Things To Do In Puerto Rico

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1. Old San Juan

Old San Juan
4.5 /5

57 km
from city center
1 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located in the capital San Juan, Old San Juan is a historic district of Puerto Rico and it's oldest settlement.

2. San Juan National Historic Site

San Juan National Historic Site
4.3 /5

57 km
from city center
2 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

A series of fortifications built to defend San Jose and the Bay of San Jose, along with the La Fortaleza, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Museo de Las Americas

Museo de Las Americas

6,428 km
from city center
3 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The history and culture of the American continent, with an emphasis on Puerto Rico’s cultural heritage, can be found at el Museo de las Américas in Old San Juan. Located inside of the historic Cuartel de Ballajá, a former barracks for Spanish soldiers, the museum has four permanent exhibitions: Popular Arts in the Americas, African Legacy, El Indio in America, and the Conquest and Colonization, which mark the cultural evolution of what Puerto Rico is today. The museum displays pottery, musical instruments, basketry, among other relics made in different American countries. It also exhibits Santos de Puerto Rico, the saints worshipped by Puerto Ricans and some other temporary exhibits covering a range of topics.

4. Isla de Cabras

Isla de Cabras

5,921 km
from city center
4 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The entrance of the San Juan bay, Isla de Cabras is one of the best-facilitated beaches of Puerto Rico and is also famous for relaxation. The island is well known by the tourists for fishing and walking through the beach and also for its varied and safe watersports like kayaking, snorkelling, diving, swimming, and fishing in Puerto Rico.

5. Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities
4.2 /5

53 km
from city center
5 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has a wide array of adrenaline pumping action for those who just can't do without the thrill, and tons of other fun activities!

6. Culebra

Culebra
3.8 /5

136 km
from city center
6 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Culebra is one of the most tranquil and serene islands of the Puerto Rico archipelago, home to stunning beaches and it's elusive giant lizard.

7. Bioluminescent (Mosquito) Bay

Bioluminescent (Mosquito) Bay
3.8 /5

122 km
from city center
7 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located in Vieques Island, this 'glow in the dark' bay is an experience that you will never forget.

8. Boat Tours and Water Activities

Boat Tours and Water Activities
3.7 /5

58 km
from city center
8 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Undoubtedly the best way to explore the uncapped beauty of the Puerto Rican archipelago and the world under the water.

9. El Yunque

El Yunque
3.7 /5

84 km
from city center
9 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

El Yunque National Rainforest consists of cloud and rain forests, offering breathtaking views. Most of the camping sites in this rainforest are reachable via hiking. Some sites have cooking areas, but you must bring your supplies for refreshments. Moreover, you must remember to get the camping permit beforehand for an uninterrupted camping experience. The rainforest is full of amazing hiking trails, scenic views, gushing waterfalls, rare flowers and trees, and many fascinating activities.

10. Museo de Art de Ponce

Museo de Art de Ponce
3.6 /5

24 km
from city center
10 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located in Ponce, it has a vast collection of 4,500 works of art, and has a brilliant collection of Pre - Raphaelite works in particular.

11. La Chiva (Blue Beach)

La Chiva (Blue Beach)
3.6 /5

128 km
from city center
11 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

An absolutely breathtaking beach on island of Vieques, the La Chiva is a long stretch of unbelievable beauty.

12. Cueva del Indio

Cueva del Indio
3.5 /5

31 km
from city center
12 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Home to some amazing views and historic carved Indian caves, the Cueva del Indio has fast become a huge tourist attraction.

13. Caracas Beach (Red Beach)

Caracas Beach (Red Beach)
3.5 /5

125 km
from city center
13 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

One of Vieques several stunning beaches, the Caracas is a hugely popular beach among locals and tourists alike.

14. Flamenco Beach

Flamenco Beach

10,148 km
from city center
14 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The Flamenco beach is the most popular Caribbean island of Culebra covered with white sand and clear turquoise waters accessible by a flight or ferry from Fajardo. The beach being surrounded by majestic hills, palm trees and connected by Culebra National Wildlife Refuge makes it the best beach in Puerto Rico.

15. Luquillo Beach

Luquillo Beach
3.6 /5

94 km
from city center
15 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The Luquillo beach is located just 40 mins drive away from the east of San Juan and is one of the most famous attractions for enthusiastic snorkelers and surfers. The beach is primarily divided into two parts with one half being lively and lined with food kiosks whereas the other being known for its relaxation and peace.

16. Playa Sucia

Playa Sucia
4.1 /5

64 km
from city center
16 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Playa Sucia is one of the most popular beaches in Cabo Rojo besides the Los Morrillos Lighthouse towards the southern tip of the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge which is accessible by taking a local taxi or car on rent.

17. Tortuga Beach

Tortuga Beach
3.9 /5

5,805 km
from city center
17 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Situated on a small island of Culebrita beside the East coast, the Tortuga beach is accessible just through boats or water taxis with a limited amount of public amenities. It also has the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean and trails exploring West beach, Trash Beach and tidal pools. The beach being remotely located has minimal access to facilities in the area.

18. Ocean Park Beach

Ocean Park Beach
4.3 /5

62 km
from city center
18 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Ocean Park Beach is a residential suburb area of San Juan comfortably reached by car or bus. The coast is touched by various private residences, seaside restaurants, and hotels but is an uncrowded tourist destination throughout the year.

19. Crashboat Beach

Crashboat Beach
3.6 /5

1,668 km
from city center
19 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located at the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico and near to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport(SJU) in Carolina, Crashboat beach is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico for being the beginner-friendly diving spot known for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. The beach is famous among the locals for its rocky cliffs and piers which are best for jumping.

20. Sun Bay Beach

Sun Bay Beach
4.1 /5

120 km
from city center
20 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The southside of Vieques lies the beautiful Sun Bay beach which can be travelled through a ferry from Ceiba, local taxi, or taking a flight from Ceiba, Isla Grande, and San Juan. It's one of the most accessible and family-friendly beaches with slow currents favourable for mediocre swimmers.

21. Isla Verde Beach

Isla Verde Beach

64 km
from city center
21 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Isla Verde beach which is also known as the best urban beach in Puerto Rico is one of the nearest destinations to San Juan International Airport. It is also one of the most affordable beaches in Puerto Rico for guided as well as unguided watersports like parasailing, jet skies, kneeboards, and catamarans.

22. La Chiva Beach

La Chiva Beach

79 km
from city center
22 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

La Chiva is situated to the southern tip of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge which is a 20 minutes drive from the Vieques Ferry Terminal and 25 minutes from Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport.

23. Aviones Beach, Loíza

Aviones Beach, Loíza
4.4 /5

12 km
from city center
23 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located near the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, Aviones beach is the most popular beach in Puerto Rico for its Purto Rician food and local festivals. Also described as the “the Hawaii of the East” surrounded by mangroves, Aviones beach is most popular for its camping areas, surfing, and food. The water sports over here are not recommended for a beginner because of their shallow waters and stone slabs whereas is the best place for a trained individual.

24. Balneario El Escambrón

Balneario El Escambrón

5,155 km
from city center
24 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Balneario El Escambrón is a 30 minutes walk from Old San Juan also with easy transportation through taxis and is one of the most crowded beaches in San Juan. The shallow waters and lifeguard protection on the beach are ideal for young swimmers and also give them a chance for guided snorkeling.

25. Culebrita

Culebrita

12 km
from city center
25 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Culebrita is one of the most popular islands of Puerto Rico for its famous beaches and water sports. The island attracts a lot of tourists each year for its popular beaches like Flamenco Beach and Playa Tortuga which are known for snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving.

26. Isla de Caja de Muertos

Isla de Caja de Muertos
4.2 /5

12 km
from city center
26 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Isla de Caja de Muertos, a place to find endangered birds, turtles, and marine life is an uninhabited island of Puerto Rico known for its hiking, snorkeling, birding, and peace. The cays of Cayo Morrillito and Cayo Berberia are the popular tourist attraction of the island. Voted for “The Ten Enchanting Natural Attractions of Puerto Rico”, the island is one of Puerto Rico’s popular Nature Reserves. A 1.5-hour drive from San Juan, tourists as well as locals from San Juan, Ponce, and the south coast are the ones to have a common visit to Isla de Caja de Muertos.

27. Cayo Icacos

Cayo Icacos
3.9 /5

12 km
from city center
27 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Situated to the east and off the coast of Fajardo is the deserted island of Puerto Rico and is popularly known for its safe swimming and snorkelling places. The natural beauty of Cayo Icacos which is the La Cordillera Nature Reserve makes this island the best attraction for nature wanderers. The island is only accessible by a catamaran or a water taxi if booked in advance and is just a 45 minutes drive from San Juan to the Fajardo marina whereas reaching Cayo Icacos is a short sail from the coast.

28. Vieques

Vieques

83 km
from city center
28 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Vieques is a beautiful eastern coast island of Puerto Rico known for swimming, snorkelling, surfing, scuba diving, and horse riding along with its world-famous bioluminescent bay. The island's popular hotspot Puerto Mosquito offers tourists a unique experience to swim in the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Along with the beaches is the last Spanish Fort which is a must-visit tourist place of Vieques to go back in history.

29. La Parguera

La Parguera
4.1 /5

56 km
from city center
29 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

La Parguera is the most popular island of Puerto Rico for its restaurants and bars along with its affordable beach shopping. The island weekends are usually filled with authentic food, drinks, and engaging music which attracts many tourists to spend their weekends on the island of La Parguera.

30. Isla Palomino

Isla Palomino
3.9 /5

6,452 km
from city center
30 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Isla Palomino is one of the best private islands near Puerto Rico with clear beaches and water activities. A majority portion of the island is available for the guests of luxurious El Conquistador and is also the best family-friendly islands of Puerto Rico. Easy and affordable hourly rented water sports equipment and the relaxing massage by the beach attract different types of tourists.

31. Desecheo Island

Desecheo Island
4.3 /5

12 km
from city center
31 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Desecheo Island is the only island in Puerto Rico that is closed for its tourists because of its unexploded military artillery. Even if the island is closed, it's still a major spot and is permitted for snorkelling and diving. The island waters can be reached by renting a private boat to enjoy with a prior booking. More than 20 dive sites are well accessible for tourists visiting the island and even guided snorkelling and diving are very popular near Desecheo.

32. Cayo Caracoles

Cayo Caracoles
4.4 /5

12 km
from city center
32 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Situated off the town of Lajas, Cayo Caracoles is covered by mangroves and is also the best mangrove island in Puerto Rico. The island is popular for boating as well as snorkelling and is also the best destination to explore 30 different cays of Cayo Caracoles. A 45 minutes boat ride from Ponce or kayaking through the ocean are the only ways to get to the island.

33. Gilligan’s Island

Gilligan’s Island
4.5 /5

12 km
from city center
33 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Officially known as Cayo Aurora, Gilligan’s Island is just a 10-20 minute kayak or ferry ride from Guánica and is famous for its snorkelling through mangrove tunnels. It is one of the safest islands of Puerto Rico being marked by permitted areas with buoys for the safety of swimmers. The untouched island is a famous weekend spot for Puerto Ricans with barbecue pits, picnic tables, changing huts, and restrooms. Gilligan’s Island being the untouched island is one of the best places to experience a relaxing getaway in Puerto Rico.

34. Isla Mata La Gata

Isla Mata La Gata
3.8 /5

49 km
from city center
34 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located on the southwestern coast of Puerto Rico and covered by mangroves, Isla Mata La Gata is the best family-friendly island of Puerto Rico. The island is also equipped with picnic tables, composting restrooms, showers, barbecue pits, changing rooms, and gazebos making it the best places to picnic in Lajas.

35. Isla de Mona

Isla de Mona

5,286 km
from city center
35 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Isla de Mona is one of the most popular historical islands near Puerto Rico for its rich ancient historical artifacts, caves, and archaeological sites. The untouched island lacks restaurants and hotels but is the best place for hiking, trails, and camping sites. Exploring the caves of Isla de Mona and visiting the lighthouse as well as the shipwreck sites is a popular thing to do as a tourist. A 4-hour boat ride is the best option to reach the island whereas it's required to have a 1-day visitor’s permit from the DRNA to stay overnight on high tides.

36. La Coca Falls

La Coca Falls

67 km
from city center
36 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The La Coca Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Puerto Rico which is situated just beside the road and easily accessible in El Yunque National Park that attracts many tourists and locals each year. Located to the east of San Juan, the spectacular 85 feet waterfall is also known for its La Coca trail among the locals.

37. Gozalandia Waterfall

Gozalandia Waterfall

12 km
from city center
37 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Gozalandia is also known as Las Cataratas or El Roble Waterfall which is one of the secret waterfalls of Puerto Rico and is located to the north of San Sebastián town. It is popular for its natural pool at the foot of the falls with deep and clean waters which attracts many tourists for swimming.

38. Salto Curet Waterfall

Salto Curet Waterfall

3,848 km
from city center
38 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The Salto Curet Waterfall is one of the rare falls with orange-colored waters generated because of the orange clay soil river originating from the mountains. It has dedicated parking facilities at the base of the trail from where it takes about 30 minutes to reach the falls.

39. Doña Juana Waterfall

Doña Juana Waterfall

20 km
from city center
39 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The Doña Juana Waterfall also known as Chorro de Doña Juana is one of the popular waterfalls in Puerto Rico among the locals for its clean and clear waters. The waterfall is situated right along the road and is also easily accessible by tourists.

40. Rio La Planta

Rio La Planta

77 km
from city center
40 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Rio La Planta or Chorros La Planta is one of the most visited waterfalls in Arecibo by locals on weekends for a family picnic in Puerto Rico. It is also an easily accessible spot to be listed by the visitors while travelling to any other places in Arecibo.

41. La Mina Waterfall

La Mina Waterfall

57 km
from city center
41 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

La Mina Waterfall is also known as Cascada La Mina is one of the best waterfalls in Puerto Rico for its two trails that is the La Mina trail and the Big Tree Trail. Covered by 29,000 acres of greenery, the trail follows the La Mina River and is also the shortest trail in Puerto Rico.

42. El Ataud

El Ataud

5,155 km
from city center
42 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Hidden in the jungle near Adjuntas, El Ataud also known as Charco El Ataúd is one of the most visited waterfalls in Puerto Rico by youngsters as a weekend getaway. The trail that leads to the top of the falls is a bit slippery and that's why is not recommended for children.

43. Juan Diego Waterfall

Juan Diego Waterfall

55 km
from city center
43 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Juan Diego Waterfall situated in El Yunque National Forest is one of the most visited waterfalls in Puerto Rico because of its short trails and series of falls. The first waterfall in the series is the most accessible whereas the hike to the second falls being slippery and dangerous is not recommended for beginners as well as kids.

44. Las Delicias

Las Delicias

49 km
from city center
44 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Las Delicias waterfall situated at a one and half hours drive from San Juan or one hour from Ponce is one of the popular falls in the Bosque Estatal de Tres Picachos in Ciales. The falls are easily seen through roads and can also be reached by a walk through the steps.

45. Las Tinajas Waterfall

Las Tinajas Waterfall

5,301 km
from city center
45 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Las Tinajas waterfall is one of the best adventurous waterfalls in Puerto Rico for its risky hike and swift currents. The trail from the river base to reach the falls is a bit dangerous because of its slippery rocks. The lower section of the waterfall has a deep pool with a rope swing which is the best spot for kids to enjoy whereas the main part of the waterfall at the end requires a good hiking skill.

46. Museo de Arte de Ponce

Museo de Arte de Ponce

24 km
from city center
46 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

The Museo de Arte de Ponce resides in almost 4,500 objects and works of art, spanning about 3,000 years. Europe, Africa and America are three regions that have heavily shaped Puerto Rico’s past. According to the official website, several artworks from the museum were exhibited internationally before the museum’s reopening in 2010. Visitors can look at pieces from the permanent collection, and the temporary exhibits as well as a library and educational initiatives. Most of the classical artworks date back to the 17th century. Revel in these historic collections that showcase the vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture alongside the pieces from Europe.

47. Parque de Bombas

Parque de Bombas

23 km
from city center
47 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Visit Parque de Bombas, a landmark of the city and a museum of firefighting. Built-in 1882, the building served as the first fire station in Puerto Rico, whose firefighters battled some major blazes in the early years. Designed for the 1882 Exhibition Trade Fair, the Moorish Revival style and the lively red colour makes the museum building very unique. It was turned into a museum after 108 years of service and now today, you can view various relics, items, and artefacts from the station's history.

48. Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico

24 km
from city center
48 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Do not miss the opportunity of exploring Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico which is amongst the largest museums in the Caribbean. Situated in an area of San Juan known for its street art and community of creatives, the museum showcases a wide range of Puerto Rican artwork from the 18th century to present-day exhibits. Admire a vast collection of paintings by the most famous national artists and check out the numerous temporary shows the museum often hosts. Along with other top museums in Puerto Rico, the Puerto Rico Museum of Art provides an inviting and prominent home for different forms of art, including paintings and sculptures.

49. El Cemi Museum

El Cemi Museum

115 km
from city center
49 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Named after a three-pointed object - Cemi, which has religious significance for the indigenous people of Puerto Rico, the Tainos, the museum is located in the heart of Jayuya. The building of the museum is one-of-a-kind, shaped like a Cemi making it the most unusual museum in Puerto Rico. The visitors can take a look at Taino artefacts and a painting of petroglyphs in the small museum.

50. Casa Blanca Museum

Casa Blanca Museum

57 km
from city center
50 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Situated near El Morro in Old San Juan, right around the corner from Casa Blanca and San Sebastián streets, you will find el Museo Casa Blanca, a fortified residence that was once home to Juan Ponce de León’s family. The house shows architectural designs of the 16th century along with a stunning view of the Old City with beautiful gardens, living rooms and bedrooms originally used by the family. The friendly and informative staff will gladly answer any of your questions, and you can pick up a pamphlet to supplement your visit. You can also take one of the daily guided tours to truly appreciate the visit.

51. Serralles Castle Museum

Serralles Castle Museum

26 km
from city center
51 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Located in the city known as the “Pearl of the South”, Ponce, this museum dates back to the 1930s. It is a Spanish Revival-style home built by the Serrallés family of the famous DonQ rum. Visitors can opt for guided tours of the museum which are given in English and Spanish. They can also visit the on-site gift shop and wine cellar. The museum has a butterfly nursery, the Vigía Cross, and a Japanese garden with benches, pagodas, and koi ponds. It also has a permanent exhibition so you can visit it anytime you want.

52. San Sebastian Festival

San Sebastian Festival

52 out of 83
Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Everybody loves a long holiday, and Puerto Rico has the longest holiday season in the world. The San Sebastian Festival (known as Fiesta de la Calle San Sebastián), marks the end of the winter festivities on the islands. Taking place during the third week of January across multiple days, the festival honors Saint Sebastian, a Roman Catholic saint popular throughout the region. The most famous celebrations of this festival take place in the Old San Juan area.

FAQs on Puerto Rico

How can I commute within Puerto rico?

Getting around in Puerto Rico is no big issue. There are pre-paid taxi routes to all tourist attractions from taxi stands. Metered taxis ply in other areas of the island. Buses are also very well connected and so are publicos. These are popular ways to travel since they are extremely cheap and cover a fair amount of routes. A heavy rail system called Tren Urbano serves the metropolitan area of San Juan along 16 stations between Bayam„n, Guaynabo and San Juan. Loads of ferry services operate throughout the archipelago connecting the several islands of Puerto Rico. The state run ferries are fairly cheap. Another convenient way of getting around Puerto Rico is by renting a car or a moped. It is not very expensive when split between 2 or 3 people and the destinations are decently connected.
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What are the top sightseeing places in Puerto rico?

The top sightseeing places in Puerto rico are Old San Juan, San Juan National Historic Site, Adventure Activities in Puerto Rico, Culebra, Bioluminescent (Mosquito) Bay, Boat Tours and Water Activities.
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