Puerto Rico, the captivating island in the Caribbean, lures visitors with its irresistible combination of delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife and arts scene, and modern venues that are second to none.
With over 300 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico boasts an array of beaches to suit every taste, from striking black sand to pristine crystalline waters. The year-round warm weather provides the perfect setting for a plethora of outdoor activities, such as ziplining, hiking, canyoning, and surfing, just to name a few.
Measuring a mere 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, this compact island can be easily explored in a day's drive, with your own set of wheels. Prepare to be mesmerised by the wonders that this country has to offer.
Here are some must-visit destinations on the enchanting island of Puerto Rico.
No. 10 - Fajardo
Nestled amidst a cluster of islands and cays, natural reserves, and stunning beaches, Fajardo is a captivating destination for both land and sea exploration. The town derives its name from Santiago de Fajardo, a Spanish conquistador who discovered a river abundant in gold in this very place.
With half a dozen marinas, including the renowned Puerto del Rey, the largest marina in the Caribbean, Fajardo is a hub for sailing, parasailing, and catamaran chartering, offering endless opportunities for water-based adventures. One of Fajardo's prized natural wonders is the Laguna Grande bioluminescent bay, one of only five in the world. Paddle through the mystical waters on a kayak and marvel at the breathtaking display of bioluminescence while exploring the diverse marine life that calls this bay home.
For nature enthusiasts, Fajardo also boasts the Cabezas de San Juan nature reserve, where a plethora of outdoor adventures awaits. From hiking scenic trails to discovering pristine beaches, this reserve offers a haven for nature lovers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.
No. 9 - Guánica Biosphere
The Guánica Biosphere Reserve, spanning over 10,000 acres, is a true natural gem of Puerto Rico. Located in two pristine sections to the east and west of Guánica, this expansive desert forest is a prime example of subtropical dry-forest vegetation and is home to extraordinary flora and fauna.
In the larger, more accessible eastern portion of the reserve, a network of trails allows for immersive experiences in this unique ecosystem. Mountain biking, birdwatching, and hiking are popular activities that provide opportunities to explore and appreciate the natural wonders of Guánica Biosphere Reserve.
With over 700 varieties of plants, many of which are endangered, the reserve is a botanical paradise. Unusual species, such as the squat melon cactus with its vibrant pink flowers that attract hummingbirds, and the Spanish dildo cactus, which grows into treelike shapes near the coast and serves as a habitat for bullfinches and bats, add to the reserve's biodiversity.
With nine of Puerto Rico's 14 endemic bird species found here, such as the Puerto Rican woodpecker and the Puerto Rican emerald hummingbird, the Guánica Biosphere Reserve is a birdwatcher's paradise. The elusive and rare ‘prehistoric’ Puerto Rican nightjar, estimated to have as few as 1500 individuals, is a coveted sighting for avid birdwatchers.
No. 8 - Isla Verde
Isla Verde, the enchanting resort strip of San Juan, is renowned for its stunning beaches. However, beyond the pristine shores, Isla Verde, which translates to "Green Island," offers a variety of natural beauty to explore, as well as a vibrant dining scene, lively casinos, and buzzing nightclubs that line the bustling seafront promenade.
One of the top attractions in Isla Verde is Playa Isla Verde, a crescent-shaped sandy beach fringed by swaying palm trees. Here, you'll find countless sun-kissed bodies lounging or playing volleyball, earning its reputation as the Copacabana of Puerto Rico. For those seeking a more serene experience, a short trip west to Ocean Park might be the preference, but this broad, mile-long stretch of sand nestled between Punta Las Marías and Piñones, offers unquestionable beauty, especially during sunset. Adventurous visitors can indulge in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing, flyboarding, and banana boating, or opt for parasailing while beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
The allure of Isla Verde's beaches and natural splendour is undeniable. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, indulge in water sports, or simply take in the breathtaking sunsets, Isla Verde offers a vibrant and dynamic coastal escape that promises an unforgettable experience.
No. 7 - La Parguera
Nestled within the La Parguera Nature Reserve, a biologically diverse ecosystem, lies a charming seaside fishing village that offers a haven for nature lovers. With extensive coral reefs, mangrove forests, and abundant wildlife, this destination is a paradise for eco-tourism enthusiasts, offering opportunities for scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, biking, and bird watching.
In La Parguera, you won't find fancy hotels or resorts, but instead, intimate inns or even boats converted into Airbnb accommodations that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the coastal simplicity of the town. With over 30 cays and islets to explore, each day in La Parguera promises a unique experience. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of La Pared (The Wall) for a thrilling scuba diving adventure, paddle through the mangroves on a kayak, marvel at the mesmerising bioluminescent bay, or take a leisurely stroll along the malecón (boardwalk) for a delightful dinner and drinks.
Whether you seek outdoor adventures, tranquil moments in nature, or a taste of the local coastal culture, La Parguera offers a one-of-a-kind getaway that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories.
No. 6 - Cabo Rojo
Situated in the far southwest corner of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo boasts an impressive 28 miles of coastline, making it the municipality with the longest stretch of shoreline on the island. Here, you'll be treated to breathtaking seascapes dominated by towering limestone cliffs, pristine nature reserves, and a culinary scene that includes creative seafood restaurants like DownTown Boqueron by Jose Carles.
While popular beaches like Buyé, Boqueron, and Combate can get crowded on weekends and holidays, those seeking a more secluded experience can head to Playuela beach, affectionately known by locals as Playa Sucia or "Dirty Beach" in English, a name that deters visitors from spoiling its natural beauty.
En route to Playuela, be sure to stop off at the red-hued Salt Flats that give the town its name, as well as the historic Los Morrillos Lighthouse, which is listed as one of the 27 sites included in the National Register of Historic Places. With its stunning coastline, picturesque lighthouse, and unique natural features, Cabo Rojo is a destination that promises to captivate your senses and offer an unforgettable experience.
No. 5 - Rincón
Nestled in the secluded western corner of the island, you'll find the laid-back surf town of Rincón. True to its name, which means "corner" in Spanish, Rincón is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban San Juan. Surfing takes centre stage here, with an array of surf spots to choose from, including Domes, Marias, and Tres Palmas, among others, where you can ride the waves to your heart's content.
But Rincón offers more than just surf. Take a leisurely horseback ride along the pristine beaches, explore the horseshoe reef for snorkelling adventures at Steps Beach, or try your hand at paddle-boarding at the picturesque Balneario, a public beach perfect for water sports. For those who appreciate local arts and crafts, the Thursday Art Walk and Sunday Farmers Market at the town square are must-visit destinations, where you can shop for unique finds and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rincón. From surfing to horseback riding, snorkelling to shopping, Rincón has something to offer for every type of traveller seeking a slower pace of life and a taste of the island's natural beauty.
No. 4 - Vieques
Just a short six-mile ferry ride off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico lies the quaint island municipality of Vieques, boasting the world's brightest bioluminescent bay, pristine wildlife refuge, and world-class beaches such as Chiva, Media Luna, and Caracas. Whether you choose to travel by ferry from Ceiba or catch a flight from San Juan, you'll find yourself in a tropical paradise where the pace of life slows down, and stretches of sandy shores await you in solitude.
Indulge in a truly tranquil and rejuvenating retreat at Finca Victoria, where you can experience modern-day tree houses or cosy tiny homes with outdoor showers, surrounded by lush nature. Unwind with soothing massages, practise daily yoga, and savour delectable vegan meals to nourish your body and soul.
For a taste of local culinary delights, be sure to sample the Caribbean spiny lobster, a specialty of the island, at La Esperanza. With its beachfront location, Bili or El Quenepo offer exquisite dining experiences where you can enjoy the freshest catch of the day while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Vieques is truly a destination where you can unwind, indulge in nature's beauty, and savour the simple pleasures of life.
No. 3 - Santurce
Santurce, the largest and most populous neighbourhood in San Juan, has blossomed into one of the Caribbean's premier art districts. Bursting with colour and vitality, especially along Calle Cerra where awe-inspiring murals adorn most buildings, Santurce offers a captivating experience for art enthusiasts. You can take in the vibrant street art at your own pace or join a curated street art tour with Art Walk PR for a deeper exploration.
In addition to its thriving street art scene, Santurce has also become a hub for trendy art galleries, cosy coffee shops, vibrant bars, and innovative restaurants. Savour a cup of coffee at Café Comunión or indulge in a delectable meal at Vianda, a semifinalist for Best New Restaurant by the prestigious James Beard Foundation.
When it comes to nightlife, Santurce offers an abundance of options for a memorable evening out. Join the locals and fellow travellers at popular spots like La Esquina Watusi or La Placita, where the streets come alive with impromptu open-air block parties and dancing under the stars with a refreshing drink in hand. The energetic and dynamic nightlife scene of Santurce is a major attraction for those looking for a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
No. 2 - El Yunque National Park
Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure through the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, El Yunque, spanning 29,000 acres of verdant mountainous terrain in the northeastern part of the island.
Discover the wonders of El Yunque on one of its many picturesque trails, totaling 25 miles in length. For a leisurely day hike, follow the Angelito Trail to Las Damas pool, where you can revel in a refreshing dip in the clear, cool waters and even enjoy a playful swing on a rope. This inviting swimming hole is a popular spot for families seeking a serene oasis.
For a more challenging excursion, tackle the 2.6-mile El Yunque Trail, which leads to the highest points in the forest. As you ascend through lush sierra palms and the unique Cloud Forest, characterised by near-constant rainfall, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rainforest below from the trailhead.
After a day of hiking, treat yourself to some fun at Las Pailas, located on private property at the edge of the park. Though not part of the official park, Las Pailas is a worthwhile detour, where river waters from the rainforest have transformed rocks into natural playgrounds and smoothed them into thrilling water slides, complete with refreshing pools to cool off in. It's a perfect way to cap off an exhilarating day in El Yunque.
No. 1 - Old San Juan
With its rich cultural heritage and deep historical roots, Old San Juan serves as a captivating gateway to Puerto Rican culture. Having been founded two centuries before the arrival of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower, this old city stands as one of the best-preserved in the Americas, with its enchanting blue cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and breathtaking ocean vistas at every turn.
Exploring Old San Juan on foot is a treat for the senses. You can leisurely stroll through its serene plazas, visit its historic churches, or browse through its charming artisanal shops. Immerse yourself in history by touring the imposing fortresses of El Morro or San Cristobal, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and feel like you've stepped onto the set of Pirates of the Caribbean. And when you're in need of a moment of tranquillity away from the crowds, indulge in a refreshing piragua, a beloved Puerto Rican snow cone, and unwind in the serene gardens of Museo Casa Blanca, the city's oldest residence constructed in 1521.
Thanks for reading! We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best places to visit in Puerto Rico. We'd love to hear your feedback in the comments and do let us know your favourite places to visit in Puerto Rico.
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