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Things to do in Puerto Rico

Things to do in  Puerto Rico

Welcome to Puerto Rico

Often dubbed the Isle of Enchantment, Puerto Rico—flanked by the Dominican Republic to the west and the Virgin Islands to the east—is characterized by bone-white beaches, lush jungle, and a rich indigenous past and present. Whether you want to lounge on the sands, get to grips with the fraught history of this Caribbean archipelago, or hike through dense rain forest, there's something to suit you in Puerto Rico, a destination which boasts multifaceted appeal and provides a wealth of activities for foodies, history buffs, and thrill seekers alike. San Juan, the Caribbean island's capital, teems with cultural vibrancy. Take a walking tour of Old San Juan, replete with colorful facades and lookout points, and home to La Fortaleza, built in 1533. History buffs also won't want to miss San Juan National Historic Site and San Juan Bay, both full of monuments. San Juan also serves as a convenient gateway to El Yunque National Forest, a biodiverse expanse of tropical rainforest boasting La Coca Falls, the reef-protected Luquillo Beach, and the Bacardi rum distillery. The bioluminescent bay in Vieques, an island off the mainland, offers one of the brightest displays of bioluminescence in the world—opt for a kayaking tour for an up-close display. For exceptional snorkeling, take a boat tour of Culebra, another island off the coast, with stops at Flamenco Beach; try the Cayo Luis Pena Nature Reserve from Fajardo; or go ziplining, horseback riding, or hiking through the lush jungle surrounding San Juan.

Top 15 things to do in Puerto Rico

#1
Old San Juan

Old San Juan

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The cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico’s Old San Juan, lined with brightly colored Spanish colonial houses, lend themselves to aimless yet inspired 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 Cristobal to restaurants serving plates of aromatic rice and fried plantains, Old San Juan charms travelers at every turn.More
#2
Laguna Grande

Laguna Grande

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During the day, Laguna Grande in Fajardo looks like other bays along the tropical Puerto Rican coastline. But come nightfall the bioluminescent lagoon glows fluorescent, thanks to pyrodinium bahamense, microscopic plankton that thrive in its shallow Caribbean waters and glow when disturbed.More
#3
El Yunque National Park

El Yunque National Park

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The El Yunque National Park is the only tropical rain forest under the protection of the US Forest Service, as well as the largest nature reserve in densely populated Puerto Rico. Situated in the mist-wreathed Luquillo Mountains—where year-round precipitation ensures lush, green landscapes and a healthy diversity of animal life—El Yunque is home to the rare Puerto Rican parrot and the Coqui frog, whose distinctive croak provides El Yunque's soundtrack.More
#4
San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan)

San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan)

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Named in honor of Saint John the Baptist, San Juan Gate (Puerta de San Juan) was originally one of five doorways to the city used to protect its streets from invaders and each gate has its own unique function. Today, this towering red and white entryway that’s tucked into the city’s surrounding stonewall offers a truly magical way to enter and explore Puerto Rico’s capital city.Travelers who pass through this historic entrance will find energetic vendors selling traditional snacks and ice-cold piragua along walkways heading towards the historic old town. Ancient trees stretch high into the sky and provide cool shade for lovers on romantic strolls. Narrow cobblestone streets lined with restored Spanish colonial homes and ornate balconies add to the charm of this favorite San Juan attraction.More
#5
Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)

Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay)

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Bioluminescent Bay (aka Mosquito Bay or Puerto Mosquito) is one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays, located on the island of Vieques. A popular destination for nighttime boat tours, this bay is by far the brightest. The water is illuminated by dinoflagellates called Pyrodinium bahamense, tiny microorganisms that glow when touched.More
#6
San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)

San Juan Cathedral (Catedral de San Juan Bautista)

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Built in 1521, San Juan Cathedral(Catedral de San Juan Bautista) is one of the highlights of Old San Juan. The second-oldest cathedral in the Americas, this landmark in the heart of Old San Juan has an impressive array of religious and historical artifacts. The church is still operational, with services held throughout the week.More
#7
Cueva del Indio

Cueva del Indio

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Stationed high above the Puerto Rican countryside, these beautiful caves are one of Arecibo’s most popular destinations and offer a unique taste of Taino cultural history, too. While the hike to the top is somewhat technical, amazing views and ancient pre-Columbian rock paintings and carvings make it worth the challenge.More
#8
Luquillo Beach

Luquillo Beach

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Puerto Rico’s Luquillo Beach (Playa Luquillo), also known as Balneario Monserrate, is a tranquil crescent famed for its coconut palm trees and long stretch of powdery white sand. Considered one of the island’s best public beaches, the calm waters here are perfect for swimming, wading, kayaking, and other water sports.More
#9
Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos)

Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos)

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A small, uninhabited island located just a 15-minute boat ride from the Puerto Rican town of Fajardo, Icacos Island (Cayo Icacos) is part of Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural los Cayos de la Cordillera). Its white-sand shores, pristine waters, and colorful reefs make it a popular day-trip destination for snorkeling and diving.More
#10
Pinones

Pinones

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A beautiful boardwalk, picturesque beaches and an impressive local food scene are just part of what makes a visit to Pinones the perfect escape for gringos in search of a truly Puerto Rican experience. Travelers can rent bikes and cruise along the scenic coast, or head off road on a ride through the diverse ecosystems that line paths leading to shallow shores. Whether it’s sky-high palm trees or low lying sea brush the range of accessible plant life is astounding.Travelers also love the wide variety of traditional island fare, like alcapuria, papa rellenas and pinchos, all served alongside strong, cold cocktails. A number of kiosks on the beach offer these local dishes, made fresh to order, making Pinones one of the best food destinations in Puerto Rico.More
#11
Castillo San Felipe del Morro

Castillo San Felipe del Morro

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Just north of Old San Juan, within the San Juan National Historic Site, stands 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro. The fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the northwestern tip of the islet of San Juan, kept watch over the Atlantic and protected Old San Juan and the Bay of San Juan from incoming enemies for centuries.More
#12
Gozalandia Falls

Gozalandia Falls

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Gozalandia Falls—a breathtaking waterfall in San Sebastian—is one of Puerto Rico’s top not-so-hidden gems thanks to its natural beauty, spectacular views, and cool waters perfect for a refreshing dip. The natural pool has a shallow area popular with younger children, as well as a partially submerged cave to swim in.More
#13
La Fortaleza (The Fortress)

La Fortaleza (The Fortress)

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The blue-and-white Santa Catalina Palace (Palacio de Santa Catalina), otherwise known as La Fortaleza (The Fortress), is the official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico. Situated in Old San Juan, the UNESCO World Heritage Site occupies a spot that was long one of the most contested strategic positions in the Caribbean.More
#14
Paseo de la Princesa

Paseo de la Princesa

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Located just outside the city walls south of Old San Juan, the Paseo de la Princesa is one of the most pleasant and popular walks in the city. Dating back to 1853, the lovely pedestrian promenade is lined with trees, antique street lamps, benches, gardens, sculptures, and fountains, and offers wonderful views of San Juan Bay.More
#15
The Capitol of Puerto Rico (El Capitolio)

The Capitol of Puerto Rico (El Capitolio)

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This classic capitol in the heart of San Juan is home to the Legislative Assembly, House of Representatives, the Senate and a whole lot of Puerto Rican history. Visitors to this regal site, which officially opened in 1907, will find massive marble columns, ornate stonework and a brightly colored capitol dome, in addition to the Architecture and Construction Archives of the University of Puerto Rico. These include rare ink and cloth sketches, as well as the original 38 blue print plans for the structure. Visitors say this classic building is a major departure from the rest of the old city, but a few hours wandering the halls, learning about Puerto Rican history and politics is a worthy addition to any San Juan visit.More

Trip ideas

How to Spend 2 Days in San Juan

How to Spend 2 Days in San Juan

Top activities in Puerto Rico

Zipline Adventure Tour

Zipline Adventure Tour

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59
From
HK$836.77
San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour

San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour

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886
From
HK$474.71
Culebra Day Trip by Catamaran from Fajardo

Culebra Day Trip by Catamaran from Fajardo

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1240
From
HK$1,408.03
Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour

Flavors of Old San Juan Food Tour

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3001
From
HK$1,182.74
Puerto Rico Guided Adventure in El Yunque Rainforest
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San Juan ATV Adventure Tour

San Juan ATV Adventure Tour

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238
From
HK$1,399.98
Culebra Snorkeling Day Trip
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Culebra Snorkeling Day Trip

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166
From
HK$1,094.48
Snorkel Icacos Island aboard El Innovation
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El Yunque Natural Waterslide & Rainforest Hiking with Transportation
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Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo

Bio Bay Kayak Tour in Fajardo

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367
From
HK$520.33
Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Recent reviews from experiences in Puerto Rico

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Amazing activity!
Denzel_D, Jul 2022
ATV Single Adventure Hacienda Campo Rico, Puerto Rico
If I ever come back to Puerto Rico this will be on my list of things to do again.
star-5
Must do!
Jennifer_H, Jul 2022
Sunset Walking Tour in the Historic Old San Juan
We truly got to see PUerto Rico!
star-5
This was our first time...
Jessie_M, Jun 2022
Old San Juan Walking Tour
Before we did any other tours, we made sure to learn about San Juan first and got a lot of recommendations on places to visit for the duration of our stay.
star-5
Great half day trip
Alexa_A, Jun 2022
Hike to a Hidden Waterfall
Very short walk to the waterfall which we swam in and took a ton of pictures.
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Birthday in Puerto Rico
Alicia_D, Jun 2022
Airport transportation between San Juan and Rio Grande
this is our 1st time in Puerto Rico and as we were driving he told us about all the sights and things to do!
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Easy Hike, Beautiful Views - Definitely Recommend
Brad_C, Jun 2022
Day Trip to El Yunque Tropical Rainforest from San Juan
We really enjoyed the short hike, the river/swim, the tower with great views, and the waterfall.
star-5
Best tour guide.
Brendishia_W, Jun 2022
Puerto Rico: El Yunque Rainforest & Waterfalls Half-Day Tour
They even gave us tips on things to do after the rainforest tour!
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Great experience!
Georgina_A, May 2022
El Yunque National Forest Adventure and Luquillo Beach Combo
We loved that there was two spots to visit - just the perfect amount of time to swim in the rainforest and then get a great lunch.
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Rain Forest Adventure
Jennifer_J, May 2022
El Yunque Rainforest Tour from San Juan
It was nice seeing some of the rain forest and the water activities was so awesome!
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It was a great experience...
Frank_M, May 2022
El Yunque Rainforest Guided Hiking with Waterfall Tour
It was a great experience good people fun time I will definitely do it again One of the fun things I did in Puerto Rico
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Fun and Informative
Erin_L, Apr 2022
Sunset Harbor Boat Ride in San Juan
A unique way to see another side of Puerto Rico.
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We enjoyed the bat cave...
Jolene_P, Apr 2022
Arenales Caves and River Adventure in Puerto Rico
We enjoyed the bat cave and the water fall the most.
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This trip is a must!
Jaclyn_G, Apr 2022
El Yunque Rainforest Off the Beaten Path and Bio Bay Kayaking Combo Tour
All the best things to see in one tour.
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Casual one with Kids is a great experience
arjithaap, Apr 2022
Casual One: El Yunque Rainforest, Waterslide, Beach, Dine, and Shop w/ Transport
The experience with kids was great.
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Excellent
Nikola_J, Apr 2022
Vivid Day Tour in El Yunque Rain Forest with Transportation
They are open for every question, very knowledgeable and always there to help you and encourage you for any activities you might be scared to try.
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Awesome day
Christopher_P, Apr 2022
Puerto Rico Off-Road Adventures
Definitely recommend to anyone looking to see the lesser experienced parts of Puerto Rico!
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Perfect Spring Break Activity
Sheccid_R, Apr 2022
Casual One: El Yunque Rainforest, Waterslide, Beach, Dine, and Shop w/ Transport
Decided to do this with my friends while in Puerto Rico on spring break and we had a great time.
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It’s a great tour to sign up for
Paul_J, Mar 2022
Let A Local Show You Puerto Rico: Visit to El Yunque Included
We got a chance to see all parts of the Island and taste the food.
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Great tour
Amy_K, Mar 2022
Sunset Walking Tour in the Historic Old San Juan
The fort was amazing to see .
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Great Tour.
Donald_S, Mar 2022
Old San Juan Walking Tour
I felt like I saw everything there was to see on the surface.
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All about Puerto Rico

When to visit

Sunny days and happy hours are seemingly endless in Spain’s Puerto Rico. December through March is heaven for winter sun-lovers, while the summer is popular with beach-seeking families and younger travelers. Meanwhile, the shoulder months of April and November see temperatures, crowds, and prices dwindle.

Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
AST (UTC -4)
Country Code
+1-787,+1-939
Language(s)
English
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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