Exploring Puerto Rico’s Tropical Beauty: A Travel Guide
With vibrant cities, bioluminescent bays, and El Yunque rainforest, Puerto Rico emerges as a diverse Caribbean gem filled with culture, adventures, and natural wonders. This guide covers the top sights and activities on the Island of Enchantment.
San Juan – Historic Capital
San Juan’s pastel-hued colonial architecture and imposing fortresses contrast with buzzing nightlife.
Top Sights in San Juan
- Old San Juan – Meander cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial buildings.
- El Morro – Climb and explore this 16th century fort with sweeping bay views.
- La Fortaleza – Wander the shaded gardens of the official governor’s mansion.
- Plazas – Relax in open squares like Plaza de Armas and Plaza de San José.
Top Activities in San Juan
- Dancing at Nuyorican Café’s salsa night
- Beach day at Condado and Isla Verde
- Shopping and dining along Ashford Avenue
El Yunque National Forest – Lush Rainforest
Cascading waterfalls, tropical plants, and scenic trails fill this misty jungle park just outside San Juan.
Top Sights in El Yunque
- La Coca Falls – Dramatic two-tiered waterfall with crystal-clear pools for swimming.
- Yokahú Tower – Observation tower with panoramic rainforest views.
- Big Tree Trail – Walk through enormous kapok and sierra palm trees.
- Mt. Britton Tower – Hike up for sweeping vistas over the forest canopy.
Activities in El Yunque
- Swimming under waterfalls
- Birdwatching for the Puerto Rican parrot
- Learning about medicinal plants
Rincón – Surfing and Scenic Vistas
With laidback surf vibes and dramatic clifftop views, Rincón offers an ideal blend of waves and natural beauty.
Top Sights in Rincón
- Surfing at Indicators Beach – Expert surf break with glassy barrels drawing pro wave-riders.
- Whale Watching – Spot humpback whales off the coast from December to March.
- Lighthouse Trail – Short hike to a historic lighthouse with scenic vistas.
- Sunset Beach – Relaxed spot with snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding and beach bars.
Top Activities in Rincón
- Beach hopping to secluded spots like Steps Beach
- Stand-up paddleboarding the Rincón River mangroves
- Nightlife in the surf town bars and restaurants
Culebra and Vieques – Island Life
With renowned beaches, lower costs, and a relaxed vibe, these Puerto Rico islands feel worlds away from the mainland.
Top Sights on Culebra and Vieques
- Playa Flamenco – Regularly rated one of the world’s best beaches with white sand and turquoise waters.
- Phosphorescent Bay – Night kayaking reveals the bay’s magical glowing blue waters.
- Playa Carlos Rosario – Secluded white sand beach perfect for snorkeling colorful reefs.
- El Fortin Conde De Mirasol – Hike up to Culebra’s old Spanish fort for panoramic views.
Top Activities on the Islands
- Snorkeling at Carlos Rosario and Tamarindo Beach
- Island hopping to pristine cays and beaches
- Seafood dining in Esperanza
Outdoor Activities in Puerto Rico
Best Surf Spots
| Beach | Description | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
| La Pared | Powerful barrels for experts only | Advanced |
| Los Tubos | Hollow tubes and waves | Intermediate |
| Jobos | Varied breaks good for beginners | Beginner |
Top Hikes
| Trail | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| La Mina Falls | El Yunque NF | Crystal pools and cascades |
| Mt. Britton | El Yunque NF | Summit views over rainforest |
| Cabo Rojo Lighthouse | Cabo Rojo | Coastal vistas and salt flats |
From the lively energy of San Juan to the chilled-out vibes of Vieques island, Puerto Rico impresses with its spectacular landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. Come experience the Island of Enchantment for yourself!
CARRIBEAN
Canary + U.S. Virgin Islands + Bora Bora, French Polynesia + British Virgin Islands
| Name | URL |
|---|---|
| Canary Islands | Canary Islands |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | U.S. Virgin Islands |
| Bora Bora, French Polynesia | Bora Bora, French Polynesia |
| British Virgin Islands | British Virgin Islands |
Greater Antilles
| Destination | URL |
|---|---|
| Cayman Islands | Cayman Islands |
Lesser Antilles
| Destination | URL |
|---|---|
| Guadeloupe | Guadeloupe |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Anguilla | Anguilla |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Antigua and Barbuda |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | Saint Kitts and Nevis |
| Montserrat | Montserrat |
| Martinique | Martinique |
| Grenada | Grenada |
| Saint Lucia | Saint Lucia |
| Barbados | Barbados |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Trinidad and Tobago |
| Aruba | Aruba |
| Curaçao | Curaçao |
| Bonaire | Bonaire |
Lucayan Archipelago
| Destination | URL |
|---|---|
| Bahamas | Bahamas |
| Turks and Caicos Islands | Turks and Caicos Islands |
| Check Out Other Destinations | URL |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Destinations |
