Puerto Rico is a small island located in the Caribbean, but it offers some amazing experiences and activities. From stunning beaches and delicious cuisine to vibrant culture and beautiful scenery, Puerto Rico is a destination worthy of your attention. Whether you’re a traveler looking for an adventure or a local looking for a fun getaway, here are the top things to do in Puerto Rico.
Soak Up the Sun at Beautiful Beaches
Puerto Rico is known for its stunning beaches and it’s no surprise why. With several hundred miles of coastline, you don’t have to go too far to find the perfect spot to relax. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot or a more crowded destination, there are lots of beach options for you to explore. Some of the popular beaches include:
• Isla Verde Beach: Famous for its crystal clear waters and white sand, this beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring.
• Gosáo Beach: This small beach is located in the northeast coast of Puerto Rico and is a great place to watch the sunset.
• Flamenco Beach: Located on the island of Culebra, this beach is one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean.
• Luquillo Beach: Named one of the best beaches in the world by “The Travel Channel”, this beach has it all – golden sand, turquoise waters, sandbars, and even a waterfall.
Explore Historical Sites
Puerto Rico has an interesting past, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. From old forts and churches to lighthouses and museums, you won’t be disappointed in the things to explore. Some of the top historical sites in Puerto Rico include:
• El Morro: A 400-year-old fortress situated on the edge of San Juan, El Morro is home to numerous cannons and offers lovely views of the city and the bay.
• San Juan Cathedral: This beautiful 16th century Catholic church is the second-oldest Christian church in the Americas.
• El Yunque: This 28,000-acre national park is home to a rainforest filled with diverse flora and faunas, including several rare species.
• San Cristobal Fortress: This massive stone fortress located in San Juan was built by the Spanish to protect the city from naval attack.
Shop til You Drop
No matter where you travel in Puerto Rico, you’ll come across plenty of great shops and markets for you to explore. Whether it’s souvenirs, locally made crafts, jewelry, or clothing, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top shopping spots include:
• Plaza las Americas: The largest mall in the Caribbean, Plaza las Americas has over 300 shops and attracts more than 39 million visitors a year.
• Old San Juan: This colorful neighborhood is home to a variety of stores and shops filled with Puerto Rican crafts, artwork, and vintage clothing.
• El Paseo: Located in Bayamon, this shopping center features plenty of stores and restaurants, perfect for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Municip: If you’re looking for arts and crafts, then Munoz Rivera shopping center is the spot for you, filled with hand-crafted and locally made products.
Enjoy Unique Experiences
Puerto Rico is one of those unique places that offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. From festivals and events to outdoor activities and performances, it’s easy to create an unforgettable itinerary. Some of the best things to do in Puerto Rico include:
• Bioluminescent Bay: One of only five in the world, this magical bay glows a bright blue when disturbed, making for a beautiful and unique experience.
• Festival De La Calle San Sebastian: This annual music and art festival takes place in San Juan every January, showcasing some of the best local talent in the Caribbean.
• Kayak Through the Mangroves: Explore one of the most eco-diverse ecosystems in the Caribbean and observe some amazing wildlife.
• Visit El Jardin Botanico: Located in Rio Piedras, this botanical garden offers plenty of beautiful and unique plants and flowers, and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll.
Enjoy Delicious Cuisine
The local cuisine in Puerto Rico is a mix of Spanish, African, and Tiano cultures, and it’s definitely worth experiencing. If you’re looking for a unique culinary experience, then here are some of the top dishes to try:
• Mofongo: A staple of Puerto Rican cuisine, this dish is made with mashed plantains which is then fried and topped with pork or seafood.
• Alcapurrias: A combination of ground beef and fish and are fried and served inside a green banana or taro root.
• Arroz con Gandules: A dish made with pigeon peas and rice, and often served with beef and pork.
• Rellenos de Papa: These deep-fried mashed potato balls are filled with chopped beef, pork, or vegetables.
• Asopao de Pollo: A stew-like dish made with chicken and vegetables, often served over rice.
Catch Some Waves
With plenty of secluded beaches, crystal clear waters, and some amazing waves, Puerto Rico is a great spot for surfing and other water sports. So if you’re looking for some adventure and don’t mind getting your feet wet, then here are some of the best spots to check out:
• Rincon: Located on the west side of Puerto Rico, Rincon features some of the best surfing spots in the Caribbean.
• Balneario Publico de Boqueron: Located in Cabo Rojo, this beach is a great spot for beginners as the waves are gentle and the beach is wide.
• El Jobo Beach: Perfect for advanced surfers, El Jobo Beach is known for its powerful waves and is a popular spot for locals and tourists.
• Isabela: Home to the annual Pro Qualifying Series challenge, Isabela is a great place to check out if you’re looking for some competition.
Take in a Show
Puerto Rico is home to some of the best performing arts venues in the Caribbean, and there are plenty of live shows to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking for a Broadway-style musical, a salsa show, or stand-up comedy, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top theaters and venues include:
• Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferre: Puerto Rico’s main performing arts venue, located in San Juan, offering everything from plays and musicals to concerts and stand-up comedy.
• Casa de la Cultura: Located in Puerto Rico, this versatile theater offers orchestral performances, interactive theater shows, and jazz festivals.
• Yuyachkani Theater: Established in 1969, this theater company is located in San Juan and showcases works of the best playwrights and directors from Latin America.
• Club Nuyorican: A popular night club located in San Juan, Club Nuyorican hosts awesome live shows and DJs.
Experience Local Culture
Puerto Rico isn’t just an island with stunning beaches and delicious cuisine; it also has plenty of culture to explore. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the locals and their traditions, or just want a taste of the flavor and spirit of the island, here are some of the unique things to do:
• Listen to Live Music: Visit a local bar or club and experience live music such as salsa, reggaeton, and Latin jazz.
• Explore the Museums: Puerto Rico is home to some amazing museums, including the Museum of Puerto Rican Music, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, and the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo.
• Celebrate Fiesta de Santiago: Held in honor of Saint James and celebrated on July 25th, this festival has been part of Puerto Rican culture for over four centuries.
• Take a Zumba Class: Zumba is a type of Latin-inspired aerobic dance workout and is a popular activity in Puerto Rico.
Explore the Outdoors
Puerto Rico is home to some impressive natural landscapes, so if you’re looking to explore the great outdoors and soak up some of the beauty of the island, here are some options:
• El Portal: This rainforest, located just outside of San Juan, is a great spot for hiking and bird watching.
• Go Cave Exploring: Puerto Rico is home to some of the most impressive caves in the Caribbean, such as El Pile Lighthouse, and La Cueva del indio.
• Have a Beach Day: With hundreds of miles of coastline, Puerto Rico has some stunning beaches to explore, such as Flamenco Beach, Luquillo Beach, and Sugi Beach.
• Go Hiking: If you’re looking for a more adventurous hike, then El Yunque National Forest is a great spot, featuring one of the most bio-diverse ecosystems in the Caribbean.
