The Best Places to Visit in Puerto Rico

The cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan, lined with brightly colored Spanish colonial houses, lend themselves to wandering—but don’t let yourself pass by the neighborhood’s key attractions. From the UNESCO World Heritage–listed forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and Castillo San Cristóbal to restaurants serving plates of aromatic rice and fried plantains, Old San Juan charms travelers at every turn.

El Yunque is a popular hiking spot, home to many well-defined trails that will take you past sites such as La Coca Falls, La Mina Falls, the Yokahu Observation Tower, and the Mount Britton Lookout Tower observation point. Popular ways to explore independently or with a tour guide include a nature walk or a hiking tour. As a popular day-trip destination from San Juan, many tours also include convenient round-trip transportation for added convenience.

Any contact with the water—by the boat, a paddle, or a part of the body—makes the water glow bright neon blue and green. Jump in for a neon-lit swim, cruise over the water in a pontoon boat, or board a kayak to paddle through the bay. Nighttime kayak tours typically allow you to learn about the biology of dinoflagellates and their interaction with the Vieques ecosystem.

What this sleepy island lacks in big resorts and golf courses, it makes up for with its white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and relaxed atmosphere. Flamenco Beach, a highlight of the island, is frequently recognized as one of the best beaches in the world. 

Driving and walking tours of Old San Juan usually include a stop at El Morro, as the fortress is commonly known, or you can zip around the site on a Segway or catch sight of it from the water aboard a boat tour. The fort’s more recent history includes the American military, which occupied the site from 1898 to 1961. The citadel occupies a picturesque spot, and when the wind blows, the lawn that connects it to town is a popular kite-flying spot.

Experience a traditional Catholic Mass or, when no service is being conducted, wander the nave free of charge, gaze at the huge stained glass windows, and take in the construction of the oldest church on US soil. Among its artifacts are the wax-covered mummy of 1st-century martyr St. Pius and the tomb of Ponce de León, notorious Spanish conquistador and the first governor of Puerto Rico. Guided walking tours of Old San Juan typically include a stop at the church.

Three crater-like sinkholes and one cave are open to the public at Rio Camuy Cave, the third largest underground river cavern system in the world. Easily accessible from San Juan, a park ranger–led tour of the caves offers insight into the geological history and ecosystem of the area and builds in time to listen as the Camuy River rushes past. You can also combine your visit to the cave with a stop at the Arecibo Observatory.

The Paseo de la Princesa stretches for about 980 feet (300 meters), ending at the magnificent Raíces Fountain. Along the way, local vendors and stalls offer refreshments and souvenirs. The Paseo de la Princesa is also a great starting point for tours of Old San Juan. Walking and Segway tours typically take in the highlights, such as El Morro, La Fortaleza, Plaza de Armas, or Castillo San Cristóbal. Popular add-ons to an Old San Juan tour include a boat ride, snorkel trip, salsa lesson, or a visit to the Bacardi Factory.

Hacienda Campo Rico is most commonly visited on half-day tours that include packages of outdoor activities. ATV tours are a fun way to explore the mountains, mangrove forests, and coastal plains—with commentary about the Puerto Rican countryside and wildlife along the way. Horseback rides are also available with well-trained Paso Fino horses.

Other activities include archery tag (a mix of archery, dodgeball, and paintball), ziplining courses, and trolley tours with narration about native plants, local wildlife, and the history of the plantation and grounds. Some tours include the perk of a complimentary drink at the Mojito Bar.