How to Get Around Culebra

The best way to get around Culebra is to rent a golf cart or a jeep. This will allow you to explore the island at your own pace and make stops.

You can also charter a boat to see Culebrita, a smaller island of Puerto Rico, or take the ferry to Vieques. Vieques is home to a bioluminescent bay and tons of fantastic beaches. These stops are both great additions to your Puerto Rico itinerary.

Where to Eat in Culebra

There are a few restaurants on the island, but not many. One of the best restaurants on the island is Zaco’s Tacos, which serves delicious Mexican food. The tacos are some of the best in Puerto Rico, and they’re reasonably priced.

Another great option is Lechonera La Criolla, a food truck specializing in Puerto Rican Food. The roast pork is excellent, and the prices are affordable. This is a no-frill spot!

There are limited upscale dining experiences, but you will find many casual places where the food is excellent.

Day 4: Mountain Adventure and North Coast

Breakfast at kasalta.

Grab breakfast at Kasalta in San Juan before heading out for the day. Kasalta is a local favorite and has served delicious Spanish, Cuban, and Puerto Rican Food for decades.

The breakfast sandwiches are excellent, and the coffee is delicious.

If you’re looking for something a little heartier, order the Mallorca. This breakfast sandwich is made with ham, cheese, and an egg on a sweet roll with powdered sugar sprinkled on top.

If you’re not in the mood for a sandwich, Kasalta also has excellent pastries if you’re looking for something sweet. The guava and cheese pastries are a must-try!

Barack Obama had breakfast at Kasalta on his visit to Puerto Rico as president! You can even sit at the booth where he ate.

After breakfast, make your way to the central region for a morning of adventure in the mountains.

Morning Adventure : Toro Verde Adventure Park

You will find other zip lines at  Toro Verde Adventure Park  for different levels. The most grueling, El Monstruo, is the longest zip line in America.

This is an excellent activity for those who love adventure and are looking for a thrill.

This adventure park is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico. However, there are also many other activities to choose from.

One of them is the Toro Bike, a cycling adventure where you Pedal a zip-line cable. There are also climbing walls and other fun for the family.

German Lunch

After an adventure-filled morning, it’s time for lunch. Make your way to Casa Bavaria on your way back to San Juan. The restaurant is super unique and specializes in German cuisine.

It has been around for years, and the view from the patio of the mountains will blow you away.

The bratwurst is excellent, as is the schnitzel. The restaurant also serves traditional food from Puerto Rico.

The portions are large, so come hungry! The beer is also excellent, and they have a wide selection to choose from.

Afternoon Adventure: Mar Chiquita

Head to Mar Chiquita, a popular beach on the North Coast of Puerto Rico in the municipality of Manatí. Spend the afternoon relaxing, swimming, and sunbathing.

This is the perfect spot to wind down and relax on your last day in Puerto Rico. It is popular among locals so that you can enjoy an authentic vibe.

Depending on the day, you may even want to pack your snorkeling gear. Just be sure to check out rip tide conditions.

You will often find a few food trucks in the beach area if you want something to snack on or drink while there.

Typically you can find fried pastelillos (Puerto Rican empanadas), pinchos (kebabs) and even tacos!

If you want to head back to San Juan earlier, check out Isla Verde Beach. It is one of Puerto Rico’s most popular tourist beaches and is close to San Juan.

Dinner in Piñones

Head to Piñones, a popular area on the ocean in Loíza, close to the San Juan area, for dinner.

Here you can find street food at its finest. You will find many eateries and food stalls serving delicious food.

Most people who visit Puerto Rico or San Juan explore Piñones because it is known for authentic eats.

This place is nothing fancy; it’s on the water and is a great place to end your trip to Puerto Rico.  

Barhopping in Old San Juan

After a long day exploring Puerto Rico’s countryside and beaches, you may want to grab a drink in Old San Juan.

La Factoria is one of the best bars in Puerto Rico and has been ranked as one of the best in the world!

They have an excellent selection of craft cocktails. The bartenders are very passionate about their work and make incredible drinks.

It feels like a speakeasy with a unique and historic vibe. The back room typically features live music and salsa dancing.

The bar is located on Calle de San Sebastian, a strip in Old San Juan with plenty of bars to hop around. 

Another stop worth making while bar hopping Old San Juan is Barrachina. They claim to be the home of the first Piña Colada (though the Caribe Hilton would argue the iconic drink was invented at the hotel bar)!

4 Days in Puerto Rico FAQ Section

Is 4 days in puerto rico enough time.

Absolutely! 4 days is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what Puerto Rico has to offer and to experience so much of the culture without feeling rushed.

There is so much to do on the island that you could easily spend weeks, if not months, here and not get bored.

But if you only have 4 days, don’t worry! This guide will help you make the most of your time in Puerto Rico.

This 4-day itinerary will help you figure out what to do, where to stay, and what to eat during your 4 days in PR. I will ensure you make the most of your short time there.

Who is This Itinerary Best For?

This itinerary is best for first-time travelers who plan to visit only for 4 days in Puerto Rico.

This itinerary includes various activities to please all interests, such as:

• Hiking in El Yunque tropical rainforest
• Relaxing on sandy beaches
• Touring a Rum distillery with an optional rum-tasting tour
• Visiting a Unesco world heritage site in Old San Juan
• Eating some of the most delicious food on the island

This Puerto Rico vacation itinerary is flexible and can be rearranged to suit your interests and travel style better.

At the end of this article, I have also listed alternative/additional activities if you want to swap out an activity on the itinerary or wish to extend your days in Puerto Rico.

This is especially helpful if you want to explore outside of the San Juan area.

Is Puerto Rico safe?

Puerto Rico is a safe destination, but as with travel anywhere, there are always some risks. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Be alert if walking alone at night.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and beaches.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas.
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended, ever.
• Trust your gut instinct.
• Always be aware of water conditions before swimming. It may be a red flag if you do not see anyone in the water. Rip currents often occur, so look up warnings before heading out.

Following these safety tips and using common sense, you should have no problem enjoying your trip.

I have never felt unsafe in Puerto Rico.

Getting to Puerto Rico

The best way to Puerto Rico is by flying into the main airport, Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport. The airport is located in Carolina, close to San Juan.

If you’re flying into Puerto Rico from the US, you don’t need a passport, just a valid photo ID.

When you arrive, you can easily catch an Uber in Puerto Rico, rent a car from the airport or use a local car-sharing service such as Aqui Coqui . Getting around in Puerto Rico is easy!

Getting Around Puerto Rico

Uber is an excellent option for getting around the San Juan metro area. This is my preferred way to move around when in the city.

In addition, most US phone service carriers work on the island. So, you should have no trouble using your cell phone and data plan to access the Uber app while on the island.

If you are leaving San Juan, Isla Verde, or the metro area, do not use Uber. You will most likely have a tough time finding a ride back to San Juan and may find yourself stranded.

When you leave San Juan, use a rental car or pre-arranged transportation service. A road trip or day trip is a great way to see PR!

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico + Hotel Recommendations

The San Juan area is the best place to stay. So, if you are traveling for just a few days as a first-time visitor. In that case, you will be close to many activities, restaurants, and nightlife nearby.

It is also close to the airport and has many fantastic places for a quick day trip within driving distance.

There are many different accommodations to stay in San Juan. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can easily find somewhere to meet your needs.

Aside from hotels, plenty of Airbnbs in San Juan are listed at reasonable prices. So, check out the Airbnb site for deals on local accommodations.

Where to Stay in the San Juan Area

Isla Verde :

This very touristy beach area is located in Carolina. It is located close to the airport. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area. You can also find cheaper hotel options here than in other areas.

• Best luxury hotel: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
• Best budget hotel: San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel

Old San Juan : Old San Juan is charming. You will find many historical sights within walking distance and plenty of restaurants and bars. This is a place for history buffs and those who appreciate old architecture.

• Best luxury hotel : El Convento
• Best budget hotel : Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel

Condado : Condado is known for being a more upscale area of San Juan. This neighborhood is located on the beach. Along Ashford Avenue, you will find plenty of restaurants and bars. In addition, you will see more luxury options for accommodations here.

• Best luxury hotel: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
• Best budget hotel: The Tryst Beachfront Hotel

Beaches in San Juan

The beaches in San Juan, especially Condado, can be rough and unsafe for swimming (even at hotels!!). Always check local rip tide warnings.

The following beaches are located in San Juan and are consistently safe for swimming:

• Balneario del Escambrón
• Playita del Condado.

What Foods to Try While Visting Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has some of the best food in the world. You’ll find a “criollo” mix of Spanish, Taíno, and African influences in the cuisine.

Walk into any local panaderia (bakery) and try some delicious café con Leche made from local coffee. Puerto Rican coffee is something you must try. The coffee is strong and flavorful, and the beans are grown in the mountains of Puerto Rico.

While at any panaderia, take the chance to try a quesito. A local pastry made of fluffy phyllo dough stuffed with sweet cream cheese (ask if they have it with guava!). You can find panaderias everywhere on the island!

At most eateries, you’ll find some of my favorite dishes like:

• Mofongo (mashed, fried plantain)
• Arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas)
• Pernil (roast pork)
• Frituras (yummy fried snacks typically bought on the street or at roadside stalls)
• Puerto Rican Chinese food, try the tostones al ajillo (crispy plantain fritters served in garlic) 

My Favorite Restaurants in San Juan

San Juan is a foodie’s paradise. There are so many great restaurants to choose from it can be hard to decide where to eat. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best restaurants in San Juan:

La Vergüenza:  This restaurant has two locations, one in Condado. But my favorite is located in Old San Juan, overlooking la Perla, with breathtaking ocean views.

It features three levels with a rooftop and is known for its Puerto Rican cuisine.

Casita Miramar:  This restaurant is a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it. The food is authentic, and the setting is beautiful.

It is designed to look like you are dining in someone’s home and gives cozy vibes. Great for a fancier date night.

Pinky’s:  With a couple of locations in San Juan, this spot is perfect for grabbing breakfast on the go. The dishes are all made to order, and do not disappoint!

These are just a few of the many great restaurants in San Juan. So no matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll be able to find it here.

What Language is Spoken in Puerto Rico?

Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. However, English is also widely spoken, especially in San Juan.

Finding someone who understands English or can translate for you is usually easy, but knowing some Spanish will be helpful!

What Currency is Used in Puerto Rico?

The United States dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico. ATM machines are widely available, and credit cards are accepted at most establishments.

I have had the experience where a merchant who accepted cards told me their card machine was not working! So, it would be best if you still carry cash on you at all times.

What is the Best Time to Visit for 4 Days in Puerto Rico?

The best time to visit Puerto Rico for a 4-day trip is from January to June. These months offer comfortable weather with low chances of rain.

The high season is Mid-December-Easter, so I love visiting during May or June because you still get great weather but fewer crowds.

I would avoid visiting Puerto Rico from July through November. This is hurricane season, and you run the risk of a hurricane.

Even if there are no hurricanes to hit the island during your trip, the weather is unbearably humid, and you will get much more rain.

Things to Do if you Have More than 4 Days in Puerto Rico

If you have visited before or have more than 4 days in Puerto Rico, here are some alternative things to add to your Puerto Rico itinerary. These day trips will allow you to discover Puerto Rico outside of San Juan:

• Head to the southern coast and visit Ponce, known as La Perla del Sur, one of the larger cities in Puerto Rico. Be sure to check out the museums and La Guancha boardwalk.
• Head to Rincon on the west coast for some of the best surfing beaches in Puerto Rico.
• Cabo Rojo is known for its beaches. It is a tropical paradise. Cabo Rojo is where you should go if you are looking for a sandy beach!
• Vieques is an island off the East Coast, close to Culebra and the Virgin Islands. Here you will find awesome snorkeling and a bioluminescent bay.
• Charter a boat in La Parguera (close to Cabo Rojo) to visit some beautiful cays off the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, or check out their bio bay at night!

If you have the time, of all the things on this list, prioritize a trip to Cabo Rojo or La Parguara!

Puerto Rico After Hurricane Fiona

Parts of Puerto Rico are still rebuilding after Hurricane Fiona struck the island in September 2022. The hurricane destroyed some areas, particularly in the southwest part of the island. Still, most places are back in business and operating.

You should have no hesitation about visiting. The San Juan area, in particular, is completely back to normal.

If you have questions, contact hotels and tour operators ahead of your trip, but you should have no problems visiting.

Wrap-UP: 4 Days in Puerto Rico Itinerary

Like most Caribbean Islands, Puerto Rico is home to beautiful beaches full of palm trees and amazing tropical weather. The island even has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Flamenco on Culebra Island.

In addition to beaches, there’s something for everyone on the island. If you want to connect with nature and local culture, you will love Puerto Rico!

You can explore everything from the El Yunque Rainforest to the historic sites in Old San Juan.

With just a few days in Puerto Rico, you may feel challenged to get the most out of your visit to this beautiful island, but 4 days is just enough time to see a lot.

Puerto Rico is a relatively small island and so easy to get around. This Puerto Rico itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to experience the most they can during a short 4-day trip.

What are you waiting for? I know you will love Puerto Rico!!

Start planning your trip to Puerto Rico today!

Get a PDF Copy of Your 4 Days in Puerto Rico Itinerary By Clicking Here!

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The perfect 6-day puerto rico itinerary.

So, you’re planning a trip to the breathtaking Caribbean Island of Puerto Rico! I’ve got a 6-day Puerto Rico itinerary that’s packed with sandy beaches, flavorful food, rich history, and lush tropical landscapes.

I love Puerto Rico! I’ve visited multiple times, especially when we lived on the East Coast because they had such great direct flights! I took a little mother-son trip to Puerto Rico and a girls trip. It’s a great destination for families and friends.

Get ready to explore the island’s vibrant culture and natural wonders. Your journey begins in the enchanting Old San Juan. Then you’ll venture into the heart of the island, discovering the wonders of El Yunque National Forest. And that’s just the beginning!

From the best beaches to the captivating beauty of El Yunque and beyond, get ready to experience the very best of Puerto Rico. Below you’ll find my Puerto Rico itinerary, packed with everything you’ll need to know.

Here’s a quick overview of my Puerto Rico Itinerary

Puerto rico itinerary day 0: arrive in puerto rico, puerto rico itinerary day 1: explore old san juan, puerto rico itinerary day 2: arecibo, isabela, & aguadilla, puerto rico itinerary day 3: el yunque national forest, puerto rico itinerary day 4: luquillo, fajardo & night kayaking.

• Puerto Rico Itinerary Day 5: Vieques

Puerto Rico Itinerary Day 6: Culebra

Save time and get this easy puerto rico itinerary.

Don’t have a lot of time to plan? Check out this incredible open-and-go Puerto Rico itinerary that will walk you through your whole trip with expert advice and pro tips!

Things to Know About Puerto Rico

Before European contact, the island was inhabited by the Taíno people. In 1493, Columbus claimed it for Spain, and it became a Spanish colony. The mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences laid the foundation for Puerto Rican culture.

In 1898, the US gained control of Puerto Rico after the Spanish-American War. This marked the beginning of a unique relationship. As of 1917, Puerto Ricans are US citizens, but they don’t have full voting representation in Congress. The island’s political status has been a topic of debate, with many advocating for statehood or even independence.

This relationship with the US deeply influences Puerto Rican culture.

English and Spanish are both official languages, and you’ll find a fusion of American and Puerto Rican traditions. You can also see this influence in Puerto Rican food and music.

In recent years, Puerto Rico faced challenges, including the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017. The storm caused widespread destruction and highlighted issues like disaster response. The recovery process has been ongoing. There are continued efforts to rebuild communities, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure preparedness for future natural disasters.

Today, Puerto Rico is open and ready for visitors! While exploring, remember to respect the island’s history and the strength of its people. Then you’ll have an enlightening and heartwarming experience in Puerto Rico!

Travel Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico

• English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. However, you’ll have a much better experience if you know some basic Spanish phrases and can communicate with locals!
• The official currency is the US Dollar (USD), so you won’t need to exchange money if you’re coming from the States.
• Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Stay hydrated, especially in the warm climate. It’s a good idea to drink bottled or purified water. Also, bring insect repellent for the mosquitoes!
• Tipping is customary in Puerto Rico. In restaurants, it’s customary to tip around 15-20% of the bill. Also, you should consider tipping for services like taxis and tour guides.
• Puerto Ricans are known for their warmth and friendliness. Politeness and respect are important in interactions. And it’s common to be greeted with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
• Public transportation is limited outside of San Juan. You might want to rent a car if you plan to explore different parts of the island. Just be prepared for traffic in urban areas. And roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas.
• While Puerto Rico is known for its stunning beaches, not all of them are suitable for swimming. Both the north coast and east coast have more swimming beaches. These areas are generally sheltered from the strong Atlantic currents and waves found on both the west coast and south coast. Only swim in designated areas and be cautious.
• Puerto Rico uses the same electric outlets as the United States, so you won’t need a converter if you’re coming from there.
• Be sure to try traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo, arroz con gandules, and all the amazing seafood options! Also, explore local markets or book a food tour for the best experience.

How to Get Around Puerto Rico

When planning your Puerto Rico itinerary, how you get around will depend on a few things. First, think about what you want to do. Also, be honest about how comfortable you are with the different ways to get around!

If you want to avoid renting a car, your best bet is to stay at a resort on the north coast or in San Juan. Puerto Rico has public transportation between the capital and the surrounding towns. But buses and trains are limited outside the metropolitan area.

For exploring the rest of this beautiful island, your best bet is to rent a car! If you’re comfortable with backroads and traffic, you’ll be okay. A rental car is great because you can go at your own pace. Plus, it’s kind of the only way to see many parts of the island.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

If you don’t want to drive, you can use taxis or services like Uber and Lyft. They work well in big cities like San Juan. You can walk or rent bikes in Old San Juan. The streets here are safe for exploring and everything is within walking distance!

If you want to visit islands like Vieques or Culebra, there are ferries that will take you there. But you can’t take rental cars off the main island. Guided tours that include transportation are the best option here. You’ll also find places on both islands to rent scooters, mopeds, UTVs, and bicycles.

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico isn’t very large, but you’d be surprised at how much time you need to see it all! Where you make your base will largely determine your experience. For the sake of this itinerary, we’ll start in Old San Juan.

While there are many wonderful areas to stay in Puerto Rico, you might want to consider one of these 3 popular locales:

San Juan, the capital, boasts the historic Old San Juan with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and famous forts. Staying here means easy access to historic sites, busy plazas, and a variety of restaurants and shops. We stayed in this hotel, which was a quick taxi ride or about a 20 minute walk to Old Town San Juan and we really loved it. Great beaches, restaurants, pools, and views.

Condado, located in San Juan, offers a more modern vibe with high-rise hotels along beautiful beaches. It’s a great choice if you want to be near the ocean, trendy bars, and upscale dining options. We stayed in a vacation rental on the beach in Condado and it was great for a lot of beach time.

Fajardo on the northeast coast is known for its luxury resorts and proximity to natural attractions like El Yunque National Forest and the Bioluminescent Bay. It’s a great base for both relaxing and exploring nature. If you’re looking for a really amazing resort in Puerto Rico, El Conquistador is my favorite !

Surfers and those seeking a more low-key vacation will discover paradise in Rincon. Renowned for its impressive waves, this coastal town is a surfer’s haven. The fantastic surf conditions make it a prime destination for riding the waves and experiencing laid-back Puerto Rican beach culture. If you want a really unique experience, you can book a container home in Rincon.

What to Do in Puerto Rico in 6 Days

This is why you’re really here: your 6-day Puerto Rico itinerary! Below you’ll see that each day is split up to explore a different region. You could easily adjust this itinerary for Puerto Rico to fit your schedule.

You’ll fly into Puerto Rico that evening so you can start your first full day fresh tomorrow! Most people fly into the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in Isla Verde, San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico.

After you land, you’ll either pick up your rental car (the kiosk is right outside of the luggage claim) or grab a car service. Then you’ll head to your hotel in San Juan and check in.

Begin your Puerto Rican journey by stepping onto the charming cobblestone streets of Old San Juan! Dating back to the early 16th century, this is a wonderfully preserved historical district. As you walk through these narrow lanes, you’ll see colorful colonial buildings and stunning balconies that have witnessed the island’s evolution.

Start your Old San Juan itinerary with a classic Puerto Rican breakfast at an iconic eatery like El Meson on Calle San Jose or Café Finca Cialitos on Calle de San Francisco. Just keep in mind that if you’re here on a Sunday morning, there will be a crowd! (This is when everyone comes to the historic old town for breakfast before mass.)

Next, the highlight of your morning is Castillo San Felipe del Morro. This 16th-century fortress served as a crucial coastal defense and has quite a commanding presence on the coastline. Spend some time exploring its halls and corridors and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean.

Continue your historical exploration by visiting 17th-century Castillo San Cristobal. One of the largest forts in the Americas, it took over 150 years to complete! Your visit here will provide insight

After a meal and a rest, your exploration of Old San Juan continues with a mix of historical sights and colorful streets! Get lost in all the colors of the colonial houses that line the roads, a visual testament to Puerto Rico’s history.

Take time to appreciate the street art that decorates the iconic Calle Fortaleza and enjoy some shopping if you wish. This popular commercial street is lined with art galleries, gift shops, cafes, restaurants, and more!

A visit to the Plaza de Armas brings you to the heart of Old San Juan. This central square has been a gathering place for centuries, offering a glimpse into local life in a historic setting. Across the street, you can also visit the beautiful San Juan Cathedral, the second oldest cathedral in the Americas. Its historic site features stunning architecture that makes it a must-see.

Next, don’t miss the chance to see La Fortaleza, an important piece of Puerto Rico’s past. This historic mansion holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously used executive residence in the Western Hemisphere. While you’re here, over to Casa Blanca. Once home to the family of Ponce de León, it’s a fascinating link to the island’s colonial history.

Now you’ve spent almost an entire day immersing yourself in the island’s heritage! These streets and sites reveal the best of Puerto Rico’s past and present, making your visit a memorable experience.

Round out your day in Old San Juan with one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico, trying delicious Puerto Rican food! If you prefer being shown the best local places to eat, you can find lots of great Puerto Rico tours like  this sunset food tour .

On this one, you’ll meet your guide back in Plaza de Armas and join in on a walking tour and up to 5 stops at local eateries. While you walk, your guide will share interesting facts and historic information about Old San Juan. He’ll guide you to authentic restaurants to try a mix of modern and traditional dishes, as well as rum cocktails!

After your meal, your food tour will end with a relaxing stroll along Paseo de la Princesa, a picturesque promenade lined with trees and historic buildings. It ends at the Raices fountain, a stunning fountain backed by even more breathtaking views of the sunset over the water. What a way to round out your day in Old San Juan!

On the second day of your Puerto Rico itinerary, you’ll spend your time perusing the island’s northwestern shore! Say goodbye to Old San Juan as you begin your morning in Arecibo, which is about 50 miles or an hour west by car.

Head into Arecibo’s town center to experience authentic Puerto Rico and enjoy some good food. Stroll through its charming streets and visit local shops and authentic eateries. A hidden gem that every visitor should visit is the Centro Cultural de Arecibo (Cultural Center). It’s housed in the historic Casa Luanga in downtown Arecibo.

Then, visit Cueva del Indio nearby. This is a popular coastal cave complex near Arecibo that showcases ancient Taino petroglyphs. For a small fee, you can take guided tours to see the historic etchings and enjoy ocean views. Movie fans will recognize this site from the movie,  Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides !

Another 45-minute drive west along Puerto Rico’s northern coast and you’re in the charming coastal town of Isabela. It’s the perfect place to unwind by the water or explore interesting geological formations along the coast.

You can spend at Jobos Beach, renowned for its quality surfing conditions and laidback vibe. The best thing about Puerto Rico beaches? The waterfront restaurants and beachside kiosks! You can also enjoy music or rent chairs and surfboards, right off the beach. Or explore the rock formation next to the beach and find Pozo de Jacinto, a striking ocean cavern.

Or you can head to Guajataca Beach, where you can see the historic Guajataca Tunnel. You can explore some old Spanish structures and enjoy beautiful murals here. The beach is sandy and quiet but keep in mind that it’s pretty isolated.

There’s also Shacks Beach on the west side of Isabela, known for its AMAZING shore diving opportunities. This is another popular sandy beach with artisan shops and a few restaurants within walking distance. But the big draw here is massive coral reefs with sea turtles and other marine life waiting to be discovered!

In less than 30 minutes, you’ll be in Aguadilla, another popular beachfront town on the west coast of Puerto Rico. Start the evening off by exploring Aguadilla’s dining scene, known for fresh seafood and local flavors.

When in Aguadilla, there’s one place that you have to go, and that’s Crash Boat Beach! This beach is famous with locals and visitors alike for its sunsets and relaxed vibe. Enjoy a stroll along the pier or go snorkeling in the calm turquoise waters. You can also explore the beachside bars and food kiosks.

Begin your third day in Puerto Rico with an early start, embarking on an adventure to El Yunque National Forest! As the only tropical rainforest within the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque promises a unique and invigorating experience.

The El Portal de El Yunque Visitor Center is about an hour east of San Juan along Road 191. You can book reservations in advance or purchase them here. Arrive early to make the most of your time. From here, your morning will be well spent hiking to one of the many natural pools for a cool dip!

We did a zipline tour in El Yunque and it was a blast for both me and my son. We did this tour .

If it’s open, La Mina Falls is worth the  moderate 1.4-mile out-and-back hike ! This popular trail meanders through the lush tropical rainforest, full of jungle flowers and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife. When you reach La Mina Falls, you can enjoy a swim in the pools below the beautiful falls! (This trail is currently closed with plans to reopen soon.)

Another popular hike is the  easy .7-mile Angelito Trail  that takes you to the Rio Mameyes and the calm waters of the Las Damas pools. It’s a great way to spend the morning with a short hike through the rainforest to enjoy a swim.

Heading back to the trail, you’ll spend your afternoon in El Yunque exploring different trails and viewpoints in the forest. But first, enjoy delicious local food at a roadside food joint!

Along Road 191 you’ll find different food stands, restaurants, and gift shops where you can pick up souvenirs. Grab some fresh coconut water, hot empanadas, or the best mofongo you’ve ever had.

Back on the road, check out open trails and roadside waterfalls, like the beautiful La Coca Falls, Yokahu Tower, or Juan Diego Falls. If you’re up for another hike, the Torre Mount Britton Trail is rewarding. At the end of the  1.6-mile out-and-back trail , you can climb up into the tower for unbelievable views of the El Yunque National Forest from above!

Heading back to San Juan for the evening, tonight you’ll discover the city’s best nightlife! After freshening up at your hotel in Old San Juan, take a cab to Calle Loiza near the neighborhood of Condado.

Calle Loiza is where you’ll find every kind of restaurant you can think of, including sushi, Korean BBQ, fusion, tapas bars, traditional Puerto Rican food, and more! It’s also where to go for fun bars and cute lounges, as well as local watering holes. And along the way are fast-food joints and some nice street art.

If you prefer a quiet evening in an elevated setting where you can reflect on the beauty you experienced in El Yunque, head to the heart of San Juan’s sleek Condado neighborhood. Along Magdelena Street, you’ll have your pick of rooftop wine bars and high-end restaurants. Or enjoy the chic rooftop bar and lounge scene and fine dining options at the hotels along Condado Beach.

Morning + Afternoon

On the fourth day of your Puerto Rico itinerary, it’s all about the eastern side of the north shore! Leave San Juan before dawn to spend the day at Luquillo Beach, located about an hour away. With its soft sands framed by swaying palm trees, this beach offers the perfect way to start your day in paradise.

Arrive early to witness the sunrise. Near the shore, calm waters and gentle waves make Luquillo Beach a favorite spot for swimming and water activities. And further out, the waves provide excellent opportunities for surfing, windsurfing, jet skiing, and more!

Take advantage of the beach’s amenities, including rental equipment for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. There is a fee for using this public beach, but it’s just a few dollars. You should also carry cash on you for use of the restrooms, which goes towards their maintenance.

You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or bring your own! When you get hungry, explore the popular food kiosks just off the beach. Known as “kioskos,” these colorful stalls offer a variety of local dishes. The kioskos are also a big reason this beach is popular with visitors to Puerto Rico.

Luquillo Beach offers the perfect mix of palm tree-framed sand, recreational opportunities, and a happy atmosphere. It all sets the tone for a relaxing morning by the sea! Whether you’re seeking water adventures or a peaceful escape, this coastal gem promises an authentic Puerto Rican experience.

After a full day on Luquillo Beach, your next stop is Fajardo on the east coast. Arriving before sunset, you’ll take a  2-hour small group night kayaking tour of the Bioluminescent Bay . This is considered one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico! You’ll get to witness the magical phenomenon of the water glowing at night due to microscopic organisms.

Meeting your guides just south of the mangrove forest, your group will paddle through a canal and into the bioluminescent bay. Your guides will share interesting facts about the wildlife and flora that make their home in the mangrove forest of Puerto Rico.

Then, as the sun sets and everything gets dark, the enchanting bay comes to life with a blue-green glow! As microscopic organisms are agitated, like when your paddle disturbs the water, the bay lights up, creating an otherworldly display. The experience is nothing short of magical. You can even dip your hand into the water, and watch as the ripples transform with the light!

While visiting Laguna Grande, remember that the ecosystem is delicate. Eco-friendly practices are essential to preserving this natural wonder, such as using reef-safe sunscreen that could harm the organisms. (You can check out   SavetheReef.org  for a good guideline on what makes a sunscreen reef-safe and eco-friendly.)

Puerto Rico Itinerary Day 5: Vieques Island

Note: For many people planning a Puerto Rico itinerary, 4 days is more than enough time to experience everything the main island has to offer. Now you have a good feel of San Juan and the surfer towns of the east coast. You also experienced the north shore beach towns and tropical rainforest of El Yunque!

However, if you’re able to extend your trip to 6 days, these final 2 days will take you to 2 popular islands off the coast of PR- Vieques and Culebra! If you follow this itinerary, I suggest spending tonight on Vieques.

There is a wide range of accommodations right in the heart of the town of Vieques. Close to the ferry, shops, restaurants, and the beach are hotels and vacation rentals for everyone! The  Sea Gate Hotel  is a great option for both couples and groups of 6. Or book a vacation rental  like Casa Carmen  for a larger group.

Check out of your hotel and catch a ferry or short flight to Vieques, a beautiful island off the coast of Puerto Rico. To reach Vieques from the main island, you can take a short flight from the airport in San Juan or travel by ferry from Ceiba.

Keep in mind that rental cars aren’t allowed off the main island, so return yours today. Once you’re on the island, you’ll need to find a way to get around, as the island is too big to be walkable. There are places to rent UTVs, scooters, and cars. Or you’ll need to depend on local taxis.

Travel to the island of Vieques. You can get to Vieques by plane for around $60-100 or take a ferry from Ceiba for $3. But you’ll need to take a taxi or rent a car and drive to Ceiba first.

If you want to take a day trip to Vieques, you can book a snorkeling tour to the island here.

Vieques is known for its serene beaches, untouched coastline, and rugged natural attractions. This afternoon is your chance to explore the lovely and quiet beaches of Vieques!

My favorite beach on Vieques is Sun Bay Beach. You can catch a taxi from the ferry which will take about 15 minutes (they’ll most likely be at the ferry terminal and airport, or you can call Vieques Taxi:  787-741-TAXI), or public vans that say “Vieques y Sus Barrios” (Vieques and her neighborhoods).

You can take one of these vans almost anywhere for around $5. This is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. The water and were perfect. There were the perfect amount of trees to give us some shade. And you will most likely see some wild horses* hanging out on the beach.

* Note: the “wild” horses in Vieques aren’t really wild, but are owned by locals and are allowed to roam freely around the island.

On the south coast, you’ll find isolated white-sand cove beaches like Playa La Plata and Playa La Chiva. Bring your own snorkel gear or just go for a swim in the calm, blue waters. Playa Caracas is another popular white-sand beach where you’ll see a lot of wild horses!

You can also spend your afternoon at the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Travel its diverse landscapes, from mangrove forests to salt flats, spotting native wildlife and bird species along the way.

The preserve is also home to the historic Fort Count Mirasol, a historic Spanish fort from the 1800s. You can explore the well-preserved structure, which now serves as a museum of the island’s history and cultural heritage.

After you’ve had some beach time, you can walk or taxi over to Esperanza for some lunch. There are several restaurants here along the shore and they usually take turns being open. We ate at Duffy’s and it was amazing. They had incredible fish tacos and house made hummus. Be sure to try the Canoa. I can’t even explain it and I couldn’t find it anywhere else in Puerto Rico, but it was amazing!

As evening descends upon Vieques, you can enjoy dinner in town, sampling more local food. Afterward, continue your evening outdoors.

If you’re interested in stargazing, head south to Playa Grande, where minimal light pollution provides excellent views of the night sky. Vieques is becoming a go-to for astrotourism, offering clear starlit skies because of exceptionally low light pollution in the region.

You won’t find any stargazing tours in Puerto Rico at this time, but you can find plenty of quiet places on the island to enjoy the night sky! Even heading out onto your hotel patio or relaxing at an outdoor restaurant can offer rewarding stargazing experiences on moonless nights.

Vieques is probably most famous for having one of the best bioluminescent bays in the world, Mosquito Bay. Book your bio bay tour for the evening. You may want to check your tour times and ferry/flight times. You may want to consider staying the night in Vieques. You can book the Mosquito Bay kayak tour here .

Culebra is another tiny island in Puerto Rico that is definitely worth a visit! I fell in love with this place. So much to do on such a small island.

On the final day of your Puerto Rico itinerary, you’ll check out of your hotel or vacation rental and take a ferry or a short flight to Culebra. The ferry will take you about 3 hours but will cost less. Flights are much more limited and costly, but if you can get one, they only take about 15 minutes.

I flew to both Vieques and Culebra and they are both fun and short flights. If you are scared of small planes…just know that it’s going to be a very small plane!

This small island is easy to navigate as it’s so small, but I recommend renting a car or a golf cart! We rented a golf cart, which was fine and fun, but we did get stuck in a rain storm, which was not quite as fun! If I had it to do over again, I’d probably rent a jeep.

Another stunning island known for its incredible beaches, you’ll head straight to Flamenco Beach to spend the day. This beach has often been on “best beaches. inthe world” lists.

You’ll find all kinds of things to do here. Take a leisurely swim in the calm ocean or go snorkeling to see colorful tropical fish and coral reefs. The expansive beach provides ample space for sunbathing. And you can use picnic tables under pavilions and palm trees for shade. There are little stalls as you walk into the beach where you can rent equipment.

If you’re interested in a scenic hike, the trail Flamenco Point rewards you with panoramic vistas of the coastline. Along the way, you can see the historic painted tanks of Flamenco Beach!

Bring cash for your beach day. There’s a parking fee, and you’ll need cash to use the restrooms as well. Also stock up on food and water before you head to the beach, since there’s not much out here.

Alternatively, you could book a  full-day catamaran tour  to the Culebra islands from Fajardo! This would allow you to see Culebra’s Flamenco Beach and Culebrita Beach on Culebrita without worrying about all the planning and transportation. Just meet your guide at the Puerto Del Rey Marina in Fajardo. This tour includes a buffet lunch and unlimited drinks.

Keep in mind that whether you book a tour or explore Culebra on your own, you’ll need to get transportation back to San Juan from Fajardo.

After such a rewarding last day in Puerto Rico, wrap things up with a farewell dinner back in San Juan! Reminisce about the memorable experiences from your trip while you enjoy a traditional Puerto Rican meal with ocean views before you fly home tonight. You’ll find a variety of beachfront restaurants at Isla Verde Beach and Condado Beach.

FAQ on Planning a Trip to Puerto Rico

How many days do i need in puerto rico.

To experience the highlights, plan a 5-to-7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico. You can explore San Juan, its historic sites, and beautiful beaches. Then you’ll also have time to venture into other regions like El Yunque Rainforest, Vieques, or Culebra for a well-rounded visit.

What is the best month to visit Puerto Rico?

The best months to visit Puerto Rico are from November to April. This is the region’s dry season when the weather is nicest. Peak tourist season falls between December and February. But this is when it’s the most crowded with the highest prices for accommodations. Shoulder months like November and April offer a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.

When should I avoid visiting Puerto Rico?

It’s a good idea to avoid visiting Puerto Rico during the hurricane season. It typically runs from June to November, with peak hurricane activity being in August and September. Puerto Rico has made great strides in recovery and preparedness. But it’s best to plan your visit outside of the hurricane season to ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

Is it worth going to Puerto Rico for 3 days?

If you only have 3 days in Puerto Rico, I suggest focusing on San Juan! A 3-day Puerto Rico itinerary would give you time to experience the charm of Old San Juan and enjoy local cuisine. You can also visit historic sites like El Morro Fort and Castillo San Cristobal and relax on the city’s beautiful beaches.

Do you need a car in Puerto Rico?

In urban areas like San Juan, you can walk or use taxis, ridesharing, and public transportation. If you’re staying mainly in touristy spots, you might not need a rental car. But to explore outside of San Juan, you’ll need to rent a car. It’s the only way to visit remote beaches, rainforests, and Puerto Rico’s hidden gems outside of tours with transportation.

Wanderlust Crew

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Puerto Rico Vacation Planning & Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? Well to help you make the most of your Puerto Rico vacation, we’ve created a Puerto Rico trip planner that is packed with things to know before you visit Puerto Rico. Consider this your Puerto Rico travel guide to the ultimate Caribbean vacation.

From the best time to visit Puerto Rico, to how to get around and travel budgets, you’ll be set for some fun in the Puerto Rican sun!

Puerto Rico Vacation Guide

Jump Ahead To:

Visiting Puerto Rico – Know Before You Go

Now that you have our Puerto Rico vacation itinerary , we thought we’d give some helpful trip planning tips and travel check list items. There are definitely a few things you want to be aware of before traveling to Puerto Rico.

• Capital City | San Juan
• Language | Official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken
• Currency | $ USD
• Electrical Outlet | North American Plug (Need one? Get it here )
• Drinking Age | 18 years old
• Tipping | Do it. 15 – 20% is custom, expected and appreciated
• Time Zone | Atlantic Standard aka an hour ahead of the US eastern time zone

Where is Puerto Rico Located

The island of Puerto Rico is located 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) off the southeastern coast of Florida of the United States. Apart of the Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico is easily accessible from the United States via flight making it a short escape to paradise.

Puerto Rico Airports – Which Is For Me?

Depending on where you are coming from and what you want to see and do on your Puerto Rico vacation, you can plan to fly into one of three of Puerto Rico’s International Airports.

• Want to visit Old San Juan ? Have a cruise departing from Puerto Rico? This is the airport to fly into.
• If you are wanting to visit the historic town of Ponce, in the south of Puerto Rico, then this is your preferred airport.
• Looking to explore the west cost of Puerto Rico to visit the beach and surf towns of Rincon and Aguadilla? Then this airport is for you.

Do Americans Need a Passport To Go To Puerto Rico?

Leave those passports at home! US Citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. Your drivers license will do just fine.

Wondering about your cell phone reception and coverage too? Well let us help answer that for ya! Your American cell phone data plan will work in Puerto Rico no problem.

So there is no need to purchase an international plan. Wooty woot, are we right?!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Puerto Rico

One of the most important steps in planning any trip is finding the best time to go. Just like the other islands in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico has a “hurricane season.” And when we say season, it’s pretty much half the year.

• Puerto Rico Hurricane Season: Officially kicking off June 1st and going till about November 30th. If you want to avoid hurricane season, keep reading….
• The best time to visit Puerto Rico is from December to April. However, the winter months tend to be the most expensive time to visit Puerto Rico. During this time, Puerto Rico gets an influx of tourists from North America trying to escape the cold, winter weather.
• Cheapest Time To Visit Puerto Rico: If you can’t swing a winter getaway, the spring months, March – May, are great times to visit. Sunny days, hot weather and the spring months tends to be a bit cheaper than the winter months. If you’re a budget traveler, visiting Puerto Rico in the spring is for you.

Getting Around Puerto Rico

If you’re planing to visit a few places in Puerto Rico on your vacation, then renting a car is must. Renting a car is the easiest way to get from one side of the island to the other.

Plan to pick up a your rental car from the airport once you land and be on your way, driving care-free around the island!

TIP: Parking is near impossible in Old San Juan. Check with your Old San Juan accommodation to see what parking options they provide.

Driving in Puerto Rico Tips

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Distances are in kilometers, speed limits are in mph and gas is sold in liters, not gallons
• Road conditions are fine, not great, but fine
• Rules of the road are similar to those of the US
• Road signs are in Spanish, so be sure to brush up on your Spanish
• Try to avoid driving in Old San Juan – it’s a maze of small, one-way streets and loads of people

When we went to Puerto Rico in January, everything we read said Uber was non-existent in Puerto Rico. Well, we’re here to tell you Uber in Puerto Rico is VERY much in existence, especially in the San Juan area.

Uber was one of the transportation options we took to get around Puerto Rico. We had no issues with scheduling a Uber in Old San Juan and it’s surrounding areas like Santurce and San Juan’s International Airpot.

There are loads of Taxi’s around Puerto Rico. While we never took one, we saw plenty of them offering rides to tourists and locals.

Public Transportation

In Old San Juan and it’s surrounding areas are serviced by Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses. What is that you ask? Well it’s a public bus that has routes throughout town and to the beaches close to Old San Juan.

Areas In Puerto Rico To Visit

Wondering where to go in Puerto Rico on your vacation? The charm and colorful houses of Old San Juan is a popular choice amongst tourists making Old San Juan the shinning star in Puerto Rico tourism.

However, if you’re looking to explore other places on the island, we have a few tourist attractions and places to visit just below.

East Coast of Puerto Rico

• Culebra and Vieques – Two of the best islands off the east coast of Puerto Rico are the islands of Culebra and Vieques. Culebra is home to one of the best beaches in the world (Flamenco Beach) and Vieques is home to Mosquito Bay – a bioluminescent bay. Both islands offer amazing snorkeling and scuba diving!
• El Yunque National Rainforest – Located on the eastern side of the island of Puerto Rico, El Yunque is unlike any other place on the island. This subtropical rainforest is home to waterfalls and loads of hiking, making it perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
• Condado & Isle Verde – Located along the beaches and close to Old San Juan, Condado and Isle Verde are great options for tourists wanting to stay at a beach front accommodation and relax on the beach but also explore Old San Juan.

West Coast of Puerto Rico

• Rincon – The ultimate surf town and whale watching spot on Puerto Rico is the west cost town of Rincon. Home to amazing sunsets and chill beach vibes, the west coast of Puerto Rico is the surf capital of the Caribbean.

The South Coast of Puerto Rico

• Ponce –  Puerto Rico’s cultural center and hub of culture is in the southern city of Ponce. From European art collections and architecture to calm beaches, Ponce is a great addition to your Puerto Rico vacation.

Central Mountains of Puerto Rico

• Adjuntas – Looking for a scenic drive in the mountains. Maybe a hike? How about a visit to a working coffee plantation? Well then Adjuntas in central Puerto Rico is for you.

It goes without saying that Puerto Rico is home to amazing sites. The above places will give you a taste of some of the best things there are to do in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico Travel Budget

We’re sad to say, but Puerto Rico is not the cheapest destination you can visit, especially if your spending majority of your time in San Juan. To get a general idea of pricing to help you plan your trip to Puerto Rico, check out the below travel budget…

• Food Kiosks / Street Food: This is the cheap food. You can expect to pay around $2 – $10 per meal/snack
• Restaurants: Now this is totally dependent on where you go, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from the $10 – $25 per meal

TIP: Something we always do when traveling is split food. Order an app and entree, then split it. This ensures a few things – 1) you don’t let food go to waste 2) you’re not uncomfortably full and 3) you save on your per-person, per-meal cost.

• Beer: A cold Medalla (Puerto Rico’s official beer) will set you back $1.50 – $2 per can
• Cocktails: Puerto Rico has a thriving, and we do mean thriving, cocktail scene. Expect to pay $10 – $12 per cocktail. Full disclaimer, they’re worth every penny.

Tip: Puerto Ricans are firm believers in happy hours. If you are looking to save some cash, booze it up during happy hour.

Accommodations

Okay, to be fair, this is totally dependent on the type of traveler you are and where you are staying in Puerto Rico for your vacation. For the sake of giving you a general idea of the price, we’re assuming you’re staying in Old San Juan.

• Basic Accommodations: $50 – $100 per night
• Mid-Range: $100 – $200 per night
• Luxury: $200 + per night

Book Now: Check out the latest accommodations & prices in Puerto Rico!

A general rule of thumb, no matter where you go, the farther you get from tourist hotspots, the cheaper everything gets. Go on then, get your “off the beaten path” adventure on if you’re looking to save some cash!

Puerto Rico Beaches

Now, it’s no secret that Puerto Rico is home to some amazing beaches. Below are a few fan favorites of some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. A visit to a beach is a Caribbean vacation must, right?

Our personal favorite? Flamenco Beach on Culebra island .

• Flamenco Beach, Culebra Island (Northeast Puerto Rico)
• La Monserrate, Luquillo (Northeast Puerto Rico)
• Sun Bay Beach, Vieques Island (Northeast Puerto Rico)
• La Playuela (Playa Sucia), Cabo Roja (Southwestern Puerto Rico)
• Playa Borinquen, Aguadilla (West Cost Puerto Rico)
• Crash Boat Beach, Rincon (West Cost Puerto Rico)
• Jobos Beach, Isabella (Northwestern Puerto Rico)

Wanting to visit one of the best beaches in the world? Learn how to get to Flamenco Beach .

Puerto Rico Festivals

If you’re wanting to experience a festival during your Puerto Rico vacation, then be sure to check out two of Puerto Rico’s biggest festivals – Carnival in Ponce (Carnaval Ponceño) and San Sebastian Street Festival in Old San Juan .

Ponce Carnival is celebrated the last week of February in the southern Puerto Rican city of Ponce. Every day, you can expect loud and colorful parades and massive street parties.

San Sebastian Street Festival is celebrated the third week in January in Old San Juan. This is the art festival of all art festivals in San Juan. Plazas are booming with local artists, live music is being played and endless parades and artists displaying their works lay waiting for you.

San Sebastian Street Festival is a party that starts in the day and doesn’t stop. Both festivals are basically the Caribbean Mardi Gras aka a great time!

Puerto Rico has loads of festivals throughout the year so be sure to check what’s going on while you’re there. You may never know what celebration awaits you.

About Puerto Rico’s History & Culture

First discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, Puerto Rico soon became an important military outpost for the Spanish in the Caribbean.

With the Spanish colonizing the island, soon with it came slavery. Africans and the native Taíno and Carib Indians all contributed to the cultural influences that shaped modern-day Puerto Rico.

The Spanish lost their control of Puerto Rico in 1898 under the Treaty of Paris. Ever since then, Puerto Rico has been a territory of the United States.

If you are visiting Puerto Rico for the first time, it’s centuries of cultural influence especially comes alive in the countries cuisine. Speaking of food, what a perfect segue into our next category…

Must Eat Puerto Rican Food

Puerto Rican food is an amazing blend of Spanish, African, Taíno, and American influences. The cuisine is not spicy but has tantalizing spices likes oregano, garlic, parsley and cilantro.

Some top Puerto Ricans dishes you must try are just below…

• Arroz con Gandules – The national dish of Puerto Rico is made up of rice with pigeon peas and pork
• Mofongo – Made from green plantains, chicharrones (fried pork skin) and garlic then topped with meat or seafood. It’s heaven in a dish.
• Empanadillas – Baked or fried pastry puffs packed with fillings like meat, cheese or veggies.
• Lechon – If there is one thing Puerto Rico does right, it’s Pork. Lechon is a whole pig roasted over an open fire. Get you some.
• Tostones – Twice-fried plantain slices. Think of these like chips. Tostones are usually accompanied by a dip of some sort.

Outside of food, no trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a Pina Colada! The Pina Colada was invented in Puerto Rico after all! Oh and just to be clear, the main ingredient to a proper Pina Colada is Puerto Rican Rum!

With the Bacardi Family calling Puerto Rico home for centuries, you’ll find no shortage of rum on Puerto Rico.

Rum’s not the only libation to consume on Puerto Rico. A good cup of coffee is a must as well! Puerto Rico is home to some amazing coffee plantations. A good cup of Puerto Rican coffee is the best way to start any day.

The Best Puerto Rico Day Trips

We get it, you may want to make a home base and do a few little excursions and day trips from your accommodation.

Whether you want to swim in a bioluminescent bay , get off the beaten path and hike to a waterfall  or spend a day snorkeling through ocean waters , Puerto Rico has a little something for everyone.

• Experience the Magic of Bioluminescent Bays : There are only five in the world and three of them can be found in Puerto Rico! Swim through waters that glow in the dark, truly something only a few can say they get to experience.
• Hike in El Yunque Rainforest : Wanting a day of adventure? Then a hike through Puerto Rico’s rainforest is for you! Swim in natural pools and experience the beauty of Puerto Rico’s flora and fauna.
• Snorkel and Boat Cruise To Culebra : One of the best islands around Puerto Rico, a beautiful boat ride and snorkeling adventure is the perfect day trip to feel right at home in the Caribbean.
• Sip Puerto Rico Rum : You should probably see what all the fuss is about and taste some of the best rum around with a Bacardi rum tasting at the Casa Bacardi distillery.

For a full list of other fun day trips, check out our “ 9 Can’t Miss Day Trips from San Juan ” or you can che ck out the latest excursions, reviews and prices here. There are loads of fun things to do in Puerto Rico!

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

Whether your heart is set on the historic European charm of Ponce , the salty air, and beach bars to the west in places like Rincon or in colorful Old San Juan , Puerto Rico has a little something for everyone.

For more accommodation choices and to find the best places to stay in Puerto Rico,  you can check the latest place and prices here  to secure unforgettable Puerto Rican accommodations.

Puerto Rico, Post Hurricane Maria and Earthquakes

It’s been a few years since Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico and while the majority of the island has recovered, there are still parts of the island, especially the non-tourist areas, that are still struggling.

Puerto Rico is a resilient country that is used to natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes, but it’s during the aftermath that they need tourists more than ever.

If you are worried about visiting Puerto Rico, check in with your accommodation and check the latest stories coming out of Puerto Rico.

Just like other destinations, we highly recommend getting  travel insurance  before visiting Puerto Rico. We use  World Nomads  and it’s definitely come in handy a time or two for us!

WANT MORE INFORMATION ON PUERTO RICO?!

9 Can’t Miss Day Trips from San Juan

13 Amazing Things To Do in Old San Juan

Things To Do In Culebra – One of Puerto Rico’s Best Islands

A Guide To The Best Bar in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The Best Places To Eat in San Juan, Puerto Rico

PIN IT FOR LATER!

For more travel tips, guides and awesome travel shots, be sure to poke around our site, follow us on Instagram  @wanderingstus ,  Pinterest  and on  Facebook . Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. We’re happy to answer. Or, just leave us a positive note!

Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)

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Two Sisters Abroad

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The Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary for Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is truly the ideal island for travelers! Although Puerto Rico is a small island, just 100 by 35 miles, it is packed full of beautiful places to see and fun activities to do. The incredible beaches alone are more than enough reason to visit PR, but the island really has so much more to offer. One week in Puerto Rico is a great amount of time to be able to explore the island and stay in (at least!) two beautiful towns. Ready to plan your trip to PR? Keep reading for an epic Puerto Rico 7 day itinerary.

Puerto Rico 7 Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: san juan.

When visiting Puerto Rico, most travelers will fly into San Juan. This is the largest airport on the island serving the vast majority of flights. 

San Juan is also one of the most famous and popular areas of Puerto Rico, not surprisingly as it’s the capital. In San Juan you’ll find great bars and restaurants, beautiful beaches and the picturesque neighborhood of Old San Juan – the oldest part of the USA. 

When visiting San Juan there are a few options for neighborhoods to stay in, depending on what you value most as a traveler. The two most popular areas for tourists are definitely Old San Juan and Condado.

Old San Juan

Old San Juan is my favorite part of San Juan. This neighborhood is a tiny island separated from the rest of the city. Don’t worry, it’s still very easily accessible by car, foot, scooter, etc.

Old San Juan is a colorful neighborhood with Spanish colonial style buildings, cobblestone streets and tons of fun things to do and great places to eat!

The one downside to Old San Juan is that it’s not beachfront, although there are beaches nearby. All of the beaches in Puerto Rico are public , so you can go to any of the beaches in the nearby Condado area.

Hotels in Old San Juan

• 352 Guest House Hotel Boutique
• Palacio Provincial  – Adults Only
• Villa Herencia Hotel
• Hotel El Convento

If you’re looking for beachfront resorts and an overall “beach vacation vibe,” then Condado is the neighborhood for you. Its main street, Ashford Ave, is filled with hotels and restaurants and there’s plenty to do nearby.

From Condado, when the weather is nice, you can walk to Old San Juan in 45ish minutes. The walk is scenic and there are places to stop for breaks along the way. Otherwise, Ubers are inexpensive and the ride to Old San Juan is about 10 minutes. 

Hotels in Condado  

• La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
• Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
• Caribe Hilton  – at the very end of Old San Juan, 7 minute Uber to the downtown, walkable to Condado.

Day 1: Check into Your Hotel and Explore Old San Juan

Wander around old san juan.

After arriving in Puerto Rico, I recommend dropping your luggage off at your hotel and starting to explore Old San Juan. Just wandering around the colorful streets, sipping a coffee and taking in the views is the perfect start to any PR trip. 

Old San Juan is a small neighborhood, but there is a lot to do and see! Be sure to check out my post all about the best things to do in Old San Juan , but a few highlights not to miss on your first day include:

• Drinking a delicious Puerto Rican coffee 
• Touring El Morro Fort
• Having a Piña Colada at Barrachina

Grab Lunch at a Local Cafe

I love that Old San Juan has so many wonderful cafes that are perfect for breakfast and lunch. Many of these cafes serve up fresh, delicious food that pairs perfectly with a strong Puerto Rican coffee.

A few of my favorites include

• St. Germain Bistro & Cafe (especially great for vegetarians)
• Chocobar Cortes (chocolate focused menu)

Take a Walking Tour

Depending on what time you arrive in Puerto Rico, I definitely recommend taking a walking tour of Old San Juan to learn more about the neighborhood, its history and its culture. There are both daytime and sunset tours.

Even if you’ve already walked around Old San Juan on your own, a guided tour is a really interesting way to learn more about the city’s history and culture.

Walking Tours of Old San Juan

• El Morro Fort Entry Ticket & Old Town Walking Tour
• Old San Juan Walking Tour (without El Morro)
• Old Town Sunset Walking Tour

Some tours include entrance and a guided tour of the famous El Morro fort . If your tour doesn’t include entrance, I highly recommend taking the time to visit on your own. 

El Morro fort is one of the most famous and historical buildings in Puerto Rico. This fort was built over 500 years ago by the Spanish and was later used by the US during WWII. Now, visitors can tour the inside of the fort, which is designated as a National Historic Site. This means you can enter for free if you’re a National Parks Pass holder!

Have a Traditional Puerto Rican Dinner

While in Puerto Rico there are a few dishes you definitely need to try! One of the most famous is mofongo (the unofficial dish of Puerto Rico) but you’ll also want to try mallorcas (fried, sweet bread), alcapurrias (deep fried meat fritters), bacalaítos (fried cod fritters) and empanadillas (fried turnovers with a variety of fillings) – just to name a few. 

Perhaps most importantly, don’t miss out on the passion fruit juice (jugo de parcha) – it’s one of my favorites. Passion fruit mojitos are also a great option, if you’d prefer a cocktail.

While there are many restaurants that serve great Puerto Rican food in Old San Juan, a few of my top picks include:

• Café el Punto
• El Jibarito (no vegetarian options besides side dishes)
• Barrachina (touristy, but famous for their Piña Coladas)

Enjoy a Drink at the Top Rated Bar in the Caribbean

Old San Juan is home to the #1 bar in the Caribbean, La Factoría . This fun bar features six different bars, all connected by hidden (and sometimes not so hidden) passageways. 

Each of the six bars has a different vibe, but they’re all fun. You’ll find a low-key cocktail style bar, one all about dancing, and so on. There’s really something for everyone and it’s definitely worth a visit. 

Keep in mind that if you want to visit all six bars, plan to go to La Factoría after 11pm. Before that, some of the rooms may be closed. 

Day 2: Go on an Adventure to El Yunque Tropical Rainforest

Start your day with a coffee and pastry .

To start your first full day in San Juan, grab a Puerto Rican coffee and quesito pastry (cream cheese pastry) and get ready to go to the tropical forest!

If you’re staying in Old San Juan I recommend:

• Cafe Cuatro Sombras
• Bien Papayas  

In Condado I recommend: 

• Barista Squared 
• Chocobar Cortes

Tour El Yunque Tropical Rainforest

El Yunque tropical forest, located about one hour from San Juan, is the only tropical forest in the US! Every year this tropical forest gets over 100 billion gallons of rain. It’s a fantastic place for nature lovers as well as anyone who enjoys a good hike or swim in a rocky river. 

While you can drive to El Yunque on your own, I highly recommend going on a guided tour. This way, you’ll have an expert guide to teach you about the abundant plant and wildlife, as well as to take you on the best hikes and to the best swimming spots. 

Tours to El Yunque

• El Yunque National Rainforest: Nature Walk and Beach Trip (combo trip to Luquillo Beach)
• Day Trip to El Yunque Tropical Rainforest from San Juan

El Yunque is also home to amazing natural rock water slides that are a ton of fun to visit. Often these tours don’t officially go into El Yunque, but instead are in rivers right on the forest’s outskirts. 

Natural Waterslide Tours

• El Yunque Rainforest and Waterslides Day Trip
• El Yunque Rainforest & Natural Waterslide

Enjoy a Delicious Dinner 

For dinner, I recommend heading back to Old San Juan to check out another great restaurant.

If you’re in the mood for Italian, Bacaro is really dealicious. This restaurant is very small, though, so make a reservation in advance. 

If you like tapas and Flamenco dancing, make a reservation at Triana Tapas & Flamenco . They have an excellent tapas and flamenco show, but be sure to contact them first as it’s not offered every day of the week.

For foodies who are looking for a fine dining experience, Marmalade is very highly regarded. They only offer tasting menus and it’s definitely a pricier restaurant, but I’ve only ever heard wonderful things about the food and experience.

Grab a Paleta for Dessert

Puerto Rico has some of the best popsicles I’ve ever had. My favorite popsicle shop (and also the most famous) is Señor Paleta . This little popsicle shop serves up a plethora of delicious flavors of paletas, both fruit flavors with a water base or ice-cream like flavors with a milk base. 

Eating paletas at Señor Paleta is something I always look forward to when visiting Old San Juan and Condado. 

Optional: Have a Night Out at La Placita

La Placita de Santurce, less than 15 minutes by car from Old San Juan, is such a fun place to go for a night out. 

In the evening, this area comes alive with tons of bars, restaurants and dancing in the streets. In total, La Placita is about 3 blocks by 2 blocks, and there is no shortage of bars and great music. 

I will preface my recommendation for La Placita by saying that it may be more enjoyable for young travelers. These aren’t fancy bars, but instead are more indoor/outdoor style bars with lots of drinking and loud music in the streets. I wouldn’t recommend this area for families or for travelers who prefer a low-key cocktail bar. 

You’ll find people of all ages at La Placita though, so if it sounds like fun to you, I highly recommend checking it out.

Enjoy the Low-key bars in Old San Juan

If you’d prefer a more low-key bar experience, there’s some great options in Old San Juan. This neighborhood is so pretty at night and enjoying a cocktail on a balcony is the perfect way to end an evening. 

Cocktail bars in Old San Juan

• The Mezzanine
• Antiguo 26 
• Bar Catedral Rooftop (at the Decanter Hotel) 
• Casa de Montecristo Puerto Rico (cigar bar)

Day 3: Enjoy a Relaxing Beach Day

At this point you must be thinking, “hey, where are the beaches? This is Puerto Rico after all!” Today, for your last day in San Juan, a beach day is a great option! While those staying in beachfront properties in Condado will likely already have had a little time at the beach, now’s a great time to enjoy it more fully. 

If you’re staying in Old San Juan, the closest swimmable beach to you will be Balneario del Escambron . This is about a 30 minute walk from downtown Old San Juan, or any easy Uber. This beach has vendors, bathrooms and a park area as well! You can also bring a picnic and spend the whole day. You can also check out the beaches in Condado, both Condado Beach and Playita del Condado , make for great places to spend the day. 

Have Lunch in Condado

After spending the morning at the beach, head to Ashford Ave, the main street in Condado, for lunch. 

• A good brunch spot. 
• Another solid breakfast and brunch spot. 
• Great Italian food! 
• An affordable, diner mixed with fast food style option. 

Go on an Evening Sunset Adventure

For your last day in San Juan, enjoy a beautiful sunset either from the beach or on the water. From the Condado area, Playa del Escambrón and Playa del Capitolio are pretty places to watch the sunset. 

From Old San Juan, La Verguenza bar offers nice sunset views, decent food and good drinks.  

If you’d like to see the sunset from the water, consider taking a sunset cruise: 

• San Juan Catamaran Sunset Sail with Drinks
• Sunset Sail by San Juan Historical Bay

Have Dinner at the Distrito T-Mobile

Distrito T-Mobile is an entertainment center filled with bars, restaurants, art and more. It’s such a fun place to spend the evening! 

A couple of the best restaurants at Distrito T-Mobile include: 

• Barullo Taberna Española for Spanish tapas 
• Sazón Cocina Criolla for Puerto Rican and Caribbean food 

After dinner, you can spend some time checking out the bars or walking around the rest of Distrito T-Mobile before taking a quick Uber back to your hotel. 

Days 4-7: Rincón and the West Coast

The second part of your trip will be spent on the West coast of Puerto Rico, an area known for its beautiful beaches. I recommend basing yourself in the town of Rincón, located about 2.5 hours from San Juan. Rincón is one of the larger towns on the West Coast with nice beaches, hotels and restaurants.

You will need a car for this portion of your trip in order to explore the towns and attractions along the West Coast. The town of Rincón is walkable, but there is so much to see in the area that you’ll definitely want to make sure you have a car to explore. 

The airport is only 15 minutes from Old San Juan (or 10 from Condado), so it’s easy to head to the airport in the morning, grab your rental car, and drive to Rincón. 

Day 4: Drive to Rincón

Rincón is a popular town known for its beaches, surfing and sunsets. The town certainly has a “surfer” vibe to it, which is evident in the downtown area filled with its low-key bars, coffee shops and restaurants. 

The main downtown area is a great place to stay, as you’ll be walking distance to great eateries, bars and even a beach. 

Hotels in Rincón

• Rincón Plaza Hotel (downtown area)
• Casa Verde Hotel (near Sandy Beach)
• Casa Isleña (beachfront, outside of the main town)
• Rincon of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel (beachfront) 
• Lazy Parrot Inn & Mini Resort (family owned and operated)

Enjoy Lunch at One of the Many Cafes

After checking into your hotel, wander around the main plaza area in downtown Rincón before lunch. There are a few great cafes where you can grab something to eat before heading to the beach. 

Brunch/Lunch in Rincón

Head to the Beach

If you’d like to visit a nearby beach that’s walkable, check out Playa Doña Lala Beach in downtown Rincón. There are shops and restaurants nearby, making this a convenient place to spend the afternoon. 

If you don’t mind driving, check out Sandy Beach . Sandy Beach is a popular beach for both swimming and surfing and although there are no amenities (bathroom, restaurants, etc.), it’s a great place to spend the afternoon.

Have a Sunset Dinner

Enjoy your first evening in Rincón with a sunset dinner! Tamboo restaurant is a well regarded option that has great views of Sandy Beach!

If it’s raining, or you’d prefer a downtown option, check out: 

• Taquería Vatos Locos
• La Sirena Sushi

Day 5: Surfing and a Day Trip

Grab coffee and breakfast.

Rincón has a bunch of great coffee shops, so if you’re a coffee lover, be sure to check out a few during your trip. 

• La Cafetera (food truck style, coffee + breakfast)
• Smoothies and açai bowls near the beach 
• Friends Coffee Rincon Surftown
• Isla Made Local Goods & Cafe

Take a Surfing Lesson

If you like to surf, or have always wanted to try, Rincón is a great place for you! While it is possible to rent (or bring) your own surfboards and head out to a beach, I recommend taking a lesson with a local instructor. That way you know you’re in the location with the best conditions and you can have someone to help navigate the waves. 

The waves and water conditions can be pretty rough, so having an expert there to guide you is a good idea. 

Surfing lessons in Rincón

• Beginner Surf Lesson
• Rincon Surf School

OPTIONAL: Take a Trip to Aguadilla

If you decide you’ve spent enough time in Rincón and are ready to see somewhere new, just 30 minutes by car from Rincón, back towards San Juan, you’ll find the town of Aguadilla. 

In Aguadilla, like in Rincón, you’ll find great beaches! 

Crashboat Beach is the most well known in the area and it’s a great place for swimming, relaxing and water sports. At this beach you’ll find food vendors, a restaurant and water equipment and umbrellas for rent. 

This beach is very popular, so be prepared for a busy parking lot. 

If you’re looking for something more low-key, consider checking out Surfer’s Beach . This beach, as the name suggests, is popular with surfers. Although this beach isn’t recommended for swimming, it’s still a nice spot to relax for a couple hours. 

From Surfer’s Beach, you can also take the 30 minute hiking trail to Survival Beach (bring closed toed shoes). While you can swim at this beach, be very careful as the waves and currents can be extremely strong. 

Check out the Casas de Colores (colorful houses) behind El Parterre Square

In the main town of Aguadilla (behind El Parterre Park), you’ll find a collection of beautifully painted houses on a hill. These houses are part of a project with Proyecto Pintalo to revitalize the town, showcase talented local artists and help bring tourism to the area. 

The houses are bright and beautiful and they are a great spot for taking photos. Just be aware that these are people’s homes , and while the area does function as a sort of outdoor museum, you’ll still be taking photos of local residences. 

Watch the Sunset from Punta Higuera Lighthouse Park

Back in Rincón, Punta Higuera Lighthouse Park is a beautiful place to watch the sunset. Overlooking Domes Beach (a great surf spot), this lighthouse park and bar area offers beautiful sunset views. 

Grab a drink and enjoy the evening!

Enjoy Dinner in Rincón

After watching the sunset, head back into Rincón for dinner. 

A few options in downtown include: 

• They don’t have a website, but their address is Calle Cambija, Rincón 00677.
• Make a reservation.
• Outside of the main downtown area, this BBQ restaurant is famous in the area!
• Rincón Beer (a microbrewery with local beer and bar food)

Day 6: Head to La Parguera

After some coffee and breakfast at any of the great spots around Rincón, hop in the car for the hour long drive to La Parguera. 

If you don’t want to move hotels again, and would rather just take a day trip to La Parguera, that’s an option, too. On this itinerary I include a nighttime bioluminescent bay tour (which is definitely a must do), so you’d be driving back to Rincón at night. 

This isn’t a problem in any way, I’d personally just prefer to spend the night, especially because there’s some great hotels in the little town of La Parguera. 

La Parguera is definitely a vacation town for locals. This small town has great water activities like chili boating and snorkeling and boat tours. Like I mentioned, it’s most famous for its bioluminescent bay. 

Although Puerto Rico has three of these bays, the one in La Parguera is the only one you can swim in. 

Go on a Chili Boat Adventure

Chili Boating , basically a huge bicycle on the water, is such a fun and unique activity to do in La Parguera. On this tour you’ll ride your chili boat along the coast, seeing colorful homes and numerous mangrove islands called cays. 

You’ll chili boat out to one of these mangroves where the water is shallow and you can swim. 

I was surprised how sturdy the chiliboats are. I’m not a strong swimmer and was worried I’d fall off, but I felt totally stable and safe the whole time.

Have Lunch in La Parguera

There aren’t a ton of restaurants in La Parguera, because of the town’s small size. But the few options that are available are pretty good. 

For lunch, I recommend checking out Isla Cueva right downtown. This casual restaurant has burgers, tacos and great vegetarian options. All of the food tastes very fresh.

Check Into Your Hotel

For being such a small town, La Parguera has some good hotel options!

My top recommendation is the newly remodeled La Parguera Plaza Hotel . This adults-only hotel has a beautiful pool area, boho style rooms and an onsite restaurant. It’s a very relaxing spot to spend time. 

Other great hotel options in La Parguera include: 

• Incredible ocean views and grounds, pool, comfortable, no-frills rooms.
• 1km away from the town’s main square, but easily walkable. 
• Turtle Bay Inn

Go Snorkeling in the Bioluminescent Bay

Before visiting La Parguera, I didn’t know much about bioluminescent bays, but they’re really interesting! Essentially, a specific type of microscopic organism ( dinoflagellate plankton) live in certain bays. When they’re agitated, like when you move the water quickly, they start to glow a blue-green color. 

Sometimes, they’re strong enough to see from the boat, but other times you’ll need to get in the water and move them around yourself. I definitely recommend swimming in the bay, as it’s a rare and unique experience, and the glowing is so cool to see up close and under the water. 

I had so much fun on my bioluminescent bay tour ; we watched the sunset from the boat, had some drinks and swam in the glowing bay.

One Last Dinner in Puerto Rico

After your amazing bioluminescent bay tour, it’s time for one last dinner in Puerto Rico! 

If you’re in the mood for a casual seafood spot, check out El Turrumote , a few minutes outside of the main downtown area. 

Right downtown, you’ll find Brujula (at the Parguera Plaza Hotel) and Moons Bar and Tapas which are both solid options.

Enjoy Live Music

If you happen to be in La Parguera on a weekend, Friday – Sunday, there is often live music in the main plaza. Here you’ll find people dancing, hanging out and enjoying some drinks.

Day 7: The Last Morning in PR

Have a relaxing morning by the pool.

For your last morning in Puerto Rico, a coffee by the pool before heading to the airport is a great way to say goodbye to the island. 

There is only one place in La Parguera to get coffee and breakfast in the morning that’s not at a hotel, M&M Bakery and Deli . You can either check it out (the food is pretty good), or see what your hotel has to offer. La Parguera Plaza Hotel has its own coffee shop, but in my experience, the hours are a little sporadic.

Head to the Airport

From La Parguera, the drive back to the airport in San Juan is about 2.5 hours. Make sure you give yourself enough time to drop off your car and get to the airport. 

Tip: If you’re flying back to NYC (and sometimes to Florida), check out the airport in Aguadilla as it offers direct flights to these locations. Aguadilla is about an hour drive from La Parguera, so it’s an easy place to fly home from.

Stop in Ponce

If your flight home leaves in the late afternoon, you can add a quick stop in Ponce to your itinerary. Ponce is on the way to the airport and this little city is just as charming as Old San Juan. 

Ponce is known for its museums and there are several worth checking out!

Museums in Ponce:

• A 1930s, Spanish Revival mansion with breathtaking views.)
• You can also take a Don Q rum tour .
• This is the largest art museum in the Caribbean and has Latin American, Puerto Rican and European art. 
• Note: this museum was badly damaged during the most recent hurricanes and not all exhibits are currently open. I recommend reaching out directly to the museum to see what exhibits are currently open for visitors. 
• This museum doesn’t have a website, but is open on weekdays from 9am-4pm.
• This museum doesn’t have a website, but is open Wednesday-Sunday from 8:30am-3:30pm.

Grab Coffee/Lunch in Ponce

Ponce has some great cafes that make for an awesome spot to grab a quick snack or lunch. 

Cafes in Ponce:

• Gallo Espresso  
• La Nueva Pastelería

Fly Back Home, See You Later PR!

After spending a couple hours in Ponce, it’s time to drive the remaining hour and a half to the San Juan airport. Hopefully you had a great time in Puerto Rico and are already thinking about booking a trip back to the beautiful island.

More posts for planning a trip to Puerto Rico:

• Planning an Epic Trip to Puerto Rico: Step-by-Step Guide
• The 16 Best Things To Do in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Epic 48 Hours in Old San Juan: The Best Things to Do and See
• The Ultimate 7 Day Road Trip Around Puerto Rico

Q&A: Puerto Rico 7 Day Itinerary

• A week in Puerto Rico is enough to see San Juan and part of the West Coast of the island. It’s definitely a great amount of time for a first trip to get to know the island, enjoy the beaches and eat amazing food. However, in one week, you cannot explore the entire island of PR.
• The winter season, December – March, is considered the best time to visit Puerto Rico as the weather is the most mild and dry. I’ve visited in every season and the winter months are definitely my favorite. Just be prepared for hotels and flights to be more expensive.
• Hurricane season in Puerto Rico is June-November. This doesn’t mean that if you visit during these months there will definitely be bad weather, but rain and storms are more likely. The plus side to visiting Puerto Rico this time of year is, generally, flights and hotels are less expensive.
• US citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. If you are from another country, you will need a passport.

So there you have it! I hope you found this Puerto Rico 7 day itinerary helpful as you plan your trip to the incredible island. If you have any questions about this Puerto Rico itinerary, please let me know in the comments or DM us on Instagram, @twosistersabroad .

We also appreciate you sharing this post with someone you know who’s traveling to PR and on social media.

This Puerto Rico 7 day itinerary includes affiliate links at no cost to you! Read our disclosure  here .

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Love it, the whole island is beautiful and you can tell you spent a lot of time and hard work giving details to an amazing itinerary for a whole week. Thank you as always and look forward to your next adventure, I wish I had the means to see the world like you do ❤️ 💙

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Your Travel Flamingo

Digital Nomad & Female Travel Blog

The ULTIMATE 4 Day Itinerary in Puerto Rico

November 16, 2022

If you are headed to Puerto Rico for the first time and need help planning your trip, this guide is exactly what you need. Here, we’ll cover the essentials and logistics of how to plan an EPIC 4 day itinerary for Puerto Rico!

Is it Worth Visiting Puerto Rico?

The simple answer to this is yes. Puerto Rico is an island abundant in history, diverse landscapes, beautiful nature, vibrant culture, and amazing food.

There is simply something here for every type of traveler to enjoy. And for Americans, the fact that it’s so easy to travel to from the US, it should be a no brainer to add it to your bucket list.

Plus, as one of the safer destinations in the Caribbean, travelers can enjoy all there is to love about traveling in this region without some of the safety concerns that usually come with it.

Is 4 Days Enough in Puerto Rico?

It’s hard to give a definitive answer to whether 4 days in Puerto Rico is enough.

The truth is, you could easily spend way more than 4 days in Puerto Rico and still not see it all. This island has a lot to offer, especially given the wide range of natural landscapes present here, from rainforests, to heavenly beaches, to caves, waterfalls – the list goes on.

However, for most of us, a 4 day trip makes the perfect first bite into what Puerto Rico is all about. This 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico will highlight the best of the best, and most bucket-list worthy destinations in Puerto Rico.

Of course, a subsequent trip here can definitely dive into the other amazing parts of Puerto Rico. But 4 days is definitely still enough to have an amazing trip.

Have Less that 4 days in Puerto Rico? Read: How to Spend 2 Days in San Juan

When to Go to Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has a clearly defined dry season and rain season. The dry season is defined as running from December to March, while the rain season runs from April to as late as November.

Puerto Rico in December

December is generally the busiest time in Puerto Rico due to holiday travel, with this time seeing the highest prices for hotel bookings. You’ll also have a harder time booking tours and gaining entry into certain parks, such as El Yunque Rainforest.

You do have the best temperatures and chance of sunny days in this time of year, but I’d opt to visit a month or so later, just to avoid the crowds.

Puerto Rico in January – April

The best time of year to visit Puerto Rico is likely in spring. This is right after the holiday season, but still during dry season. This will ensure maximum sunny beach days, more comfortable temperatures and bearable numbers of tourists.

It’s still considered high season, so you’ll need to book hotels in advance to ensure getting a room you prefer. Tours and entry into some sites should also be booked ahead of time.

Puerto Rico in May – November

This is considered the low season in Puerto Rico. A visit in this time period usually means less crowds, lower prices on hotels, and some tour companies becoming less operational.

It can still be a great time of year to visit, especially in the earlier months in this time frame. You have some chance of rain, but it’s still very likely to have days of sunshine. Plus most tours and attractions are still open and ready for visitors.

Puerto Rico Hurricane Season

Puerto Rico’s hurricane season runs from August to October. Since this is peak low season, it offers the best deals for travelers. Still, I don’t really advise planning a trip in this time.

The risk of your trip being disrupted by a hurricane are greatly higher, presenting safety issues for the travelers themselves. But the real issue is that if a hurricane does hit, it’s really unfair to locals if hurricane relief supplies will need to be shared with tourists at this time.

I visited Puerto Rico in September in 2021, and had nothing but sunny skies. However, exactly one year later, Puerto Rico was slammed by a hurricane that left most of the island without power or water for weeks.

Plan your trip responsibly, and try to visit outside of this time.

Getting To Puerto Rico

Most people will get to Puerto Rico by flying from somewhere within the US. There are direct flights from most major hubs on the east coast, midwest and southern states now.

For Canadians, you have direct flights from Toronto and Montreal. For the rest of us, we will need to have a stopover somewhere along the way.

Things to Know Before You Go

Puerto Rico is a unique destination as it’s an official U.S territory, but still in some ways it’s own thing. Here are a few details you should know before planning 4 days in Puerto Rico.

Americans Don’t Need a Passport

If you are an American citizen, you won’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico. This makes it a great tropical getaway for Americans, especially considering 50% of us still don’t have a passport.

You’ll just need an up-to-date drivers license or state issued ID to present on check in and arrival. If you plan to travel onwards, such as to another Caribbean island or to Mexico, you will need your passport.

Real ID Act in 2023

There is a new regulation to be set in stone by 2023, known as the Real ID Act .

Essentially, depending on the state your ID was issued in, you may or may NOT be allowed to travel to Puerto Rico without a passport. You’ll need to verify whether the state your ID was issues in is complaint with this act or not.

If in doubt, just bring your passport for good measure.

The Currency is USD

Another reason Puerto Rico is such a convenient destination for Americans or those coming from the US, is that they use the same currency.

US dollars are the official currency used in Puerto Rico. Moreover, I’d say that card payments are nearly as widely accepted as in the States.

You should still bring some cash for tipping, street food stalls, and those few places that may still pefer cash payments.

Use Uber for Getting Around

In the city of San Juan, opt to use Uber to get around if you won’t have your own car or for when you plan to drink.

I did a cross-comparison of Uber and taxi prices while in San Juan, and Uber was always a fraction of the price of taxis offered to tourists.

Plus, it’s more convenient, and you won’t need to use cash.

No Wifi at the Airport

There is no wifi at the San Juan Airport. If you need any documents or information in order to get to your hotel, have it preloaded or saved on your phone prior to take off to ensure a smooth arrival.

COVID Test Required

Puerto Rico still currently requires COVID vaccinations or a negative COVID PCR test for travelers coming from outside of the US.

If you are vaccinated, you can present your vaccination card. Otherwise, you’ll need to present a PCR test result from no earlier than 6 days before arrival.

For more info on Puerto Rico COVID requirements, click here .

Getting Around Puerto Rico

The best and most convenient way to get around is by renting your own vehicle. You can easily rent a car from San Juan Airport, ready for pick up on arrival. You can also choose to  ship your own car to Puerto Rico for longer stays. 

There are many rental companies to choose from, and I’d advise doing your own up-to-date research to choose the best on for you.

We rented from Alamo and can report a positive experience. We split the car rental price between 5 people, so it was economical and affordable.

Can you Do Puerto Rico Without a Rental Car?

For a 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico, you actually can get by without renting a car. Since many travelers opt to take tours in Puerto Rico, these almost always include a free transfer from San Juan to your destination.

So, you could totally just base yourself in San Juan, take tours to reach other places in your itinerary, and take Uber to get around the city itself.

We did not use our rental car very much in Puerto Rico, apart from getting to and from the airport, and a half-day trip to Camuy Caves. You can’t drive in Old San Juan, so there isn’t a huge need for a car in the city at all.

Cost to Rent a Car

The average daily price for renting our car was $196 USD. This did not include gas nor parking in San Juan.

Since we split this between 5 people, it was worth it, but that doesn’t detract from the fact that car rentals in Puerto Rico are pricey.

Decide where you’d like to go, whether you prefer to join tours or do self-guided trips, and weigh out for yourself if renting a car is worth it.

Puerto Rico by Public Transportation

With only 4 days in Puerto Rico, I do not recommend trying to get around using public transportation. While public transportation is available, the island is perhaps a lot bigger than you think.

You don’t want to waste your short trip in transit half the time, so opt to rent a car or book tours with transfers included.

What to Pack

No matter what time of year you visit Puerto Rico, two things will remain certain: It will be hot, and it could rain at any time.

If you are visiting in the summer months, expect scorching heat and very high humidity. For those lucky to be visiting closer to winter or in spring, the temperatures will be more favorable, but still hot and sticky.

If you aren’t used to this weather, I’d definitely advise loose, breathable clothing. I saw people there in jeans and almost got a second hand heatstroke.

Here is what I’d personally recommend packing for 4 days in Puerto Rico:

4 Days in Puerto Rico Packing List

• 3 – 4 loose fitting tops (you will potentially change more frequently here due to the weather)
• one work out outfit (will be handy when walking in the rainforest)
• 2 flowy dresses (instagram ready)
• 2 pairs of shorts
• 1 pair of loose linen pants or a maxi skirt
• one wide hat (to block the sun)
• MOSQUITO SPRAY
• sunscreen SPF 50 or higher
• a beachbag tote
• beach sandals
• comfy sneakers (a lot of Old San Juan is cobbled streets)
• a small backack (for going into El Yunque)
• your camera
• one lightweight scarf (can double up as a beach coverup)
• waterproof/ sweat proof make up
• A good deodorant

Where to Stay

For this 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico, it could be practical to base yourself in San Juan for the majority of the trip.

This is especially true if you won’t be renting a car, and will be taking guided tours to the points of interest around the island as most day tours start and end in San Juan.

I’d definitely opt to stay in Old San Juan, simply for the vibes. But you also have a ton of options for bars and restaurants to unwind in after a long day of sightseeing.

Best Hotels in San Juan

Decanter Hotel : Located smack dab in the center of Old San Juan, this hotel is walking distance from most sights in San Juan, plus a huge number of restaurants and bars. This hotel is ideal for groups, as they offer conjoined rooms and kitchen with their rooms. No special amenities such as pool or rooftop.

El Colonial : This is likely the best place to stay in San Juan. Located in the old town, this hotel offers the best in location , style and comfort. The rooms are simple, yet tasteful in decor, and there is a fabulous rooftop terrace and bar onsite.

Palacio Provencial : This hotel offers a mix of colonial and modern architectural styles, together creating a beautiful aesthetic. It offers possibly the best rooftop pool deck in Old San Juan, and other amenities such as hot tub and a gym.

4 Day Itinerary in Puerto Rico

This 4 day Puerto Rico itinerary covers sites mostly on the Eastern side of the island. While that won’t show you all of Puerto Rico, and all it has to offer (you can’t see it all in 4 days anyway!) it includes the most impressive aspects of what Puerto Rico has to offer, including a UNESCO heritage site, the only rainforest in the US, Puerto Rico’s top rated beach, and the #1 bioluminescent bay in the world!

Here is the perfect 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico!

Day 1: Old San Juan & Surroundings

Start your first day in Puerto Rico by exploring the capital city of San Juan. Ideally, you’ll stay in Old San Juan, which is by far the most convenient and scenic area to base yourself.

Here, you’ll be close enough to walk to most of the must-see places in San Juan.

Calle de la Fortaleza

Get your bearings for Old San Juan by first walking down the main street of Calle de la Forteleza. This street runs through the length of the entire historic district of San Juan.

You’ll find the characteristically colorful old buildings that line both sides of the street, giving the entire street a whimsical and vibrant appearance. Admire the old architecture and snap away those instagram photos, while maybe stopping into one of the many cafes or restaurants for breakfast.

La Fortaleza

Walk down the length of Calle de la Fortaleza until you hit La Fortaleza. This is the historic and current residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Visits aren’t permitted, but you can admire the building from the outside.

Sometimes, the street just in front of La Fortaleza will be decorated seasonally. At one point, it became insta-famous for the umbrellas that hung across the top of the buildings.

In 2021, the umbrellas were sadly already gone, but there was a different decoration installed.

Paseo de la Princesa

This is known as one of the most beautiful walking areas in Old San Juan. There is a famous fountain here that is popular with tourists, as well as streets that are beautifully lined with trees.

Puerta de San Juan

Puerta de San Juan is the historic gateway into San Juan, and today leads the way into the walking path around the cities outer walls.

Walk the Paseo del Morro

The Paseo del Morro is a boardwalk walking path that covers the outer parameters of San Juan’s historic outer wall.

The walk will take you along the edge of the sea, to the fortress of Castillo San Felipe de Morro, walking alongside the historic outer wall of San Juan. On the other side, it’ll take you alongside the bay of San Juan.

Historic Park of San Juan

You’ll come to a large park overlooking the sea. At the end of the park, you’ll come to Castillo San Felipe de Morro . This historic fortress was built by the Spanish as a means of protection for San Juan from would-be invaders.

Today, it is a UNESCO site, and well worth a visit to learn of the history and admire the views.

Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi

At the other end of the Historic Park of San Juan, you’ll come to the Cementerio Santa María Magdalena de Pazzi . In my opinion, this may be one of the most scenic cemeteries in the world.

Set alongside the sea, it’s now the resting place of several prominent figures in Puerto Rican history.

Visit La Perla on a Tour

La Perla is a famous shanty town located on the oceanside just below Old San Juan. What was once a rough neighborhood riddles with crime, it has now become a place of interest largely due to its feature in the Despacito music video.

Here you can admire the colorful buildings and vibrant murals, while walking along the sea. You can get a feel for another side of Puerto Rico. You can visit on your own, but for safety, it’s advisable to go with a tour.

Old San Juan Nightlife

End your first day in Puerto Rico by indulging in the many offerings in terms of bars, restaurants and lounges in Old San Juan.

For food, you have many options from more low-key Puerto Rican cuisine, to swankier tapas bars, and fine dining restaurants. I personally loved having small bites and cocktails at T•tuan , a restaurant located in a courtyard of fairy lights and live music.

If you are seriously hungry, opt to check out Deavadura or El Jibarito for authentic Puerto Rican eats in a humble, no frills setting.

La Factoria

When the time comes for a drink, there is simply one place you cannot miss out on: La Factoria . What was named among the top 50 bars of the world several years over, a visit here is quite literally a rite of passage during your 4 days in Puerto Rico.

La Factoria is actual a group of 7 bars, with a single hole in the wall, unmarked entrance. You could easily spend a night hopping from one bar to another, as each other a unique vibe and drink menu.

Visit a Cigar Lounge

If you’re up for something unique, you may opt to visit a cigar lounge while in San Juan. While Puerto Rico is not as famous of a cigar producer as the some of the neighboring island nations, they do produce their own high quality brands here.

Whether or not you’re a fan, you can still learn about different types of cigars, how they are made, and maybe even test one out yourself at Monte Cristo Cigar Lounge .

Here, the staff are knowledgeable and happy to give you a little tour of their cigar room.

If one day in San Juan isn’t enough for you, here is a 2 day guide to San Juan Puerto Rico , including all the sites in Old San Juan and beyond.

Day 2: El Yunque National Forest

Your second day of your 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico will take you to the only tropical rainforest in the U.S.

El Yunque National Rainforest is one of the most biologically diverse forests in the U.S national forest system. While only 28,000 acres in total area, making it one of the smallest of the national forests, it packs a lot to see and do into a small area.

Getting to El Yunque

You have one of two options: either join a guided tour with provided transfer, or drive your own rental car to El Yunque Forest. The one that is best for you will depend on your preferences.

If you’d like someone else to take care of all the logistics such as reserving a spot in El Yunque (more on that later), and taking you from one hotspot to the next, a tour is a good idea.

El Yunque by Tour

Some good tour companies into El Yunque Rainforest are El Yunque Tours and Island Journeys . Both provide pick up in San Juan and will take care of booking a reservation into the park itself. You’ll also have a knoweldgeable guide to give background information during your visit, plus take you to all the best spots.

El Yunque Without a Guide

You technically do not need a guide to visit El Yunque. You may also appreciate the idea of exploring the rainforest on your own terms, or just want to save a bit of cash, in which case you may come by renting a car.

It’s doable to self-drive yourself to El Yunque, and through the park itself. The only thing you need to consider, is that you’ll be responsible for getting your own tickets into El Yunque, which can be a hassle in and of itself.

Getting Tickets to El Yunque Rainforest

If you won’t book a tour with a guide, you’ll need to get your tickets to El Yunque Rainforest prior to your visit.

In order to ensure your entry into El Yunque on your desired date, I’d recommend booking ahead of your trip. You can reserve and purchase an entry ticket up to one month before your visit on the recreation.gov website or by clicking here .

You’ll need to buy just one ticket per vehicle, and the person who’s name is on the ticket must be present in the vehicle upon entering the park.

A the time of writing, a ticket is $8 USD per vehicle.

Last Minute Tickets to El Yunque Rainforest

For those who want to be more spontaneous or just forgot to book ahead of time, you can try your luck at grabbing last minute tickets the day before your visit.

A few tickets are released every day at 8 am and 11 am local time, for entry the following day. You have a good enough chance at grabbing a ticket, especially outside of peak season and if you set an alarm a couple minutes ahead to ensure you login on time.

However, with only a 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico, I wouldn’t leave anything up to chance. Book ahead of time if you can, to avoid any disappointment.

Things to Do in El Yunque

Although El Yunque is one of the smallest forests in the national forest system, it packs in a vast array of diverse landscapes, vegetation and wildlife into a small area. Plan to start early and spend most of the day here to make the most of your visit.

Pro-tip: Do NOT forget the mosquito spray. Doing so may just result in swollen, baseball sized bug bites!

La Mina Falls

La Mina Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the El Yunque Rainforest. The waterfall itself is a 35 foot tall free flowing wall of water, that flows into a pool popular for swimming. It’s one of the most visited spots in the park, so prepare for crowds!

Juan Diego Falls

Juan Diego Falls is actually a set of waterfalls, that is quite a bit less visited than Mina Falls. The lower falls are relatively easy to get to from the road, while the upper falls requires a bit more effort to reach by hiking. The reward for reaching the upper falls is a 40 foot, relatively unvisited waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

Spot the Wildlife

This would definitely be easier with a guided tour, but given the abundance of life in El Yunque rainforest, you just may get lucky even on your own.

El Yunque is home to a wide range of exotic species of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. With persistence, you may spot some coqui hopping around, an indigenous Puerto Rican frog species. If you’re lucky you may also spot some boas, the colorful Puerto Rican parrot, or some unique reptiles.

There are many hiking trails to choose from for enjoying the scenic beauty in El Yunque. The easiest trail is the Caimitillo Trail , which is only a little over half a mile long and mostly flat. Although short, it still gives you a good taste of the natural beauty of this region. It’s also a great trail for birdwatching.

Another easy trail is the El Angelito Trail . This hike also takes just over 20 minutes one way, and ends in a great swimming area along the Mameyes River.

For those seeking a view from above, try out the Mount Britton Trail . This trail will take you up into the cloud forest and onto the mountain, eventually leading up to the El Yunque Peak. From up here, you have one of the best views of the entire El Yunque rainforest and even the ocean from afar.

Day 3: Culebra Island & Puerto Rico’s Best Beach

For day 3 of your 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico, you’ll be heading to Culebra Island to visit Puerto Rico’s top rated beach.

You can either reach Culebra by booking a tour that departs from San Juan, or by driving to the ferry terminal in Cieba and taking the ferry. For those that want to drive and have a car, you may actually head towards the ferry port straight after El Yunque Rainforest the day before.

If you choose to take the ferry, you may opt to take the last ferry onto Culebra Island at the end of day 2, and spend the night on the island. This way, you’ll have the beach to yourself in the morning before the day trippers roll through.

Be warned that the ferry has a track record of being not fully reliable, and that for the most part, ferries won’t allow you to bring your car. You should plan to leave your rental car behind, and parking is available at the port for $5.

Taking the Ferry to Culebra Island

The ferry to Culebra departs from the ferry terminal in Ceiba, in the western part of the main island. The ferry schedule will vary depending on time of year, so check here for the schedule.

Typically, the last ferry to Culebra leaves some time in the late afternoon, and starts as early as 6 am in the morning. The ferry only takes 45 minutes to reach Culebra.

You can book tickets ahead of time online, but it’s also possible to book a ticket on the spot.

Taking a Tour to Culebra Island

In many ways, joining a tour to get to Culebra Island makes the most sense. It’s convenient, and they often bundle in activities that you may otherwise pay for separately anyway, such as kayaking and snorkeling excursions.

With only 4 days in Puerto Rico, I might even say this is the better option, just to save yourself any hassle and time.

About Flamenco Beach

The main draw of visiting Culebra is to spend a day at the world-famous Flamenco Beach.

Flamenco Beach hasn’t just been rated the best beach in Puerto Rico, but often pops up in the ranks among the best beaches in the world.

Historically, this beach was occupied by the U.S Navy for bomb testing and target practice. One of the most photographed aspects of the beach are the tanks that still sit arrested in decay on the beach itself.

This beach is ideal for truly all types of beach goers. The sand is ultra-soft and pure, while the waters are the most strikingly clear blue color, with virtually no waves.

Things to do at Flamenco Beach

Go snorkeling.

Flamenco Beach is also home to some of the best snorkeling locations in Puerto Rico. If you don’t have your own gear, opt to join a snorkeling tour. Many of these will take you to the best snorkeling spots in and around Flamenco Beach by boat and provide gear.

See the Beach Tank s

The American Navy officially un-occupied Culebra in 1975, but in their haste, left behind a lot of equipment. As a result, there are a handful of American tanks that still litter Flamenco beach, disturbing its otherwise paradisiac appearance.

Today, the tanks make cool subjects for photography, where they sit rusted and covered in graffiti.

Boat Tour to Isla Culebrita

Boating is a popular activity at Flamenco Beach and Culebra Island as a whole. You can take a boat tour or public water taxi and head to the uninhabited island of Culebrita. This tiny island is home to some quiet, yet beautiful beaches of it’s own, plus a ton of unspoiled, raw nature.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking is another activity on offer for those who don’t fancy sunbathing as a beach activity. You can rent a kayak at Tamarindo Beach and kayak to and from Flamenco Beach. Another option is to book a tour with Aquafari , which will take you on a half-day kayaking and snorkeling excursion in and around Flamenco Beach.

Visit the Mangrove Forest

These are located a bit further, on the other side of Culebra, on the southeastern shores. But i you’re keen to explore something different, you can definitely squeeze in a visit to the newly restored Puerto de Manglar Red Mangrove Forests. Here you can see how this unique ecosystems thrives and provides a home to some endangered animals.

Enjoy a Beautiful Sunset

Sunsets on Culebra are known to be a colorful event. While you can get a decent sunset on Flamenco Beach, you may opt to head to Tamarindo beach on the western shores for the absolute best sunset views.

Where to Stay on Culebra Island

Whether or not you stay on Culebra island is up to you. If you booked your visit to and from Culebra as a tour from San Juan, you will likely only visit as a day trip since the catamaran leaves in the afternoon to take you back to San Juan.

But if you came by car, there is definitely value in staying on the island over night, even if just to have it to yourself once the day-trippers leave. If you would like to spend the night in Culebra, here are some good options:

Aleli Cottages : Homely apartment stay on the western shores of Culebra. Most cottages offer beach westward facing views from the terrace, meaning perfect sunset views. Includes kitchen and an onsite garden, ideal for families.

Oceania Villas : These villas offer stunning views of Playa de Cascajo and Datiles Beach from the spacious wrap around balcony. It’s ideal for group travelers, with access to onsite barbecue facilities, a pool and garden.

Day 4: Mosquito Bay for Bioluminescent Beach

For day 4 of your 4 days in Puerto Rico, you’ll head to possibly the most unique destination of the trip.

On your last day, you’ll want to travel to Vieques, another small island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. You can reach Vieques one of two ways: by ferry or by flying in from San Juan.

If you’ve already taken the ferry to Culebra from Cieba on day 3, then taking the ferry to Vieques will make more sense since the ferry departs from Ceiba as well.

If you are based in San Juan, you should opt to fly.

Visiting Mosquito Bay

Bioluminescent beaches are a rarity to come by in the world, so Puerto Rico is unique in the fact that it is spoiled by a total of 3 bioluminescent bays.

While each of them are amazing in their own way, Mosquito Bay is the one regarded as the world’s absolute best bioluminescent bay. It’s also the hardest one to reach of the three in Puerto Rico, but it’s a bucket-list experience not to be missed.

Sure, you’d be able to see bioluminescent algae at any of the 3 bioluminescent bays, but they are dramatically more dense at Mosquito Bay. It really is a once in a lifetime experience to witness the beach twinkling brighter than the night sky itself!

Kayaking Tours of Mosquito Bay

Most people will opt to join a kayaking tour of Mosquito Bay. Tours generally meet up in the late afternoon, and allow you to kayak in the bay when darkness falls.

There are many different tour operators offering kayaking tours of Mosquito Bay, I’d advise booking ahead if possible.

Other Things to do in Vieques

Seeing the bioluminescent algae in real life makes the trip to Vieques entirely worthwhile, but if you have more time in Vieques you can check out some of the following places.

Playa Negra

Vieques is home to many unspoiled, beautiful beaches that are less frequented by tourists. One of the most memorable would be Playa Negra which translates to “Black Beach”. Here you can walk on black volcanic sand, that is often times mixed in with golden sand, creating interesting contrast and designs in the surf.

Scuba Diving

For certified divers, Vieques makes an excellent place to venture off into the undersea world. The visibility around Vieques is amongst the best, making it ideal for exploring the colorful reef and abundant marine life here. It’s not uncommon to spot eagle rays, sea turtles, manatees and even barracudas here.

Hiking Trails in Vieques

Vieques is a somewhat more rugged island in Puerto Rico, and you’ll often do some hiking to reach the best beaches. Playa Grande Sugar Mill Ruins is another great hiking trail that leads you to the ruins of the historic mills, while offering stunning views of the sea along the way.

Alternative 4 Days in Puerto Rico Itinerary Ideas

With the destinations mentioned, you are bound for an action packed 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico. However, if you find yourself with some free time, or want additional ideas for places to visit, below are some worthy mentions.

Camuy Caves

The Camuy Caves are the third largest cave system in the world. They are located on the northwestern side of the island, about an hour and a half away from San Juan.

The Camuy Caves can be visited as a half day trip, perhaps before you fly to Vieques on day 4 of this itinerary. While the entire cave itself is very impressive, and surrounded by beautiful nature, I would not recommend it for those who are afraid of spiders.

This cave is where I saw the biggest (I didn’t really see it, I had my eyes closed the whole time) spider of my life right next to my face, in a narrow passageway deep inside the cave, with no way out. If you are crazy, google Puerto Rican Scorpian Spider to get an idea of what I mean.

Laguna Grande

This is the second best of the 3 bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. It’s the most popular amongst tourists because it is far easier to reach than Mosquito Bay.

The bioluminescent algae here is not nearly as dense nor as bright as in Mosquito Bay, therefore not as visually impressive. But if you want a faster option to have more time for sipping mojitos, this makes a good second option since you can easily drive there from San Juan.

You can reach Laguna Grande by driving to Fajardo, from which you can join a kayaking tour to see the bioluminescent algae.

San Juan Area

With only a 4 day itinerary in Puerto Rico, you may not have that much extra time to allocate in San Juan. But if you have some free time (maybe before your departure), there is a lot more to discover outside of Old San Juan.

For example, try heading to La Placita Market in the afternoons to try some food, and stay for the evenings when it becomes a nightlife hotspot. Here, you’ll find an abundance of bars, restaurants and even clubs, where you can let loose and maybe mingle with some locals.

See more: A Guide to How to Spending 2 Days in San Juan

Safety in Puerto Rico

For the typical traveler, Puerto Rico is a largely safe destination. If you are basing yourself in Old San Juan, you can rest easy knowing this is one of the safest areas in the city, and country, and there is a ton of police present to reassure you of that.

Travelers who will join guided tours, visit the touristic sites during the day, while taking normal precautions, will probably be fine.

If you will rent a car and do a self-guided trip, you’ll also be fine. Certain precautions should be made such as remembering to leave no valuables or visible items in your car. And of course, always make sure you have GPS to avoid getting lost, especially at night.

There are some areas that are known to be rougher than others, but those aren’t typically where tourists go. If in doubt, ask your hotel receptionist the day before about where you plan to go.

If traveling alone, try to avoid walking around alone late at night, a precaution that is advisable in almost any destination.

Solo Travel in Puerto Rico

I spend the tail end of my 4 days in Puerto Rico alone, and I can report a good experience in Puerto Rico for solo travelers.

If you make the effort, it is easy to meet locals, as I found Puerto Rican people to be very open and friendly. It also helps that many people in the city speak English.

San Juan is great for solo travelers, even first time solo travelers. For visiting further destinations in Puerto Rico, it may be slightly more enjoyable to go with someone, since most of us don’t consider going to the beach or hiking to be a solo activity.

However, if you are comfortable being alone and are experienced traveling solo, then there is no reason why Puerto Rico can’t be a great solo travel destination.

Puerto Rico Travel Tips

How should I prepare for a trip to Puerto Rico?

There isn’t a whole lot you need to prepare for to travel to Puerto Rico aside from choosing a good time of year to go. For Americans, since Puerto Rico is a U.S territory, you’ll have access to a lot of the conveniences you’d find in the states. You’ll find

Is it best to bring cash or card to Puerto Rico?

When I visited in 2021 cards were already widely accepted. It’s still best to bring a bit of cash, maybe for tipping, some side-street food stalls, and in case of emergency.

What is the #1 attraction in Puerto Rico?

Since the entry point into Puerto Rico is via San Juan Airport, I’d say most people will spend time in San Juan. But there is good reason to. You have a good mix of things for tourists to enjoy, such as activities for cultural and historical immersion, as well as options for leisure, dining, relaxing, nightlife, and shopping.

What food is Puerto Rico best known for?

There is a LOT of great food to try for the first time in Puerto Rico that would require it’s own article. But if you were to aim to try just one thing, it’ll probably be mofongo. It’s on the menu in most places as a side dish and sometimes as part of the main. Also, did you know pina colada was invented in San Juan? Try it from its source at Barrachina in San Juan.

How much should I budget for a trip to Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is probably a more affordable travel destination that most major U.S cities. You can easily budget for $150 – $200 a day while here, depending on how much you’ll spend on tours and your hotel. Food is reasonably priced, with the most high end options not surpassing normal dining prices in a U.S city.

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How to Plan the Most Amazing Puerto Rico Itinerary for 7 Days of Adventure

Puerto Rico is an easy flight from the United States and with rainforest-covered mountains, countless waterfalls, crystal clear water for diving and snorkeling, and its own unique culture and history, it is the perfect adventure travel destination. Below you can find our exact Puerto Rico itinerary for our 7-day adventure, but it’s important to note that there are many other options for a perfect itinerary in Puerto Rico – scroll to the end for a few possible alternative suggestions.

If you don’t have 7 days in Puerto Rico, you can easily adapt this to a Puerto Rico 5 day itinerary by just leaving off one section.

Some of the links below may be affiliate links and if you purchase something through them I may receive compensation.

Highlights of the Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary for Adventure Travel

This itinerary is ambitious and is best for people who love to move and explore while on vacation, although there are many ways to adapt this itinerary. We visited Puerto Rico in February of 2022 and this is exactly what we did on our visit. The highlights of our trip included snorkeling, swimming in rivers and waterfalls, checking out Flamenco Beach in Culebra, walking around Old San Juan, swimming in a bioluminescent bay, surfing, and hiking to Canon Blanco.

We arrived late in the evening, got our rental car, and checked directly into our apartment on the first night.

Day 1: Morning swim at the pool and the beach, then spend the rest of the day in El Yunque National Forest . On your way out, stop at Las Pailas for a swim.

Day 2: Visit Old San Juan , explore the forts and the colorful streets

Day 3: Take the ferry to Culebra. If you are taking a later ferry, you can spend the morning at the beach, or try surfing.

Day 4: Explore Culebra – snorkel and beach day around the island

Day 5: Ferry Back to the mainland, drive to Parguera, and do a bioluminescent bay tour .

Day 6: Surfing at Rincon (you could also take this day to scuba dive or snorkel in Parguera)

Day 7: Visit Canon Blanco i n your drive back to San Juan in time to catch a late flight home

General Information About Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a quick flight from the United States and most flights arrive at the airport in San Juan. The island forms part of the Greater Antilles between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. As part of the United States, Puerto Rico uses the US dollar and is a mixture of Spanish, US, and Afro-Caribbean cultures. There are beaches along the coast, while mountains dominate the interior rising to a surprising height of 4,390 ft. We were amazing at the variety of landscapes across this amazing island.

Getting Around Puerto Rico

For your Puerto Rico Itinerary, you will want to rent a car and drive around the island. In general, the roads in Puerto Rico are in good condition, although some of the mountain roads are quite narrow. It takes about 3 hours to drive from the east to west side of Puerto Rico. There are plenty of gas stations around the island. Many of the roads are toll roads so let your rental car company know where you are going. We were able to pay for tolls in advance.

It is possible to do this entire itinerary by staying on the east coast and doing day trips or tours to many of the sites such as Culebra, Parguera, and El Yunque, but it will likely be more expensive than renting a car.

One week in Puerto Rico Itinerary Map

Exploring Old San Juan and El Yunque Forest

The first 2 days of your Puerto Rico Itinerary will include visits to Old San Juan and El Yunque Rainforest. You should plan to stay somewhere along the northwest coast between San Juan and Luquillo. There are lots of options for places to stay from low budget to luxury Resorts. We stayed at Aguatika Paraiso which was a good budget option for our family with a pool and beach.

Visiting El Yunque Rainforest

You should plan one day to explore El Yunque National Forest. When we visited you need to book an entry time for just a few dollars through the US Forest Service. The entrance is located on route 191 and is well signed. From the welcome center drive up 191 to the end making a few stops along the way. You should plan to check out:

• Juan Diego Falls (this is a short hike and you can swim in the pools under the waterfalls)
• Torre Britton (watch tower with amazing views)
• Cascade La Mina (currently closed)
• Baño Grande
• Hike to the El Yunque Peak Tower

If you have time after your day exploring El Yunque Rainforest, drive out of the mountains on rt 988 and visit Las Pailas for a swim. Las Pailas is a portion of the Rio Pitahaya that forms natural waterfalls and jumping rocks. You simply park in one of the driveways along the river near the pink house, pay $5 and walk down to the river for a swim.

Learn more about visiting Las Pailas

Old San Juan

For your other day on the northwest coast, head into Old San Juan to explore the colorful streets and forts. You should plan for a half to a full day to explore the town. You can start your time with a guided tour of the city, or simply wander the streets for the full experience of cobblestones, food, and music. There are two forts right in town and both are worth a visit: San Felipe Del Morro Castle and Castillo San Cristóbal.

To get into the forts there is a fee or you can also get in with a National Parks Pass. We found the city very easy to walk around and since it was hot – this is a perfect excuse to stop for ice cream or a cold drink!

See: 15 Things to Do in Old San Juan

Snorkeling and Beach Time on Culebra

For the next part of your Puerto Rico Itinerary, head to Culebra for 2 nights. We spent 2 nights at an Airbnb on Culebra and visited some of the beaches to swim and snorkel. Flamenco Beach on Culebra is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world for good reason. This exquisite half-moon beach is the perfect place to swim, relax, and even snorkel.

Make sure to check out some of the other snorkeling and beaches such as Tamarindo Beach, Zoni Beach, or take a trip to Culebrita.

Read more about Things to Do in Culebra.

A few important things to note about your visit to Culebra. This is a very low-key island and while there are plenty of tourist options, the island is remarkedly not built up. There are limited restaurants on the island and no resorts. To get around Culebra, you can rent a car or golf cart, call a taxi, or walk. Try to book your rental in advance as vehicles do sell out. This all gives Culebra a wonderful local vibe.

To get to Culebra, you have 3 options. You can fly, you can take the ferry, or you can go on a tour for the day. We took the ferry which is just a few dollars/person, but comes with its own set of challenges. The ferry runs several times a day from Ceiba to Culebra or Vieques. About 20% of the ferry tickets are available in advance online – try to book these tickets if you can.

Read more about How to Get to Culebra.

If you can’t get a ferry ticket, you can go in person on the day to buy your tickets, but these do sell out so make sure you get there early. It’s also important to note that if a resident of the island wants to go on the ferry they can bump you off, so even if you have tickets, make sure to arrive at the ferry 1-2 hours before your scheduled departure.

Another great alternative is to visit Vieques instead of Culebra. Both islands have wonderful beaches and snorkeling. Vieques also has a bioluminescent bay that you can visit or kayak in, but not swim in.

Swimming in Bioluminescent Bay, Parguera, Surfing in Rincon

Nestled into the Mangroves of Southwestern Puerto Rico, Parguera is an underwater paradise for snorkeling, diving, and night swimming in one of Puerto Rico’s 3 bioluminescent bays. The bioluminescent bay in Parguera is the only bay you can swim in and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are many tour operators that take boat rides out for the sunset and night swimming.

As you swim through the bioluminescence, every stroke of your arms lights up and sparkles. It is truly amazing. This is the tour we did and we loved being on a smaller boat and getting a personal experience. It was perfect!

In addition to the water activities in Parguera, this town is worth a visit and has fun places to stay and eat. We also used this as a base to visit Rincon on the west coast for a day of surfing.

Located just over an hour from Parguara, Rincon is a fun and lively destination and the perfect place to try surfing for the day. You can find many places to take a surf lesson, or rent boards. We are beginner surfers and went to Maria’s Beach and rented boards for half a day.

Visiting Cañon Blanco, Utuado

On your final day of your Puerto Rico Itinerary, you will start making your way back to San Juan, stopping at Cañon Blanco. This gorgeous canyon is located in the mountains in the central part of Puerto Rico and is completely worth the winding narrow drive into the mountains.

Once you arrive and find parking (we were the only ones there on a Wed morning, but the weekends can get crowded), it is just a short hike along the road and out to the river and canyon. Here you can swim and explore the white canyon and cold water set amid the Puerto Rican Mountains.

See a complete guide to visiting Canon Blanco.

It is possible to take a tour to the canyon from San Juan as a day trip as well.

Give yourself at least 2 hours to explore Cañon Blanco. If you have a late flight home as we did, you can head straight for the airport, or find a place to stay for your last night in Puerto Rico.

Other Ideas for Your Itinerary for Puerto Rico

There are so many wonderful options to explore that a 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico can’t possibly include everything. If you are looking for other great options to substitute or add to your itinerary, I would recommend spending a few days in Rincon, exploring Cueva Ventana, or adding another day to your visit to Culebra or Parguera. There are so many beaches to explore in Puerto Rico that you can easily add a few days just by visiting some different beaches during your stay on the island. Another fabulous option is to explore some of the waterfalls and hikes in the Western part of Puerto Rico. We tried to visit a waterfall near Ponce on one of our drives, but a huge rainstorm hit right when we arrived and it became unsafe to swim in the river.

Puerto Rico Itinerary 5 days

If you don’t have a full week, another option is to shorten this itinerary. I would recommend spending the first part of your visit in the San Juan area and visiting El Yunque National Forest, going into Old San Juan, and surfing at Luquillo Beach. From there you have 2 options: spend 2 days on Vieques and explore the beaches and bioluminescent bay out there, or head to Parguera for snorkeling, surfing, and swimming in the bio bay there. Both options will give you a chance to explore the island and get in the water.

Puerto Rico Itinerary 3 Days

If you only have 3 days to spend in Puerto Rico, you’re going to have to choose. You could either base yourself near San Juan and explore El Yunque National Forest and Old San Juan and do a day trip tour to Culebra, or spend 2 days near San Juan and one day in Parguera. Since the drive from San Juan to Pargeura is just about 2 hours, it is easy to get across the island just for one day.

No matter what we hope you love Puerto Rico as much as we did. This 7 day Puerto Rico Adventure Itinerary will get you off the beaten path and out on the road to explore, swim, hike, and eat your way across the island.

Looking for more fun things to do in Puerto Rico?

• 11 Things to do in Puerto Rico
• 7 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary
• Things to do in Culebra
• Exploring El Yunque National Forest
• The Best Things to do in Old San Juan
• How to Explore Canon Blanco

About the Author: Gretchen Stuppy Carlson

A passionate adventurer dedicated to getting families outside and exploring. Gretchen is an expert in adventure travel with 15+ years of experience working in outdoor education and travelling with her own family.

View all post by Gretchen Stuppy Carlson | Website

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Planning a Trip to Puerto Rico: The Step-by-step Guide

Putting together a Puerto Rico itinerary from start to finish can be super overwhelming—so use this step-by-step guide to plan your trip to Puerto Rico with minimal hassle. And if you have any questions, feel free to send us a message .

To take the stress out of travel planning, connect with a Puerto Rican local . Not only will they design a custom itinerary based on your interests, but they'll let you in on a few of the island's secrets. It's basically like having a best friend in Puerto Rico. Learn more . 

Step 1: Choose the best time to go

The best time to visit Puerto Rico really depends on your personal preferences. Puerto Rico’s tourist season runs from December to May because (a) these months tend to be a bit less rainy and (b) people want to escape wintery weather at home. On the flip side, peak season comes with more crowds, and there are just as many amazing things to do in Puerto Rico in the offseason. Plus, the weather is almost identical no matter when you go.

Pro tip: For the best prices, buy your plane tickets at least 2 months in advance of your trip, and don’t forget to look for special flight discounts (think senior citizens, students, groups etc.)

Step 2: Sketch out your itinerary

Make a list, check it twice—it’s time to find out which places to stay are the most...nice…

Sorry. We tried. Anyway, one of the best parts about traveling to Puerto Rico is the island’s size. Since Puerto Rico is only about as big as the state of Connecticut, it’s easy to hit all the tourist attractions —with tons of hidden gems in between—in a relatively short period of time. For this juggling act, we’d recommend getting some input from a local travel planner who knows the island inside and out. They’ll streamline your itinerary with all the sightseeing spots , hidden-gem places to go , and activities you could ever want.

Step 3: Factor in travel time

The amount of time you spend on the airplane is an important detail that often gets lost in the mix. To get the max out of your PR adventure, consider taking an early flight to one of Puerto Rico’s 4 major airports. That way, no matter how long your flight is, you’ll arrive with plenty of energy for tackling some Puerto Rico must-dos . Keep in mind that many attractions are located within a two-hour driving radius of major airports like San Juan.

Pro tip: Most flights to Puerto Rico go through the island’s biggest airport, Luis Munoz Marin International in San Juan. Other airports are located in Aguadilla, Culebra, Mayaguez, Ponce, and Vieques—smaller cities with fewer airline options.

Step 4: Assemble your travel documents

If you’re a US citizen, you don’t need a passport to go to Puerto Rico —just the same ID you’d need to fly anywhere else in the country (one of the many reasons why traveling to Puerto Rico is so easy). For peace of mind, make a photocopy of your ID before you leave, so if it’s misplaced you’re not in too much trouble (and feel free to check out this Puerto Rico travel guide for more helpful tips).

Step 5: Decide what to pack

Bring on the shorts, tank tops, and sundresses—you’re headed to the tropics, baby! Pack your comfiest walking shoes (preferably already broken in)— Puerto Rico’s best places to visit are all walkable. If you forget to bring a few toiletries don’t worry; it’s easy to find convenience stores like Walgreens. Many of Puerto Rico’s best vacation spots are also close to convenience stores or have vendors close by.

Step 6: Let your credit/debit card provider know you’re traveling

Since Puerto Rico uses the US dollar , you don’t need to worry about exchange rates (woo!). However, it doesn’t hurt to call your bank to tell them you’re going to Puerto Rico. That way, they’ll know you’re the one using the card and won’t freeze your account for suspicious activity. And don’t forget to call your cell phone provider too!

Step 7: Outline your budget

Even if you’re trying to take a cheap trip to Puerto Rico (which is actually really easy), you might still be tempted to splurge. One of the best ways to save on Puerto Rico travel is by trying off-the-beaten-path options , like Airbnbs, street food vendors, and free attractions. No matter where you stay in Puerto Rico , you can find good deals. 

Pro tip: If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Puerto Rico that’s both fun and inexpensive, consider one of these alternative ways to travel to Puerto Rico in 2024 .

Step 8: Weigh your lodging options

While PR has the usual hotel chains found anywhere else in the States, some of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico are anything but usual (think one-of-a-kind lodgings like a treehouse in El Yunque or a seaside villa near Rincon). Don’t stress about finding the ideal place on your own—your trip planner will recommend the best lodging options to fit your budget and preferences.

Step 9: Know how to get around

Since Puerto Rico doesn’t have much by way of public transit, decide in advance how you want to get around the island. Uber is an efficient, cheap way to see some major sites—especially if you’re traveling around San Juan . That said, rental cars average just $25/day and are generally the best way to see Puerto Rico at your own pace.

Pro tip: Many highways were damaged in Hurricane Maria, but have since been repaired. It’s entirely safe to travel through Puerto Rico by car—for more information, check out this Puerto Rico tourism update .

Step 10: Prioritize the highlights you want to see

We all love our guidebooks and TripAdvisor tips . But odds are, your trip will be more fulfilling if you check off the Puerto Rican wonders that you most want to see. Granted, it doesn’t hurt to head over to vacation spots like El Yunque, San Juan, or any of Puerto Rico’s incredible beaches —but the island’s real wonders are gems only locals can show you .

With this guide, you're almost ready to start planning your trip. But to really take the stress out of travel planning, connect with a Puerto Rico local . They'll design a custom itinerary based on your interests, budget, and travel style—so you'll see the real Puerto Rico, your way. Why see Puerto Rico like a tourist when you could see it like a local? Questions? Send us a message ! 

• Connect With a Local to Plan Your Trip
• The 40 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico 2024
• Is It Safe to Go to Puerto Rico Right Now?
• Traveling to San Juan in 2024: What I Learned
• Puerto Rico Travel Advisory
• Travel Agencies in Puerto Rico

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A beginner's guide to visiting Puerto Rico: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Puerto Rico is beloved by travelers around the world, and for good reason.

From bioluminescent bays, pristine Caribbean beaches and lush forests to historic streetscapes, a vibrant local food scene and fascinating cultural attractions, each region of Puerto Rico offers visitors a distinct experience.

And there's simply never a bad time to visit. Better yet, you can often find cheap nonstop flights to both San Juan's Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) and Aguadilla's Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) on the stunning northwest coast. If you're traveling from the U.S., you don't even need a passport or have to change your money.

It's a perfect tropical weekend getaway from the Eastern Seaboard; you can board an early morning flight and enjoy lunch and a pina colada with your toes in the sand.

In short: Paradise awaits.

Where to eat and drink in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a wonderful destination for foodies. Along the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, you'll find gourmet cuisine served in elegant, historic townhomes rubbing shoulders with atmospheric hole-in-the-walls that serve traditional fare.

Following Hurricane Maria, restaurants became ever keener to support local agriculture and celebrate food that is grown entirely on the island. The result is farm-fresh, hyper-seasonal cuisine infused with Creole, Taino and Spanish influences.

The much-loved national dish is mofongo — deep-fried mashed plantains served with a side of seafood or meat and chicken broth soup. Among the best places to try it are Santaella in San Juan and Mi Casita in Pinones.

Lechon — a whole pig roasted over a fire for at least four hours — is another hearty mainstay of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine. Around an hour's drive south of San Juan, dozens of lechoneras dot the famed Ruta de Lechon, or "Pork Highway," where trays of succulent, tender pork are served at communal tables, usually accompanied by copious cold beer and live music.

If you want to graze on authentic local delicacies beachside, head for Luquillo (near El Yunque National Forest), where more than 60 kiosks ranging from rustic beach bars to full-service restaurants serve authentic Creole cooking as well as Latin American signature cuisine.

A colorful pit spot while exploring San Juan's trendy Santurce district, Alcapurria Quema is a no-frills Santurce locale that's one of the best places to try Puerto Rico's ubiquitous local snack, alcapurrias: deep-fried fritters made from plantains (or grated yucca) stuffed with flavorful beef, pork or fish.

Fine dining in Puerto Rico

If you want to splurge, San Juan has plenty of upscale dining venues.

Located inside the elegant Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1919 is widely hailed as the best fine dining restaurant in Puerto Rico. Helmed by Juan José Cuevas, who worked at the Michelin-starred Blue Hill in New York, menu highlights include scallops with organic mushrooms, kale and sunchoke, as well as robalo (snook) with pistachio, local white beans and dill. For an unforgettable dining experience, opt for the chef's menu ($199) accompanied by sommelier-selected wine pairings. Make a reservation, dress the part and enjoy every moment. It's one of the island's most expensive restaurants, but worth it.

Vianda 's stylish midcentury modern-style bar and sleek, moody dining room draw well-dressed locals with its innovative mixology and farm-to-table cuisine. Vianda means "root vegetable," and the small, seasonal menu riffs on Puerto Rico's rich culinary heritage while showcasing the island's incredible bounty of tropical fruits, vegetables and herbs. Start the evening with a Corazon de Melon ($15) cocktail, made with tequila, watermelon, cucumber, mint and rosemary, followed by a signature entree such as the Mar y Tierra, a rich medley of cod loin, crispy pork belly, mussels, sofrito butter and white beans ($44).

Most epicureans will have heard of Marmalade , the internationally renowned restaurant credited with putting Puerto Rico on the foodie map. It remains one of the best gourmet dining experiences on the island. Iowa native chef Peter Schintler deftly blends indigenous and international ingredients to produce a truly memorable five-course prix fixe menu ($135 per person). It changes frequently, but menu classics include local organic rabbit with black olive garganelli and grilled ahi tuna with peanut-miso broth.

Chef José Santaella 's namesake restaurant is a lively, fun place to dine on nouvelle Puerto Rican cuisine with family and friends. The edgy industrial decor (it used to be a hardware store) contrasts with the menu's vibrant "tropical creole" gastronomy. Arrive early for cocktail hour and try a Lady Bullet (Woodford Reserve bourbon, fig marmalade, lavender syrup, orange bitters and lime juice; $16) and stay for the duration, grazing on delectable small plates, including wagyu sliders ($26), grilled Spanish octopus ($32) and escargot ($18).

What to see and do in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has a ton of sightseeing you'll want to add to your itinerary, too.

El Yunque National Forest is just 45 minutes from San Juan and is the only tropical rainforest on U.S. soil. It's famous for its incredible hiking, an abundance of waterfalls and endemic wildlife.

There are just five bioluminescent bays in the world, and Puerto Rico is home to three: Bahia Mosquito, Laguna Grande and La Parguera. To access Puerto Rico's bio bays via kayak or paddleboard, you'll need to paddle through dark mangrove channels — signing up with a tour operator is definitely the way to go. Most companies operate two tours each night, at sunset and 9 p.m.

The protected wildlife reserve of Bahia Mosquito is located on Vieques, an island municipality a short flight from San Juan. Famed for its picture-perfect crescents of sand, boutique hotels and crystalline waters, Vieques is the quintessential Caribbean idyll. Boasting the highest concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates (plankton that make the water sparkle with just the touch of a hand), Mosquito Bay is the brightest of the world's five bio bays.

For travelers with limited time, Laguna Grande is the most accessible bio bay in Puerto Rico, less than an hour's drive from San Juan on the northeast coast. What sets Laguna Grande apart is that the bay is actually a lagoon nestled within an area of spectacular natural beauty.

Puerto Rico is replete with gorgeous, sandy beaches. Near Luquillo, La Pared is an often deserted stretch of almost golden sand. The beach town of Naguabo, in the southeast corner of the island, is also incredibly quiet, and palm trees frame the soft, sandy beach and turquoise water.

Ponce is Puerto Rico's second-largest city. Located on the island's southern coast, it's chock-full of history. Be sure to check out Plaza Las Delicias, which has a cathedral as well as an old firehouse (Parque de Bombas) that's now a museum.

Museo de la Musica Puertoriquena has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Here, you'll find traces of Taino, Spanish and African influences. You'll also learn about Puerto Rico's musical history, which you can now hear throughout other parts of the Caribbean, the mainland and around the world.

Where to stay in Puerto Rico

Hyatt regency grand reserve puerto rico.

Fresh from a multimillion-dollar face-lift, this 579-key beach resort reopened in 2019 as the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve.

Rooms (starting at 520 square feet), suites and villas are contemporary and inviting, with simple wooden furnishings, marble floors, a white-on-white color palette and furnished terraces and patios. Bathrooms feature rainfall showers with separate tubs and Pharmacopia toiletries.

Beyond the hotel's natural assets — a beautiful white-sand beach and 72 acres of flamboyant tropical vegetation — amenities include a lagoon-style pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a luxurious spa, two Tom Kite-designed 18-hole championship golf courses and several upscale restaurants serving everything from Pacific Rim cuisine and sushi at Nori Asian to prime cuts of beef and seafood at Prime 787, a contemporary American steakhouse.

The hotel can arrange a number of activities nearby, including horseback riding, an all-terrain-vehicle excursion at nearby Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park and hikes through El Yunque National Forest.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve start at $300 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort

The rambling 255-key Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort is the only Hilton hotel outside of the San Juan area.

While rooms are rather spartan and generic, they have an inviting beachy vibe with a green-and-white color palette, light wood furnishings, tiled floors and balconies with ocean views (in most rooms). Comfort-enhancing modern touches include coffee makers, minifridges and flat-screen televisions.

At this amenity-rich, family-friendly resort, there's plenty to keep adults and children entertained, including two expansive pools, a 27-hole championship golf course, a miniature golf course, tennis courts, a playground and a splash park. It's also home to one of the largest casinos in Puerto Rico and four restaurants: El Bohio, La Cava, La Terraza and Sancho's Sushi Bar.

While it isn't the splashiest Hilton property in Puerto Rico, it's a great base for exploring Puerto Rico's southwest coast.

Rates at the Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort start at $230 or 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort

Located between El Yunque National Forest and Espiritu Santo River State Preserve, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort places guests within striking distance of two of Puerto Rico's top attractions.

Designed by Puerto Rican fashion designer Nono Maldonado, the spacious (and completely refurbished) accommodations channel a breezy Caribbean aesthetic with a serene white-and-cream color palette, abstract artworks and sleek, modern furnishings.

However, it's the luxe details and exquisite service that really set this property apart. There's the cozy pillow-top bed dressed with a cashmere throw, the marble spa-style bathroom with a centerpiece deep soaking tub that's stocked with luxe Frette bathrobes, and, of course, the St. Regis' private butler service.

A surfeit of amenities include a beautifully landscaped swimming pool, a lavish spa, a Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed golf course and three acclaimed restaurants.

Rates at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort start at $695 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Puerto Rico's most exclusive resort, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , combines unbridled luxury and impeccable attention to detail with a sustainable ethos. Built by the Rockefeller family in the 1950s, it remains a magnet for tycoons, celebrities and, these days, cryptocurrency investors.

Nestled on a glorious 2-mile beach amid a riot of mature tropical vegetation, beautifully appointed rooms and suites are equipped with every creature comfort imaginable and assigned their own private butler. Standard rooms are huge (they start at 1,000 square feet), while deluxe suites also feature private plunge pools.

The resort's amenities are, as you'd expect, exceptional. There are two gorgeous pools fronted by swaying palms, three Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed golf courses and one of Puerto Rico's finest restaurants: Coa, a culinary homage to the region's Taino roots. A roster of family-friendly activities includes the signature Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program.

Rates at Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve start at $1,995 or 170,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Related: Puerto Rican renaissance: A review of Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

The details

Getting there.

If you're interested in visiting Puerto Rico, flights are plentiful. There are more than 120 nonstop flights between the island and major mainland U.S. cities, according to Discover Puerto Rico . That means you can fly nonstop between the island and cities like New York, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Chicago. Most of the nonstop routes are to San Juan.

While the cheapest available flights to Puerto Rico typically range from $300 to $600, you can pick up deals with both legacy carriers as well as low-cost carriers such as Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines .

Of course, a cheap deal isn't the only way to get to the island.

You can easily use points and miles to get you from major cities to Puerto Rico. American Airlines , for example, offers off-peak MileSAAver awards from 17,000 miles one-way in economy or 59,000 in business class.

With United Airlines , expect to spend between 20,000 and 65,000 miles for a one-way ticket from cities like Newark and Chicago.

But perhaps the best way to use points to visit Puerto Rico is through JetBlue .

On JetBlue, you have several destinations beyond San Juan to consider. For instance, you could fly round-trip from New York to Aguadilla for just $274 or 23,000 TrueBlue points in August this year, or to Ponce for $386 or 31,000 TrueBlue points round-trip.

You can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio, but this might not be the best use of your Chase points .

JetBlue is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards as well, but TPG doesn't recommend transferring Amex points to JetBlue because of the limited value you'll get. Additionally, points transfer at a weak 250:200 transfer ratio.

You can also transfer Citi ThankYou Rewards to JetBlue, though the transfer ratio isn't great — either 1:0.8 or 1:0.5, depending on which Citi card you have.

Do you need a passport to go to Puerto Rico?

Nope! Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory, so you don't need a passport or a visa to visit if you're a U.S. citizen. Just bring your state ID and you'll be good to go.

Getting around

Ride-hailing Uber is the only ride-hailing app that made its way to Puerto Rico and survived the pandemic. The mobile app is equally as effective as it is on the mainland and is very popular with locals for its competitive rates (compared to local taxis), efficiency and reliability.

Taxis Within San Juan, taxis are frequent, reliable and comfortable; look for white cabs labeled Taxi Turistico. Designated taxi stands are located at key tourist points in San Juan (including cruise ship piers, major hotels, Plaza de Armas and Plaza Colon). Taxis operate a fixed-rate system according to specified zones, but they can be pricey. Once you leave the metro area, it becomes increasingly expensive to travel between towns.

If you plan to stay in neighborhoods like Old San Juan, you probably won't need a car, Uber or taxi since the area is pretty walkable.

If you're a public transportation geek like me, make sure the Tren Urbano is on your radar. It's an 11-mile rapid transit system that serves San Juan, Guaynabo and Bayamon. The trip between Bayamon and San Juan is just 30 minutes, and the one-line train system has 16 stops; it passes through the University of Puerto Rico as well as the Santa Rosa shopping mall. It's very affordable, too: A regular fare is just $1.50 and if you're between the ages of 60 and 74, just 75 cents. Better yet, if you're 6 years of age or younger, or 75 or older, it's free.

Renting a car in Puerto Rico is pretty straightforward with all the major rental companies to consider, including Avis, Enterprise and Hertz, each of which is located at the airport.

The best times to visit Puerto Rico

The majority of hurricanes in Puerto Rico typically occur between August and October, while hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, according to the U.S. National Weather Service . Notably, Hurricane Maria made landfall on Sept. 20, 2017.

Many people I spoke with on the island said, "Summertime is all the time" in Puerto Rico, with temperatures hovering in the 80s daily. If you're trying to avoid the infamous daily Caribbean rains, you'll want to plan to visit between January and March, as precipitation is low .

If you want to avoid the hordes of people traveling during spring break but still want to visit before hurricane season kicks in, the spring is the best time to score flight and hotel deals. As an added bonus, you'll have the beach all to yourself.

Bottom line

Puerto Rico has come a long way since Hurricane Maria in 2017 and Fiona in 2022. Let it be known that the island is open for travelers — and eager for the business. From beach resorts to landmarks, excellent food and great hospitality, there's something for everyone who makes the short flight down to visit.

Related reading:

• The best hotels in Puerto Rico
• 8 reasons to visit Puerto Rico in 2023
• Best points hotels in the Caribbean
• Start booking your summer trips now — here's why
• The 26 best Marriott hotels in the world

4 Days In Puerto Rico, A Fun-Filled Travel Itinerary

Are you wondering how to spend 4 days in Puerto Rico without missing the best of it? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, you’ll find the most epic ways to spend your time in Puerto Rico, along with everything you need to know before planning your trip.

Puerto Rico, often referred to as the “Island of Enchantment,” has been winning the hearts of tourists from around the globe. Its pristine beaches, colonial architecture, diversified landscapes, and tropical climate make it an ideal destination.

While some come from the coldest climates further north, others stay before or after a Caribbean cruise. It’s a favorite cruise port in the Eastern Caribbean . With its cruise port in Old San Juan, you’ll have access to the historical parts of the city.

If you know where to go, you can immerse yourself in many one-of-a-kind experiences and enjoy authentic Puerto Rico food.

This 4-day Puerto Rico itinerary is all you need to plan a fantastic getaway to this sun-kissed Caribbean paradise.

While four days isn’t much time, this guide will give you a snippet of what Puerto Rico offers. Plus, it’s a great introduction, mainly for first-time travelers.

Planning A Trip To Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a beautiful Caribbean Island brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. Being a territory of the United States, it’s easily accessible by Americans, who won’t need to exchange currency.

Being in the Caribbean, it doesn’t experience seasons. Expect temperatures from the 70s to mid-80s, although it may feel hot with the added humidity.

January offers the coolest temperatures. April to November is the rainy season. It’s also important to note that October to November is hurricane season. 

To deal with the humidity,  pack as you would for a Caribbean cruise  with lightweight clothing made of natural fibers and fast-drying items. Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and mosquito repellent.

Mosquitoes are rampant in Puerto Rico, especially in the jungle area. Before you go, it’s essential to know they can carry dengue fever and the Zika virus.

This itinerary includes road trips outside the downtown core. While you can take a bus tour, it’s best to rent a car. Car rentals are readily available  at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, also known as San Juan Airport (SJU).

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

Accommodations are much more affordable than in hotspots like Miami and Hawaii. Plus, with all its history, you can choose a hotel with character and charm. Most travelers stay in Old San Juan. However, if you had a longer stay, you could divide your vacation into different areas.

El Colonial  offers premium accommodation in the heart of downtown for an adult-only stay. The rooms are modern, and some come with iron-railing balconies that overlook the cobblestone streets.

CasaBlanca Hotel   provides the ideal location in Old San Juan. The hotel features a rooftop deck with stone bathtubs. Rooms are reasonably priced, and guests can easily access many restaurants and attractions nearby.

Guests staying at  Hotel El Convento get beach privileges at Isla Verde Beach’s El Convento Beach Club. It provides an ideal location within a few minutes of the cruise dock for cruise passengers.

The  Sheraton Old San Juan   Hotel provides the most accessible access to the cruise port across the street. It offers lovely views of San Juan Bay and has a fantastic rooftop pool.

Now that you have accommodation, here are four days’ worth of activities.

Day 1 – Explore Old San Juan

Start the first day of your Puerto Rico trip in Old San Juan, the oldest settlement on the island. The area oozes romance with its historic culture and colonial architecture.

There is much to love about Old San Juan, but let’s start with its forts.

Tour Castillo San Felipe del Morro

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro, often known as El Morro, was the second fort erected on the islet of Old San Juan. It sits on San Juan Bay, offering spectacular views out to the ocean. Due to its rich history, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

On tour, you’ll learn its historical significance as a center for defense and trade with Spain during colonial times. You can view authentic artifacts, weapons, and uniforms by exploring the barracks, kitchens, and primitive sleeping quarters.

El Morro is the smaller of the two forts. It has six levels to explore, using tunnels, stairs, and ramps. Make sure to visit the cannon batteries, lighthouse, and  garitas  (sentry boxes) on the outer walls.

Walking on the lower pathways (outside the fort) next to the ocean, you can admire the towering walls, which are up to 40 feet thick in some areas. Then you’ll understand why it took 250 years to complete the impressive fortification.

Visit La Fortaleza

Located near El Morro, La Fortaleza is one of the most historic structures in Puerto Rico. While it has served as a prison, armory, and fortress, it’s currently the governor of Puerto Rico’s official residence. Walking from El Morro, you pass another historic structure, San Juan Gate.

By visiting, you’ll witness firsthand how this landmark was built over time (it dates back to 1540). Inside, you can learn about its history and tour some rooms that haven’t been modified since they were first built centuries ago.

It is worth visiting not only because it has beautiful architecture and views but because it became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983. After your visit, walk along Fortaleza Street to the second fort.

See Castillo San Cristobal

While El Morro was constructed to defend the harbor, Castillo San Cristobal provided defense for the city. Unlike El Morro, which took a staggering 250 to build, it took a mere 20 years to complete Castillo San Cristobal.

Providing you start early in the day, you can visit both forts in a day. Towering 150 feet above the ocean, the fort was named after the patron saint of travelers. Although it doesn’t appear large from the outside, the structure covers 27 acres.

With thick walls and three levels to its fortification, it served well as a military base during World War II. It was later turned over to the US park service to preserve its cultural heritage. Today, El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal are part of San Juan’s National Historic Site.

El Escambrón Beach Time

Since both forts close early in the day, you have time for relaxation at the beach, before or after dinner. El Escambron Beach is a great place to snorkel, sunbathe, and swim.

This beautiful beach is nestled on the northwest side of Old San Juan and is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s also an ideal spot for getting your toes wet when you want to cool down after a long day.

You’ll see different wildlife like pelicans, stingrays, and even turtles swimming around in the water or resting on shoreline rocks during the afternoon hours. You might also see some dolphins frolicking in the waves if you’re lucky.

Savor Classic Pina Colada

End your first day with a classic Puerto Rico drink as you watch the sunset. A Pina Colada is a flavorful, classic tropical cocktail that is made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. The drink was invented in Puerto Rico by Don Pedro A. Ruiz.

Nowadays, you can find variations of this classic drink all over Puerto Rico. Some use ice cubes instead of crushed ice (which makes them more refreshing), and others use light rum instead of dark (and vice versa).

There’s even one made with coconut milk and without rum. It’s the perfect virgin drink if you’re not into alcohol yet want something delicious.

You can’t go wrong with La Verguenza’s rooftop restaurant for dinner. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it offers Caribbean and Puerto Rican food in a low-key setting.

Day 2 – El Yunque Rainforest

El Yunque Rainforest is a popular national park in Puerto Rico and is a great place to spend your second day.

Without a tour, you’ll need a reservation, as the park limits the number of private vehicles per day. Make sure to book before arriving in Puerto Rico, as tickets sell out fast.

Located on the Sierra de Luquillo Mountain slopes, the lush rainforest covers more than 28,000 acres. It’s an area prolific with ponds, streams, and beautiful waterfalls.

See La Coca Falls

La Coca Falls is a natural wonder in El Yunque. Its water drops 85 feet down a rock wall. While the water looks refreshing, you aren’t allowed to swim there.

You’ll have access to both sides of this lovely waterfall and its surrounding area. You may choose to go hiking on trails that offer views out onto mountains covered in tropical forest vegetation. Since you’re in a tropical jungle, remember to use mosquito repellent.

Wade At Juan Diego Falls

Juan Diego Falls is a tourist favorite in the El Yunque rainforest. There are two waterfalls, with the lower one more accessible than the higher one.

A natural pool provides a cold but refreshing dip at the base of the lower falls. Accessing the higher falls (which are more spectacular) takes a strenuous hike uphill on a very muddy trail. If it has rained recently, you might not be able to do the climb.

Hike To La Mina Falls

La Mina Falls requires a short 30-to-45-minute hike to see this cascade. The path starts at the Palo Colorado information center to the 35-foot waterfall.

While La Mina Falls is a popular place to swim, it’s currently closed due to hurricane damage. The area hopes to be open again in 2023.

Enjoy The Views From El Yunque Peak

At 3,496 feet, El Yunque Peak provides a great view of Puerto Rico’s landscape and its rainforest canopy, which makes up almost half of the island.

To access the peak, you’ll need to take a moderate to challenging hike. Depending on your fitness level, plan for 3 to 4 hours to complete the round-trip hike.

Once at the top, be sure to snap some photos while taking in all these gorgeous vistas. You’ll see the Caribbean to the South, the Atlantic to the north, and panoramic views of San Juan westwards.

Since the area is prone to afternoon rain showers, plan to go in the morning for a greater chance of experiencing clear weather.

If your day in El Yunque is cut short due to muddy trails, head to Luquillo Beach. The long crescent-shaped oasis has calm waters due to offshore reefs. It’s a great hangout if you’re traveling with family.

Old San Juan Food Tour

After all that strenuous outdoor activity, plan to end the day with authentic Puerto Rico food. There’s no better way to learn about their local dishes than on a San Juan food tour .

A 3-hour food tour will allow you to wander the cobblestone streets, and dine at various locally owned restaurants. The event includes dishes inspired by the area’s Taíno Indian, African, and Spanish roots.

You may sample an appetizer of ceviche made from the freshest seafood, properly roasted pork, and Mofongo (deep-fried plantains filled with garlic, chicken, shrimp, or pork).

Many options are available, and they can be done on your own or with a guide. If you choose to embark on a self-guided tour, you can explore the area on your own terms and at your own pace.

But if you want more guidance in choosing where to go and what kind of food each place has, participate in a small group tour. Going with a guide will give you a brief history lesson as you walk from one establishment to another.

Day 3 – Road Trip To The Interior

Since you have already spent two days on the island, and have gotten a good grasp of the area, now is the best time to enjoy a road trip around Puerto Rico.

Discover Camuy River Cave Park

Naturalists and curious sightseers flock to Rio Camuy Cave Park in Puerto Rico. They are attracted to the cavern’s towering chambers, million-year-old stalactites and stalagmites, and its underground river.

Located in the northwest region, the park opens from 8 am to 3 pm on Wednesdays to Sundays. The limestone caves result from the world’s third largest subterranean river, the Rio Camuy.

So far, cave-goers have mapped a network of 10 miles of tunnels, over 220 individual caverns, and 17 different entrances. While this is a tiny part of the overall cave system, visitors can only access a specific section.

Entering the caves, you’ll be astonished at their size. Some reach heights of over 150 feet and widths as large as 200 feet. The cool, darkened caverns glisten as sunlight peers through small openings.

Inhabitants of the region’s original culture had utilized the caverns for centuries as a safe place, but it wasn’t until 1958 that westerners stumbled onto the underground river system.

These underground passages ooze with an air of mystery and antiquity. And beware the swarm of bats that call the gloom home.

Learn About Astronomy At Arecibo Observatory

The Puerto Rico Observatory is a wonderful addition to your itinerary to add a unique learning experience. It takes a drive on a windy road to get there, and a reservation is required online to visit.

The Arecibo Observatory has one of the world’s biggest radio telescopes. They used it to investigate the ionosphere and surrounding planets as they passed above.

However, after Hurricane Maria and numerous earthquakes, the 1,000-foot telescope collapsed in 2020. Beyond repair, the telescope has been decommissioned and being removed.

The facility does have a smaller LIDAR telescope and plans to build a new telescope with newer technology.

Additionally, it has a museum devoted to scientific education. Inside, you’ll find biology, physics, and space exploration exhibits. The displays are interactive and include a few meteors.

The Arecibo Observatory gained notoriety when featured in 007 Golden Eye and Contact with star Jodie Foster.

Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center

The Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Site is the most significant Taíno archeological site in the Caribbean’ It gives tourists a valuable insight into the native civilizations that inhabited the area before Spanish colonization.

The park attracts visitors to the ten ceremonial plazas or “bateys” and numerous petroglyphs.

A small museum houses a collection of spears, bows, arrows, and Indian artifacts used by Native Americans.

Outside, a garden features the plants sourced for food, such as corn, cassava, and sweet potatoes.

When visiting the Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center, be prepared to spend at least an hour or two. It’s a great way to get in touch with Puerto Rico’s rich cultural history while exploring the natural beauty of this beautiful country.

Day 4 – Vieques Island

Vieques (or Isla de Vieques) is a beautiful island off the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. It offers plenty of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal stop to conclude your 4-day trip to Puerto Rico.

The island consists of rolling hills and has a black sand beach. A wildlife sanctuary occupies 60% of the island. So, what can you do on Vieques Island?

Visit Vieques National Wildlife Refuge

Once owned by the US navy, the almost 18,000 acres of land now make up the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge . It’s a diverse landscape, occupying the eastern and western ends of the island.

You can explore this refuge on your own or take a guided tour. The guides will tell you about the animals that call this island home. They will also shed light on the area’s historical significance, the role pirates played here, and why it’s essential today.

Vieques is the ideal playground if you’re into hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, paddle boarding, or horseback riding. Fishing is also allowed on beaches and in the lagoons.

If you’re prepared to get wet, the rich marine waters could offer sightings of dolphins, manatees, reef sharks, and sea turtles.

The refuge has mangrove wetlands, salt flats, lagoons, and several beaches. These areas are home to brown pelicans, sea turtles, horses, and many species of birds. While the horses aren’t wild, they are free to roam the island.

Unwind At Playa La Chiva

Playa La Chiva, also known as La Chiva Beach, is a quiet, sandy oasis near the southern tip of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

When you arrive at Playa La Chiva, expect to see people relaxing on their towels or chairs, reading books or magazines, and looking out over this beautiful view with palm trees surrounding them.

Rated as one of Puerto Rico’s best beaches and once known as “Blue Beach,” the water radiates changing hues. The shallows have turquoise tones, which turn to navy blues in deeper waters.

Enjoy Authentic Puerto Rican Food

Vieques is a paradise for foodies, with a wide variety of high-quality restaurants to choose from. The island’s restaurants have beautiful surroundings and inventive takes on traditional Puerto Rican cuisine prepared by talented chefs.

The two most popular restaurants are Coqui Fire Cafe and El Quenepo, providing creatively presented meals using locally sourced ingredients.

Coqui Fire Café serves meals with a kick. It’s a must-visit if you like spicy food. Their meals all have fiery flavors, and you can accompany them with a margarita with spicy salt and hot sauce.

The restaurant offers gluten-free and vegan choices.

El Quenepo has an upscale atmosphere and a scrumptious menu. Their ceviche and mole are exceptional. Their dishes, while pricey, are innovative and beautifully displayed.

Be sure to leave room for their Goat Cheese Cheesecake with Pistachio Anglaise. The ambiance and locale near the ocean make it ideal for a romantic night out.

Experience The Magic of Mosquito Bay

There’s no better way to spend your last night in Puerto Rico than exploring the island’s breathtaking bioluminescent bay. While Puerto Rico is blessed with three bioluminescent bays, Mosquito Bay is the best for viewing.

Dinoflagellates in Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques emit a glow that may be seen from dusk till dawn. The light is so bright that in 2008, the Guinness Book of Records declared it the brightest worldwide.

Viewing is best after a new moon when the skies are darkest for optimal viewing. You can plan to view from a power boat or take a kayak tour. Swimming in the bay is strictly prohibited. If you want to swim, La Parguera bioluminescent bay permits swimming.

If you plan a kayaking tour, you get up close to the unique biological emission of light. Overall, the experience is fantastic. Plan ahead and get your tickets here.

The microscopic organisms will emit a glowing light with every stroke of your paddle. Be warned, the glowing lights are difficult to capture in a photo.

Imagine watching millions of “stars” light up with a dazzling blue-white radiance and scatter when you create a splash. How cool is that?

Wrap it up!

Puerto Rico offers many things to do, from learning its culture and history to exploring its jungle and beautiful landscape. The hardest part about creating a unique Puerto Rico itinerary is determining what to include.

However, with this comprehensive four-day itinerary, you’ll see Puerto Rico’s best sites and enjoy its outdoors too. After one trip, you’ll want to return to “La Isla del Encanto,” also known as the Island of Enchantment.

During your trip, try to connect with the locals. They can often recommend the best bars and food hot spots. You may even discover hidden gems amongst the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.

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Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Want to make your puerto rico vacation easy and memorable .

This complete Puerto Rico itinerary is for YOU! The Puerto Rico Travel Guide is the easiest way to plan an AMAZING vacation, fast.

If you’re overwhelmed planning a trip to Puerto Rico…

Maybe you’ve gone down a rabbit hole of choices, trying to figure out where to go in Puerto Rico, what to do, where to stay….not to mention how to get around and the best places to eat?!

No worries – I’ve got that all covered for you in this Puerto Rico Travel Guide ! 

This guide helps put your planning on auto-pilot. 

Check out the tried and true recommendations, click on the links to book your activities, hotels and transportation and  ta-da! Trip planned! 

And when it comes time for packing, well I’m here to help with that, too. I list each day’s essential items within the itinerary, and a full checklist at the end of the guide, with helpful links in case you need to grab anything before you hop on that plane.

What’s included in the Puerto Rico Travel Guide?

This Puerto Rico travel guide includes an amazing itinerary that maximizes your time to ensure you’ll see all the top attractions, eat at the best restaurants and explore some hidden gems, too!

• 56 detailed pages
• 7-day island-hopping itinerary with daily schedule
• Pro tips before you go and while you’re traveling
• Best activities and tours
• Transportation details and booking links
• Accommodation recommendations
• Complete packing list
• Lots of personal recommendations and resources

This digital guide is delivered to your inbox immediately so you can download right now.

Here’s a preview of my Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Which locations does this guide cover?

With just 7 days, there’s so much to see and do in Puerto Rico! This is a full itinerary and includes a few areas on mainland Puerto Rico as well as some island hopping to explore the best beaches and must-see spots! This guide takes you to…

• Old San Juan

Whether you love to keep busy exploring allll the places or have a relaxing vacation, you can use this travel guide to plan your days as full (or not) as you wish! Feel free to follow the options within this guide and customize the trip based on your preferences. After all, it’s your vacation!

Is this travel guide right for me?

This Puerto Rico 7-day Island-hopping Itinerary is for busy people who want a fabulous vacation and who don’t want to spend hours researching and planning it.

This is an easy, stress-free way to plan a trip to Puerto Rico.  Check out the hotels, activities and transportation within the guide and use the links to book your trip,  quickly and hassle-free .

No more searching online for the best tour, how to get around and where to stay. It’s all at your fingertips here.

There’s a mix of relaxation, fun activities and budget-friendly suggestions along the way. And bonus – the packing checklist with links makes packing for your trip a breeze, too.

Save yourself hours of time and have a fabulous vacation!

Get the easy and stress-free travel guide now !

Complete itinerary is just $27.99

My detailed Puerto Rico Travel Guide will be delivered immediately to your email inbox without any extra spam.

If you love my Puerto Rico itinerary, please encourage your friends and family to purchase their own copy. This is a digital guide and can be downloaded to any device. You absolutely can print it, but there are helpful links so I recommend keeping a digital copy.

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Do you need a passport to go to Puerto Rico? What to know before your trip

D o you need a passport to go to Puerto Rico? Planning a trip to Puerto Rico often raises questions about travel documentation. As an unincorporated territory of the United States, Puerto Rico enjoys a unique status that affects the travel requirements needed to enter the area. So, do you need a passport for Puerto Rico? Let’s dive into the details to provide clarity on this matter.

Do you need a passport to go to Puerto Rico? The bottom line

No, you do not need a passport to go to Puerto Rico as a United States citizen. Puerto Rico is part of a group of U.S. territories that does not require travelers to present a passport at the border. However, if you are not a United States citizen, different entry requirements may apply, and it is always a good idea to double-check the details of your specific situation.

Can I travel to Puerto Rico with just my driver’s license?

The short answer is yes. U.S. citizens can travel to Puerto Rico using only a government-issued photo ID , such as a driver’s license or state ID card. However, starting on May 7, 2025, if you do not have a passport, you will need a REAL ID to fly domestically in the United States , which includes the territory of Puerto Rico. Without the ID, you can still use a passport.

What documents do I need to go to Puerto Rico?

As long as you are a U.S. citizen, a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, suffices for travel to Puerto Rico. However, make sure you double-check your ID’s expiration date before your trip to ensure that it remains valid throughout your stay in Puerto Rico. 

What islands can you go to with just a passport?

While Puerto Rico may not require a passport, other destinations in the Caribbean do. So, if you plan on traveling to multiple different destinations, make sure you research entry requirements for other islands in the region. 

Many Caribbean nations and territories, such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport upon entry. However, other U.S. territories like American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands do not require travelers to hold a valid passport.

Is Puerto Rico a domestic flight?

Yes, flying to Puerto Rico from the mainland United States is considered a domestic flight. Since Puerto Rico is a part of the United States, flights are treated similarly to domestic flights within the contiguous U.S. This means that you will undergo security screening but won’t encounter customs and immigration procedures when arriving in Puerto Rico.

Book your trip to Puerto Rico today

Traveling to Puerto Rico is quite straightforward when it comes to documentation. A valid government-issued ID is all you need to explore this exciting Caribbean destination. However, it is never a bad idea to bring along a backup form of identification , and a passport is a perfect choice!

The post Do you need a passport to go to Puerto Rico? What to know before your trip appeared first on The Manual .

I moved to Puerto Rico from New Jersey with my partner. Rent is cheaper, the weather is warmer, and we plan to stay.

• Jarrell Chalmers and his partner, Jose Diaz, moved to Puerto Rico to escape high rents in Jersey City.
• They work remotely in marketing but have also started a coffee company to support local farms.
• Despite higher grocery prices, they find life in Puerto Rico rewarding and have integrated well.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jarrell Chalmers, a 31-year-old marketing consultant in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I'm from Jersey City, and my partner, Jose Diaz, is from Hartford, Connecticut. We lived in Jersey City before moving to San Juan, Puerto Rico , last April.

We're both of Puerto Rican origin — my mom and Jose's father were both born in San Juan — and we always knew that we wanted to experience it by living here.

Although our Spanish is a little shaky, it's improving, and integrating on the island has been pretty easy for us. We make it a habit to order our food, greet new people, and talk to our neighbors in Spanish.

We both work remotely as independent marketing contractors . None of our clients mind us living in Puerto Rico.

During the pandemic, rents skyrocketed in Jersey City

Jersey City became super expensive when the pandemic hit, and the quality of life wasn't the same as it used to be. We were working every single day just to make ends meet.

The cost of living is one of the main reasons we wanted to move to Puerto Rico. Here, our rent is about $700 cheaper a month. We stayed in an Airbnb for one month before moving and finding our apartment online.

We loved it when we visited, especially as Puerto Ricans who really love our culture. Not having to deal with seasonal depression in New Jersey has also been a bonus.

Before we moved, we gave away a lot of our furniture. We bought some from Amazon and everything else we sourced locally to support businesses on the island.

Rent is cheaper, but groceries are more expensive

Groceries are pricier due to laws like the Jones Act , which raises the price of many imports into the island. Farmers' markets can be good value, and Costco tends to be a bit cheaper than in New Jersey, but many places to buy groceries here are quite expensive.

Related stories

We can still get about 90% of the things we need on Amazon. If we can't get it shipped here, we use a website called Myus.com which ships things over from Florida.

The ugly side of relocating is the displacement of locals, but many have welcomed us with open arms

In January, I was down with COVID-19, and one of my neighbors dropped off a care package with a ton of medicine, tests, and home remedies. How people have treated us in this city is a big part of why we moved here.

But when many people move to a place, the rents rise, and locals can no longer afford to live there . Rents and house prices have risen considerably in recent years in Puerto Rico .

To help combat this, we've been giving back to people on the island in practical ways. We help locals with their résumés and cover letters for free.

We've grown a following on TikTok and Instagram , and we share where we eat, how we save money, grocery hacks, remote working tips, and recipes. We end many of our videos by asking our followers to comment if they need help.

They then email us their résumés and we tailor them to the jobs that they want. We've also been posting content on how to get remote jobs in Puerto Rico for Puerto Ricans.

We started our own coffee brand to promote local farms

We decided to start a company doing something that we actually enjoyed and could help us give back to the local area, so we created a coffee brand called Planeta De Cafe .

The objective is to amplify local farms on the island. For every sale we get, we donate $1 to a nonprofit called Puerto Rico Rise Up that's teaching students how to get more competitive jobs.

We post about our coffee company on our TikTok, too. Our dream is to take our coffee business and content creation full-time.

We share some of the negative parts of living here with our audience

People grew accustomed to us sharing the beautiful side of the island, so when we finally spoke on the dark side of it, I think some people were thrown off. We discussed the split between native and American-raised Puerto Ricans, the crowded hospitals, and the frequent power outages.

In some cases, tourists come and don't treat the island with care and respect. Since there are those who mistreat the island when they visit, tensions can be high.

We think it's important to shed light on real issues so more people are encouraged to work on and fix them.

Adjusting to the pace of life here has been hard at times, but ultimately rewarding

Back in New Jersey, everything's very fast-paced. Over here, everything's very slow . If you go to a restaurant, it will take 30-40 minutes to get food. You might have to wait a long time for a package or for your WiFi to get installed.

Things move slowly because people in Puerto Rico live in the moment, and that's what we love about it.

We miss our family and friends, but they visit often and stay in our spare room. For now, we plan on staying long term.

We've decided to build a life here. Our families left the island decades ago to find opportunities in the States. They found that opportunity and raised us to be self-sufficient. We're happy to return to our family's roots now that we are.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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