San Juan

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Juan's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day on Playa Condado, soaking up the sun and enjoying the soft sand. Grab a tropical smoothie from a beachside vendor.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant, where fresh fish is the specialty. Afterward, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Watch the sunset from the beach while sipping a cold drink. Dine at a beachside restaurant and indulge in local Dominican cuisine.

day 2
Historical Tour
morning
:

Visit the historic San Juan National Historic Site to explore forts like El Morro and San Cristóbal. Learn about the rich history of the city through guided tours.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Old San Juan, wandering its cobblestone streets adorned with colorful buildings. Stop for lunch at a traditional Dominican café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner in a quaint plaza, with local musicians often playing nearby. Stroll through the streets to experience the vibrant nightlife of Old San Juan.

day 3
Culinary Experience
morning
:

Join a cooking class where you'll learn to make authentic Dominican dishes. Enjoy tasting the flavors of the island as you cook.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to shop for fresh ingredients and interact with vendors. Stop for a casual lunch at a popular eatery known for its local fare.

evening
:

Savor your own creations for dinner, perhaps inviting new friends to join. Attend a food festival if there’s one happening during your stay.

day 4
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Take a trip to El Yunque National Forest for a guided hike. Marvel at the lush landscapes and waterfalls as you explore the trails.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the tranquil environment. Continue exploring with a visit to a scenic lookout or observation point.

evening
:

Return to San Juan and unwind at your hotel. Experience a local bar for some nightly entertainment and live music.

day 5
Island Hopping
morning
:

Set off early on a boat tour to nearby islands like Culebra or Vieques. Enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters, encountering colorful marine life.

afternoon
:

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Culebra, like Flamenco Beach, and pack a picnic. Explore the island and visit local shops for souvenirs.

evening
:

After returning, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood. End the day with a stroll along the harbor, taking in the evening breeze.

day 6
Music & Dance
morning
:

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a salsa dance class. Learn some basic steps and feel the rhythm of the island.

afternoon
:

Join a local music workshop where you can learn to play traditional instruments. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, surrounded by artists and musicians.

evening
:

Attend a live salsa show where you can watch skilled dancers and musicians. Join a dance floor and show off your newly acquired skills.

day 7
Art & Culture
morning
:

Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico to view a diverse collection of artworks. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the pieces and the artists.

afternoon
:

Stop by a local artisan market to browse handmade crafts and artworks. Grab a light lunch at a cultural café known for its artistic flair.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner in a cultural district where art meets cuisine. Attend a local art gallery opening or exhibition if available.

day 8
Marine Wonders
morning
:

Plan a visit to the Ocean Park Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea. Engage in water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a beach shack, experiencing local snacks like empanadas or mofongo. In the afternoon, opt for a boat tour to watch dolphins or whales if in season.

evening
:

Savor some ice cream from a local shop while watching the stars.

day 9
Sunset Chill
morning
:

Relax at your hotel pool, enjoying the serene atmosphere. Spend some time reading or enjoying a leisurely breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit a local winery or rum distillery for tasting tours and storytelling. Enjoy a light, relaxed lunch nearby with local specialties.

evening
:

Find a rooftop bar for spectacular sunset views over the city. Indulge in cocktails and enjoy the night’s ambiance dancing under the stars.

day 10
Adventure Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a thrilling surfing lesson at a nearby beach. Experience the exhilarating waves with expert guidance.

afternoon
:

After surfing, grab lunch at a beachside café, refuel with local favorites. Spend the afternoon trying out other water activities like jet skiing or windsurfing.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local tavern. Consider catching a beach bonfire or open mic night for some evening entertainment.

Discover San Juan

Read more in our San Juan 2024 Travel Guide.

San Juan Travel Guide