Old San Juan Historic District
Region: San Juan
Cultural heritage
World Heritage area with colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets preserved.
Tourism in Puerto Rico
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Region: San Juan
Cultural heritage
16th-century maritime fort with spectacular cliff and lawn areas for scenic picnics.
El Yunque National Forest
Region: Near Luquillo
Nature
The only tropical rainforest national forest in the U.S. Waterfall trails and observation towers are popular.
Flamenco Beach
Region: Culebra Island
Nature
White sand and turquoise blue cove consistently featured in "world's most beautiful beaches."
Mosquito Bay (Bioluminescent Bay)
Region: Vieques Island
Nature
Magical experience of nighttime kayaking where microorganisms glow, illuminating both starry sky and sea.
Rio Camuy Cave Park
Region: Quebradillas
Nature
Adventure spot to explore massive underground river and dome-shaped limestone caves.
Rincón Surf Beaches
Region: Rincón
Nature
Surfer's paradise with some of the world's best big waves in winter.
Ponce Historic District and Parque de Bombas
Region: Ponce
Modern architecture
Impressive century-old neoclassical buildings and red-and-black striped old fire station.
Toro Verde Adventure Park
Region: Orocovis
Activity
Glide across mountain valleys on "The Monster", one of the world's longest ziplines.
Arecibo Radio Telescope Site
Region: Arecibo
Science
Learn space observation history at the giant parabola remains and visitor center.
Luquillo Kiosks
Region: Luquillo
Food culture
Beachside gourmet spot with food stalls offering empanadas and cold coconuts for tasting.
Caja de Muertos Island
Region: Off Ponce
Nature
Uninhabited island with trails, lighthouse, and excellent snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Suggested itineraries
Classic Northeast Highlights 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Old San Juan, El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, El Morro Fortress
Short model course combining tropical rainforest hiking and Caribbean beaches based in Old San Juan.
Island-Crossing Road Trip 7 Days
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Ponce, Rincón, Camuy Caves, Arecibo, Vieques
Tour south, north, and west coast by rental car covering history, surfing, cave exploration, and bioluminescent bays.
Adventure and Gastronomy 10 Days
Duration (days): 10
Highlights: Toro Verde, Coffee plantations, Aibonito Flower Festival, Bioluminescent bay night kayaking
Long-term plan for active travelers including mountain ziplines, specialty coffee experiences, and local festival participation.
Travel tips
- Rental cars are convenient for island travel; inter-city public transport is limited.
- Memorizing basic Spanish phrases results in more attentive service.
- Travel insurance and flexible date change options recommended during hurricane season.
- Tipping standards are 10-15% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag at hotels.
- Tap water is potable but many travelers use bottled water.
- Strong sunlight requires high SPF sunscreen and hats.
- Check rental car insurance-inclusive pricing; rural roads have few street lights.
- Security is generally good but avoid back alleys in Old San Juan at night.
- Mosquito Bay tours show strongest glow during new moon periods.
- Same currency and mobile frequency as U.S. mainland eliminates need for exchange or SIM purchase.
- Beach sandals prevent cuts from sea urchins and coral.
- Check flag colors at beaches for swimming safety before entering water.
- Local rum has high alcohol content so drink responsibly.
- Public Wi-Fi is abundant but VPN use recommended for enhanced security.