Puerto Rico officially the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island and unincorporated territory of the United States.
The island has an area of 5,325 square miles and a population of over 3 million people.
Puerto Rico is composed of an archipelago that includes the main island of Puerto Rico and several smaller islands, such as Mona, Culebra island, and Vieques island.
The capital and largest city in Puerto Rico is San Juan.
Rich history and culture, exceptional food, picturesque beaches, majestic mountains, water sports, golf courses, relaxation and adventure, are all packed into Puerto Rico.
Things To Do In Puerto Rico
1. Old San Juan
San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico and one of the oldest cities in the Americas.
It is located on the island’s north-eastern coast, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
Old San Juan was founded in 1508 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Old San Juan city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and many historical sites open for visitors.
The Castillo de San Cristobal was built from 1634 until 1765 and has been standing guard at the eastern gate of Old San Juan.
It was built to protect San Juan against land-based attacks.
The Castillo de San Cristobal is a must see spot in Old San Juan, although it is a very steep climb to the ramparts of the fort, but worth the effort.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also known as El Morro, is a citadel built between 16th and 18th centuries.
The El Morro Fort served as an active U.S. military base during the two World Wars.
El Morro is Puerto Rico’s most picturesque military structure and tours are available. This is a really good site for history buffs.
The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista is Puerto Rico’s grandest religious building, and one of its most important.
When visiting the cathedral, don’t miss the following highlights, The tomb of Ponce de León, The mummy of St. Pio and the stained glass windows.
There is also a lively nightlife scene in San Juan, with many bars and restaurants located in the Old San Juan historic center.
Old San Juan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Puerto Rico.
Address: Old San Juan, 100 CalleNorzagaray, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
2. El Yunque National Rainforest
A visit to the El Yunque National forest is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico for nature lovers.
The El Yunque National Rainforest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system.
It is located in the north-eastern part of Puerto Rico and covers 28,000 acres of land.
The El Yunque tropical rainforest is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including the endangered Puerto Rican parrot.
El Yunque rainforest has a very diverse ecosystem, hosting hundreds of unique plant and animal species, including Puerto Rico’s famous coquí frog.
There are several hiking trails that wind through the forest, offering stunning views of waterfalls and mountains.
El Yunque National Rainforest is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors such as camping, picnicking, and bird watching.
We recommend booking Puerto Rico tours that take you into the El Yunque National forest with experienced tour guides.
Address: El Yunque National Forest, Luquillo 00773, Puerto Rico
3. Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Puerto Rico.
Located on an isolated point off the beaten path, with white lime cliffs surrounded by lagoons and marshes, Cabo Rojo’s lighthouse was built in 1882.
It marks the southeast entrance from the Caribbean Sea through the Mona Passage into the Atlantic Ocean.
The lighthouse has been a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique perspective on Puerto Rico’s natural beauty.
The lighthouse stands at a height of 65 feet and features a distinctive red-and-white colour scheme.
Visitors can also learn about the history of the lighthouse and access the lighthouse’s observation deck to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Caribbean Sea.
The lighthouse is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as the nearby cliffs are home to a variety of bird species.
Address: Cabo Rojo, 00623, Puerto Rico
4. Cayo Icacos Island
Cayo Icacos island is a small island located in Puerto Rico. It is about 3.5 miles long and 2 miles wide.
The island is part of the municipality of Fajardo, which is located on the main island of Puerto Rico.
Icacos island is a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and kayaking.
The island has a population of about 500 people. Most of the residents are fishermen or work in tourism. There are several small restaurants and hotels on the island.
Cayo Icacos is accessible by boat from the town of Fajardo and there are several boat companies that offer tours to the island.
Visitors can also take a ferry from Fajardo to the nearby Vieques island or Culebra island.
5. Playa El Combate
Playa El Combate is a secluded beach located in the town of Rincón on the north-western coast of Puerto Rico.
This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors can find a number of small, private coves to relax in, or take a swim.
There are also a few restaurants, coffee shops and bars located nearby, making it just what you need to spend a day in the sun.
Due to its remote location, Playa El Combate is often considered one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing.
The water is typically calm and clear, with a moderate surf and little to no waves.
Its sparkling waters and large-scale coral reefs make this beach a paradise for scuba divers with an abundance of colorful aquatic life.
There are plenty of beach umbrellas and chairs available for rent, as well as a few cabanas.
If you’re looking to explore the area beyond the beach, there are a number of hiking trails located nearby.
6. Coamo Thermal Hot Springs
One of the most popular tourist attractions when visiting Puerto Rico is a trip to the hot springs.
The Coamo Thermal Springs are located in the Puerto Rican town of Coamo, approximately 30 minutes from the capital city of San Juan.
The springs were discovered in 1515 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and have been a popular tourist destination ever since.
The springs are heated by volcanic activity beneath the earth’s surface and provide natural hot water for bathing.
The Coamo Thermal Springs are open to the public year-round and offer a variety of amenities for visitors including locker rooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and snacks at the onsite gift shop.
Address: Carretera 149, Coamo 00769, Puerto Rico
7. Flamenco Beach
Flamenco Beach is located on Culebra island, which is about 20 miles east of the main island of Puerto Rico.
Flamenco Beach gets its name from the Spanish word for flame, which is fitting given its stunning red cliffs and white sand beaches.
Flamenco Beach is renowned for its clear turquoise waters which make it a great spot for swimming, snorkelling and water sports.
There is an abundance of sea life and colorful fish, making it an ideal place for scuba divers.
There are also plenty of beach amenities such as restaurants, food trucks, bars, shops and showers.
Despite being a small island, Culebra is home to a number of different ecosystems and natural wonders which include mangroves, coral reefs and dry forest.
The island is also a popular spot for bird watching with over 170 species of birds having been recorded.
Address: Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico
8. Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay
Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, located in Vieques, Puerto Rico, is world-renowned for its sparkling waters which are lit up by microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates.
These tiny creatures emit light when disturbed, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of the bay.
The best time to visit Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay is during the new moon, when the water is at its darkest and the light show is at its brightest.
During this time, you can kayak or swim through the glowing waters and see the dinoflagellates light up all around you. It’s truly a magical experience!
Address: Vieques 00765, Puerto Rico
9. Seven Seas Beach
Seven Seas Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico. It is located in the municipality of Culebra, on the island’s eastern coast.
The beach gets its name from the seven cays (small islands) that are found offshore.
Seven Seas Beach is known for its clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and marine life.
Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and windsurfing.
There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two.
Address: Seven Seas Beach, Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico
10. Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve
The Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve is located on the northeast side of Puerto Rico, just northeast of Fajardo.
Comprised of remote keys and cays (low-elevation sandy islands usually located alongside coral reefs), Cordillera teems with wildlife.
It includes a string of about ten islands with sandy beaches and beautiful bright blue waters.
Boating to and around the cays is one of the fun things to do in the area, and there are plenty of rentals to choose from.
11. Laguna Grande
Laguna Grande is a freshwater lagoon located in the town of Fajardo, on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico.
The lagoon is fed by several rivers and is surrounded by mangrove forests.
Laguna Grande is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Visitors can also go bird watching or take a hike through the nearby rainforest.
Laguna Grande is open to the public year-round and offers locker rooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Address: Carretera 3187, Fajardo 00738, Puerto Rico
12. Isla de Caja de Muertos
Caja de Muertos Island also known as Coffin Island is a small island located on the south central coast of Puerto Rico.
Caja de Muertos is a secluded and uninhabited nature reserve with one of the most pristine settings you’ll find.
The island is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including iguanas, lizards, and birds.
You will also find mangroves, coral reefs, sandy beaches, a rocky coast, xerophytic forest, caves and nesting areas for sea turtles and seabirds.
Isla de Caja de Muertos is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
Visitors can also go hiking or take a boat ride around the island.
Address: Isla de Caja de Muertos, Puerto Rico 00771
13. Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is one of the most popular beaches to see when you visit Puerto Rico.
This Beach is one of the favorite surfing beaches in Puerto Rico and is located in the town of Rincon, on the west coast of Puerto Rico.
Sandy beach gets its name from the fine white sand that covers its shores and is known for its clear turquoise waters and stunning views.
Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and windsurfing.
The beach is within walking distance of excellent bars and restaurants, vacation rentals and hotels.
Address: Culebra 00775, Puerto Rico
14. Crash Boat Beach
Crash Boat beach is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico’s west coast.
The beach is a world-famous scuba diving destination and the clear, calm waters, rich with marine life, make it a popular spot for both beginner and experienced divers.
In addition to scuba diving, Crash Boat Beach is also known for its beautiful water, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing.
There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two.
If you love photography, Crash boat beach is a great spot at sunset.
Address: Aguadilla 00605, Puerto Rico
15. Aventura Cueva Ventana
Aventura Cueva Ventana, or “Adventure Cave Window,” is one of Puerto Rico’s top tourist attractions. The cave is located in Arecibo, on the north coast of the island.
The cave features a large hole in the roof, which offers visitors stunning views of the Puerto Rican countryside and surrounding jungle.
There are also several smaller caves nearby, which can be explored with a guide.
Aventura Cueva Ventana is a great place to visit for those who love adventure and nature.
The cave is also popular with birdwatchers, as there are many birds that can be seen in the area.
Address: Arecibo 00612, Puerto Rico
16. Toro Verde Adventure Park
The Toro Verde Adventure Park is located in the town of Orocovis, about an hour from San Juan.
Toro Verde is an ecological adventure park with unforgettable ziplining experiences.
Whether you’re a zip line novice or seasoned rider, Toro Verde’s options are sure to thrill.
The Park offers a variety of activities and tours and is recognized by the longest zipline of the America’s, the Monster.
This 2.5 km cable reaches a flight speed of up to 152.8 km/h.
It is also the home of The Beast and other ziplines, there are also three suspension bridges.
There is an onsite restaurant where you will find local fresh food and a coffee shop.
Address: Toro Verde Adventure Park, State Rte 155, Orocovis, 00720, Puerto Rico
FAQ
Is Puerto Rico warm all year round?
Puerto Rico enjoys warm, sunny and humid days most of the year.
There is no winter, spring or fall, only summertime.
The winds move from the east to west across the island year-round.
What food is Puerto Rico famous for?
The vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture comes alive in its dishes, a celebration of flavours that visitors have the opportunity to indulge in.
Some of the Puerto Ricans favourites are mofongo, tostones, pasteles, arroz con gandules, tembleque, and coquito.
Why is Hurricane Maria Puerto Rico so famous?
Hurricane Maria was a deadly Category 5 hurricane that devastated the north-eastern Caribbean in September 2017, particularly Dominica, Saint Croix, and Puerto Rico.
It is regarded as the worst natural disaster in recorded history to affect those islands.
How many days do you need in Puerto Rico?
In general, travellers visiting Puerto Rico need from 7 to 10 days to cover the main attractions of the island during their trip.
But longer times like two weeks is better to cover the coast, the central area of Puerto Rico, the surrounding islands, and cays.
