Welcome to the island of Encanto, Puerto Rico! San Juan, Puerto Rico, holds such a special place in my heart. I went there for my birthday in 2019 on my first-ever solo trip, and I’ve been hooked since! I’ve been there three times since then, each trip discovering something new.
From exploring lush rainforests, immersing in Afro-Puerto Rican culture, tasting food that’ll make you hit a happy dance, and beaches that are basically heaven on earth. There’s so much to do here, you’ll wish you could stay forever.
In this Puerto Rico travel guide, I will share the best things to do, places to stay, and delicious restaurants to eat to help you plan your adventure on the island.
Your Most Asked Questions Answered
- Airfare to San Juan, Puerto Rico: You can often find good deals on airfare to Puerto Rico from major U.S. cities, with prices typically ranging from $200 to $600, depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.
- Puerto Rico Currency: USD
- Main Language Spoken: Spanish is the main language spoken in Puerto Rico. However, English is widely understood and spoken due to its status as a U.S. territory, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and popular attractions.
- Tours in Puerto Rico: Airbnb Experiences offers good cultural and adventure tours.
- Boutique Hotels in Puerto Rico: Hotels in the San Juan area are on the pricey side, but you can find cute boutique hotels that are worth the money. Check out my post on the Best Boutique Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Read: The Best Boutique Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico (Review)
Table of Contents
Things To Do In Puerto Rico
1. Take A Bomba Class
Immerse yourself in Afro-Puerto Rican culture by heading to the capital of traditions, Loiza, and taking a bomba class from the legendary Sheila Osorio. Bomba is a traditional Afro-Puerto Rican dance that has been around for over 400 years. It’s integral to Puerto Rican culture because it represents resilience and resistance against oppression.
In her class, you’ll learn the six main styles of bomba and, at the end, show off everything you’ve learned. The class lasts about an hour. You can book directly with her by messaging her on Instagram @taller_nzambi.
If you’d like to learn more about Bomba, check out my in-depth explanation here!
2. Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach)
Let me put you on to this unique beach in Vieques with striking black sand, all thanks to those volcanic minerals giving it that extra flair. This beach is not just about looks. It’s all about soaking up the sun, embracing the soothing sounds of the crashing waves, and taking the most stunning photos against that unique backdrop. It’s about a 10-minute light hike from the parking lot to reach the shoreline.
How To Get To Vieques
You have a few options to get to Vieques from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
- Book a tour: This is what I did through Airbnb experiences. It included transportation, a ferry ticket, stops at Black Sand Beach, another beach, and lunch.
- Ferry: Take a taxi or Uber to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal, about an hour’s drive from San Juan. From there, hop on a ferry to Vieques. The ferry ride takes approximately one hour, and tickets can be purchased on-site. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Flight: You can also fly from San Juan to Vieques. The flights depart from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan. Several airlines offer flights between the two destinations, with a flight duration of around 30 minutes. It’s advisable to check flight schedules and book in advance.
Where to Stay in Vieques
If you want to stay overnight in Vieques, check out La Finca Hotel. I have yet to stay here, but it’s gotten great reviews from some of my favorite travel content creators.
3. Mini Speed Boat Experience
If you’re all about that water life, try this fantastic mini-speed boat excursion with Kayaking Puerto Rico! Gather your crew of 2, 3, or 4 and get ready to cruise through La Cordillera Nature Reserve, hitting up one of the dopest coral reefs on the island for some serious snorkeling action.
But hey, fair warning: the boat ride can get a bit rocky, so make sure you come prepared with motion sickness patches or a little Dramamine. And don’t even think about bringing anything you don’t want drenched!
Once you’re done exploring underwater, you’ll dock at the deserted island of Icacos, where it’s all about basking in that glorious sunshine. Find your perfect spot on the beach, strike a fierce pose, and snap those fabulous pics!
4. Explore Old San Juan
Step into a world of charm and history as you explore the enchanting streets of Old San Juan. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets that transport you back in time. Lose yourself in the vibrant culture, from the lively plazas filled with music and dancing to the bustling markets offering local crafts and delicacies. Stroll along the iconic city walls, offering breathtaking views of the shimmering Caribbean Sea.
Spend a few hours here wandering the colorful streets for the cutest photo backdrops. And remember to stop at Senor Paleta for a refreshing popsicle.
5. Santurce Art Walk
The Santurce Art Walk is where the magic happens for all the art lovers and culture connoisseurs out there. As you stroll through the lively streets, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking murals, dope graffiti, and art that will leave you in awe. From stunning contemporary masterpieces to thought-provoking installations, the Santurce Art Walk is a celebration of creativity that will nourish your spirit and ignite your imagination.
6. Explore El Yunque Rainforest
Explore the only tropical rainforest in the U.S., El Yunque. You can go ziplining or chase the dozens of waterfalls throughout the park. For ziplining, make sure you aren’t over the weight limit, or, like in my case, your thighs aren’t thicccc, so the harness actually fits, lol.
7. Enjoy a festival
I visited during the Sanse festival in Old San Juan, which unofficially marks the end of the longest holiday season. Thanks to Sanse, I saw one of my salsa legends, La India, live! Festivals are the perfect way to dive into Boricua culture, have an absolute blast, and make memories that will have you smiling for years. Get your dancing shoes ready, babe, ’cause Puerto Rico knows how to throw a party like no other! There’s a festival happening almost every weekend. These festivals are all about tradition, often rooted in Catholic customs, and they kick off mid-week and keep the good vibes flowing through the weekend. Oh and they are free of entry.
Annual Festivals in Puerto Rico
There is a festival almost every weekend. These are some of the biggest around the island:
- Jan 6 – Fiesta de los Reyes Magos
- Third Weekend of January – Fiesta de la Calle San Sebastián; locally called Sanse Festival
- Third Weekend of January – Festival de la Novilla
- Late Feburary – Festival of the Cold
- Feburary or March – Ponceño Carnival
- June 23 – Saint John’s Eve
- Last Weekend of July – Festival of Saint James
- End of November – Festival Nacional Indígena
8. Mixology Class at the Bacardi Factory
Take your cocktail game to the next level! This immersive class invites you to dive into the world of crafting world-class cocktails using the iconic spirits from Bacardi. Led by knowledgeable mixologists who are masters of their craft, you’ll uncover the hidden secrets behind both timeless classics and cutting-edge concoctions. And the best part? You’ll be soaking up the vibrant vibes and rich history of Bacardi right in the heart of Puerto Rico. Get ready to shake, stir, and sip your way to mixology greatness.
9. Party The Night Away At La Placita
For my turn-up queens, go to la Placita. Trust me. You’ll hear an array of music from salsa, reggaeton, hip hop, and so much more.
10. Chincoherrer at Piñones Boardwalk
The Santurce Art Walk is where the magic happens for all the art lovers and culture connoisseurs out there. As you stroll through the lively streets, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking murals, dope graffiti, and art that will leave you in awe. From stunning contemporary masterpieces to thought-provoking installations, the Santurce Art Walk is a celebration of creativity that will nourish your spirit and ignite your imagination.
Restuarants Worth Trying
The mouthwatering flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine will have your taste buds dancing! This fusion of African, Spanish, and Taíno traditions creates a culinary experience like no other. Prepare to feast on mofongo, a savory mashed plantain dish that will have you craving for seconds. Dive into the flavors of arroz con gandules, a heavenly rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, and don’t even get me started on baculites, the crispy fried cod that will leave you wanting more. And to wash it all down, indulge in refreshing piña coladas and my favorite virgin strawberry mojitos. Puerto Rican cuisine is a true celebration of flavor, culture, and pure deliciousness.
La Casita Blanca
Kasalta Bakery
Smokey Joe’s
El Cayo
Drift Restaurant
La Terraza bonanza
Azucena
Guarare
Boutique Hotels to Stay in Puerto Rico
There are a ton of hotel options throughout San Juan. I love a good boutique hotel, so I recommend Casa Botanica or Duna by D.W. But if you’re a light sleeper, remember most boutique hotels are in residential neighborhoods, so they can be noisier than a resort hotel.
If you want to find a cheaper but still convenient place to stay, consider an Airbnb in the Santurce neighborhood.
For my in-depth review: Best Boutique Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Things to Know Before Traveling to Puerto Rico as U.S. Citizens
Do you need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a territory of the U.S., so if you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t need a passport to travel there. You can usually find flights for less than $300 flying out from the east coast. From Houston, flights are a bit more expensive, going as high as $600 round trip.
Tip: Consider flying with a budget airline like Spirit or Frontier. I know, those airlines have a bad rep but they frequently have direct routes from the east coast.
Is Puerto Rico Safe for Solo Woman Travel?
Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination for all travelers. Of course, like any place, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. While solo traveling in Puerto Rico I’ve gone during a major festival, left my purse unattended on the street in Old San Juan while shooting content, got lost on the bus late at night, and felt safe the entire time.
Getting Around Puerto Rico
If you’re like me and want to avoid driving on vacation, Ubers are available in San Juan (metro region) and range from $4-$25. I’ve never seen a fare more the $25 any of the times I’ve visited. If you prefer to explore the island on your own, there are over 14 car rental companies available, and booking in advance is recommended.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico boasts a year-round sunny, hot, and humid climate. Remember to pack your portable fan and a cute little hand towel to keep yourself cool and refreshed.
The peak tourist season runs from December to April when the weather is dry and perfect for vacationing. You know the Caribbean can get hit by hurricanes between June 1 and November 30 during the wet season, but don’t let that scare you away. I’ve been there in October, and let me tell you, not a single drop of rain spoiled my trip. So, don’t hesitate to plan your visit and enjoy the island vibes, rain or shine.
Time Zone in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is GMT -4. This means it’s usually the same as Eastern Standard Time (EST), but since Puerto Rico doesn’t observe Daylight Saving Time, it’s one hour behind EST during that period.
Money in Puerto Rico
Because Puerto Rico is part of the U.S., the currency is USD. Cards are widely accepted, but I suggest carrying some cash just in case.
ABOUT
Hola, I’m Eileen Ivette, an Afro-Colombian digital storyteller and award-winning video producer on a mission to inspire and empower others to explore the world while celebrating cultural diversity. As an Afro-Latina traveler, I encourage my audience to be fearless explorers through culturally immersive destination guides, travel tips, unique hotel stays, and other resources
POPULAR POSTS
Curaçao Cost Breakdown
A Lit Girls Trip To Curaçao-6-day Itinerary
Colors of Colombia – The Land of Milk & Honey
The Best Boutique Hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Here are some of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Rico if you’re planning a trip to San Juan and looking for a place that’s a bit more intimate and stylish than your average hotel.
Southwest National Parks Road Trip: The Ultimate Travel Guide
I recently went on the adventure of a lifetime— a seven-day road trip through America’s Southwest! Before deciding on this trip, the only thing I knew about the Southwest was the Grand Canyon, but there is sooooo much more. This region is seriously underrated in how many cool and beautiful places there are to explore.
7 Epic Indoor Things To Do In NYC
My boyfriend’s birthday was on a Thursday, so I figured why not make this surprise into a weekend trip. The goal for this trip was to do unique things that we hadn’t done before. Although our trip was specifically for a birthday weekend, the things to do on this list work for any occasion. Let’s get into it:
