Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico on Vacation
Between its vibrant culture, a fascinating history, and natural beauty everywhere you look, the island of Puerto Rico is an excellent choice for your next tropical getaway. If you’re looking for new experiences or adventures you can’t find just anywhere, then our list of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is just what you need:
- Hike through El Yunque National Forest
- Spend a day in Old San Juan
- Visit historical sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal
- Sunbathe on Flamenco Beach
- Explore the shimmering Mosquito Bay
- Take a guided tour to Cueva Ventana
More information on the best things to do in Puerto Rico
El Yunque National Forest
Get ready to be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of El Yunque National Forest. Travelers can venture on a hike along one of the trails or trek up to spots like Dwarf Forest, Mt. Britton Tower, El Yunque Peak, Los Picachos, or La Roca.
El Yunque is also home to a number of cascading waterfalls where you can take a refreshing swim. Throughout your journey, you’ll be surrounded by a sea of lush vegetation and plant life, and you might even encounter exotic wildlife like parrots and tree frogs. No matter which route you choose to take, your experience at El Yunque will be a memorable adventure!
Entry into the forest is free; however, the El Portal Visitors Center is $4 for adults and $2 for senior citizens ages 65 and older. Children age 15 and under aren’t required to pay a fee. The all inclusive Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort is less than 6 miles away from El Yunque and guests have the convenience of booking a tour through the resort’s concierge service!
Old San Juan
Travelers will love everything to be found in Old San Juan (a district of Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan). As you walk along quaint cobblestone streets, let your eyes wander to the colorful buildings and Spanish colonial architecture.
When you’re hungry, Café Manolín, Punto de Vista, Trois Cent Onze, and Marmalade are just a few of the many dining options to choose from. Plus, there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can find beautifully crafted souvenirs to take home!
Old San Juan is just as appealing at night as it is during the day. Bars, clubs, and lounges create a lively atmosphere and social scene for a fun evening out! For something a little different, you can also book a nighttime walking tour to hear old legends and experience the city through a different lens.
If you’re thinking about staying in San Juan, resorts like El San Juan Resort & Casino, San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, and InterContinental San Juan are beautiful beachfront properties where you can enjoy a relaxing getaway!
Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal
Speaking of Old San Juan, two historical sites to see during your visit are Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal. Discover what stories lie beyond the walls of these striking fortresses. Both were built as means of protection for the city of San Juan. San Felipe was designed to protect against attacks from the sea while San Cristobal was designed to protect against attacks from land.
As part of the San Juan National Historic Site, entry to either site is $5 with children 15 and under allowed in for free. Make these a part of your visit to Old San Juan to add some history to your experience!
Flamenco Beach
Step onto the white sands of Flamenco Beach for a picturesque day in paradise! This public beach is located on the small island of Culebra and visitors can fly, take a ferry, or a book a tour from Puerto Rico to enjoy its beauty (pricing will vary based on how you get there).
Warm, clear waters are great for swimming and snorkeling. Chair and umbrella rentals are available for your convenience and there’s even a campsite if you wish to stay overnight (for an extra charge). Food and drink kiosks are also close by, so grab a Pina Colada and fall into a relaxing day on Flamenco Beach!
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Mosquito Bay
While the name may not sound appealing, the sight you’ll see during a visit to Mosquito Bay certainly is! A captivating blue glow coming from the water is what makes the journey so memorable and unique. This light, known as bioluminescence, comes from the thousands of microorganisms that live in the bay and radiate such a stunning display.
To get the full experience, it’s best to take a tour of Mosquito Bay after the sun has set. It’s also recommended to go out in a kayak instead of a motorized boat so you can enjoy the calm, tranquil effects of being out on the water at night.
Mosquito Bay is located on the quaint Vieques Island. Resorts like Caribe Hilton San Juan, El Conquistador, and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort will assist travelers with any arrangements to get to the island. While this excursion requires a little more effort than most, the jaw-dropping light of the bay is worth it!
Cueva Ventana
An adventure through Cueva Ventana is an adventure you don’t want to miss when you’re in Puerto Rico! At $19 per ticket for non-residents, travelers will appreciate the beautiful journey they’ll embark on.
Sitting on top of a limestone cliff, Cuevo Ventana welcomes you to enjoy gorgeous views and hiking through the outdoors. You can schedule an informative guided tour that will take you on a 45-minute walk to the cave. Once you’re at your destination, you’ll be overlooking the Rio Grande de Arecibo Valley for a breathtaking, picturesque scene!
Your time in Puerto Rico will be well-spent and full of unique experiences. Visit All Inclusive Outlet today and search through hundreds of discounted Puerto Rico vacation packages to save big on your next beach getaway!
