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Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico

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WANDERLUST TOURS PUERTO RICO (San Juan) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico

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Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico

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Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners in San Juan

Rainforest River Hike and Waterfalls Adventure

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WANDERLUST TOURS PUERTO RICO: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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16 unforgettable things to do in puerto rico.

Looking for an incredible beach destination that has it all, including incredible beaches, adorable downtowns, and unique cultures? Discover these beautiful islands and all the unforgettable things to do in Puerto Rico.

The island of Puerto Rico is a vibrant, inviting place full of history and natural beauty . Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure traveler, or a history buff, you’ll find all kinds of fun things to do in Puerto Rico.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit Puerto Rico several times and each time I come back, it surprises me with something new. I’ve come with kids and on a girls trip. I think it’s a great place to do either of those types of travel. It’s the perfect destination to come and relax and enjoy the beach, but it’s also a great place to come for culture, food, history, family-friendly fun, and nightlife.

One of my personal favorite experiences in Puerto Rico was exploring the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and trying all the delicious Puerto Rican food! And did you know that Puerto Rico has amazing art galleries? Or maybe you’re more interested in seeing a bioluminescent bay or hiking and ziplining in El Yunque National Forest.

You can read about all these things and more below in my list of 15 things to do in Puerto Rico.

And if you’re visiting Puerto Rico for the first time, be sure to check out these tips for your first visit.

Save Time and Get this easy Puerto Rico Itinerary

Don’t have a lot of time to plan? Check out this incredible open-and-go Puerto Rico itinerary that will walk you through your whole trip with expert advice and pro tips!

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

There are quite a few great options for hotels and home rentals in Puerto Rico. We’ve stayed in both hotels, VRBOs and resorts during our trips to Puerto Rico. Here are some of our recommendations.

• Home Rental: Ocean View Villa – This is a great option for large families or groups.
• Hotel: El Convento – This is a beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Old San Juan. Great for a romantic trip or for anyone who wants to be near nightlife.
• Resort: Caribe Hilton – We stayed here during a conference, but I’d definitely bring my kids back. A great pool, beach access, and about a 25-minute walk to Old San Juan.

Renting a Car in Puerto Rico

I’ve done Puerto Rico with and without a car. If you truly want to explore the island, I highly recommend renting our own car. Driving felt fine to me. I drove alone with my 8 year old and felt totally comfortable. Do book your car well in advance though, because as. anisland, there are limited cars available. I recommend choosing a rental company AT the airport to avoid the hassle of taking the shuttle.

If you’re renting a car, there are two companies we prefer to use: Rental Cars and Expedia Cars. We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available.

If you choose to not rent a car, there is UBER on the island and taxis as well in San Juan, but they’re not readily available all across the island and not available at all on the smaller islands.

Check Out the 16 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is the kind of place that you’ll fall in love with! The island has 4000 years of history and a strong sense of hometown pride. The culture and even the land itself have been shaped by centuries of indigenous, European, and African influence.

There’s truly no place quite like it. You’ll have a blast finding ways to soak up the warmth and beauty here. So, enjoy diving into all the best things to do in Puerto Rico!

1. Explore Old San Juan

San Juan was established as a colony by Spain in the 1600s. I visited here with my son on a 3-day trip and we spent a lot of time in Old San Juan and on the beach. I can attest that this is definitely one of the top things to do in Puerto Rico!

The greater city of San Juan is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beautiful beaches. There are great art museums and impressive art galleries where you can check out Puerto Rican art by local creators.

Most visitors looking for things to do in San Juan Puerto Rico head to Old San Juan. Almost 500 years old, it’s fun to wander the blue cobblestone streets set in the middle of San Juan Bay!

A note about the cobblestones- If you see blue stones, those were made by the English in the 1800s and the blue hugh is from the iron that was mixed with the stones.. The City of San Juan has been slowly replacing damaged cobbles, but there has been a recent push to preserve some of these stones.

Check out the Plaza de Armas, enjoy the cafes and coffee shops there, or simply walk through the streets if you’re looking for free things to do in Puerto Rico. There are crisp, brightly colored houses of every color on every street. Calle de la Fortaleza and Calle del Cristo are both especially beautiful and popular streets for photographers and shoppers alike! And Paseo de la Princesa is perfect for a sunset stroll next to the water.

A must-see in Old San Juan is Castillo San Felipe del Morro, also called El Morro , which looks out over the San Juan Bay. You can walk from the San Juan Gate to San Felipe del Morro for amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean and interesting places along the walkway. San Cristóbal Fort is another popular historic landmark not far away and also one of the most popular things to do in PR.

I would plan on dedicating at least one full day in Old San Juan to see the sites, taste the food, and do some shopping.

You can see these colorful umbrellas in Old San Juan. They’re not pink anymore, but all colors. of the rainbow. Unfortunately, this street has been blocked off due to demonstrations in front of the Governor’s house, which you can see in the background. Hopefully it will be opened up soon. You can still view the umbrellas though.

Best Things to do in Old San Juan

• Castillo del Morro
• Stroll along Calle del Cristo
• Visit Castillo San Cristóbal
• Get lost in the cobblestone streets
• Paseo de la Princesa
• Take a sunset walk along the city walls
• Take a historic food tour

2. Indulge in Puerto Rican Food

Any time you visit a new place, the best way to experience local culture is to try regional delicacies. Puerto Rico has a unique food culture with influences from Spain, Portugal, South America, and the Caribbean, as well as African traditions and indigenous foods.

One of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is head to the streets. I mentioned before that Mayaguez is unique for its agricultural contributions and street food scene, but that’s not the only city like that! In every city, you’ll find vendors in plazas and lining beaches.

Pinones is one place that really stands out. This is a beach community near San Juan, and it’s known for its food trucks and food stalls that line the road across from the beach. It’s a popular pastime to walk from vendor to vendor and find every kind of Puerto Rican food you can think of, from tostones and mofongo to lechón and fresh seafood.

One of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico is going on food tours with passionate locals! Try a popular San Juan food tour where you’ll walk through Old San Juan and see the sites.  On this tour , you’ll visit several different restaurants and markets while your guide gives you an understanding of the flavors and traditions that have shaped Puerto Rican food.

We had a blast with our guide, Lorna from Spoon and we highly recommend this tour for its cultural value as well as the delicious food and drinks we tried.

3. Kayak at Night on a Bioluminescent Bay

If Puerto Rico’s nightlife isn’t really your idea of fun things to do in Puerto Rico at night, consider instead a kayak tour of a bioluminescent bay. I did this with my son on our 3-day trip to Puerto Rico and highly recommend it! We loved it so much that we decided to go again during our last trip. It’s really a magical experience.

These protected bodies of water offer the perfect conditions to be home to bioluminescent marine life that you can see during a nighttime kayak tour! On the  Laguna Grande bioluminescence bay tour , you’ll enjoy the sunset over the lagoon and kayaking through the mangrove forests before you experience the gorgeous bright blue bioluminescence just under the water!

The bioluminescence can be tricky to see right away and the light pollution doesn’t help. But our guides brought a large tarp to block out the light so that we could better see the water.

The other popular bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico is Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques. Keep in mind that if you go to Vieques, you’ll have to stay overnight to experience this.

  On this tour , you’ll meet on the island at dusk and enjoy a nighttime kayak through the bay. This is the most popular spot for this activity because the bioluminescence is so bright! Brighter than what you will find on Laguna Grande.

4. Visit an Island in Puerto Rico

There’s plenty of stuff to do in Puerto Rico without ever leaving the island, but seafarers will want to consider the opportunity to explore all the nearby islands! You can get a water taxi or ferry to most of them, while others might be better on a guided tour.

Did you know that Puerto Rico is made up of 143 islands, keys, and islets? Be sure to get off the main island and explore some of these beautiful places.

Culebra Island off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico is wonderful for getting away from the more crowded beaches of the main island! This place is great for snorkeling wit8h pristine beaches, calm cove beaches, and a wildlife refuge full of sea turtles. We spent several days in Culebra and had an absolute blast!

But the real hidden gems of Culebra Island are the tiny, uninhabited islands of Cayo Luis Peña and Isla Culebritas. Take a boat charter or  small-group tour  to Culebritas or rent a boat for the day and anchor off the shore of Cayo Luis Peña for a relaxing beach day.

One of the popular things to do in Puerto Rico is taking a kayak and snorkeling tours to Cayo Santiago. You can’t actually go on the island because it’s a field research station and monkey habitat. But it’s only about a mile from the eastern shore and you can take kayaking and snorkeling tours close enough that you might see monkeys roaming around!

Jump on a ferry or an airplane and take a day to explore Vieques Island. You’ll disembark in the city of Vieques, and I highly recommend heading to Sea Glass Beach. But the big draw to Vieques Island is the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. It’s popular for hiking and exploring beaches. This area was all controlled by the military but was released back to the people of Puerto Rico. The island is covered in wild horses and they’re adorable.

Cayo Aurora, or Gilligan’s Island, is another popular tourist destination in PR. This tiny, remote island near Guanica on the southern coast is best if you want to see local wildlife! You can catch a ferry here or rent kayaks from the Copamarina Resort. Go snorkeling for stunning sea life, keep an eye out for iguanas, and kayak through the mangroves.

5. Hike or Zipline in El Yunque Rain Forest

El Yunque Rainforest in Puerto Rico is a mesmerizing tropical paradise that immerses visitors in a lush world of emerald greenery, captivating waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. With its enchanting hiking trails and the awe-inspiring La Mina Falls, this natural gem offers a rejuvenating escape where one can disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with the tranquility and magnificence of nature.

If you’re interested in outdoor activities to do in Puerto Rico, consider a rainforest hike! Several parks in Puerto Rico are popular for hiking, but none are better than El Yunque National Forest. El Yunque is 28,000 acres of lush rainforest filled with picturesque hiking trails, rare vegetation, and local wildlife.

El Yunque Rainforest is located in the eastern region of Puerto Rico and is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. At the visitors center, you can find out about guided hikes or pay a small fee per car and drive to trailheads. I recommend always stopping at the visitor’s center because some of the trails might still be closed since the hurricane season.

This is one of the best things to do on the east coast and a great choice if you love waterfalls! The La Mina Falls Trailhead is especially popular, and it’s worth the trip if you’re okay with a challenging 30-minute hike. You’ll follow the beautiful La Mina River and reach the falls where you can go swimming.

If you love heights and adrenaline, consider ziplining in El Yunque. It’s. beautiful place to soar through the trees.

There are several day trips into El Yunque that are absolutely worth spending time and money doing. It’s a beautiful place and a change from the beach. We had a blast ziplining during our last trip to Puerto Rico. We took this tour and had so much fun!

The Monster is the longest zipline in America and is so crazy fun!

6. See Puerto Rico’s Beautiful Caves

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Puerto Rico, go cave hunting! The island has more than 2000 caves, including beach caves, hikes to mountain caves, and ancient underground caverns full of breathtaking geological formations that you can tour.

Don’t worry if you’re not a mountain climber or expert spelunker. While some of the caves are great for adventure travelers, most are easily accessible and are on guided walking tours. And all the caves are in Puerto Rico’s mountainous northern region, so most of them are within 90 minutes of driving from San Juan!

You can tour the Camuy River Cave Park , one of the biggest underground cave networks in the world. And Cueva Ventana is another cavern system inside a mountain that offers guided tours along with stunning views of the valley below!

For picturesque beach caves, head to Playa Pastillo. At the western end of this sandy beach is Cueva Golondrinas, a massive dome structure that you can go inside! If you want to swim here, come in the summer when the water is calmer. In the winter, it’s too rough to swim but the cave is still a rewarding experience in person.

For a thrill, you can tube down the Tanama River through the grotto caves. Or climb down to the Blue Pool swimming hole and explore Cuevas Arenales where you can jump off boulders and enjoy the sound of waterfalls all around you. A lot of people go on their own but you can also  go with a tour guide  if you’re comfortable that way.

Book a Photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We love using Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code WANDERLUST.

7. Explore Ponce

Another large city in Puerto Rico worth visiting is Ponce. This is just an absolutely beautiful city along the island’s southern shore. Here you’ll find more colorful Spanish-colonial-style homes, grand mansions, beautiful gardens, plazas, and more!

A few highlights include the striking Cruceta del Vigía monument in the heart of Ponce. And right behind it is the fascinating Jardín Japonés. La Guancha Boardwalk is great for an afternoon stroll. Take the kids to the playground or calm beach there, feed the fish, and just enjoy the view. Walk out onto the pier, rent a boat, or have a picnic!

And then there’s Puerto Rico’s Ponce History Museum. This very pink building is perfect for a visit if you’re interested in local history, going all the way back to the Taino people.

8. Eat in Mayaguez

Mayaguez is an agricultural hub on the western coast of Puerto Rico that’s known for its food scene. The bustling city has also been the main source of mangos and tuna in the US for forever. In fact, if you ate Chicken of the Sea or Starkist in the 2000s, it probably came from here! Though today, most of this resource stays on the island.

When it comes to finding things to do in Puerto Rico, you’ll want to check out the amazing street food in Mayaguez. Grab some sweet razos gitanos, or Spanish jelly rolls, at the 100-year-old Ricomini Bakery off Colón Plaza. Or try the unique flavors at Rex Cream’s Ice Cream near the plaza. They offer unique flavors like corn, soursop, and mandarin!

Locally, you’ll see a strong sangria-like drink in bars and restaurants around Mayaguez. Sangría de Fido has a strong international reputation! It’s made by a local man using fruit juice, Barcardi rum, and burgundy wine. There are true fans of the drink, and you should try it at least once while you’re here.

Or for a great local comfort meal, visit  Papalaya . This local taco chain sells loaded nachos, papas fritas, and quesadillas. Locals swear by this place, and you can’t find it outside of Puerto Rico!

9. Enjoy Historical San German

If you’re looking for a less touristy place to explore and visit historical sites, head to San Germán in the southwestern region of Puerto Rico. It’s the second oldest city on the island, being settled by Spanish colonialists in the early 1500s. The town is easily walkable in less than an hour, depending on how often you stop!

If the idea of strolling quiet streets, taking in the crumbling architecture, and reading educational plaques sounds like a good time to you, you’ll love San Germán. There are history museums where you can learn about Puerto Rico’s history.

A stroll down Calle Felix Arce Lugo is enchanting with its brick-lined Plaza Santo Domingo. This is where you’ll also find the 400-year-old Iglesia Porta Coeli and many historical markers to read!

And for some very unique local history, walk over to visit the Ceiba de la Libertad. This massive tree is 125 years old! It was planted in 1898 in celebration of Puerto Rico’s independence from Spain. The thing about ceiba trees is that their roots can grow and spread for decades. It’s a beautiful symbol of the island’s spirit of freedom.

10. Visit a Museum in Puerto Rico

Visiting museums is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico. There are some magnificent ones you won’t want to miss out on!

For a complete history of Puerto Rico, had to the Museo de Las Americas in Old San Juan. This is a must do in Puerto Rico, with a recalling of the history of the island, all the way back to the indigenous people. You can walk exhibits with ancient artifacts and take in the stunning architecture of the 200-year-old army barracks that today houses the museum.

And for art lovers, check out the Ponce Museum of Art. The contemporary building houses not only the largest collection of European art in the Caribbean but also beautiful examples of regional art throughout history.

If you can’t get your fill of art in Puerto Rico, you might want to visit the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico in San Juan. The art deco building is a former school that’s full of light and regional and Latin American art.

And nearby there’s also the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico of San Juan. You know you’re in for a treat when you see the former hospital decked out in modern art! Come here for exhibits of solely Puerto Rican art, including gallery exhibits by residential artists.

11. Tour the Arecibo Observatory

The  Arecibo Observatory  was owned by the US National Science Foundation (NSF). It was home to the world’s largest telescope from 1963 until 2016. The observatory closed in 2020 but you can still visit the site today and enjoy some awesome scenery. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 3:30 PM.

One of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico, you don’t have to be a science nerd to appreciate the Arecibo Observatory. When you visit, you’ll tour exhibits at the visitors’ center and the observatory and learn about the research done there in astronomy and atmospheric science.

Then you’ll climb up into the sky-high observation deck, for a bird’s eye view of the telescope. It’s almost overwhelming to look down on the giant reflector dish, built into a natural sinkhole in Puerto Rico! You have to experience it in person. And if you’re a film buff, you might recognize the observatory from movies like GoldenEye and Contact.

12. Honor Taino Culture

Long before the Spanish landed on the shores of Puerto Rico, indigenous groups inhabited the island, including the Taino people. For a long time, scholars claimed that the Taino were eradicated centuries ago, but that’s no longer believed to be the case. Many Puerto Ricans today claim a Tiano heritage and identity as Taino. You can honor the memory of the Tiano people by visiting ingenious sites on the island.

Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Center is a great place to start. You can tour an archeological site and see ball fields where the Taino played games! There are also exhibits, petroglyphs, ruins, and a historic botanical garden.

And located in central Puerto Rico is one of the most unique museums on the island. The Cemi Museum is housed in a building that looks like a Taino cemi, which is an ancient god held in a physical form. The small museum is a great place to learn about the spiritual practices of the indigenous group and see genuine artifacts used in rituals. Nearby, you can also hike to La Piedra Escrita, where you can see actual petroglyphs.

13. Tour Casa BACARDÍ

We don’t drink alcohol, but for travelers who love a good drink, you’ll want to visit  Casa BACARDÍ , located across the bay from Old San Juan. Home to the BACARDÍ brand, you can tour the grounds, take a mixology class, or visit the tasting room.

At Casa BACARDÍ, tours offer a variety of experiences from visits to the historic distillery, seeing a movie at the visitors’ center, and seeing amazing exhibits in the museum. You can also peruse the gift shop or enjoy a rum tasting with chocolate pairings at the bar. Guests receive a complimentary cocktail at the beginning of your tour, too!

If you’re in Old San Juan, there’s a super cheap ferry you can take in a few minutes, and car services can take you as well. There’s a parking lot, but I don’t recommend driving if you’re drinking unless you have a designated driver.

14. Spend the Day at Cabo Rojo

One of the most interesting things to see in Puerto Rico is the Salt Flats of Cabo Rojo. You can make a day of it and enjoy one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. The soft limestone cliffs of Los Morrillos Peninsula on the southern shore feel a bit like you’re at the end of the world, but with beautiful scenery! There are tons of things to do here if you’re up for a hike.

The Salt Flats are the first thing you’ll see. Since the hurricane, it’s a bit harder to see. But on a sunny day, you’ll clearly see the pink tint to the water! That’s due to the mineral content of the salt lagoons where natural salt is extracted. You might see giant piles of salt drying in the sun, too.

Next, you’ll start on the hiking trails on the Los Morrillos Peninsula. There are great views from the limestone cliffs of the ocean, and you can find sea caves and stunning rock formations. Walk along the coast to see Faro Los Morrillos, an old lighthouse that you can go up inside if it’s open.

Before you head back the way you came, go for a swim at Playa Sucia. The waters are calm, and the views are amazing from the turquoise waters of the half-moon cove beach!

15. Adventure Sports

It should be no surprise that you can find adventurous things to do in Puerto Rico, on and off the water! If you’re interested in water sports, just take your pick. Across the island, you can rent kayaks and go on guided kayaking tours. And if you’ve never tried flyboarding, check it off your bucket list in San Juan or Rincon!

In fact, some of the best surfing is around Rincon on the west coast of Puerto Rico. And in the winter, expert surfers can ride the waves on the north shore and then enjoy the isolated sandy beaches there.

If you’re looking for family activities in Puerto Rico, anyone 8 years and up can  go snorkeling in San Juan Bay . Or  go on a beginner’s scuba diving tour in San Juan  to get up close and personal with sea life, including sea turtles and tropical fish. And licensed scuba divers will want to check out tours of Fajardo Bay, where you can see sting rays, lobsters, and even coral!

For more Puerto Rico adventures, check out Rainforest ATV tours or horseback riding on Vieques Island. And we loved ziplining in the El Yunque National Rainforest with amazing views from the jungle canopy! The Toro Verde Adventure Park near San Juan is also super popular for its zipline tours.

16. Explore All the Best Beaches

Perhaps beach days should be considered essential things to do in Puerto Rico. And your experience is really up to you! You can find beautiful beaches with tons of amenities, or you can hike to a quiet and secluded beach that you have all to yourself. I’ve already mentioned some of my favorites, like Sucia Beach, Sea Glass Beach, and Playa Pastillo, but I’ll share a few more here!

Crash Boat Beach near Borinquen is a popular destination on the northwest coast. This sandy beach has great food stalls, a pier for diving, and music for dancing. Luquillo Beach was one of our favorite beaches. It’s near San Juan and also has the same party feel with food vendors, sand bars, and views.

If you visit Culebra Island, the beaches are all gorgeous coves, natural pools, and lagoons with soft sand and super calm waters. They’re great for things to do in Puerto Rico with kids. Flamenco Beach is especially cool with a painted tank that hints at the island’s history!

FAQ about Visiting Puerto Rico

 While you’re thinking about what to do in Puerto Rico, you might have more questions. To help the planning process go more smoothly, here are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Puerto Rico that you probably also have!

Do you need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico?

No, you don’t need a passport to fly from Mainland US to Puerto Rico if you’re a US citizen. That’s because PR is an unincorporated US territory. That’s also why the US dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico.

When is the best time of year to visit Puerto Rico?

Any time outside of hurricane season is the best time to visit Puerto Rico! So, if you avoid June through October, you still have November through May to visit. Christmas in Puerto Rico is a special experience. And throughout the year, you’ll enjoy great weather with temps that are perfect for getting on the water.

Is Puerto Rico prepared for tourists?

Yes! After Hurricane Maria in 2017, some places in Puerto Rico never quite fully recovered. To this day you’ll see the reconstruction in many parts of the island. But the tourism industry is one way to support and put money right back into the hands of Puerto Ricans. Puerto Rico is ready for tourists with open arms.

Do I need a car in Puerto Rico?

Not if you plan on staying close to San Juan or one of the resorts. The city is easy to move around on foot and you could always book a car service for one time. But if you plan on exploring the entire island, yes, you’ll need a car. I had a great time when I rented a car in Puerto Rico, but I know how I handle unfamiliar international roadways. If you’re not comfortable with this, you might want to skip the car!

Which Puerto Rico Must Do Is on Your Bucket List?

The beautiful island of Puerto Rico offers rich history, great nightlife, exciting outdoor activities, and stunning architecture. But that all feels like a huge understatement with all of the amazing things this place has to offer visitors!

Come experience the ancient landmarks of Old San Juan, go surfing off Rincon, or explore the trails of the El Yunque Rainforest. The best things to do in Puerto Rico await you!

Be sure to check out the most beautiful places in Puerto Rico.

TLDR Things to do in Puerto Rico

• Explore Old San Juan
• Indulge in Puerto Rican Food
• Kayak at Night on a Bioluminescent Bay
• Visit an Island in Puerto Rico
• Hike or Zipline in El Yunque Rain Forest
• See Puerto Rico’s Beautiful Caves
• Explore Ponce
• Eat in Mayaguez
• Enjoy Historical San German
• Visit a Museum
• Tour the Arecibo Observatory
• Honor Taino Culture
• Tour Casa BACARDÍ
• Spend the Day at Cabo Rojo
• Adventure Sports
• Explore All the Best Beaches

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Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico

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Discover Scuba Diving for Beginners in San Juan

Rainforest River Hike and Waterfalls Adventure

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Wanderlust Tours Puerto Rico Guide - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary

Plan your dream Puerto Rico itinerary with this detailed guide to beautiful beaches, buzzy cities, underground caves and amazing activities.

Looking for your own little slice of paradise? Puerto Rico is a very special Caribbean island, with pristine beaches flanked with palm trees, colourful corals surrounded by kaleidoscopic shoals of fish, and lush rainforest packed with incredible wildlife.

There’s so much to see and do on this beautiful island – the only problem is that you’ll have a hard time fitting everything into your Puerto Rico itinerary!

Whether you like lounging on the beach catching some rays, or racing around on a quad bike, you’ll find plenty of fun activities in Puerto Rico. The island is also steeped in fascinating history, and boasts some excellent museums. Plus, there’s colonial architecture to explore, a vibrant music scene to enjoy and some of the best slow roast pork specialities you’ll ever taste.

However, most people come here to experience the magnificent landscape and idyllic coastline – you could say Puerto Rico is Mother Nature at her best.

So, are you looking for some Puerto Rico travel advice? Trying to decide what to put on your Puerto Rico itinerary? To help you decide, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

9 Amazing Things to Do In Puerto Rico

1. take a stroll around old san juan.

Old San Juan is one of Puerto Rico’s finest cultural attractions, and there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than by exploring the historic centre of this picturesque district on a walking tour. The vibe today is relaxed and laid back, but this old town has a history of turmoil, which has left its mark on the historic buildings and the ravaged fortress, Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

You can hear stories of intrigue, smuggling and revolt as you explore this impressive castle by the sea – one of the most popular things to do in San Juan. It’s also an excellent place to sample some traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.

The sights, sounds and smells of Old San Juan are simply charming, making this a must on any Puerto Rico itinerary.

2. Take A Trip To The Deserted Icacos Island  

Lush, green and surrounded by pristine Caribbean waters, Cayo Icacos is a beautiful destination for a day trip. This completely deserted island just off the Fajardo coastline is surrounded by postcard-perfect shimmering turquoise waters and lush reefs, offering some of the best snorkelling in Puerto Rico.

There’s no camping permitted, and you’ll need to organise your own transport by boat, which will involve some planning. An easy way to make the trip is to book onto a tour like this one , which takes you to the island on a stylish catamaran.

A trip to Cayon Icacos is a very special addition to any Puerto Rico itinerary, and one of the best ways to experience a real taste of the Caribbean.

3. Go Scuba Diving in Paraguera

Paraguera is one of Puerto Rico’s hidden gems – a beautiful coastal town near one of the best coral reefs Puerto Rico has to offer. Get your Puerto Rico snorkelling fix at the Paraguera Wall. With colourful corals and incredible biodiversity, it’s one of the best places to observe marine life around the island.

Paraguera is also one of only three places in Puerto Rico (along with Mosquito Bay and Luaguna Grande) where you can observe bioluminescent phytoplankton. These tiny microorganisms light up when disturbed, creating incredible visual displays in the water after dark.

Seeing the glowing waters of the bioluminescent bay at night is simply unforgettable and easily one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico.

4. Visit El Yunque National Forest

The only tropical rainforest within the US National Forest Service, El Yunque is one of Puerto Rico’s most popular attractions. This enchanting forest covers 28,000 acres on the north eastern part of the island, and receives a whopping 120 inches of rain a year.

The lush, green vegetation sustains a wonderful diversity of animals, insects, and birds, including the legendary coquí frog, an important symbol of Puerto Rican culture and identity.

After a few days on the beach, El Yunque is the perfect place to cool down, as it is dotted with natural pools where you can take a refreshing swim. To get the full experience, why not book onto an El Yunque Rainforest and Waterslide Tour ? This tour is filled with unforgettable adventures in the wilderness which you’re guaranteed to want to add to your Puerto Rico itinerary.  

5. Go Horse Riding At A Private Ranch

Hiking is a popular activity in Puerto Rico, but for something different, how about seeing the sights on horseback? This fantastic tour will take you deep into the lush countryside around San Juan where you can go wildlife spotting from the back of your very own trusty steed!

It’s a lovely way to venture through the lush forests and take in the views of the towering mountains east of San Juan, all while learning more about the traditions of the island. Whether you’re an expert jockey or a complete novice, this is one of the most unique and fun things to do in San Juan.

6. Hang Out On The Beach

Puerto Rico is known for its beautiful coastline. It’s home to miles of pristine white sand beaches where you can easily spend a day (or a week!) paddling in the warm turquoise waters and topping up your tan.

If you’re looking for the best beaches for paddling and snorkelling, head to Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo. With dreamy palm trees, golden sand, and a lovely sheltered bay where you can swim in peace, it’s a great option for a beach day in Puerto Rico. Cabo Rojo is another popular option, especially for snorkelling.

Perhaps the best beach in Puerto Rico is trickier to reach! It’s located on the outlying island of Culebra, nestled in a sheltered bay with shallow water and jaw dropping scenery. It’s definitely off the beaten path, but if you go, it’s likely to be the highlight of your Puerto Rico itinerary!

7. Visit the Camuy Cave Park

One of Puerto Rico’s most popular attractions is the Camuy River Cave Park – an extensive cave network stretching for 286 acres underground. Shaped millions of years ago by the relentless course of the River Camuy, this impressive subterranean system is decorated with stalactites and stalagmites, occasionally opening up into vast caverns and sinkholes.

Step away from the lush green forests above ground and descend into a completely different world, where you’ll encounter strange wildlife and beautiful rock formations. This fabulous site should definitely be on your Puerto Rico itinerary.

8. Get Your Thrills On A Jet Ski or ATV Tour

Life in Puerto Rico is pretty relaxed and easy going, but if you’re looking for some thrills during your stay, you’ll get them on one of these brilliant tours. Finding the pace of life too slow? Hop on board an All Terrain Vehicle and enjoy a few carefree hours zipping around the fabulous Puerto Rican landscape on this popular ATV tour !

Alternatively, head out to the northern coast and tour the coastline all the way through the San Jose Lagoon to the beach of Isla Verde. I’d recommend taking a look at this awesome jet ski tour – definitely one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Rico if you’re looking for a little adventure!

Finally, if you’re still looking for that adrenaline high, head to the Toro Verde Adventure Park, where you can enjoy an epic 2.5km zip-line known as ‘the monster’. Wow, that sounds like fun!

9. Visit Cueva del Indio

Although Puerto Rico’s architecture is dominated by its Spanish colonial history, the island has a much longer cultural legacy. The Cueva del Indio is an ancient cave that contains a large number of petroglyphs made by the indigenous inhabitations of the island, prior to the period of Spanish colonisation.

Combine this fascinating spot with a trip to the ‘Taino Stonehenge’, an impressive stone circle covered in even more petroglyphs, which functions as a sacred ceremonial site for the indigenous Taino people. Peel back the layers of Puerto Rico’s rich history, and uncover a new side to this remarkable island.

Where To Stay In Puerto Rico

Villa montana beach resort.

With colonial-style décor blended with rustic touches, luxury furnishings, and some of the best views on the island, the Villa Montana Beach Resort is our pick of the resort options in Puerto Rico.

The site itself covers three miles of beautiful golden beach, and offers everything you’ll need for a blissful stay in Puerto Rico. The friendly staff can organise tours and daily activities like scuba diving or horse riding, and the dining options are varied and simply delicious!

Without doubt, Villa Montana Beach Resort is one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.

Hotel El Convento

If you’re looking for a unique, quirky hotel in the heart of San Juan, look no further than Hotel El Convento. Built in 1646, and once the site of an important convent, the building was converted into a smart and stylish boutique hotel in the 1990s.

With colourful décor, comfortable rooms and bags of character, this is one of the most unique places to stay in Puerto Rico. It’s also perfectly located for exploring the city, within walking distance of all the major sites.

With a rooftop pool and a lovely shady courtyard, it’s also a wonderful place to take refuge on a hot day. A swim here is one of the best things to do in San Juan!

Blue Horizon Boutique Resort

Located on the island of Vieques, just off the coast of Puerto Rico, the beautiful Blue Horizon Boutique Resort is one of the most popular luxury accommodation options on the island.

The ocean views are breathtaking, and you can admire them in style as you sip a cocktail in the beautiful infinity pool at sunset. Rooms are tastefully decorated with comfort as a priority, and the local staff can organise all kinds of tours and excursions on and around the island.

It’s no wonder that this historic boutique resort is one of the most popular places to stay in Puerto Rico.

What To Pack For Puerto Rico: Useful Items

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope this guide helps you plan the perfect Puerto Rico itinerary. What’s at the top of your list?

Just a reminder, if you are flying to the States,  you will need an ESTA USA . This is an electronic visa that you can easily apply for by filling out an online form. In just a couple of hours you’ll receive your ESTA without having to visit an embassy or consulate.

Whether you’re looking for a one week or 14-day trip, I hope this post has given you plenty of ideas for things to do in Puerto Rico. Have an amazing time!

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary”

I could spend a year in Puerto Rico and never run out of stuff to do. So much adventure and beauty to explore in many places!

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