Things To Do
in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a vibrant, culturally rich island located in the Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and the historic charm of Old San Juan. As an unincorporated territory of the United States, it offers a unique blend of American and Latin influences, seen in its cuisine, music, and bilingual population.
The island is celebrated for its warm climate, hospitable people, and lively festivals, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- "¿Qué tal?" - How are you?
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walking tour of the colorful streets of Old San Juan, visiting landmarks like El Morro and San Cristóbal. Take in the vibrant architecture and snap some photos of the beautiful scenery.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Puerto Rican dishes. Spend the afternoon shopping for artisanal crafts and unique souvenirs in the boutiques of Old San Juan.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant while enjoying stunning views of the sunset over the city. Immerse yourself in the nightlife by visiting a plaza where you can experience live music and dancing.
After breakfast, head to Luquillo Beach and enjoy the soft sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Consider renting a beach chair and umbrella for a comfortable day of sunbathing.
Grab lunch at the famous food kiosks nearby where you can taste local delights such as alcapurrias and empanadillas. Spend the afternoon swimming or trying out water sports, like paddleboarding or kayaking.
As the sun sets, take a tranquil walk along the beach or participate in a beach bonfire. Wind down your day with a seaside dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Warm climate year-round.
- No passport required for U.S. citizens to travel.
- Unique local cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Infrastructure issues, including power outages and water supply problems.
- Risk of natural disasters such as hurricanes.
- Limited access to certain resources and services compared to the mainland U.S.
- High levels of poverty in some areas.
Best Activities in Puerto Rico
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush tropical rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife while hiking in El Yunque.
Rincon is known for its great surfing conditions, attracting surfers from around the world to its beautiful beaches.
Experience the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life while snorkeling at Flamenco Beach in Culebra.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puerto Rico with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puerto Rico
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress with stunning views of the San Juan Bay and city skyline.
Natural cave with a window-like opening offering breathtaking views of the Arecibo valley.
Lush rainforest offering panoramic views from its various trails and lookout points.
Turquoise waters and white sandy beach on the island of Culebra, known for its picturesque beauty.
Food in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mashed plantains seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings, often served with a choice of meat or seafood. Try it at Raices in Old San Juan.
Must-Try!
Succulent roasted pig seasoned with a blend of spices. Visit Lechonera Los Pinos in Guavate for an authentic experience.
Rice cooked with pigeon peas, pork, and sofrito, a savory sauce. Sample it at Casa Borinquen in Aguadilla.
Layers of sweet plantains, ground beef, and cheese, baked to perfection. Enjoy this savory-sweet dish at Vaca Brava in San Juan.
Fritters made of grated yautía (taro root) or green bananas filled with seasoned meat and then deep-fried. Head to Luquillo Beach for fantastic alcapurrias from local vendors.
Salted codfish fritters, a popular street food. Try them at the Piñones kiosks east of Isla Verde.
Slow-roasted, marinated pork shoulder with crispy skin. Visit La Casona in Guaynabo for a mouthwatering taste.
Fried green plantains served as a side or snack. La Casita Blanca in Santurce offers delicious tostones.
A festive coconut-based alcoholic drink often enjoyed during the holiday season. Savor it at Barrachina in Old San Juan.
A creamy coconut pudding often topped with cinnamon. Experience this dessert at La Mallorquina in Old San Juan.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puerto Rico better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers everything from fresh produce and meats to ready-to-eat snacks and local delicacies.
A vibrant collection of food stalls offering a variety of Puerto Rican street food, from fritters to fresh seafood.
Located on the coast near Isla Verde, these kiosks serve up a diverse selection of traditional snacks and finger-licking treats.
A lively marketplace by day and a thriving nightlife spot after dark, featuring food vendors, bars, and local eateries.
Take a stroll through the cobblestone streets and discover carts and small shops offering classic Puerto Rican bites like empanadillas and alcapurrias.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puerto Rican culture, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles and showing deference to their wisdom and experience.
It is common in Puerto Rico to greet friends and family with a kiss on the cheek or a warm hug, demonstrating warmth and affection.
When dining in Puerto Rico, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating and to express appreciation for the meal afterwards, reflecting an emphasis on hospitality and shared meals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puerto Rico with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puerto Rico
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally expected in Puerto Rico. A customary tip for good service at restaurants is around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also common.
In Puerto Rico, credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and larger establishments. Cash is also commonly used, so it's good to have some on hand, particularly for smaller businesses and street vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puerto Rico.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for whale watching, enjoy cooler temperatures, and experience popular festivals like Three Kings Day and Carnaval.
Great for outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring the lush landscapes, and ideal for enjoying the blooming flora.
Perfect for beach and water activities, such as surfing and snorkeling, with lively atmosphere and events like the San Juan Bautista Day celebration.
Good for diving and fishing due to warm waters, and witness cultural events like the Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián.
Puerto Rico at Night
Hiking in Puerto Rico
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A tropical rainforest featuring numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views, El Yunque is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located in Orocovis, this park has a variety of hiking trails along with zip-lining and other adventure activities in a lush landscape.
A series of trails that offer beautiful views and a moderate hiking experience, situated in the central mountainous region of Puerto Rico.
A stunning natural reserve that offers guided trails through diverse ecosystems, including mangroves and beaches with rewarding views.
Known for its dry forest and coastal landscapes, it offers several trails that showcase unique flora and fauna.
An easy hike in El Yunque that leads to a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a family outing and enjoying nature.
A challenging hike in Luquillo, known for its steep elevation and breathtaking views of the coastline and mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puerto Rico through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Puerto Rico by plane.
The primary airport serving San Juan, Puerto Rico, and the largest and busiest airport on the island.
Located in the U.S. Virgin Islands, approximately 50 miles from Puerto Rico, it serves as a major hub for the Caribbean.
Also situated in the U.S. Virgin Islands, around 40 miles from Puerto Rico, it serves St. Croix and offers international flights.
Located in the British Virgin Islands, about 75 miles from Puerto Rico, hosting regional and international flights.
In the Dominican Republic, approximately 130 miles from Puerto Rico, it is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 99% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, primarily of Spanish descent.
This group accounts for about 75% of the population, often including individuals of various European ancestries.
Around 12% of the population identifies as Black or African American, with roots tracing back to the African diaspora.
This demographic group makes up about 1% of the population, including individuals of various Asian descents.
Native Americans constitute a small percentage of the population, with many individuals identifying with specific tribes.
This group includes individuals who identify with two or more races or other ethnicities that do not fit into the aforementioned categories.
The Soul of Puerto Rico
Discover the essence of Puerto Rico through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is considered the most popular sport in Puerto Rico, with a rich history and a strong professional league, the Liga de Béisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente.
Basketball has a significant following in Puerto Rico, especially with local leagues and teams competing at both amateur and professional levels.
Volleyball is a popular sport, with many Puerto Ricans participating in beach and indoor competitions, and the national teams have seen success in international tournaments.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, with an increasing number of participants and fans, and the establishment of professional leagues.
Boxing is a traditional sport in Puerto Rico, producing many world champions and drawing considerable national pride and attention.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian mofongo, stuffed avocados, and plantain-based dishes. Look for eateries like Verde Mesa in Old San Juan and El Departamento de la Comida in Santurce for excellent vegetarian and vegan fare.
While traditional Puerto Rican cuisine heavily features rice and plantains, travelers can find gluten-free options such as grilled meats, seafood, and tropical fruit dishes. Restaurants like Pirilo Pizza Rustica in San Juan offer a variety of gluten-free selections.
It's advisable to communicate any allergies or dietary restrictions clearly when dining out in Puerto Rico. Many chefs are accommodating and willing to modify dishes to accommodate specific dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puerto Rico with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puerto Rico.