puerto rico trip ideas

Puerto Rico   Travel Guide

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26 Epic Things to Do in Puerto Rico

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

• All Things To Do

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

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

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

Old San Juan Old San Juan free

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

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

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

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

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

Popular Tours

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Culebrita Culebrita free

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

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

Flamenco Beach Flamenco Beach

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

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

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

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

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

Cabo Rojo Cabo Rojo free

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

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

Sun Bay (Vieques) Sun Bay (Vieques) free

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

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

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Cueva del Indio Cueva del Indio free

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

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

El Yunque National Forest El Yunque National Forest free

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

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

Castillo San Cristóbal Castillo San Cristóbal

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

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

Calle del Cristo Calle del Cristo free

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

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

Camuy River Cave Park Camuy River Cave Park

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

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

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

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

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

Condado Beach Condado Beach free

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

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

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

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

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

Cayo Icacos Cayo Icacos free

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

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

Crash Boat Beach Crash Boat Beach free

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

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

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

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

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

San Germán San Germán free

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

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

Observatorio de Arecibo Observatorio de Arecibo

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

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

Museo Castado Serrallés Museo Castado Serrallés

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

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

Piñones Piñones free

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

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

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Guavate Guavate free

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

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

Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park

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

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

Toroverde Adventure Park Toroverde Adventure Park

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

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

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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 up to 6 devices at once, using a plug or USB sockets. Plus, it 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!

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

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

With incredible beaches and historic cities, Puerto Rico offers countless choices. Here's what not to miss.

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Everyone from  reggaetoneros  hunting out Bad Bunny's favorite party places to starry-eyed honeymooners drawn by posh beach resorts can agree: Puerto Rico easily lives up to its name as the  Isla del Encanto — the Island of Enchantment. Part of the joy of a trip comes from scouting out Puerto Rico's hidden beaches, visiting white-sand islets, and hiking to the jungle waterfalls that other travelers missed.

With the help of locals and insiders from PADI, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, and Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, we've assembled a list of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, from popular surf spots to winding cave systems and local-approved spots to chow down on traditional dishes like  alcapurrias  and  mofongo .

• Best tourist destination: Old San Juan
• Underrated hidden gem: Vieques
• Best for families: Luquillo
• Best for couples: Palomino Island
• Best for solo travelers: Condado

Read on to see the rest of our Puerto Rico recommendations.

Old San Juan

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

The historic heart of Puerto Rico's capital, Old San Juan, is vibrant beyond its colorful colonial architecture or its iconic "Umbrella Street," Calle de la Fortaleza. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old mansions before arriving at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a Spanish fortress crowning the western tip of the historic neighborhood and offering spectacular ocean views. End a day of exploring with local bites at one of the neighborhood's countless rooftop restaurants or with a drink at  La Factoría , named the best bar in the Caribbean in 2024.

Stephani-Elizabeth/Getty Images

There are no stoplights on Vieques , the largest island off the coast of Puerto Rico. Visitors will find untouched beaches and dreamy boutique stays. The most popular attraction is the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, which glows blue at night as you kayak through waters filled with phosphorescent plankton. Enjoy a day trip to the island, or spend a few nights in one of 11 unique accommodations at  Finca Victoria — including cabins, treehouses, and even a vintage Airstream trailer — amid the lush vegetation of the island's interior.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Puerto Rico's  Capital del Sol (Capital of the Sun) is fittingly home to some of the island's most beautiful beaches. Balneario La Monserrate is popular for its extensive public amenities, including showers and picnic shelters, but there are also quieter options such as palm-fringed Playa Costa Azul. Head to Luquillo after a day at neighboring El Yunque National Forest, or use the town as a base for exploring less-visited areas of the rain forest.

Palomino Island

raularosa/Getty Images

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

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

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

Dorado Beach

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

El Yunque National Forest

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

La Parguera

Discover Puerto Rico

Travelers who can't make it to Vieques to experience its famous bioluminescent bay should head to  La Parguera , on Puerto Rico's southwestern coast. Bonus: La Parguera's bioluminescent bay is the only one in Puerto Rico where swimming in the glimmering waters is allowed. Drive in for the experience, or stay in one of the area's small guesthouses and spend the day visiting nearby keys for snorkeling and paddleboarding among the mangroves.

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Located off the eastern shore of the main island of Puerto Rico, the laid-back island of Culebra is tiny but packs a serious travel punch — with  no passport needed . Home to less than 2,000 permanent residents, it earned a spot on our list of our  readers' favorite islands in the Caribbean in 2023 . Culebra's famed Flamenco Beach often appears atop lists of the world's most beautiful beaches. The abandoned, graffiti-covered U.S. Navy tank at one end of the shore is simultaneously an Instagram icon and a dark monument to the island's past use for naval gunning and bombing exercises.

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

Cayo Icacos

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

Río Camuy Caves

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

Marc Pagani/Getty Images

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

Desecheo Island

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

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

Dora Ramirez/Getty Images

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

Victor Baez/500px/Getty Images

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

Peter Johansky/Getty Images

Puerto Rico's second-largest city tends to be overlooked by travelers, but the "Pearl of the South" has the historical charm and cultural weight to warrant a trip. Explore the city's historic plazas and numerous museums, or drive less than 10 miles into the countryside to visit  Hacienda Buena Vista . The 19th-century coffee plantation was one of many in the area that brought Ponce wealth and fame, and now hosts tours and other events.

Casa Bacardí

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

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

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I’ve been to Puerto Rico a bunch of times, and let me tell you, it’s incredible! This beautiful island in the Caribbean is packed with cool stuff to do, see, and eat. I’m super excited to share my favorite Puerto Rico itinerary ideas with you.

We’ll look at different itineraries, from quick 4-day trips to week-long adventures. I’ll also give you tips on the best places to visit, things to do, and foods to try. Let’s start planning your awesome Puerto Rico vacation!

Planning Your Puerto Rico Adventure: What You Need to Know

Before we jump into the itineraries, let’s talk about some key things you should know when planning your Puerto Rico trip. This information will help you make the most of your time on the island.

Planning your Puerto Rico trip? Get to know the capital by reading our interesting San Juan Puerto Rico facts before you visit. You’ll learn about blue streets, hidden beaches, and local foods that will make your adventure even more exciting.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico’s weather is pretty sweet year-round, but some months are better for visiting than others. Here’s the scoop:

• December to April: This is the busiest and most expensive time. The weather’s great, with temps around 75-85°F (24-29°C), but expect crowds and higher prices.
• May to November: It’s the rainy season and hurricane season. But May, June, and November are usually still good for visiting. You’ll find fewer crowds and better deals.
• July to October: These are the hottest and rainiest months. It’s also peak hurricane season, so check the weather if you’re planning a trip during this time.

In my experience, the best time to visit Puerto Rico is late April to early June. The weather’s awesome, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. Plus, you can catch some events like the Saborea Puerto Rico food festival in April.

Getting Around Puerto Rico: Your Transportation Options

Getting around Puerto Rico is pretty easy. Here are your main choices:

• Rental car: This is great for exploring on your own. Prices start around $40-60 per day. You’ll drive on the right side of the road, just like in the mainland U.S.
• Public buses: Cheap but not always reliable. A ride in San Juan costs about $0.75.
• Taxis and rideshares: Easy to find in big cities. A 15-minute ride in San Juan costs around $15-20.
• Ferries: If you’re heading to smaller islands like Vieques or Culebra, you’ll need to take a ferry. They’re cheap (about $2-$4 one-way) but can get crowded.
• Públicos: These are shared vans that run set routes. They’re cheap (about $5-$10 for longer trips) but can be slow.

For more travel guides and tips, visit https://destination.com/ for itineraries and advice on planning well-organized vacations to various destinations worldwide. Our resources will help you prepare for your next trip, whether it’s in Puerto Rico or elsewhere.

Now that we’ve got the basics covered, let me share with you my tried and tested Puerto Rico itineraries that are sure to fit different kinds of travel and vacation styles!

4-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: Your Quick and Fun Vacation Plan

Got a long weekend? No problem! This 4-day Puerto Rico itinerary will give you a great mix of history, nature, and beach time. It’s perfect for first-timers who want to see the highlights.

Day 1: Checking Out Tourist Attraction in San Juan

Start your Puerto Rico trip in Old San Juan . This part of the city is over 500 years old and packed with colorful buildings and rich history.

Begin your day at Plaza de Armas, the main square. From here, walk down Calle del Cristo, checking out the cute shops and cafes.

For lunch, head to Café Manolín on Calle San Justo. Try their mofongo, a local dish made from mashed plantains. It’s usually about $12-15 and super filling.

After lunch, visit the San Juan Cathedral. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Puerto Rico, built in 1521. Admission is free, and it’s open daily from 8:30 AM to 4 PM.

End your day at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or El Morro for short. This massive fort was built in 1539 to protect the city from sea attacks. It costs $10 to enter, and you can explore until 6 PM. The views of the ocean are amazing, especially at sunset.

For dinner, try Barrachina on Calle del Cristo. Legend has it that the piña colada was invented here! A meal will cost you about $20-30 per person.

Day 2: Modern San Juan and Beach Vibes

Today, we’re checking out the newer parts of San Juan. Start your morning with a walk or jog along Condado Beach. The beach is public, so you can take a dip if you want.

Next, head to the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico in Santurce. It’s open from 10 AM to 5 PM and costs $6 to enter. You’ll see some amazing Puerto Rican art here.

For lunch, try some street food at Lote 23, a food truck park in Santurce. You can get a great meal for about $10-15.

In the afternoon, do some shopping at Plaza Las Américas, the largest mall in the Caribbean Islands . You’ll find both local and international brands here.

End your day at La Placita de Santurce. This area is a market by day and a party spot by night. Grab dinner at José Enrique restaurant (if you can get a table – they don’t take reservations), then enjoy the lively street scene.

Day 3: Hiking in El Yunque National Forest

Time to explore El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system! It’s about an hour’s drive from San Juan. Get there early, around 7:30 AM, to beat the crowds.

Start with the Big Tree Trail to La Mina Falls. It’s an easy 0.7-mile (1.1 km) hike one way. You’ll see tons of cool plants and might hear the coquí, Puerto Rico’s famous little frog.

Bring your swimsuit because you can take a dip in the waterfall pool. It’s super refreshing after your hike!

For lunch, pack a picnic or try one of the food vendors near the visitor center. A meal here will cost about $10-15.

In the afternoon, drive up to Yokahú Tower. Climb the 98 steps for an amazing view of the forest and the ocean.

End your day with a sunset at Luquillo Beach, about a 30-minute drive from El Yunque. You can grab dinner at one of the famous Luquillo kiosks – there are about 60 little restaurants serving all kinds of food.

Day 4: Sun and Sand at Luquillo Beach

On your last day, head back to Luquillo Beach for a full beach day. This crescent-shaped beach is gorgeous, with clear blue water and soft sand. Plus, it’s got facilities like showers and food kiosks, so you can spend the whole day here comfortably.

In the morning, try a snorkeling tour. Companies like Luquillo Beach Boys offer tours for about $50 per person. You might see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even small reef sharks!

For lunch, hit up the Luquillo Kiosks again. Try some alcapurrias or Puerto Rican fritters, which are fried fritters filled with meat. They’re usually about $3-5 each.

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach or try your hand at surfing. Luquillo is a great place for beginners, and you can rent a board for about $20 for two hours.

Head back to San Juan in the evening for your farewell dinner. Try Marmalade in Old San Juan for a fancy last meal. It’s pricey (expect to spend about $100 per person), but the food is amazing and it’s a great way to end your trip.

This 4-day Puerto Rico itinerary gives you a taste of the island’s history, nature, and beaches. But if you’ve got more time, keep reading for longer itineraries!

5-Day Puerto Rico Trip: City, Jungle, and Beach Fun

Got an extra day? Awesome! This 5-day Puerto Rico itinerary lets you see even more of the island. We’ll start in San Juan, then head to El Yunque, and finish up in Rincon, a cool beach town on the west coast.

Day 1: Experience the Best of San Juan

Start your Puerto Rico experience with a full day in Old San Juan. Wake up early and grab breakfast at Café Don Ruiz, located in the Cuartel de Ballajá.

Their coffee is locally grown and roasted – try it with a mallorca, a sweet Puerto Rican pastry. Breakfast here will cost you about $8-10.

After breakfast, join a free walking tour of Old San Juan. These tours usually start at 10 AM and last about 2 hours. Your guide will share tons of cool stories about the city’s 500-year history.

For lunch, head to Deaverdura on Calle San Francisco. They serve traditional Puerto Rican food at reasonable prices – a full meal will cost around $12-15. Try their mofongo relleno (stuffed mofongo) – it’s delicious!

In the afternoon, visit both Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal. These massive forts protected the city for centuries.

A combo ticket for both forts costs $10 and is valid for 24 hours. Start at El Morro and walk along the city walls to San Cristóbal – the views are amazing!

End your day with dinner at Marmalade on Calle Fortaleza. It’s a bit fancy, with dinner costing around $60-80 per person, but the food is incredible. Make sure to book a reservation in advance!

Today, we’re exploring the newer parts of San Juan. Start your morning in Santurce, San Juan’s artsy neighborhood. Take a self-guided street art tour – you’ll find amazing murals around every corner, especially on Calle Cerra.

For lunch, hit up La Placita de Santurce. During the day, it’s a farmer’s market. Grab some fresh fruit and pastries for a picnic lunch. You’ll spend about $10-15 for a good meal.

Spend your afternoon at Condado Beach. This urban beach is great for sunbathing and people-watching. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a jet ski for about $80-100 per hour.

In the evening, head back to La Placita. At night, it transforms into San Juan’s hottest party spot. Have dinner at Santaella (make a reservation!) – expect to spend about $40-50 per person. Then bar-hop around the square, enjoying live music and great drinks.

Day 3: El Yunque and Glowing Kayak Trip

Time for some nature! Drive to El Yunque National Forest , about an hour from San Juan. Start early to beat the crowds and the heat.

Begin with the Mt. Britton Trail. It’s a challenging 2.4-mile round trip hike, but the views from the tower at the top are worth it. The trail usually opens at 7:30 AM – get there early!

After your hike, cool off at Juan Diego Creek. It’s a short walk to a beautiful natural pool where you can swim. Remember to bring water shoes – the rocks can be slippery.

For lunch, try El Yunque Treehouse near the south entrance of the forest. Their burgers are great, and you’ll spend about $15-20 for a meal.

In the afternoon, drive to Fajardo (about 30 minutes from El Yunque). You’ve got a special evening planned – kayaking in the bioluminescent bay!

Book a tour with Kayaking Puerto Rico for about $50 per person. As you paddle through Laguna Grande, the water glows around you because of tiny organisms. It’s like magic! Tours usually start around 6:30 PM and last about 2 hours.

After your kayak trip, have a late dinner at La Estación in Fajardo. It’s an old gas station turned barbecue joint. Dinner will cost about $25-30 per person.

Day 4: Rincon – Surfing and Sunsets

Today we’re heading to Rincon , the surfing capital of Puerto Rico. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Fajardo, so start early.

When you arrive, head straight to Maria’s Beach for a surfing lesson. Even if you’ve never surfed before, the instructors at Rincon Surf School will have you standing up in no time. A 2-hour lesson costs about $80.

After working up an appetite, lunch at La Cambija, this casual spot serves some of the best and freshest seafood in Rincon. Try their fish tacos – you’ll spend about $15-20 for a meal.

Spend your afternoon beach hopping. Check out Steps Beach for snorkeling (you can rent gear for about $10) or Domes Beach to watch the surfers tackle bigger waves.

As evening approaches, head to the Rincon Lighthouse for an incredible sunset. Grab dinner at the nearby El Faro Restaurant – their seafood paella is amazing. Expect to spend about $30-40 per person.

Day 5: Whale Watching and Farewell

On your last day, if you’re visiting between January and March, start with a whale-watching tour. Taino Divers offers tours for about $65 per person. You might see humpback whales migrating through the Mona Passage!

If it’s not whale season, take a morning yoga class at Barefoot Yoga Studio instead. Drop-in classes cost about $15.

For lunch, try Tamboo Tavern right on Sandy Beach. Their fish sandwiches are great, and you can eat with your toes in the sand. Lunch will cost about $15-20.

Spend your last afternoon soaking up the sun on Sandy Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a stand-up paddleboard for about $20 per hour.

For your farewell dinner, book a table at La Copa Llena at The Black Eagle. It’s a bit fancy (about $50-60 per person), but the beachfront setting and innovative menu make for a perfect last night in Puerto Rico.

This 5-day Puerto Rico itinerary gives you a great mix of city, nature, and beach experiences. But if you’ve got even more time, keep reading for our 7-day adventure!

7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: The Complete Island Experience

Got a full week? Lucky you! This 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary lets you see the best of the island, including some off-the-beaten-path spots. We’ll explore San Juan, El Yunque, and the South Coast and even hop over to some smaller islands.

Day 1: San Juan Sights and Sounds

Kick off your week-long Puerto Rico adventure in vibrant San Juan. Start your day with breakfast at Caficultura in Old San Juan. Their mallorca con huevo y queso (sweet bread with egg and cheese) is a local favorite and costs about $8.

After breakfast, join a walking tour of Old San Juan. Spoon Food Tours offers a great 2-hour history walk for $45 per person. You’ll learn about the city’s 500-year history while strolling through colorful streets.

For lunch, hit up El Jibarito on Calle Sol. This no-frills spot serves authentic Puerto Rican food. Try the chuleta kan kan (pork chop) for about $15.

Spend your afternoon exploring the forts. Start at Castillo San Felipe del Morro, then walk along the city walls to Castillo San Cristóbal. The combo ticket costs $10 and gives you access to both forts.

End your day with a sunset sail. East Island Excursions offers a 2-hour sail for $85 per person, including drinks and snacks. It’s a perfect way to see San Juan from a different perspective.

For dinner, try Marmalade in Old San Juan. It’s pricey (expect to spend about $80-100 per person), but their tasting menu is an unforgettable culinary experience.

Day 2: Art, Beach, and Local Eats

Today, we’re going to San Juan’s art scene and beach life. Start your morning in Santurce with breakfast at Tostado on Calle Loíza. Their avocado toast and coffee will set you back about $12.

After breakfast, take a self-guided art walk through Santurce. Start at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico ($6 entry), then explore the street art along Calle Cerra. Don’t miss the murals in the Machuchal neighborhood.

For lunch, check out Lote 23, a food truck park in Santurce. You can try a variety of local dishes here for about $10-15 per meal.

Spend your afternoon relaxing at Condado Beach. If you’re up for it, rent a paddleboard from Velauno for about $25 per hour.

In the evening, head to Ocean Park for dinner at Pirilo Pizza Rústica. Their wood-fired pizzas are amazing and cost around $15-20. After dinner, enjoy a cocktail at the nearby ARYA Rooftop Bar for great views of the city.

Day 3: El Yunque and Bioluminescent Bay

Let’s head out of the city to experience Puerto Rico’s natural wonders. Drive to El Yunque National Forest, about an hour from San Juan.

Start with the La Coca Trail, a challenging 2.6-mile round-trip hike. It’s less crowded than other Puerto Rico trails and offers beautiful views. Remember to bring plenty of water!

After your hike, cool off at La Coca Falls. It’s right by the road and is a great spot for photos.

For lunch, try El Verde BBQ, which is just outside the forest. Their pinchos (meat skewers) are delicious and cost about $5 each.

In the afternoon, head to Luquillo Beach. This crescent-shaped beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Rent a chair and umbrella for about $10 for the day.

As evening approaches, drive to Fajardo for a kayaking tour of the bioluminescent bay. I recommend booking with Kayaking Puerto Rico. The tour costs $50 per person and starts at 6:30 PM.

End your night with a late dinner at La Estación in Fajardo. Their grilled seafood is fantastic. Expect to spend about $30-40 per person.

Day 4: Ponce and the South Coast

On the fourth day, we’re exploring Puerto Rico’s south coast. Leave San Juan early and drive to Ponce, about a 1.5-hour journey.

Start your Ponce adventure at Café Lucero for breakfast. Their mallorcas are some of the best on the island and cost about $5.

Spend your morning exploring Ponce’s historic center. Visit the Parque de Bombas (the old fire station) and the Ponce Museum of Art ($6 entry). Don’t miss the unique architecture of the Casa Wiechers-Villaronga ($5 entry).

For lunch, try Lola Eclectic Cuisine. Their modern take on Puerto Rican food is delicious. Lunch will cost about $20 per person.

In the afternoon, visit the Hacienda Buena Vista, a 19th-century coffee plantation. Tours cost $8 and offer a glimpse into Puerto Rico’s agricultural history.

End your day at La Guancha, Ponce’s boardwalk. Enjoy street food for dinner (try the alcapurrias and pinchos ) and listen to live music. You can easily have a great meal here for under $15.

Day 5: Vieques Island Escape

Let’s do some island hopping! Take the 9:00 AM ferry from Ceiba to Vieques ($2 one-way). The journey takes about 30 minutes.

Once in Vieques, rent a jeep from Maritza’s Car Rental. It costs about $65 per day and is the best way to explore the island.

Start your Vieques adventure at Playa La Chiva (Blue Beach). This stunning beach in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge has crystal clear water perfect for snorkeling. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach.

In the afternoon, visit the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust to learn about the island’s ecology. Entry is by donation.

For dinner, head to El Blok Hotel’s restaurant. Their creative Puerto Rican cuisine is fantastic. Expect to spend about $50 per person.

End your night with a stargazing session on the beach. Vieques has some of the darkest skies in Puerto Rico, perfect for seeing the Milky Way.

Day 6: Culebra and Flamenco Beach

Another island day! Take the early ferry from Vieques back to Ceiba, then catch the 10:30 AM ferry to Culebra ($2.25 one-way).

Upon arrival, rent snorkel gear from Culebra Divers ($10 per day) and take a water taxi to Culebrita ($50 round trip). Snorkel in the calm waters around this tiny, uninhabited island.

For lunch, head back to Culebra’s main town and try Zaco’s Tacos. Their fish tacos are amazing and cost about $12 for two.

Spend your afternoon at Flamenco Beach, often rated one of the best beaches in the world. Relax on the white sand, swim in the turquoise water, and check out the famous tank murals.

For your last night, enjoy a beachfront dinner at Susie’s Restaurant. Their lobster is a must-try. Dinner will cost about $40-50 per person.

Day 7: Last-Day Fun in San Juan

For your final day in this Puerto Rico itinerary, we’re back in San Juan. Start with breakfast at Café Cuatro Sombras in Old San Juan. Their coffee is locally grown and roasted. Breakfast will cost about $10-12.

Spend your morning doing some last-minute shopping in Old San Juan. Check out The Butterfly People for beautiful art made with real butterflies or Puerto Rican Art & Crafts for local handicrafts.

For lunch, join Spoon Food Tours for their Old San Juan Walk & Taste Tour ($89). It’s a great way to try a variety of local foods and learn about Puerto Rican cuisine.

In the afternoon, visit the Bacardí Rum Factory. The historical tour costs $15 and includes a welcome cocktail.

End your Puerto Rico adventure with a farewell dinner at 1919 Restaurant in the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. It’s one of the best restaurants on the island, with a menu that showcases local ingredients. Expect to spend about $100-150 per person, but it’s worth it for a special last night.

This 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary gives you a comprehensive island experience, from city life to nature adventures and beach relaxation.

Puerto Rico Itinerary for Couples: Romantic Getaway

Looking for a romantic escape with your special someone? Puerto Rico’s got you covered! This 5-day itinerary is perfect for couples who want to mix relaxation, adventure, and romance.

Day 1: Romantic San Juan Welcome

Start your romantic getaway in style! After checking into your hotel (I recommend the historic Hotel El Convento in Old San Juan, rooms from $200/night), take a leisurely stroll through Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets. Hold hands as you explore colorful buildings and charming plazas.

For a special first evening, book a sunset dinner cruise with East Island Excursions ($95 per person). You’ll enjoy stunning views of the San Juan skyline while savoring a gourmet dinner and Caribbean cocktails. It’s a perfect way to kick off your romantic vacation!

Day 2: Relaxation and Beach Bliss

Begin your day with a couples spa treatment at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. Their “Romance Package” includes a couples massage and facial for $450 per couple. It’s pricey, but hey, you’re on vacation!

After feeling refreshed, head to Isla Verde Beach for some sun and sand. This beautiful stretch of coastline is perfect for a romantic beach walk or a swim in the crystal-clear water. Rent beach chairs and an umbrella for about $20 for the day.

In the evening, dress up for a candlelit dinner at Marmalade in Old San Juan. Their tasting menu ($95 per person) is a culinary journey that you’ll both remember. Make sure to book in advance!

Day 3: Nature’s Romance in El Yunque and Fajardo

Wake up early and drive to El Yunque National Forest. Take the Big Tree Trail to La Mina Falls (0.7 miles each way). The waterfall at the end is a perfect spot for a romantic photo op!

After your hike, head to Luquillo Beach. Known for its calm waters and golden sand, it’s ideal for a relaxing afternoon. Grab lunch at the Luquillo Kiosks – try Ay Bonito! for some delicious seafood (about $15-20 per person).

As night falls, drive to Fajardo for a magical experience – kayaking in the bioluminescent bay. Book a tour with Kayaking Puerto Rico ($50 per person). Paddling through glowing waters under the stars is undeniably romantic!

Day 4: Culebra Island Escape

Today, you’re off to Culebra! Take the ferry from Ceiba ($2.25 one-way, 1-hour trip) or splurge on a quick flight with Air Flamenco ($70 one-way, 30-minute flight).

Once on Culebra, rent a golf cart from Carlos Jeep Rental ($65 per day) and explore the island. Head to Flamenco Beach , consistently rated one of the world’s best beaches. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the white sand (grab supplies at the Superette Mayra grocery store in town).

Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun. As evening approaches, find a quiet spot on the beach for some of the best stargazing in Puerto Rico. The lack of light pollution makes for an incredibly romantic night sky.

Day 5: San Juan Farewell

On your last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Chocobar Cortés in Old San Juan. Their chocolate-infused breakfast menu is a delicious treat (about $15 per person).

Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs in Old San Juan. Pick up some locally made jewelry at Butterfly People or artisanal rum at Don Q’s Casa Don Q.

In the afternoon, take a tour of the Bacardí Rum Factory ($75 per person for the Rum Tasting Tour). You’ll learn about rum production and get to sample some top-shelf rums.

For your farewell dinner, book a table at Sage Steak Loft in the O:live Boutique Hotel. Enjoy top-quality steaks and seafood with a view of the Condado Lagoon. Live jazz music adds to the romantic atmosphere. Expect to spend about $100-150 per person, but it’s worth it for your last night!

This romantic Puerto Rico itinerary combines relaxation, adventure, and great food – perfect for couples looking to reconnect and create lasting memories.

Family-Friendly Puerto Rico Itinerary

Traveling with kids? No worries! Puerto Rico is a great destination for families. This 6-day itinerary is packed with activities that both kids and adults will love.

Day 1: San Juan Family Fun

After checking into your hotel (the Caribe Hilton is great for families, with multiple pools and a private beach), head to Old San Juan. Let the kids burn off some energy running around the grounds of Castillo San Felipe del Morro ($10 for adults, free for kids under 15).

For dinner, try Señor Paleta. They serve delicious paletas (popsicles) and have board games available – perfect for a fun family evening!

Day 2: Forts, Beaches, and Paddling Fun

Start your day with breakfast at Caficultura in Old San Juan. Kids will love their pancakes, while parents can enjoy some strong Puerto Rican coffee. Expect to spend about $10-15 per person.

Head to Castillo San Felipe del Morro early to beat the crowds. This massive fort is like a giant playground for kids. They can explore tunnels, climb old walls, and imagine life as a Spanish soldier. Don’t forget to fly a kite on the big lawn outside – it’s a local tradition! Entry is $10 for adults and free for kids under 15.

For lunch, grab some sandwiches from Cuatro Sombras ($8-10 each) and have a picnic in the shade of the fort walls.

In the afternoon, head to Condado Lagoon for some paddleboarding. Velauno offers rentals and lessons. A family lesson (up to 4 people) costs about $120 for 2 hours. The calm waters of the lagoon are perfect for beginners and kids.

End your day with a relaxing movie night at the hotel. Many hotels in San Juan offer this service, often with popcorn included!

Day 3: El Yunque Adventure

Today, you’re off to El Yunque National Forest! Pack plenty of water, snacks, and bug spray. Start with the Big Tree Trail to La Mina Falls. It’s an easy 0.7-mile hike each way, perfect for kids. Remember to bring swimsuits – you can take a dip in the waterfall pool!

For lunch, try El Yunque Treehouse near the south entrance of the forest. Their burgers are great, and they have a kid’s menu. Expect to spend about $15-20 per person.

In the afternoon, visit La Coca Falls. It’s right by the road and is a great spot for family photos.

As a special treat, book a night walk in the rainforest with Yokahú Kayak Trips ($55 for adults, $45 for kids). You’ll see glowing fungi and hear the famous coquí frogs. It’s an adventure your kids won’t forget!

Day 4: Beach Day and Horseback Riding

Start your day at Luquillo Beach, one of the best family-friendly beaches in Puerto Rico. The calm waters are perfect for kids, and you can rent chairs and umbrellas for about $20 for the day. Spend the morning building sandcastles and splashing in the waves.

For lunch, hit up the Luquillo Kiosks. Let each family member choose their favorite – options range from pizza to traditional Puerto Rican food. You can easily feed the family for $10-15 per person.

In the afternoon, head to Carabalí Rainforest Park for a horseback riding adventure. They offer 1-hour rides for $45 per person (kids must be 3 or older). It’s a great way to see the beautiful scenery of Puerto Rico’s east coast.

End your day with a BBQ dinner back at the Luquillo Kiosks. Try El Jefe Burger’s BBQ ribs – they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!

Day 5: Ziplines and Caves

Today’s all about adventure! Start early and drive to Toro Verde Adventure Park, home to “The Monster” – one of the longest ziplines in the world.

Kids must be at least 7 years old and meet height/weight requirements. The Zipline Adventure package costs $135 for adults and $99 for kids.

After an adrenaline-filled morning, have lunch at the park’s restaurant. Their mofongo is delicious and costs about $12-15.

In the afternoon, visit Rio Camuy Cave Park. Take a trolley ride into the cave system and see huge stalactites and stalagmites. The tour costs $18 for adults and $13 for kids 4-12. Note that children under 4 are not allowed in the caves.

For dinner, try a local Chinese-Puerto Rican restaurant like Chun Hing in nearby Arecibo. This unique fusion cuisine is a hit with kids, and meals cost about $10-15 per person.

End the night with some stargazing. The area around Arecibo has less light pollution than San Juan, making it great for spotting constellations.

Day 6: Eco-Cruise and Children’s Museum

On your last day, take an eco-cruise of San Juan Bay with San Juan Water Tours ($65 for adults, $55 for kids). You’ll see historic sites from the water and might even spot some marine life.

After the cruise, grab lunch at Café Manolín in Old San Juan. Their kid-friendly menu includes chicken tenders and fries for about $8.

Spend your afternoon at Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum) in Carolina. With three floors of interactive exhibits, it’s a great place for kids to learn and play. Entry is $10 for adults and kids over 1.

For your farewell dinner, try Vaca Brava in Old San Juan. This Brazilian steakhouse is a fun experience for kids – they’ll love seeing the different meats carved at the table. It’s a bit pricey at $42.95 for adults and $21.95 for kids 6-12 (under 6 eat free), but it’s a great way to end your family vacation.

This family-friendly Puerto Rico itinerary mixes beach time, nature adventures, and cultural experiences. It’s designed to keep both kids and adults entertained throughout your trip!

Make Your Puerto Rico Trip Count!

Okay, so you’ve got your Puerto Rico itinerary all planned out. But don’t forget to leave some wiggle room for surprise fun.

Sometimes the coolest stuff happens when you’re not looking for it. Maybe you’ll find a secret beach or join a street party in Old San Juan. Just go with the flow and see what pops up!

The best part of Puerto Rico is it’s the people, hands down. Chat with the locals, try out your Spanish, and ask where they like to eat or hang out. That’s the real Puerto Rico experience – the friendly faces and fun times you’ll remember long after you’re back home.

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15 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

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

Click the link to read our complete Puerto Rico guide .

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

Cueva Ventana Arrow

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

Pública Arrow

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

El Yunque National Forest Arrow

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

La Estación Arrow

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

La Placita de Santurce Arrow

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

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico Arrow

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

Castillo San Felipe del Morro Arrow

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

Mercado Agrícola Natural Viejo San Juan Arrow

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

El Tour de Vaca Negra Arrow

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

Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy Arrow

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

Playa La Pocita Arrow

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

La Factoría Arrow

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

Boquerón Arrow

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

Te.ta's Arrow

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

Tamarindo Beach Arrow

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

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The 12 best things to do in Puerto Rico

Nov 30, 2023 • 10 min read

Puerto Rico has some incredible beaches but that's not all... © Courtesy of Discover Puerto Rico

From the lush and humid forests of the central mountains to the idyllic surfing beaches of the northwest, Puerto Rico is a haven for ecotourism. If it's nature that entices you here, it's the sands, the islands, and the historical cities that will keep you enchanted.

Come for the outdoor adventures – hiking, zipping, surfing – but stay for the heritage, culture, sand and amazing Caribbean nights, bars and restaurants.

Here are the 12 best things to do in Puerto Rico that show off the island in all of its multifaceted glory.

1. Bar hop along Calle San Sebastián in San Juan

Lined with historic buildings, including San José church, the historic Hijos de Borinquen bar and  Casa Blanca  – former home of the island’s first Spanish governor – Juan Ponce de León, La Calle San Sebastián allows visitors the chance to savor a little bit of  Old San Juan . Named after Saint Sebastian, this cobblestoned street is one of the most beautiful on the island.

By day, you can snap photos of beautiful, colorful balconies, walk the narrow alleyways and peek between the buildings for a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean.

At night, there’s plenty of bar hopping to do. Fancy dancing to anything from salsa to electronic beats? What about sipping top-notch cocktails made by expert mixologists? Head over to ultra-hip  La Factoría .

If you prefer a chilled-out place to hang,  Taberna Lúpulo  has open-air seating and a massive selection of local and international beers.

Prefer to grab a few Medalla beers and dance to some reggaeton?  La Sombrilla Rosa  is where you want to be. There are plenty of watering holes to choose from, so put on your best sneakers and enjoy the humid sea breeze while you wander from bar to bar.

2. Take an architectural tour of Old San Juan

Walking through the cobblestone plazas and narrow alleyways of Old San Juan is an essential Puerto Rico experience.

There's no need to have an itinerary here – just get lost in a maze of colorful, Spanish colonial-style houses with famously ornate balconies, lush courtyard gardens and ceilings adorned with intricate mosaics of Catholic saints and virgins and ornate  criollo  tiles.

There isn’t a corner of the islet that isn’t steeped in history, from historic churches to grand homes from the 18th and 19th centuries.

You can wander around the neighborhood and  gawp for free  but for insights into San Juan's architectural heritage and rich political, social and economic life, the  Puerto Rico Historic Buildings Drawing Society  runs a series of walking tours exploring landmarks such as  Casa Blanca , the abandoned Normandie Hotel, sailors' haunt Calle Sol, and the city's lovely parks and plazas.

3. Eat your way along the Ruta del Lechón-Guavate

There’s no better way to get a taste of traditional Puerto Rican flavors and the island's folklore than by taking a tour through Guavate in Cayey.

Known as La Ruta del Lechón – the Roast Pork Route – the road to Guavate takes you deep into the mountains flanking the town of Cayey, where you can restaurant-hop in search of the best spit-roasted pork and steamy arroz con gandules (rice and pigeon peas) on the island. It’s a ritual that’s revered by Puerto Ricans, especially at Christmas time.

Each establishment is family-owned, and most have informal picnic-style tables where you can mingle with other patrons, have a few drinks, and perhaps even dance to música típica (folk music). 

It’s a nourishing experience in every sense of the word and a great way to dive into the wet, mountainous central region. Such a beautiful tradition inevitably draws a crowd, so if you go on a weekend, arrive early or be ready to wait in line.

4. Make your own cheese at Vaca Negra

It’s not difficult to get a taste of rural life in Puerto Rico. Fertile soil and the warm and well-watered climate allow crops to flourish year-round and the island is dotted with farms raising local produce and livestock.

At Vaca Negra , in the town of Hatillo in the northwest, you can go a step further and make your own Puerto Rican-style aged cheese.

This is a relatively new concept on the island, as Puerto Rican cheese is traditionally freshly prepared. Using raw cow’s milk from Hatillo's cattle ranchers, staff will help you create some of the best-aged cheese you’ve ever tasted – you can even opt for lactose-free. 

There's one small hitch: the cheese takes approximately two months to reach maturity. If you’re only passing by, you can purchase some of their pre-made cheeses and yogurts from the farm store or swing by for brunch in true Puerto Rican country style, one of the best food experiences on the island .

5. Go ziplining at Toro Verde

Adrenaline lovers rejoice! Deep in the mountains of Orocovis lies Toro Verde , one of the biggest and best adventure parks in the Caribbean.

The brave can ride ziplines such as 'The Monster', a 1.5 mile (2.5km) cable that whooshes across the forested slopes, reaching speeds of up to 95mph (152.8 km/h). It's no exaggeration to say that you’ll get a bird's-eye view of nature.

The rest of the park is a wonderland for adventure lovers, with thrilling rock climbing walls, rope fields, obstacle courses, hanging bridges, free falls (with safety gear, of course), suspended cycling and moonlight tours.

6. Go canyoning at Cañón San Cristóbal

The San Cristóbal Canyon is one of the most precious and underexplored natural treasures in Puerto Rico. Nestled between the towns of Aibonito and Barranquitas in the Cordillera Central mountain range, the canyon was once used as an unofficial landfill site until local non-profit organizations stepped in to save the site for future generations.

Today, San Cristóbal Canyon is the setting for one of the most thrilling hiking trails on the island, where you can rappel, hike and swim under waterfalls, surrounded by lush green jungle.

You’ll need to be in good physical condition though as the trails are challenging: the canyon is 500ft (152m) deep and the hike is more than 6 miles (9km) long, most of that uphill through rocky terrain. Don’t go alone – the trails are largely unmarked.

Guided hikes and tours are led by the conservationist group Go Hiking PR , run by Puerto Rican teachers, students and geographers.

7. Sip coffee the Puerto Rican way at Hacienda San Pedro

In Puerto Rico, coffee is a ritual not taken lightly. Unlike in the United States, you’ll rarely see people drinking coffee in their cars on their way to work or rushing with a cup of coffee in their hands. Instead, coffee in Puerto Rico is a state of mind, a little respite from the world outside. 

Join locals appreciating their coffee at Hacienda San Pedro in the mountains of Jayuya in the Central Mountains, which dates from the 19th century and has been owned by four generations of the Atienzo family. 

You can tour the coffee fields where the beans are picked by hand and then toasted in equipment that’s been used for more than a century.

The hacienda has a museum where you can see original artifacts and learn more about the processes that make Puerto Rican coffee so amazing. Before you leave, stop for a hot cup of Joe and pick up some of the best beans on the island to take home.

8. Get a history lesson at Centro Ceremonial Indígena Tibes

Ceremonial grounds, religious effigies and plazas formerly occupied by Puerto Rica's indigenous population – specifically the Ígneri and Taíno tribes – make the Centro Ceremonial Indígena Tibes  in Ponce an essential stop if you want to understand the island's pre-colonial past.

Archeologists have dated the site, located in the Tíbes sector of Ponce, to between 400 BCE and 1000 CE.

Annual excavations have uncovered indigenous pottery, foraging patterns and instruments that provide tantalizing glimpses of the civilizations that populated Puerto Rico before the arrival of the Spanish. The site has a museum and offers guided tours, but it’s best to call ahead for hours and availability.

9. Surf the waves in Rincón 

Ever since Domes beach in Rincón hosted the 1968 World Surfing Championship, surfers of all levels have been flocking to northwestern towns such as Aguadilla , Rincón and Isabela to take advantage of the warm Atlantic waters and catch some of the tallest waves in the Caribbean.

Puerto Rico’s surf culture is quite laid back and you'll learn a lot about beach conservation talking to the surfers who spend their days riding these thrilling breaks.

While the Atlantic tends to be a little unruly, the sun rises early and the crystalline water makes it easy to spot the currents so you can make the best of your surf session.

Gas Chambers and Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla offer waves that range from 5ft (1.5m) in the summer to 20ft (6m) during the winter months. These make for a killer ride, and in between sessions you can take in great views and visit the ruins of a pier formerly used by the US Air Force.

If you just want to admire or photograph some big swells and the surfers who ride them, come for the Corona Pro Surf Circuit, usually hosted in the spring.

Don’t despair if you don’t know how to surf; private and group lessons are available at many local surf schools. Check out the classes run by Surf Lessons Puerto Rico – owned by pro-surfer, Ramse Morales – and PR Surf Adventures in Aguadilla.

10. Spot wildlife on the Corredor Ecológico del Noreste

The lush, green Corredor Ecológico del Noreste spans six of the most beautiful municipalities in the Northeast of the island. This protected nature reserve offers a chance to bike, boat, surf or drive along roughly 3000 acres of virgin coastline, taking in the lovely beaches at San Miguel, La Selva, Las Paulinas, El Convento and Colorá.

The coastal forests provide a habitat for plentiful bird and animal life, including manatees and leatherback turtles, which nest on the beaches here from March to August.

The corridor also spans the municipality of Río Grande, home to the El Yunque National Forest , the towns of Luquillo, Fajardo, and Vieques, and Culebra's islands, which you can visit by ferry.

Dating from the 16th century, the town of Loíza and its citizens are the keepers of some of the most charming traditions in Puerto Rico. If you happen to be there in July, take part in the Fiestas de Santiago Apóstol, celebrating Loíza’s patron saint.

Participants don colorful, traditional vejigante devil masks with three horns and dance the bomba , and artisans sell local crafts.

11. Bike the Piñones Trail

If you’re an avid cyclist, head to the Piñones area on Road #178 along the east coast, where you can feel the wind in your hair as you ride along some of the wildest, most undeveloped coastline you’ll find on the island. 

The Piñones Trail takes you through mangroves and oceanfront forests, and it runs below sea level, so don’t be surprised if you have to climb a small hill of sand to get to the beaches. Take some mosquito repellent as these critters get really bitey in the afternoons and close to sundown.

Stop at one of the kiosks along the way for some of the best Puerto Rican snacks you can find – including bacalaítos (cod fritters), empanadillas de jueyes (crab pasties) and alcapurrias de camarones (shrimp fritters).

A pro tip: rather than stopping at the first kiosk you see, ride further down the road to El Boricua . The line will be long, the wait may be longer, but you’ll thank us later for the flavors – the alcapurrias here are made to order by hand with plantain leaves.

It's worth sticking a bathing suit in your bag because en route is Vacía Talega, one of Puerto Rico's best – but lesser-known – beaches. With clear turquoise waters, this arc of uncrowded, palm-backed sand is a real find. Be wary of rip currents here. If the locals aren't swimming, it's best not to go in yourself.

12. Have a beachside craft beer at Ocean Lab Brewing Co

Located inside the  VIVO Beach Club  on San Juan's  Isla Verde Beach , which faces one of  the most beautiful stretches of white sand on the Puerto Rico ,  Ocean Lab Brewing Co  is the place to come for premium craft beers and a picture-perfect drinking location.

There's a full menu too; the chicken and longaniza sausage sliders and fried whole snapper fish come highly recommended. 

The trade winds coming from the east bring soothing breezes and beers made with local ingredients like passion fruit, grapefruit and blood orange will leave your tastebuds imploring you to upsticks and move to the Caribbean.

Serious beer enthusiasts can take a brewery tour and get a first-hand look at the brewing process. Call ahead for tour hours.

This article was first published Jan 3, 2021 and updated Nov 30, 2023.

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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!

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7 Days in Paradise: An Itinerary for Your Puerto Rico Vacation

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A week in Puerto Rico: sounds like a dream vacation! One week will give you the chance to see and do a lot on the island, and this itinerary is designed to help you experience the many sides of Puerto Rico. You still won't be able to see and do it all, and the two island jewels, Vieques and Culebra, didn't make the list...but that's only because there is so much to cover on the mainland.

What do you need to know before you arrive? This handy checklist covers the basics. Here are a few other tips:

• Beachwear - An obvious one, but make sure you pack bathing suits, flip-flops, sunglasses, suntan lotion, goggles, and a nice bag to carry everything with you (you can certainly buy anything you've forgotten once you're here).
• Dress for success - Puerto Ricans are a fashionable lot, and you'll find well-dressed people especially if you're into nightlife. Fashionable and sexy clothing will help you fit right in at the clubs, lounges, and better restaurants.
• Pack light - There is great shopping in Puerto Rico, not just for internationally famous brands but also for local fashion, souvenirs, and other products. Make sure you have some space in your luggage!
• Leave winter behind - Even accounting for hurricane season, it rarely gets cold in Puerto Rico. Beyond a sweater or two, you probably won't need warm clothes while you're here. Check the weather to make sure, but don't overpack for the cold.

Day 1: Getting Settled in San Juan

Day One is about getting to the island and settling in. Because this is a seven-day trip, I'm assuming you're flying rather than sailing into Puerto Rico. In either case, make San Juan your base. The capital has enough going on to keep you busy for the duration of your stay, but it also provides easy access to many of Puerto Rico's other destinations.

You'll fly into Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean. From here, you're only about 15-20 minutes from the heart of the city. Now, your first question will be whether or not to rent a car. For the first three days, I'd advise against it. You'll be spending your time in the city, and taxis, a good pair of shoes, and public transportation will be good enough to get you around. Traffic and parking can be a nightmare in San Juan, and many hotels charge hefty parking fees.​

As for where to stay, two of the best, most romantic, and most expensive hotels in the city are El Convento and Chateau Cervantes. If you want to stay in the Old City, these are among your best bets. Here are are a few other options:

• Casino Hotels
• Budget Hotels
• Kid-friendly Hotels (three of the five listed are in San Juan)

Your first day is all about settling in and getting acquainted. If you're staying in Old San Juan, the ancient walled city on the eastern edge of San Juan, you might want to stroll its cobblestone streets and take in its romantic charm. If you're staying in the resort strip of Condado or Isla Verde, I'd suggest hitting the Condado or Isla Verde beaches.

When you're ready for dinner, head to Fortaleza Street in Old San Juan, the dining hotspot in San Juan, and check out one of these excellent restaurants:

• Trois Cent Onze

After dinner, take a short walk in the old city, and then retire for the night. Your vacation is just getting started.

Day Two: Old San Juan

On your second day, head to Old San Juan and the heart of colonial Puerto Rico. Over four hundred years old, Old San Juan, or Viejo San Juan , as the locals call it, is a small, breathtaking city, bounded by walls and by the ocean. Cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, and buildings painted in tropical colors greet you as you walk.

Start your first morning in Puerto Rico with a local staple for breakfast at an island institution. Head to La Bombonera , on San Francisco Street, and try out a delicious mallorca. After, take a walking tour to ensure you get the most out of your day in the old city. You can check out this suggested tour , or download a walking tour onto your iPod. Another option is to take a tour. Legends of Puerto Rico  conducts both a day tour and a fantastic Night Tales in Old San Juan tour.

Along your tour, you'll come across tempting restaurants and shops. Old San Juan has excellent shopping, particularly for jewelry , local souvenirs , and clothes: feel free to indulge.

As for lunch and dinner, here are a few suggestions. For lunch, enjoy a hearty 'Rican meal at El Jibarito on Sol Street. If you crave something a little more sophisticated, head to El Picoteo in Hotel El Convento for excellent Spanish tapas.

End the afternoon at the magnificent Raíces Fountain. From here, it's a short walk to Fortaleza Street, where you can try one of the restaurants on the list for Day One, or, for a truly transporting meal, head to Panza, one of Puerto Rico's most romantic , elegant, and outstanding restaurants.

Day One and Two covered the old city; on Day Three, you'll see the rest of Puerto Rico's capital.

Day Three: Touring San Juan

On Day Three, it's time to go beyond the old city and into the rest of San Juan. Since the beach is a big reason to come to Puerto Rico, it makes sense that you devote the morning to lying on one of San Juan's glittering stretches of sand. Where you lay down your blanket will depend on what you want:

• Isla Verde and Condado Beaches are the ritzy resort strips where people go to see and be seen.
• El Escambrón , in the Puerta de Tierra neighborhood, is popular with the locals and is a "Blue Flag" beach (a designation given to clean, well-maintained beaches).
• Ocean Park Beach has a more laid-back vibe.

Where you spend the morning will also dictate where you eat lunch. Here is one suggestion for each beach:

• Isla Verde and Condadao - check out Ceviche House for a fresh, light departure from local cuisine.
• El Escambrón - that's an easy one. There's an excellent Puerto Rican restaurant by the same name right on the premises.
• Ocean Park - head to Pinky's on Maria Moczo Street for healthy burritos, wraps and excellent smoothies.

The afternoon can be spent in several ways, depending on your tastes. Here are five suggestions:

• Museum lovers must visit the inspiring Puerto Rican Museum of Art in Santurce. (A worthy second stop is the Museum of Contemporary Art.)
• Nature lovers should check out the sprawling Botanical Garden in Hato Rey
• Shopaholics will want to hit the fashionable boutiques on Ashford Avenue in Condado.
• Gamblers should head to one of these hotels to try their luck.
• Bacardi fans should visit the Bacardi Distillery, one of the best free activities on the island.

Day Three (Continued): Enjoying the San Juan Nightlife

After a busy day, return to your hotel and relax until dinner. When you're ready to head out for the night, pick from the following itineraries, sorted by neighborhood:

Old San Juan

• Bodega Chic (Calle Cristo 51), Barú (creative Puerto Rican) and Dragonfly (Latin-Asian fusion) all have the advantage of serving excellent food and converting into hip lounges later at night.
• After dinner, you can also head to the Nuyorican Café for a night of sultry salsa dancing and live bands.
• End your night at one of Old San Juan's late-night bars, like El Burénor at Club Lazer , where the party doesn't stop until dawn.

The hotels are where it's at here:

• Destination: The Water & Beach Club . For dinner, try Tangerine, a sexy restaurant with a naughty menu, then head upstairs to Wet, the hotel's awesome open-air rooftop lounge.
• Destination: El San Juan Hotel & Casino . Start with dinner at the excellent Italian La Piccola Fontana, and then migrate to the best casino in San Juan. Also at the hotel is one of the city's best clubs in Club Brava.

Miramar and Puerta de Tierra

• For fine dining in a lovely setting, check out Delirio or Chayote, in Miramar. Both are the restaurants of local celebrity chef Alfredo Ayala.
• From either restaurant, you're just a short ride away from the stylish N Lounge at the Hotel Normandie.

Ocean Park and Santurce

• Dinner at the eclectic and excellent Pamela's is a must for Ocean Park denizens.
• If it's the weekend, the place to be after dinner is La Placita in Santurce, an open-air block party where the locals gather for cheap drinks and a festive atmosphere. You can also check out Dunabars in Ocean Park, where live bands and a laid-back vibe will welcome you.

Day 4: Excursion to Two Landmark Puerto Rico Attractions

You have an option today of renting a car for the remainder of your trip or taking a guided tour to two of Puerto Rico attractions that are not only unique but in their own way, wondrous. If you want someone else to drive, call ahead and reserve a tour to the Arecibo Telescope and the Camuy Caves.

There are several tour companies that offer this package. Try  Countryside Tours . Several hotels also offer the tour, so you might want to check with the front desk before making a call.

Of course, you can also opt to drive yourself. Most of the major car rental companies are represented on the island. The observatory is about 1.5 hours west of San Juan. It's mostly a straight shot on Route 22 until you reach the town of Arecibo. Then head south on Route 10 for about 20 miles and then follow the signs to the observatory. From here, take Route 129 southwest for roughly 12 miles to the entrance of the Camuy Caves.

So, why are you making this trip? Simply put, you're visiting two sites that are unique in the world. The Arecibo Telescope  is the world's largest radio telescope, a remarkable feat of engineering, and the site of the climactic last scene in the Bond movie "GoldenEye" (for all the 007 fans).

The Camuy Caves are among the largest subterranean cave systems in the world, and the only one of its size to boast an underground river. Visitors travel in open-air trolleys and then take a 45-minute walk through the caves, admiring the stalactites, stalagmites, and natural vegetation that flourishes in the system.

This is an all-day trip. Fortunately, you'll be rewarded in the evening with a culinary excursion into Puerto Rican fine dining. After a rest in your hotel, head to Ajili Mójili and enjoy some of the best local cuisine on the island.

Day 5: Visiting El Yunque

If you didn't rent a car yesterday, you'll definitely need it today, because it's the best way to visit Puerto Rico's natural treasure and cultural icon: El Yunque National Forest .

Rather than stop for lunch, take a picnic lunch that you can enjoy deep in the rainforest after a good hike. Fortunately, on the way to El Yunque along Route 3, you'll find one of Puerto Rico's better panaderías , or bakeries (but really, they're much more than just bakeries). Panadería Don Nico serves up a mean menu of sandwiches and local pastries...just what you need for your trip.

After the rainforest, continue along Route 3, heading east, and look out for signs for Luquillo Beach. A pleasant, beautifully kept and fully serviced public beach, Luquillo is wildly popular with Puerto Ricans, and it will make for a complete change from the rainforest.

For dinner, drive back along Route 3 until you find a string of roadside eateries. There are the famous kiosks of Luquillo, home to dozens of small shacks and tiny restaurants that serve up a blend of local specialties, finger foods, greasy snacks, and cheap drinks. It's a complete departure from yesterday's fine restaurant. The kiosks are rustic Puerto Rico at its best.

After dinner, most people will want to head home. The truly intrepid, however, might want to head east, to Fajardo. Call ahead at Yokahú Kayak Trips (787-604-7375), who will take you out into Fajardo's biobay where you can take a glow-in-the-dark nighttime swim. It's an eerie but fantastic experience if you're up for a late night out.

Day 6: Choose Your Adventure in Puerto Rico (Or Lack Thereof)

On your last full day, you might be raring to kick your vacation up a notch, or you might be ready to relax and take it easy. For the former, try the following three options:

• Aventura Tierra Adentro : This tour company is designed to feed your adrenaline. With canyoning, rappelling, free-jumping, caving, and a host of other dangerous-sounding activities on its menu, it's guaranteed to end your Puerto Rico trip on an exhilarating note.
• Sailing & Snorkeling : Fajardo is the sailing capital of Puerto Rico, and you're much better off by driving to the eastern coast and hopping aboard the Erin Go Bragh for a day sail to one of the many islets around the mainland.
• Diving : If you want to dive (Puerto Rico has excellent dive sites), you'll want to switch this day's activities with Day 5, to give you an extra day until your flight out. You'll also want to contact Ocean Sports in Isla Verde, who will be happy to introduce you to Puerto Rico's underwater kingdom.

However, if you want to take it easy you might want to check Day 3's itinerary and follow one of the activities you missed out on. There's always shopping, the beach, the casino, and the old city to keep you entertained. You can also take a leisurely day trip out to Piñones , a nearby beachfront community that makes for a pleasant rustic retreat.

If you're sticking around the city, you must visit La Casita Blanca  for lunch. Tucked away in Santurce, this small, unpretentious spot is Puerto Rican home-cooking at its best, as its legions of fans will readily attest.

For dinner, you might want to veer away from the heavy local diet, especially if you ate at La Casita Blanca. If so, try one of these interesting international choices. But if you've saved up for a special last meal, head to the Puerto Rican Museum of Art and Pikayo where the line between food and art get happily blurred.

Day 7: Leaving Puerto Rico

On your last day, relax and enjoy what's left of your vacation in San Juan. The beach might call, you may have souvenirs to buy, or you may just want a last look at Viejo San Juan. Day 7 is not about saying "goodbye," but rather, "see you soon."

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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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Best 7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary for a Family Vacation

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Families planning a trip to Puerto Rico are in for the adventure of a lifetime! This U.S. territory offers everything from stunning beaches and hiking trails to vibrant cultural and historic sights that kids will love. Not to mention delicious food and chances to spot wildlife! If you’re seeking the best Puerto Rico itinerary with kids , look no further! This itinerary has you covered from San Juan to the western side of Puerto Rico. Based on our recent family trip, this Best 7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary for Families includes everything from sea kayaking and beach lounging to hidden gems and restaurant recommendations. Keep reading to use this guide to plan your upcoming trip to Puerto Rico with kids.

Also, Read: Best Things To Do In Puerto Rico With Kids

How to Get to Puerto Rico with Kids

One of the best things about visiting Puerto Rico with kids is that passports are not required for American citizens. This makes it a great starter country for families interested in international travel with the safety net of American-style amenities and brands. From the United States, you will fly to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU). Here, you will go through the same customs and security processes as a domestic flight. 

Since this itinerary covers destinations on the western side of the island, you will need to rent a car. Driving here is fairly straightforward and you only need a U.S. driver’s license. Expect highways and road signs similar to those found in the U.S. (but mainly in Spanish). On the western side of Puerto Rico, you will also experience winding, narrow roads, particularly in the mountains. It took some getting used to, but in the end, we found driving fairly easy and fun. Driving also means you can stop at the many roadside vendors for fresh fruit or lunch!

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2-Days in San Juan for Families

While San Juan is often the most popular destination on the island, we only used it as a starting point. We spent most of our time on the quieter western side of Puerto Rico. Cities like San Juan and Fajardo tend to be more touristy and busier than other parts of the island. We found this to be a great balance for our Puerto Rico family vacation itinerary. Using this 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary, you will spend your first two days in San Juan exploring Old San Juan, El Yunque National Forest, and Fajardo.

Day 1: Get Settled in Old San Juan

Spending one week in Puerto Rico with kids is easy to fill, so you will need to start right away! Once you are settled in your accommodations, it’s time to start exploring. Head to Old San Juan and meander through cobblestone streets while you view colorful buildings. There are many shops and restaurants here for those looking to bring home some souvenirs or get a bite to eat. From Old San Juan, you are also in close proximity to Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro . One entry ticket gets you into both locations (children under 15 years old are free). Inside the historic forts, you will learn about the military history of this port (from colonization to WWII), as well as the lives of the soldiers who lived and worked here. 

Outside Castillo San Felipe del Morro, there is also a large green space. Not only can kids run around, but this is a very popular spot to fly kites. Nearby vendors may have some for sale, but it’s best to bring your own just in case. Additionally, you will likely find vendors with ice cream and other treats on the sidewalks adjacent to the lawn. Alternatively, those with younger kids who are not interested in military history may prefer to go to Museo del Niño de Carolina (located just outside San Juan). Either way, day one in our best Puerto Rico itinerary for families is sure to be an exciting start to the week!

For flexible cancellation policies, use Viator or Getyourguide.com to book tours in San Juan!

Puerto Rico Day 2: El Yunque National Forest + a Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour

Day two of our Puerto Rico travel itinerary is very full. To do both El Yunque National Forest and a Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour, some families may prefer to add a third day in San Juan, especially if kids do not have high travel stamina. We did both in one day, so it is doable, but be warned that kids will be very tired at the end of the night! Certainly, they both rank highly amongst the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids

El Yunque National Forest

Firstly, arrive at El Yunque National Forest in the morning (we arrived at about 11:00 am, go earlier if you plan to do a lot of hiking). The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque is a must-stop for any Puerto Rico family vacation itinerary. Currently, reservations are required to enter El Yunque (you reserve by carl). We recommend making reservations ahead of time . Tickets are released one month in advance, and a few spots are released 24 hours before entry. We were lucky to score some of these last-minute tickets, but I wish we would have planned ahead. 

There are several hiking options in El Yunque National Forest. We chose (and recommend) the Mt. Britton Trail . This hike is relatively short in length and duration (less than an hour), but it is very steep. Kids will love spotting wildlife like tropical lizards and butterflies. Lucky kids may even catch a glimpse of the Puerto Rican parrot! At the end of the trail, the historic tower offers a picturesque view of the rainforest below. Angelito Trail is less than 1-mile and is another great option for kids. It leads to the Las Damas pool in the Mameyes River. Other highlights in El Yunque include La Coca Falls and Baño de Oro . Finally, don’t forget to stop by El Portal de El Yunque so that kids can earn their Junior Ranger badge !

Reserve your Tours and Tickets to El Yunque National Park with Viator or Getyourguide.com here!

Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour

Next, head to Fajardo for a night kayak tour to see one of the infamous Puerto Rico bioluminescent bays. Have an early dinner in Fajardo before your kayak tour. There are several great options near the meeting location. Plus, there is a lovely pirate-themed playground here for kids to play on. In the park, you will also find bathrooms, street food, and access to the beach. Arriving early also means you will be more likely to find parking.

While there are multiple options, we chose Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours . They offer two tour times. We did the later tour, but the earlier tour is still dark enough to see the bioluminescent organisms. Upon arrival, the tour guides will explain the process of kayaking through an ocean bay, down a mangrove channel, and into a lagoon. You do not need prior kayaking experience, but it does help. Once you enter the lagoon, the guide also shares wonderful information about the bay and surrounding area. If you are lucky, you will also see the bioluminescent organisms! When we did the tour in early April, we only saw a few as we waved our hands in the water. The tour was still worth it, but we were bummed we didn’t get to see a lagoon filled with glow-in-the-dark organisms.

Some kids may be afraid to kayak at night. It is very dark along the mangrove channel and in the lagoon. Consider how your kids will react to this type of environment before booking. The typical family kayak set-up for this tour is one parent and one child per kayak. You will get wet (we recommend water shoes). Finally, the tour takes about 4-5 hours. 

Please note : this tour had a minimum age requirement of 6 years old.

For a 2-hour tour, Viator offers a Bioluminescence Kayak Tour or this Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo .

Or get your Bioluminescent Bay, Fajardo: Tours & Tickets from Getyourguide.com.

Where to Stay in San Juan with Kids

The first two (or three) nights of this best Puerto Rico itinerary for families are spent in San Juan. As such, you’ll want to know where to stay on this part of the island. Families who want cozy accommodations near Old San Juan will love the Caribe Hilton . This iconic hotel is located along the waterfront and features multi-bedroom suites for families, plus a private beach and pool!

For a family getaway just steps from the beach, book a stay at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino . Other great hotels in Puerto Rico for families are Fairmont El San Juan Hotel , Condado Vanderbilt Hotel , and El Conquistador Resort .  No matter which location you choose, you’ll be in close proximity to some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids!

For more Puerto Rico hotel suggestions, check out this list of the 9 Best Puerto Rico Resorts For Families!

5-Days in Western Puerto Rico for Families

Next in this best Puerto Rico itinerary for families, you will spend five days on the western side of Puerto Rico. Much quieter and more relaxing than San Juan, this part of the itinerary is filled with days lounging on the beach and swimming. It’s time to take a Puerto Rico road trip with kids! From San Juan, it will take about 2 or 2.5 hours to drive to your accommodations (depending on where you stay).

Day 3: Drive to the Western Side of the Island + Crash Boat Beach

Next on this itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids is arriving on the western side of the island. There are multiple great cities to select as your home base, which I’ve shared below. Once you are settled in your accommodations, it’s time to head to the beach!

When you are planning a trip to Puerto Rico with kids, beaches are a must! We visited several great beaches on the western side of the island. Crash Boat Beach was one of our favorites! It’s also the first one we recommend for this itinerary. Located in Aguadilla, families will love how kid-friendly this beach is. Not to mention, the free parking. After parking in the on-site lot, head down to the water. The waters to the left of the pier seem calmer than those to the right. Once you pick your spot on the beach, it’s time to swim. At Crash Boat Beach, kids will adore jumping in the waves, playing in the sand, and searching for crabs along the pier. 

Parents will also appreciate the variety of beachside vendors here. Vendors change from day to day. While we were there, we saw options for coco frio, pizza, pinchos, ice cream, tropical drinks, and more. Plus, there was a vendor renting beach umbrellas and loungers. We opted for a beach umbrella and were so glad we did. The sun is hot here! Finally, we also recommend that you bring cash for the vendors, but Venmo and PayPal are also widely accepted.

Reserve Adventurous One: San Juan, Crash Boat Beach, Cabo Rojo, and Bio Bay Boat Ride with Viator!

Day 4: Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge 

If you are embarking on a Puerto Rico road trip with kids, Cabo Rojo is a great place to spend the day. Not to mention, Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge is a must on any best Puerto Rico itinerary for families. Your first stop is the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. Located at the main entrance, families can learn a lot about the island’s ecosystems and endangered species here. It’s a great place to start your exploration of the area.

Afterward, drive to another entrance to see Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo . Located on the other side of the wildlife refuge, there is a lot to see here. On the drive over, you will have the chance to see the iconic pink salt flats. While they aren’t open to the public every day, they are certainly worth the stop when they are. Kids won’t believe the stunning rosy color!

Then, continue the drive to the Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo. The final bit of road to the lighthouse is filled with potholes, so be careful. We had a sedan, which was tough, but doable. At the end of the road, you will find a small parking lot. Then, take the path up to the lighthouse. You cannot go inside, but the grounds are really fun to explore. The cliffside views are simply beautiful (but be mindful of the high winds). Finally, make sure you pack your swimsuit. There are also a couple of nice beaches here! Based on our experience, we recommend Playa Sucia (which is just downhill from the lighthouse). While there are no amenities here, it’s perfect for jumping waves and strolling along the shore. Plus, there is a lot of shade here compared to other beaches. Pack water and snacks!

Day 5: Colón Beach + Survival Beach

On day 5 of your one week in Puerto Rico with kids, check out two more amazing beaches. First, head to Colón Beach, one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids. After spending the morning swimming and eating lunch, you will then go to Survival Beach.

Colón Beach

If you are planning a trip to Puerto Rico with small kids, Colón Beach is an absolute must! In fact, if you’re searching for something to do in Puerto Rico that will make your kids yell “WOW!”, this is it. Located in Aguadilla, parking is widely available on the street. Once you find a spot, head to the center of the park to the large treehouse.

Kids will absolutely adore this massive treehouse built into an old Banyan tree. Let them climb and run, as you rest at a nearby picnic table or bench. When they are done exploring the treehouse, there is also a simple playground with swings and a slide nearby. Not to mention, a huge green space. While kids are playing, you can also scope out the beachside vendors that surround the park for lunch. When we were here, we saw options for pinchos, ice cream, and other local favorites. Plus, there were a few stands with souvenirs too. You can either eat at one of the many picnic tables or on the beach.

Just across the street from the treehouse, you will find a long stretch of beach featuring soft, golden sands and calm waters. Here, kids of all ages can wade in the water and build sand castles, while parents relax in the sun or enjoy the water themselves. Certainly, this is one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico for families.

Survival Beach

After lunch, families with older kids and teens can add Survival Beach to their itinerary. Just 25 minutes north of Colón Beach (still in Aguadilla), Survival Beach is one of the best-hidden gems in Puerto Rico. This pristine stretch of beach is gorgeous, but even more, the hike to get there is incredible. Because you can only get here by hiking, this stop may not be the best for all families, particularly those with small children or new to hiking.

Park in the open area for cars at Surfers’ Beach . While not ideal for swimming with kids (too many currents), it is a lovely spot for watching surfers and enjoying the views. Then, find the sign pointing toward Survival Beach. Follow the trail through the woods, along the ocean shore, and over large rocks (some light climbing is needed). The hike took us about 30 minutes each way, but it was a bit challenging as we were going over roots and sharp rocks, under low-hanging trees, and climbing down large rocks. However, the reward of seeing Survival Beach is totally worth it! There are also tons of birds, lizards, crabs, and other tidal creatures along the way. Make sure you wear close-toed shoes, sandals won’t cut it here. Pack water and snacks in a backpack (not a cooler). 

Do not plan to swim on Survival Beach, either. The current is really strong and the waves are high. Families can enjoy Survival Beach for the private views and soft, golden sands. When we were here, there was only one other couple on the beach. Otherwise, we had it entirely to ourselves! Finally, mind the tide. High tide can impact your route and the ease of reaching Survival Beach. We went mid-day and it worked just fine.

Use Viator to book Beginner Surf Private Lesson in Rincon here!

Day 6: Cascada Gozalandia + Cueva del Viento

Next on this Puerto Rico travel itinerary with kids are two inland sites, Cascada Gozalandia and Cueva del Viento . Certainly, both sites always rank highly among the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids. Here, families will get a chance to explore a different part of the island and swim in freshwater. For day 6, pack swim shoes and life jackets, a flashlight (for the cave), snacks, and plenty of water.

Cascada Gozalandia

Located in San Sebastian , Cascada Gozalandia (or Gozalandia Waterfall) is likely to be one of your favorite things to do in Puerto Rico. It was for us! At the entrance, pay the staff member to park in the on-site lot (USD 10.00). Here, you will also see a restaurant, bathrooms, and a small pond (look for turtles!). 

Gozalandia Waterfall is really a series of cascades along a beautiful river. Take the flight of stairs down from the parking lot. When you come to a fork in the sidewalk, go left and take another set of stairs down to the larger of the two falls. Likely, you will spend most of your time here. If you go right at the fork, it’s about another 10 minutes by foot to the smaller of the two cascades.

At the larger of the falls, kids can swim or wade in the shallow area searching for fish. Older kids and teens may prefer to swim further out near the base of the waterfall. You will also notice brave adults and teens jumping from rock outcroppings in the waterfall. There is also a small underground cave (which fits about two people) that you can swim into if desired (the entrance is to the right of the falls). At the smaller of the two waterfalls, there is also a rope swing to launch into the water. Lastly, expect a lot of stairs. As such, we do not recommend relying on strollers here (babywearing is the best option).

Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Winds)

Afterward, drive about 18 minutes to Cueva del Viento . Located in Isabela, this cave is nestled in Bosque Estatal de Guajataca . You will find several hiking trails here, one of which goes to Cueva del Viento. Best for older kids and teens, the hike to the cave is fairly moderate. It is about 2.7 miles out and back. Expect a lot of roots and rocks, as well as a drop-off beside the trail (which may be tough for young kids and inexperienced hikers). Closed-toed shoes are a must here. After hiking to the cave, you will see a wooden staircase. You can take this to adventure into the cave. There are bats here, so be mindful not to disturb them. Kids will also love that you will see many snakes, lizards, butterflies, and frogs along this trail too. Finally, you will find on-site parking and bathrooms here.

Day 7: Explore Añasco Plaza + Head Home

On the last day of this Puerto Rico itinerary for families, it’s time to explore Añasco Plaza . This charming Puerto Rican plaza is the perfect place to end your 7-day Puerto Rico itinerary with kids. After strolling through the plaza, get some yummy treats from the local bakery, Hojaldre Añasqueña . You can take them back to the plaza and eat them on a bench near the fountain. Alternatively, you can also get coffee and breakfast from D’Coffee Shop , located in the plaza. This is a great place for kids to stretch their legs and burn some energy before going home. Once you are loaded up with breakfast, it’s time to head back to the airport to catch your flight!

Where to Stay in Western Puerto Rico with Kids

Now that you have filled your Puerto Rico family vacation itinerary, you will want to consider where to stay on the western side of Puerto Rico. While we chose a stunning Vrbo with a pool for our home base, there are many hotel options too. As you plan your trip to Puerto Rico with kids, we recommend looking at hotels in cities like Rincón , Añasco , or Cabo Rojo , for easy access to all the things to do on this itinerary. Many families love the Rincon Beach Resort in Anasco, a laid-back hotel set on the beach. It has a pool for kids, a swim-up bar for parents, and lots of activities the whole family can enjoy together! 

Tips for Eating in Puerto Rico with Kids

No Puerto Rico itinerary for families is complete without planning where to eat! Puerto Rico is foodie heaven for kids and adults alike. Unlike most international destinations, Puerto Rico even has kids’ menus at most restaurants across the island. Rice and beans, chicken nuggets, tostones, and pasta are common kids’ menu items in Puerto Rico.

When planning a trip to Puerto Rico, you will also want to know the typical foods on the island. Tasty options like plantains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and seafood, like shrimp, lobster, octopus, mahi-mahi, and other fish, are very common. When you’re on the beach, most beachside vendors will offer yummy foods like pastelillos (or empanadillas), pinchos (meat kabobs), and tropical fruit drinks/smoothies. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with scrumptious options like mofongo or churrasco (usually with a side of tostones). On the western side of Puerto Rico, you will notice a lot of roadside food vendors. We highly recommend stopping at these locations for lunch or dinner! We always found the food very well-made and fresh.  

Based on our visit, we also recommend eating at the following restaurants if they fit into your Puerto Rico itinerary with kids: Mahi Mahi Restaurante , Carne Mia , and Grand Marnier Restaurant . Finally, La Frutera has multiple locations (often roadside) and makes the perfect stop for lunch or a smoothie.

Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico with Kids

Now that you have read our Puerto Rico itinerary for families, you may be hoping for some extra tips as you plan one week in Puerto Rico with your kids. Here are some things to know before visiting Puerto Rico with kids.

General Tips for Taking a Vacation in Puerto Rico with Kids

• Puerto Rico is actually an archipelago, made up of several islands. Vieques and Culebra are two great options for families wanting to explore some of the smaller islands.
• Spanish is very prevalent on the island. It is helpful to learn a few phrases before visiting (greetings and ordering food, for example). The most common greeting is “Buena!”. 
• If you want to avoid the crowds, June to November is the off-peak travel season in Puerto Rico. But be aware that this is also hurricane season.
• The currency in Puerto Rico is the U.S. Dollar (USD).
• It is very common on the island not to flush toilet paper, follow signs requesting that you throw it away instead of flushing it.
• You may not have a phone signal everywhere, particularly in the central part of the island.
• Puerto Rico uses both the Imperial System of Measurement and the Metric System of Measurement. As such, you will see alternating systems.
• Not all beaches are good for swimming or young kids. Some have very strong currents or rip tides. Talk to locals and do your research before entering the water.
• To learn more about visiting Puerto Rick with kids, read our article featuring All About Puerto Rico With Kids: Important Information To Know .

Things to Pack for a Vacation in Puerto Rico With Kids

• You will not need any special adaptors or converters for electronics here.
• Pack multiple swimsuits for each person, they can take a while to dry due to the humidity.
• The sun here is HOT. Be sure to pack proper sunscreen and reapply multiple times throughout the day.
• Mosquito repellent is a must for those spending a lot of time hiking.
• Depending on when you visit, you can expect frequent afternoon rains (like many Caribbean islands). You may want to bring an umbrella or rain ponchos.

Interactive Map of Puerto Rico

Discover the best places to stay, restaurants, and local attractions in Puerto Rico with our interactive map. You can filter by what you’re looking for, so it’s quick and easy to select which area you want to explore.

Happy Travels !

We hope you found this Best 7-Day Puerto Rico Itinerary for Families helpful in planning your own travels. Whether you are planning a Puerto Rico road trip with kids or just want to know the best things to do in Puerto Rico for families, we have included great options to fill your own vacation to Puerto Rico with kids! When planning a trip to Puerto Rico with kids, it’s easy to get lost in the details. One thing is for sure, however, you will make a lifetime of memories together on this incredible island. Enjoy Puerto Rico with kids!

*Unless otherwise noted, all images within this article belong to and are courtesy of Antonia Grant .

Check out Puerto Rico Tours & Activities :

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Perfect Puerto Rico Road Trip Itinerary for 4-7 Days (with Map!)

• Post author By Melissa
• 1 Comment on The Perfect Puerto Rico Road Trip Itinerary for 4-7 Days (with Map!)

Puerto Rico is a diverse island filled with beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, colorful, colonial-style buildings, and impressive caves, mountains and rivers. To experience the best of this US territory in the Caribbean , you’ll want to rent a car and go on a Puerto Rico road trip. Don’t know where to start? We’re here to help with our ultimate Puerto Rico travel guide and itinerary! 

We’ve also included a Puerto Rico road trip map of all of our recommended stops and lodging recommendations to help you visualize and prepare for your vacation.

This Puerto Rico itinerary can easily be followed whether you have 4 days in Puerto Rico or plan to spend one week on a Puerto Rico road trip.

Our road trip experience in Puerto Rico

Traveling to Puerto Rico is like stepping into a foreign country even though you’re still in a US Territory.

The culture and signage will make you feel like you’re outside the United States. Street signs are in Spanish and the gas stations are in metric. Don’t worry, speed limits are listed in miles per hour. 

In other words, Puerto Rico is a mix of a lot of cultures all inside an island that is only 39 miles wide. 

The main roads are easy to drive on. Think of the fancy turnpike that you pay tolls on. The side roads are like a country road. Well paved but with no markings. Given the beauty of the islands and the tight turns on the road, you’re not likely to drive over 35mph.

Even though the island is not very large, because of the terrain, it can take time to drive around . But for us, it was a fun time filled with lots of unique stops.

Getting around Puerto Rico

Renting a car is the best way to get around Puerto Rico , especially if you plan to road trip in Puerto Rico. But there are a few things to know before your Puerto Rico vacation. Here are some tips that will make the experience easier and more fun for everyone.  

Use a reputable rental car company

Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean islands for families . It is a US territory, so not only do you not need a passport to enter if you are a US citizen, but you’ll find many of the major chains and reputable companies that are well-known in the United States.

However, you’ll find several smaller, unknown companies, as well. And our advice is to avoid them. When it comes to renting a car, it is best to stick with reputable car companies. This will help you avoid scams and unexpected fees. 

Be cautious, even when booking through reputable websites like Discover Cars . If the rental car company is an unknown name, be sure to check the online reviews and customer ratings before you book .

If you don’t you may end up with a sub-par, dirty car, hidden fees that double the cost when you arrive, or a long wait that eats into your vacation time. 

Puerto Rico road signs are in Spanish 

Although Puerto Rico is part of the United States, Spanish is the official language . Road signs are all written in Spanish. So, it’s a good idea to learn some Spanish before visiting the island.

It’s one of the best languages to learn for travel and will help you understand street signs and get around Puerto Rico easier. 

Mix of imperial and metric systems

While some things may feel different than in the states, others are very similar to what you would expect on any other USA road trip . For example, speed limits are listed in miles since Puerto Rico primarily uses the imperial system for measurement, like the rest of the USA.

However, gas stations in Puerto Rico use the metric system , so gasoline is measured in liters rather than gallons. 

Road conditions 

Roads and highways in Puerto Rico are generally well maintained.

Although during a Puerto Rico road trip, you might find yourself on some winding, two-lane mountainous roads that will require driving slower. But look at the bright side, that just gives you more time to enjoy the beautiful scenery! 

Puerto Rico since Hurricane Maria 

The island of Puerto Rico was devastated in 2017 by Hurricane Maria . Parts of Puerto Rico are still recovering years later.

During a road trip around Puerto Rico, you will certainly come across areas where the devastation is still evident. You’ll see plenty of homes that remain vacant and destroyed.

Lots of communities are still in the rebuilding process. But that is to be expected considering Hurricane Maria was the worst natural disaster the island had ever experienced . 

Weather in Puerto Rico

Unless you have a tropical storm overhead, scattered showers happen every day. But it’s rare to see any lightning. Weather in Puerto Rico is warm year-round .

Even in January, the coldest month in Puerto Rico, you’ll find the average high temperatures are around 83 degrees Fahrenheit, making the island territory one of the best warm winter destinations in the US .

If you do get caught in a downpour of rain, it is typically fairly brief. While it may be inconvenient the rain shouldn’t derail your plans for the entire day.

Puerto Rico road trip itinerary

Here is a suggested Puerto Rico road trip itinerary that takes you around the entire island. We recommend at least 6 days for a road trip around Puerto Rico’s main island. However, you could always spend more time in San Juan or Rincon if you have a week in Puerto Rico or more.

Or you could spend a day less in Arecibo if you only have 4 days in Puerto Rico.  

Day 1 – San Juan

Old San Juan

• Castillo San Felipe del Morro
• Castillo de San Cristóbal

Day 2 – Arecibo

Cueva del Indio

• Lunch in Arecibo 

Rio Camuy Cave Park 

Day 3 – Arecibo

• River Tubing at Tanama River Adventures

Cueva Ventana

Day 4 – Rincon / La Parguera

• Rincon beaches

La Parguera BioLuminescent Bay

Day 5 – El Yunque / Fajardo

• Fajardo beaches

Day 6 – San Juan

• Back to San Juan

Prefer guided experiences? Find the best excursions and guided tours in Puerto Rico here .

Things to do on a Puerto Rico road trip

Now that you have a general Puerto Rico itinerary to follow, here is a brief description of all the awesome things you’ll see and do on your island road trip.

Perhaps the most visited attraction in Puerto Rico, Old San Juan, or Viejo San Juan in Spanish, is the oldest district in the capital city . There are so many wonderful things to do in Old San Juan !

With colonial Spanish-style buildings that date back to the 16th century, and cobblestone streets, this charming, historical area of Puerto Rico is a must-visit.

Spend some time wandering the Instagrammable streets and take in all the colorful buildings and beautiful doors. 

Be sure to visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista .

Located in the center of the Old San Juan, the church is the oldest church on American soil and the second oldest church in the western hemisphere. The cathedral dates back to 1521. It houses the tomb of Juan Ponce de Leon , the Spanish explorer who led the first European expedition to the New World.  

You’ll also want to try some of the popular Caribbean fusion restaurants. Definitely order mofongo , a traditional Puerto Rican dish made from mashed fried plantains.

Barrachina Restaurant is a popular place to eat in Old San Juan. Not only do they serve mofongo and other Spanish and Puerto Rican cuisine, but the restaurant claims to have invented the world-famous pina colada .

Old San Juan reminded us so much of Old Town Cartagena, Colombia , another beautiful, colorful city that we fell in love with during our travels!

Castillo San Felipe del Morro / Castillo de San Cristóbal

On the edge of Old San Juan, you’ll find two old forts dating back to as early as the 1500s . These two impressive Puerto Rico landmarks are within walking distance from each other.

Your admission fee covers your entrance to both Castillo San Felipe del Morro , or El Morro for short, and Castillo de San Cristóbal . 

The fortresses, which tower over the sea, were designed to protect the island from attackers arriving by ship. In fact, they served as active military forts for centuries before they were retired in the 1960s.

The forts are now part of the National Park Service and serve as historical sites and museums.  

Where to stay in San Juan: Hotel El Convento  

Your next destination on your Puerto Rico road trip will be the Arecibo area. Approximately an hour and a half from San Juan, Arecibo is a great town to base yourself to explore some of the best caves and most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico .

If possible, plan to spend two days and at least one night in Arecibo to see the north central part of the country. 

Where to stay in Arecibo: Family home in the center of arecibo

Cueva del Indio is one of the most beautiful spots in Puerto Rico. Costing $10 USD a person to visit, this ocean-side cave is just a short hike from the parking lot.

Located about 10 minutes outside the town of Arecibo , the cave is surrounded by dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean.

The cave is an impressive look back in time as it contains petroglyphs that have somehow withstood the forces of nature and humans for centuries. In fact, Cueva del Indio is believed to have the largest number of petroglyphs on the entire island.

Getting into the cave is tricky and kind of confusing. You won’t find any signage pointing you toward the entrance.

Accessing the cave requires crawling through a narrow crevice that drops you down into the cave. Entering the cave can be done with kids, but it takes some work and a lot of caution.

I recommend watching this brief video before your visit, so you’ll know what you are in for. You’ll want to wear walking shoes rather than flip flops or sandals since you’ll be climbing and walking on sharp rocky surfaces that were likely once coral. 

In the area around the cave, you’ll find breathtaking views of natural arches and waves crashing on the cliffs. So, spend some extra time taking in the surrounding beauty.  

If you love exploring the world beneath the earth’s surface, Rio Camuy Cave Park is not to be missed! The third largest cave system in the world , Rio Camuy Cave is easily one of Puerto Rico’s top natural attractions. 

The main cavern is an impressive 10-stories high . The kid-friendly tour starts out with a trolley ride that takes you down the mountain to the cave’s entrance. The deeper you go into the cave along a well-defined walking path, you’ll find stalagmites, stalactites, and even bats sleeping overhead.

Camuy River runs through the cave. The highlight of the tour is a large sinkhole where sun rays often shine through into the cave.  

To visit Rio Camuy Cave Park , you’ll have to call or email in advance to make a reservation for your visit or book a guided tour that includes Rio Camuy. Tickets are limited and Rio Camuy Cave Park sells out. 

If you aren’t tired of cave tours by this point, Cueva Ventana is another great place to visit on a Puerto Rico road trip. 

This cave, located about 10 minutes south of Arecibo , recently reopened after being closed for several years. It is only accessible via a guided tour. The guided tour takes you on a short hike to Cueva Ventana, or Window Cave in English.

The hour and a half long guided experience is easy to do with kids.

Hiking shoes are a must. The tour company also requires all participants to wear hard hats that they provide. 

The view from inside the cave is one of the best in Puerto Rico.

Tanama River Adventures

Near the town of Utuado, south of Arecibo, Tanama River is a wonderful place to visit if you are looking for a family-friendly adventure.

Tanama River Adventures offers cave tubing and rappelling tours fit for people of most ages, including kids as young as 5 years old. There are 6 tours to choose from that vary in length and level of difficulty and adrenaline.

If visiting Puerto Rico with kids , the shorter, 3-hour cave tubing adventure includes a short 20-minute hike, swimming, and easy tubing through a rapid-free, underground river that runs through a large cave.

The tour company provides everything including a helmet, lifejacket, tube, and an experienced guide. It is a refreshing and fun way to experience the beauty of Puerto Rico on a road trip. 

After one or two days in the Arecibo area, head to the west coast of Puerto Rico to the laid-back surfer town of Rincon . Known for its beautiful beaches that are home to sea turtles , Rincon is a popular place for surfers and snorkelers.

You could easily spend 2-3 days in this relaxing seaside community, depending on how many days you have allotted for your Puerto Rico road trip.

Steps and Tres Palmas Reserve are the two most popular beaches particularly if you hope to see the Hawksbill Sea Turtle or the Leatherback Sea Turtle. Both of these endangered species of sea turtles have been known to nest on the sandy beaches near Rincon. 

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

One of the most unique things to do in Puerto Rico, the bioluminescent bay in La Parguera is the only one of its kind in the US territory where you can actually swim in the water to experience the bioluminescence up close. 

Located in southwest Puerto Rico, La Parguera is one of three places in the territory where you can see the glowing effects created by microorganisms in the water . The microorganisms emit a short burst of light when disturbed or agitated.

The glow isn’t visible during the daylight, so, to experience this natural phenomenon, you need to take a night tour , where you can kayak and swim after the sun sets. 

While the bioluminescent bay on the Puerto Rican island of Vieques is supposedly the brightest in the territory and the world, La Parguera will not disappoint! 

However, unless you are incredibly skilled at night photography and have a professional camera, this experience is one that will live in your memory, but not on your camera. It is very difficult to capture this phenomenon on camera and do it justice.

Even our GoPro photo above, which was taken at sunset, turned out grainy once we brightened it a bit. But trust us, the tour is well worth it.

It is one of the most unique experiences in Puerto Rico to see the water light up a greenish-blue color as you tread water and move your arms about.

We have experienced both the bioluminescent bay in La Parguera and the bioluminescence near Fajardo. We definitely recommend La Parguera, as it is much brighter, the water seems cleaner, and you can actually swim in the glowing water!

Where to stay near La Parguera: La Jamaca, Lajas

El Yunque National Forest

The only rainforest in the US National Forest system , El Yunque National Forest is 29,000 acres of breathtaking, biologically diverse tropical scenery. 

The rainforest is a wonderful place to explore, hike, and swim beneath waterfalls. 

La Mina Trail is the most popular and most heavily traveled trail in the national forest. However, it is currently closed and isn’t expected to reopen until late 2024 at the earliest. It has been undergoing repairs since Hurricane Maria destroyed the island. 

The trail, which follows La Mina River, is a great and easy trail to hike with kids.

The .7-mile trail does involve a challenging elevation change which makes the return trip a bit difficult, but the hike takes you down to a lovely waterfall that cascades 35 feet into a shallow pool where you can take a refreshing dip if you wear your bathing suit. 

If planning to hike this trail (once opened), go early to avoid the crowds. 

Juan Diego trail is an alternative waterfall trail that is rated as easy. It is a very short hike, so it is great if hiking with young kids.

If you prefer guided experiences, you can book a guided excursion that includes both hiking in El Yunque and natural waterslides. 

Fajardo 

Fajardo is a great place to stay if you want to island hop and visit the stunning beaches in Culebra or take the ferry or catamaran over to Vieques for a day trip . However, you likely need a few extra days if you want to experience the other islands in Puerto Rico. 

Even if you don’t plan to ferry over to Culebra or Vieques, Fajardo is a great place to spend a day. Home to great beaches, natural pools, and a bioluminescent lagoon , after hiking in El Yunque, Fajardo is a convenient place to stay on a Puerto Rico road trip.

Prior to Hurricane Maria, kayaking through a canopy of mangroves to the bioluminescent lagoon was a fun experience. However, according to numerous Trip Advisor reviews , the bioluminescent effect is barely visible now.

Numerous reviewers said the guide had to cover the group with a tarp in order to see the glowing water.

While we did not do a bioluminescent tour at Laguna Grande in Fajardo during our most recent trip because we opted for the one in La Parguera this time, current reviews do not reflect the same memorable experience we had pre-hurricane. 

Where to stay in Fajardo: El Conquistador Resort

What you won’t see on this Puerto Rico itinerary

The primary thing you won’t get to do if you follow our road trip Puerto Rico itinerary is to visit the other islands. Vieques and Culebra are both great for day trips and an overnight stay. But with limited time on our road trip, we opted to just limit our Puerto Rico road trip to the main island. 

However, you could easily ferry over to either place from Fajardo or take a short flight over to Vieques from San Juan. If you want to add a few days to your trip to experience these other islands, expect a laid-back vibe and lots of relaxation. It would be a perfect way to round out your Puerto Rico vacation!

Have a question or comment about a road trip in Puerto Rico? We’d love to hear from you. Leave your thoughts in the comments below. 

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Puerto Rico Top 10 Things to Do & Most Amazing Places Places to Visit – 2024 Guide

Puerto Rico Things to Do Guide ⎮ Top Ten Things to Do in Puerto Rico 2024

Puerto Rico… The Island of Enchantment… The Land of a Thousand Blessings …

We are fortunate to have all the beauty of Puerto Rico year-round; we’ve come up with a great list of things to do, places to visit, and vacation itinerary ideas to make your planning easier.  It is an honor to share the best of Puerto Rico and help you plan an unforgettable stay.   We travel around the island often to keep this guide updated, and we speak to travelers to put together an objective, useful, and inspiring guide.

Table of Contents

• Walk, Taste & Dance in Old San Juan
• Spend a Day at Flamenco Beach
• Explore the Enchanting Rainforest of El Yunque
• Escape to the Seclude Icacos Cay
• Swim or Go Kayaking on Bioluminescent Waters

Go Snorkeling in Puerto Rico

• Marvel at the Spectacular Camuy River Cave Park
• Visit Five Century Old Castles at San Juan National Historic Site
• Visit Casa Bacardi Distillery

Go Swimming with Sea Turtles

Top ten things to do & places to visit in puerto rico, spend a day or book an excursion to flamenco beach – the most beautiful beach in puerto rico & among the best in the world.

Simple Perfection…  As soon as arrive at Flamenco Beach, you’ll understand why it is one of the most glorified beaches in the world.

Flamenco Beach is located on the sleepy island of Culebra , located off the east coast of Puerto Rico .  If you plan to book one tour while in Puerto Rico, an excursion to Culebra should be one of the top three excursions; you’ll have bragging rights to visit one of the best beaches on the planet.  Check out our guide for traveling to the islands for the best options.

Visiting Tips & Best Places to Stay in Culebra

Best places to stay in culebra puerto rico.

Club Seabourne  ⎮  Aleli Cottages ⎮ Nakiti Cottages

Getting to Culebra Puerto Rico

The most convenient way to spend a day in Culebra is by booking a boat tour or private charter. Be sure to book ahead of time; it is among the top excursions in Puerto Rico. If you wish to spend more than a day in Culebra, taking a short flight is the most convenient way to get there. The most budget-friendly way of getting to Culebra is by taking the ferry from Ceiba.  For more detailed information of traveling to Culebra, please visit our travel to the islands guide .

Top Experiences to Culebra Puerto Rico

More tours to Culebra

Walk the Streets, See the Sights, Taste the Flavors & Dance to the Rhythms of Old San Juan

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Old San Juan is the best place to start your vacation, the cultural epicenter of Puerto Rico, an open living museum that houses over 500 historic buildings.   As you walk around Old San Juan you can tour five-century-old castles, churches, relaxed squares, restored buildings turned into interesting shops, excellent restaurants, and casual cafes.  Old San Juan is constantly changing, offering something new and interesting to repeat visitors.  See Old San Juan top landmarks and things to do .

Places to Visit in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Suggested Places to Visit in Old San Juan:  

• Visit San Juan National Historic Site  
• Walk down Paseo de La Princesa
• Casa Blanca Museum
• Cathedral San Juan Bautista
• Iglesia San Jose
• The Scenic Plazuela La Rogativa
• Walk down Calle de Cristo
• Walk down Calle Fortaleza

Old San Juan Tours Loved by Visitors

Explore the enchanting rainforest of el yunque.

Luquillo / Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

El Yunque National Rainforest , one of the world’s natural wonders, is within your reach.  El Yunque National Rainforest is one of the reasons this island is called The Island of Enchantment. The forest captivates and transports visitors to more ancient times, and it is free of development, cement structures, and stressors of everyday life.  Cool, clean crisp air, sights of lush green canopies of giant ferns and ancient trees, and bursts of colors from flower petals adorning the rainforest… the sounds of birds, coquis singing, and splashing of waterfalls in the distance, the feel of cool fresh water from waterfalls that Taino Natives considered sacred.  This is El Yunque, a place to get lost in unadulterated beauty and renew your body and mind.  From easy hikes to more challenging and adventurous excursions, there’s something for everyone in El Yunque. While you can explore on your own, enthusiastic and professional tour guides are happy to show you the enchanting rainforest and other fun at the foothills of the rainforest for the more adventurous.  You may also explore independently if you have more time to plan your visit. The visitor’s center will help you with a map and other information.

Visiting Tips & Itinerary Suggestions

Booking tours to el yunque.

Not all tours say “rainforest” means the official El Yunque National Rainforest. We created a comprehensive guide to El Yunque tours to clarify this issue, and help you avoid disappointments.

Best Places to Stay Near El Yunque Rainforest

St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort ⎮ Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Resort ⎮  Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham

Itinerary Suggestion when visiting El Yunque

A wonderful day trip is going to El Yunque and later going to Luquillo Beach , the most popular beach on the east coast .  In Luquillo, you can eat traditional fritters and great drinks at the beach kiosk or nearby famous Luquillo Kiosks.

Getting to El Yunque

The rainforest is in the town of Rio Grande, in the East region of Puerto Rico .   It is 45 minutes away from San Juan .  You no longer need to make a reservation to enter the park if you drive there.  Please visit the full El Yunque guide for more information and useful visiting tips.

Top Rated Tours to (Official) El Yunque National Rainforest

  escape to the idyllic icacos cay.

Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Cayo Icacos (Icacos Cay) , part of Cordillera Reef Reserve is among the most popular offshore excursions in Puerto Rico, satisfying that wanderlust for that secluded island tropical experience.  Lay on the sand without the need of dreaming, because you’re already there… on a cay surrounded by nothing else but the Caribbean Sea.  Enjoy the warmth of the sun, jump in crystal clear turquoise waters… float, swim, and snorkel… experience the enchantment of Puerto Rico.  The experience begins as soon as you begin to sail away from the shores of the main island, as you admire the coastline and the lighthouse at the top of Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve from the best viewpoint.

Choose from various wonderful experiences to visit Icacos from luxurious private sailing charters, fun catamaran trips, or small group boat tours.  Tours leave from Fajardo, and various tours offer to pick up in hotels and resorts in San Juan / Isla Verde and east coast resort communities.

Top Rated Tours to Icacos Cay

Swim or go kayaking on bioluminescent waters… under starry skies.

This world-wonder has been included by many travel experts as one of the “things to do before you die”, and one of the most romantic experiences in nature.  You may have seen bioluminescence in scenes of movies such as Avatar and Nim’s Island… it does look like magic on the water .   You can experience bioluminescence by kayak, boat, and in one location you can jump in and swim in the glowing waters.

• Laguna Grande , located in the town of Fajardo, is the most convenient option for visitors staying in the San Juan , Isla Verde , and east region of the island . 
• Mosquito Bay is located in Vieques and is the brightest in the world, but you must stay overnight on the island.   
• On the west coast of the island , there is a bioluminescent bay in La Parguera , the only one allowing swimming; it is also the one with the least crowds.

We published the first extensive guide on the bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico .  Please read  our guide before you book a tour so you can plan the best experience and avoid disappointments.

Top Rated Tours to Laguna Grande from San Juan

With hundreds of beaches of course Puerto Rico has great snorkeling…  If you have a longer vacation you can rent a car and bring your own snorkel gear to visit the best snorkeling spots.  If you only have a few days in Puerto Rico, we encourage you to allow one of the passionate tour guides in Puerto Rico to take you on a wonderful snorkeling excursion.  We are happy to make your planning easier, we were the first to create an in-depth guide to all the best snorkeling beaches in Puerto Rico, complete with top-rated snorkeling charters .

Top Rated Snorkeling Experiences in Puerto Rico

Marvel at the spectacular camuy river cave park / parque las cavernas del rio camuy .

Camuy, Puerto Rico

Camuy River Cave Park is the most impressive natural wonder in the northern region of Puerto Rico.  This cave is very family-friendly and does not require hiking.  It is one of the world’s largest cave networks.   Take a peak at what awaits at Camuy River Cave Park … we promise you it has a wow factor not possible to capture in photos.

Top Rated Camuy River Cave Park Tours

Explore five century castles at san juan national historic site.

While in San Juan , you can’t miss the San Juan National Historic Site , which includes two of the most spectacular landmarks in Puerto Rico, the forts of Castillo San Cristóbal & Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

• Castillo San Felipe del Morro (known as El Morro) is one of the most beloved landmarks on the island rich in history, where many cultural events are held.  Most Puerto Ricans have fond memories of flying a kite on the lawn, a must-do while here.
• Castillo San Cristobal is the largest of the two, a lot of fun for kids as they tour the tunnels, the views are spectacular.  If you wish to tour both forts, you can follow our Calle Norzagaray Walking Tour .

Time Needed to Visit Both Forts:  At a relaxed pace, you can tour both forts and walk along Calle Norzagaray in a full morning/afternoon.  You’ll need about 1.5 hours at each fort.

Visit Casa Bacardi – The Largest Premium Rum Distillery in the World

Cataño, Puerto Rico

Casa Bacardi is the largest premium rum distillery in the world.  We recommend a Rum Tasting Tour , after the experience, you’ll be sipping on rum neat, some of Bacardi’s finest rums are too delicious to mix.  A general tour includes the history of Casa Bacardi, the distillery process, and a welcome cocktail.  Casa Bacardi also offers a fun Mixology Tour .  For something really special to take home, only at Casa Bacardi Gift Shop , you can purchase Bacardi Casa Special Reserve, which you’ll be personally pouring into a bottle straight from the barrel.

Top Rated Bacardi Distillery Tours

Being on a beach is a great experience, but putting your head down where noise is canceled and your senses are introduced to a new world where sea turtles gracefully glide in tempered waters… are among the experiences that make Caribbean life so enviable.  You may think that you have to go to a secluded, out-of-the-way beach in order to swim with sea turtles, but you’ll be happy to know that there are a handful of beaches where you have a pretty good chance of seeing them.

• Balneario El Escambron in San Juan – Yes!  Right in the city you can swim with sea turtles.  The beach is located a short drive from Condado and Old San Juan .

Top Rated Snorkeling with Sea Turtles Experiences in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico ⎮ Top Ten Things to Do in Puerto Rico 2024

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