Puerto Rico: Top Things to Do and Explore

If you plan to visit the Caribbean island of enchantment, stay tuned for the following article. Here we offer a summary of the best things to do in Puerto Rico during your trip and some of the main attractions you can’t miss. We also give you essential tips that will help make your stay more comfortable. Find out everything now!

Photo by Caleb Oquendo

 

 

Puerto Rico Bucket List: Things You Can’t Miss

El Yunque National Forest Hikes

El Yunque National Forest, located in Puerto Rico, offers many trails ideal for all skill levels, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For example, the El Yunque Trail leads to one of the highest points in the forest with breathtaking landscape views. The Caimitillo Trail is ideal for families and beginners, with picnic areas, perfect for a nature getaway.

Most of the trails are well marked and well maintained; however, some can be slippery due to rain. We recommend wearing hiking boots due to the muddy conditions. Staying hydrated is essential, so bring plenty of water.

Photo by Rackeem Borges on Unsplash

 

Bioluminescent Bays Kayaking

Exploring the bioluminescent bays by kayak is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. This magical experience allows you to observe the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence, where the water glows due to microorganisms called dinoflagellates. Among the main bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico is Mosquito Bay, known as the brightest in the world, with a high concentration of dinoflagellates.

Parguera Water Sports Adventures offers boat and kayak tours, with options for swimming in the bay; and Alelí Tours provides a unique experience with expert guides who share information about the local ecosystem. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Bioluminescence conditions may vary according to the lunar cycle; moonless days are ideal for seeing the most intense glow.

Edgar Torres, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Old San Juan Walking Tour

Walking around Old San Juan is another of the best things to do in Puerto Rico it allows you to learn about the history and culture of this charming city. The Old San Juan Free Walking Tour is free, starts at Plaza Colón, and offers an overview of the most emblematic points of the city.

Through the GPSmyCity app, you can follow a self-guided tour that includes stops at 10 main attractions such as Plaza Colón, Castillo San Cristóbal, Paseo de la Princesa, Puerta de San Juan and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista. It takes approximately 2 hours and a distance of 3.1 km. We recommend you bring water to stay hydrated and use sunscreen because the weather can be hot. Opt for comfortable shoes to walk on the cobblestone streets.

 

San Felipe del Morro Castle Visit

The Castillo San Felipe del Morro is an emblematic fortress in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Its construction was completed in 1790, and it became one of the most important military structures of the Spanish colonial era. In 1983 El Morro was declared a National Historic Heritage Site and currently functions as a museum where visitors can explore its fortifications and learn about its rich military and cultural history.

Located at 42.6 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and the ocean. Here you can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided and self-guided tours, and an audio tour that provides detailed information about the the castle’s history and its importance for Puerto Rico.

Photo by iSawRed on Unsplash

 

Rio Camuy Caves Park Adventure

The Rio Camuy Caves National Park is one of the most impressive natural attractions in Puerto Rico, popular for its extensive network of caves and subway rivers. The park covers an area of 108 hectares and has more than 220 caves. Among its main attractions is Cueva Clara, the most visited cave in the park, where you can observe impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Tours include introductory information about the park’s history and its cave system, and then a guided tour that lasts about 2 hours.

The park is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. It is advisable to make reservations in advance because the number of daily visitors is limited. Park admission is $18 per person, and parking is $4 per vehicle. Visits may be canceled if there is heavy rain due to the risk of flooding in the cave.

 

Culebra Island Day Trip

A trip to the beautiful island of Culebra is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico for an unforgettable experience that combines white sand, crystal clear waters, and water activities.
The most economical option to get to Culebra is to take the ferry from the Ceiba terminal. Flying to Culebra from San Juan is another quick option, with flights taking approximately 30 minutes. In both cases be sure to book your tickets in advance because capacities are limited.

Visit Flamenco Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, famous for its white sand and turquoise waters. There you can rent umbrellas and beach chairs, enjoy food at the local kiosks, and swim in the calm waters. Tamarindo Beach is ideal for snorkeling, where you can observe the diverse marine life, including turtles and colorful tropical fish. Also, several companies such as Captain Bill’s Catamaran Charter offer boat excursions that include snorkeling, visits to remote beaches, and marine life viewing.

 

Arecibo Observatory Exploration

The Arecibo Observatory, located in Puerto Rico, was one of the most emblematic scientific structures in the world for being the largest and most powerful radio telescope for more than five decades. For years the observatory was essential for many astronomical discoveries, including the detection of pulsars and exoplanets. It was also the site where the famous “Arecibo Message” was transmitted in 1974, addressed to potential extraterrestrial civilizations.

Angel Ramos Science and Visitor Center includes interactive exhibits about the science behind the telescope and its impact on research. Although the telescope is no longer in operation, the center welcomes visitors and teaches about the importance of the work done there.
Guided tours are offered that explain the history of the observatory and its operation, where you can enjoy projections that explain a “day at the telescope.” Another popular attraction is the Camuy River Caverns Park, where you can explore one of the largest subway river systems in the world.

 

Coffee Farm Tours in Adjuntas

Adjuntas, Puerto Rico, is popular for its beautiful coffee plantations. It offers several tour options to learn about the coffee production process. For example, Sandra Farms Coffee is a boutique farm specializing in coffee and chocolate, with traditional roasting methods and farming practices. Tours include a walk through the plantation and coffee and chocolate tastings. Hacienda Tres Angeles also offers a tour that highlights the history of coffee in Puerto Rico and the opportunity to taste their specialty coffee in a stunning natural setting.

The roads to the farms can be narrow and steep; a suitable vehicle such as an SUV or jeep is recommended. It is advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during high season. Take advantage of the tastings included in the tours to experience the variety of flavors offered by the farms.

 

Toro Verde Zipline Adventure

Toro Verde Adventure Park, located in Orocovis, Puerto Rico, is an ideal destination for adrenaline lovers. Among its main attractions are zip lines. For example, El Monstruo is the longest zip line in America and the second longest in the world with 2.5 km. You can reach up to 153 km/h while flying 380 meters above sea level.

Toro Bikes offers a unique experience that allows you to pedal on bicycles adapted to a zipline cable, being the longest circuit in the world with 326 meters. The park also offers hanging bridge tours and other attractions that allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the jungle and surrounding mountains.

 

Isla Verde Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding in Isla Verde is another of the best things to do in Puerto Rico. Here you can find several options to enjoy this water activity in a special environment. At Pine Grove Surf Club you can take paddleboarding lessons and rent equipment. It is ideal for beginners and those looking to improve their skills in a friendly environment. VIP Adventures Puerto Rico offers guided tours in the Condado Lagoon, a quiet place to enjoy paddle boarding.

We recommend booking in advance, especially during the high tourist season. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and sunscreen because you will be exposed to the sun. Most places offer lessons for beginners, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Ekem, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 

Expert Tips for Visitors in Puerto Rico

1. Don’t stay in San Juan alone, consider taking a ferry to Vieques or Culebra, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

2. To explore the island in-depth, renting a car is an excellent option. This will allow you to visit beaches, mountains, and other places of interest without relying on public transportation, which can be unreliable.

3. Although buses are in the metropolitan area, their schedules can be irregular. If you decide to use public transportation, be aware that it may not take you to all the places you want to visit.

4. Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, so pack light, comfortable clothing and sunscreen.

5. If you plan to participate in popular tours or visit well-known restaurants, it is advisable to reserve your tickets to avoid being left out.

6. Take a self-guided tour of Old San Juan, where you can visit landmarks such as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista.

7. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample typical dishes such as mofongo, roast suckling pig, and rice with pigeon peas at local restaurants. The culinary variety is extensive and reflects the rich culture of the island.

8. The weather can be hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water during your excursions.

 

Ready For Puerto Rico? Not Just Yet!

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