Discover the top things to do in Puerto Rico! From exploring El Yunque National Forest to savoring traditional cuisine, embark on a memorable journey in this enchanting Caribbean destination. Puerto Rico, a Caribbean gem, beckons travelers with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico
From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, this island territory offers an array of activities to suit every taste. Let's dive into the top experiences awaiting visitors in Puerto Rico. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Trek through verdant trails, encounter cascading waterfalls, and marvel at exotic flora and fauna.
1. Visit the Bioluminescent Bay
Bioluminescent bays are shallow bays that contain high concentrations of bioluminescent plankton called "dinoflagellates".
When you move these dinoflagellates at night, they emit light, known as bioluminescence.
Witness millions of bright lights while kayaking through Puerto Rico's Bio Bay. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Swim with bioluminescence at La Parguera, located in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico.
2. Stay at an eco-resort in the mountains
Hacienda Negron, located in Ciales, is a special place to visit in the heart of the mountains.
It has everything you'd find in a high-end resort, and a river just steps down.
You can choose between staying in their apartments or immersing yourself in nature with a spacious camping area. You can't miss their impressive swim-up bar, where you can relax with a nice pina colada without leaving the pool.
Find more unique places to stay by reading our article The 50 Best Vacation Rentals in Puerto Rico.
3. Camp on the beach
Balniario Cerro Gordo in Vega Alta offers a camping site just a few steps from the sea. You are equipped with running water, electricity and bathroom to make your stay pleasant.
Beach camping is perfect for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Discover more things to do outdoors in our article 15 Best Outdoor Activities in Puerto Rico
4. See islands within islands
You will be surprised when you realize that Puerto Rico has small islands you can visit too.
Isla Cardona, Mona Island, Palominito Island and many more islands are great places to spend the day with family or friends in these sparkling blue waters.
Since this is an all-day activity, pack your favorite lunch and drinks as ferries and boats only operate on morning and evening schedules, meaning they only take you to the island and take you back in the evening. Return to port.
5. Culebra Island
This beautiful gem of a tropical island paradise is located just 20 miles off the coast of Fajardo.
This island has one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico. Spend your much-needed beach time, disconnect yourself from reality and experience the peace and tranquility that this island has to offer.
You can get to Culebra by ferry from Ceiba with tickets ranging from $3-$5 per person with a destination time of 40 minutes.
For a faster way to get there, you can also take a small plane departing from SJU Airport or Isla Grande, where tickets cost $60-$90 per person for a quick 15-20-minute trip.
6. Vieques Island
Its neighboring island, Culebra, is home to the world's most famous bioluminescent bay.
Located six miles off the coast of Fajardo, Vieques offers unique beauty, breathtaking views and a relaxing experience that you will enjoy. Vieques is bigger than Culebra, so there's more to explore in terms of beaches and wildlife refuges.
You can get to Vieques by ferry from Ceiba with ticket prices ranging from $3-$5 per person with a 40-50-minute destination time.
For a faster way to get there, you can also take a small plane departing from SJU Airport or Isla Grande, with tickets costing $60-$90 each way and a 15-20-minute trip.
7. Paseo del Morro
There are several ways to get to El Morro in Old San Juan.
The most common route north of Old San Juan is to work or take the trolley.
But wouldn't you want a path with a breathtaking ocean view? Take the Paseo del Morro trail, a boardwalk that runs along the coastal edge of the famous Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
Once you reach the famous Gate of San Juan, a large door that leads inside the city walls, Paseo del Morro and Paseo de la Princesa merge into one long avenue.
8. Say meow to old San Juan cats
Old San Juan's animal protection organization, "Save a Gato" is a cat sanctuary that allows its cats to roam freely and is open to the public!
This is a perfect activity for cat lovers visiting Old San Juan for the best and most relaxing experience with a beautiful ocean view.
9. Enjoy a piña colada where it was first invented
If you love the Pina Colada, you'll be surprised to know that Puerto Rico invented it first!
You can visit the original place where Ramon Marror created the iconic Caribbean drink at Barracina.
Pina coladas originated in San Juan in the 1950s.
10. El Yunque
El Yunque is a sacred site in Puerto Rican culture and is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System.
This national gem is a perfect destination for total immersion in nature. From bathing in natural pools under waterfalls to hiking through gorgeous scenery, this is the ideal place for a spontaneous traveler like you.
Recently, you have to reserve your spot to enter our national forest. You can reserve your site by visiting www.recreation.gov.
You only need one reservation per vehicle and you can book your spot up to a month in advance.
You should visit the El Yunque website for the latest updates on park closures, health and safety protocols, and weather.
11. Go-karts, horseback riding and ATVs
Minutes after your adventure in El Yunque, you can continue that adrenaline rush by visiting Hacienda Carabali in Fajardo.
You can ride horses through a great trail, beat your friends and family in go-karts, and even enjoy ATV tours.
You'll probably get hungry later. Thank God for their delicious Karabali restaurant.
12. Enhance your travel experience with a Helitours
Is living a unique, unforgettable moment on your bucket list for your next vacation?
Puerto Rico Helitours offers exclusive tours, charters and transfers throughout Puerto Rico tailored to your desired experience.
Choose from a selection of tours such as "The Mountain Tour", which offers a local gastronomic experience around the island from a variety of carefully selected restaurants.
Their best-selling "Enchanted Shore Tour" is perfect for enjoying a breathtaking aerial view of some of Old San Juan's most spectacular views and a delightful flight over the touristy area of Isla Verde above Old San Juan's gorgeous coastline.
13. Enjoy the biggest mojito of your life
Mojito Lab is famous for its $10 32 oz mojito with a delicious selection of 8 tropical and refreshing flavors. With the beach right behind them, you will have a unique experience.
14. Bacardi Tour
Ever wonder where the rum in your mojito comes from? If you've heard of Bacardi, you're in the right place.
You can find this award-winning rum distillery in Cataño at Casa Bacardi. Bacardi Superior is a deliciously refined white rum that debuted in 1862 and is a great rum for making popular cocktails you're already a fan of.
Using a secret blend of charcoal aged in a white oak barrel, you'll notice a wonderful taste of vanilla and almond notes.
Because of the smoothness of their drink, Bacardi's rum makes your drink taste like nothing else.
On this tour, you'll not only learn the history of Casa Bacardi, you'll also see the museum where it all began and even enjoy a nice barrel taste test from different rum barrels with different flavors.
Packages start at $30, but don't miss the best-selling mixology class, where you'll learn how to make the perfect mojito while learning the history of these cocktails.
Plus, you'll receive a complimentary welcome cocktail in the pavilion while you wait for the trolley tour to begin.
15. Don Q experience
Did you know that Puerto Rico's most famous rum brand is Don Q?
Much like a visit to Casa Bacardi in Catano, Ponce is making some of Puerto Rico's finest and most refined rums.
With a clean profile and a long aging process (2-5 years), it helps create a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
Their distillery is not open to the public, but a visit to the Spanish castle, Serrallés Castle Museum will teach you about the rich history of the Serrallés family and how rum was made.
At the end of the tour, you will be given the opportunity to taste Don Que Rum and understand why it is loved by the locals.
16. Eat delicious gastronomic food
Featured in well-known article sites like The New York Times, WSJ, Thrillist and more, Lote 23 is a gastronomic park located in the middle of Santurce.
Highlighting the culture and cuisine of Puerto Rico, you'll have to stroll from kiosk to kiosk to enjoy one of the tastiest meals on your Puerto Rico trip.
17. Enjoy award-winning coffee
Hacienda Muñoz, located in San Lorenzo, has won the People's Choice Award for Best Coffee at the Coffee & Chocolate Expo three years in a row, and for good reason.
Take a walking tour of the hacienda and you'll learn about Puerto Rico's coffee history and how coffee is grown, processed and roasted in the modern world.
At the end of the tour you can try some exceptional coffee at Hacienda Muñoz. Afterwards, you can visit Hacienda's coffee shop or restaurant for a hearty, traditional lunch.
18. Beach hop near the coast
You've heard of bar hopping, but have you heard of beach hopping?
Pack your light beach bag and fill up your tank because this adventure is worth it.
It's great if you're staying for a week or a few days and want to experience more than just a beach for a refreshing dip.
There is always a beach to visit 20-30 minutes away from each other, so you can choose 4-5 beaches on the north coast and spend 1-2 hours at each.
19. Visit the lighthouse
Puerto Rico's lighthouses reveal stories of architecture, weather, warfare, colonialism, settlement, and maritime experiences.
The oldest is the Castillo de Morro of San Juan, built in 1846; The rest were built over the next 50 years.
In 1981 the National Register of Historic Places added all lighthouses to their list; Many are still used and visited.
One of the most famous lighthouses is the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico.
Learn more in our article Cabo Rojo Lighthouse – What You Need to Know.
20. Next level adventure with scuba diving
A beginner or a professional, you cannot miss scuba diving in the blue seas of Puerto Rico.
Many of the top spots are outside of San Juan, giving you an incentive to explore the island. Friendly and professional dive businesses can organize boat trips, lessons, gear, and tanks.
Desecheo, Mona Island, and The Wall at La Parguera are excellent for diving.
But don't worry, there's a scuba diving tour at Escambrone Beach in San Juan with scuba dogs for an up-close experience without the fun.
Scuba diving in Puerto Rico is an amazing experience because of the unique sites with high visibility.
Learn more by reading our article on the best dive sites in Puerto Rico.
21. Water biking
Take biking to a whole new experience with Caribbean Chilliboats.
Chilliboat water bikes allow you to explore the mangroves, canals and keys of La Parguera.
This unique Caribbean nature reserve will be a delightful and unforgettable experience. Cayo Caracoles is Perguera's most popular key.
The shallow waters of the Keys form a natural pool in the ocean. Enjoy 30 minutes of calm waters and the party atmosphere that makes this spot a local favorite.
22. Check out the beach pool
Enjoy a relaxing moment on the beach away from the crazy waves and high tides of the sea.
Perfect for a wonderful family fun experience or even a relaxing moment on the beach.
Places like Poza las Mujeres, Poza del Obispo, and Poza de Teodoro are your go-to spots, loved and loved by Puerto Rican residents who wander around.
23. Art Museum of Puerto Rico
Are you looking to learn more about the art, culture and history of Puerto Rico?
Our museum is an excellent opportunity to learn about them. Fascinating exhibits, inspiring architecture, and museums dotted around our island to discover a new perspective.
There are many guided tours at the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR). Visitors can choose the type of sightseeing that will give them the most fun while they are there.
Visitors can join tours on scheduled weekends without making an appointment. MAPR has a team and trained interpreters to provide an enriching experience to every visitor, regardless of their age.
The Ponce Museum of Art in southern Puerto Rico has art from the 17th century. Historical collections highlight Puerto Rican and European culture.
Two of the best pieces in the collection are English paintings from the 1800s and Baroque paintings from the 1700s.
For more than forty years, the museum's founder, Lewis A. In return, he bought the best works he could find.
This was part of the museum's plan to give visitors a brief but still highly informative history of European art.
The Museo de Arte de Ponce collection also includes essential works by Puerto Rican and Latin American artists. It creates a unique dialogue between the old and new worlds.
24. Sugar mill ruins
Did you know that sugar was the biggest contributor to Puerto Rico's economy?
You can now visit Puerto Rico's abandoned sugar plantations and get a feel for the bitter-sweet history of Puerto Rico's sugarcane. One of the best is the pier of the sugar mill at Aguadilla or the ruins of the sugar mill at Vieux.
25. T-Mobile District
Our latest entertainment center is the perfect premium experience for tourists to discover.
It has everything you need: a dozen places to eat, an urban park, modern technology in open spaces and contemporary music.
This new spot is ideal for the enchanting experiences that Puerto Rico has to offer with music, dance, rum culture, flavors and more.
The best part is it's fun for the whole family! Your stay in the T-Mobile District is never dull, from concerts to movies and even zip lining.
26. Toro Verde Zipline
The park is located an hour and a half from San Juan in the town of Orocovis, in the middle of rolling hills covered in a dense, breathtaking forest.
While ziplining here you are experiencing some of the island's most beautiful mountain views as you fly. It is the best adventure experience you will ever have.
Since its debut in 2009, it has carried two giant zip lines: The Beast, which is about 1.5 kilometers long, and The Monster, which is 2.5 kilometers long, considered among the top 3 longest ziplines in the world.
Head to Toro Verde Park in the T-Mobile District for a zip-lining experience that everyone can enjoy without taking a road trip to Orocovis.
27. Pintalto Aguadilla
Pintalto in Aguadilla is your best bet. Most of the large murals in Puerto Rico's cities were created by Proyecto Pintalto and its founder Samuel González.
To make his dream come true, he worked with many volunteers from the community and elsewhere, some local muralists and the Lanco Paint Company and the town mayor.
The idea behind these colorful pieces is to bring people together and help revitalize communities. By doing this they turn places into places where people want to go.
Beautiful mural of colorful nets on fishermen's houses under the hill. Some of the murals have sea and coastal themes. It turns this place into an outdoor art gallery!
28. Jardin Botanico Caguas
If you love the beauty of nature, you are going to love the Botanic Gardens.
Locals in Caguas couldn't recommend enough botanic gardens for your visit to Puerto Rico.
It is known for its natural beauty and rich history of artworks, including tropical and endemic plants. You will find a small lake with a panoramic view of the botanical garden that you don't want to miss.
29. Take a picture with a famous Indian
As you enter the picturesque town of Isabela, you will be greeted by an impressive rock sculpture Mabodamaka.
Known as "La Cara del Indio" (The Indian Face), it's great for a quick stop and photo op as you cruise around the island.
The main Mabodamaka sculpture is easy to miss, so keep an eye out for this landmark as you take Route #2 along the west coast of the island.
30. Guajtach Tunnel
This historic monument was built in 1904 and runs through the mountains separating Playa Guajataca (Guajataca Beach) and Playa Mirador (Mirador Beach).
It was not named a historic monument until 2000. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Puerto Rico.
You are invited to learn about the history of this tunnel and the wonders it holds for you.
31. Ponce Park de Bombas
An instantly recognizable place awaits you in the southern city of Ponce.
The iconic red and black Parque de Bombas is an old fire station that is one of the most famous and photographed fire stations on our island.
Located in the charming town square Plaza de las Delicias, this building housed the town's central fire station for many years and has now been converted into a small museum for locals and tourists alike.
32. Las Salinas in Cabo Rojo
Cabo Rojo's salt flats are one of the most spectacular natural resources Puerto Rico has to offer.
Known as "The Pink Beach", Las Salinas is an eco-attraction in the south/west part of the island with a beautiful landscape that you must stop to experience.
Some of the activities you can do while here are bird watching to appreciate the most diverse birds in the Caribbean and hiking through nature trails where you can closely observe the beautiful flora and fauna of the ecosystem.
33. Sunflower farm
Only 2 hours from San Juan. It was recently considered one of the most spectacular places to photograph.
It is recommended to use a GPS to get to the farm as you will have to make several double turns in a housing development area.
The cost is about $2 per car, and you can even buy sunflowers in their store.
Sunflowers are not available year-round, so we recommend contacting them at 939-402-7967 to confirm the correct season to plan your trip.
34. Playa Punta Borinquen
If you want to enjoy a picnic with a wide-open beach, beautiful scenery and sea breeze, this is the perfect beach.
La Ponderosa Lighthouse Ruins, Borinquen Beach Area and Wilderness Beach are three of the best things to see in the Punta Borinquen Beach area.
Each of these three places is special in its own way. The beach is in the Maleja Bazaar Aguadilla neighborhood.
At low tide, you can walk along the rocks for about 10 minutes. Right next to it are some small "caves".
You can park at Punta Borinquen Beach and walk to the left (facing the sea) to Las Ruinas del Faro la Ponderosa.
These ruins are a great place to take pictures and contemplate the landscape. It is important to know that you can also go to ruins.
35. Puerto Rican flag door
Puerto de la Bandera (Flag Door) is a place of national pride for all Puerto Ricans and the cultural appreciation of all who visit us.
The flag was initially painted with vibrant red, blue and white colors to match our flag. Still, it wasn't until 2016 that it was painted in black and white, a time when Puerto Rico was living in stressful economic and social conditions, and was painted that way as a symbol of protest and resistance.
This led to the door going viral on social media and becoming one of the most photographed and popular places to visit during your stay in Old San Juan.
36. Puerto Rican flag mural in Utuado
Old San Juan isn't the only place where the Puerto Rican flag is painted bright and proud; You can find this mural in Utuado by searching for "Iglesias La Roca Utuado" on Google Maps.
A perfect Instagram-worthy photo and a beautiful road trip together make this place worth visiting.
It is less visited by tourists, so you will enjoy an authentic local experience while in Puerto Rico.
37. Gojalandia Falls
Get ready because you've never seen a waterfall like this anywhere.
Located in San Sebastián, Gozalandia is a series of waterfalls with many small pools connected by a river.
These pools are deep enough that people like to jump into the water from the rocks but beware!
You will also find a small underwater reserve to the right of the falls where people like to swim.
This waterfall used to be a hidden gem that only the locals knew about but as it grew in popularity it has been enhanced and improved for more people to visit.
It is easily one of the most beautiful and popular attractions in the area.
38. Flamenco Beach in Culebra
If you visit Culebra and don't go to Flamenco, you're missing out on the best of this little island.
Not just any beach, this award-winning and world-renowned beach is known for its clear waters and diamond-white sand under the sun.
It is great for families with small children. Surrounded by flamenco green, rolling green hills, it makes for a perfect Instagram-worthy picture.
39. Crash Boat Beach in Aguadilla
Crash Boat is one of the most popular beaches on the entire island on the west coast of Puerto Rico.
This is the best beach in Aguadilla. Why? Its turquoise waters make it perfect for summertime snorkeling, swimming and surfing.
The long boardwalk is perfect for jumping into the deep, refreshing water if you're a good swimmer.
There are kiosks and food stands all around the beach, so you don't have to worry about going hungry.
Because of how popular it is, you'll hear music all around and it's often referred to as the island party beach.
40. Vieques black sand beach
This rare and beautiful beach is on the south side of Vieques Island. Black Sand Beach is just a short drive from the town of La Esperanza.
Vieques has many beaches to visit, but this one is a must-see. You can get to this beach by parking on the side of the road and taking a short walk down the dirt road that leads to it.
Learn more by reading our article Black Sand Beach in Vieques - Everything You Need to Know.
41. Watch the sunset in Rincon
At Rincon's Beach House, you'll find the perfect sunset view, with Adirondack chairs strategically facing the ocean for the most spectacular views.
Perched on a steep hill directly above Maria Beach, the views from the Beach House are unlike any other, and one of the best places to watch the sunset.
42. Frutos del Guacabo
Frutos del Guacabo is a unique "farm to table" experience filled with delicious local food and outstanding activities, such as milking goats for milk!
It is a family-owned production site that started in 2010 and is responsible for the undeniable reference of the island gastronomy industry.
Although it started as a small operation farm to develop hydroponic products, it is now a farm that shows the sustainability of its processes.
43. Cementario Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzi
Classified as one of the most beautiful memorial parks in the world, this cemetery was established in the 19th century.
The fact that the historical landmark is located by the sea comes from the superstitious belief that the dead began their journey to the "great beyond" here.
Many important and well-known people of Puerto Rico are buried in this cemetery.
44. Fine Arts Theatre
Fine Art is the place to go if you want to enjoy a premium movie watching experience.
Associated with Caribbean cinema, you will be delighted to find award-winning and international films with extremely comfortable chairs and delicious food.
Enjoy a glass of wine with your movie and relax as you watch their carefully selected movies for your entertainment.
45. Drive through cinema in Arecibo
I bet you haven't been to a drive-thru movie in a while; Luckily, Arecibo offers a vintage experience as it is the only drive-in theater in Puerto Rico.
Auto Cine Santana shows movies from Friday to Sunday and you can enjoy watching modern movies along with vintage and classical experience.
They have two show times, one at 7:30pm. and another at 9:30 p.m
Their snack bars are filled with delicious snacks and buttery popcorn, where you can buy all your favorite movie snacks and enjoy the movie watching experience.
FAQs about Things to Do in Puerto Rico
What are the best months to visit Puerto Rico for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Puerto Rico for outdoor activities is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. During these months, you'll enjoy sunny skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity, perfect for exploring the island's natural wonders.
Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind while exploring Puerto Rico?
Like any travel destination, it's essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings while exploring Puerto Rico. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid displaying expensive belongings, and heed any local advisories or warnings. Additionally, be mindful of the current COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions in place.
What outdoor activities are available for adventure enthusiasts in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including zip-lining through the rainforest, kayaking in bioluminescent bays, surfing along the coast, and hiking to hidden waterfalls. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or nature lover, there's no shortage of exhilarating experiences to enjoy on the island.
How can I experience Puerto Rico's cultural heritage during my visit?
To experience Puerto Rico's rich cultural heritage, immerse yourself in the island's music, dance, and culinary traditions. Attend a traditional bomba y plena performance, savor authentic Puerto Rican cuisine at local eateries, and explore museums and historical sites that showcase the island's diverse cultural influences.
What are some family-friendly activities to enjoy in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico offers plenty of family-friendly activities for visitors of all ages. Spend a day at a water park, such as Las Cascadas Aquatic Park or Coqui Water Park, where you'll find thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. You can also visit the Arecibo Observatory, home to the world's largest radio telescope, or embark on a guided nature tour to discover the island's wildlife.
Are there any eco-friendly tours or excursions available in Puerto Rico?
Yes, Puerto Rico boasts a variety of eco-friendly tours and excursions that allow visitors to explore the island's natural beauty while minimizing their environmental impact. Options include guided hikes through El Yunque National Forest, kayaking tours to bioluminescent bays, and snorkeling trips to coral reefs. Be sure to choose operators that prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Puerto Rico offers a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to every traveler's interests and preferences. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you'll find it all on this enchanting island. From exploring historic landmarks to indulging in delicious cuisine and basking in the beauty of nature, a visit to Puerto Rico promises unforgettable memories and experiences.
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