20 Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a large Caribbean Island of 3,500 square miles in the West Indies. The island of Puerto Rico is rich in festivals, traditions, art, and music. You will find colorful street murals. Below are the 20 best things to do in Puerto Rico!

My Experience:

I went to Puerto Rico at the end of June 2021 for my sister Danielle’s Bachelorette party. We had only the best time as we wandered through the streets of Old San Juan, tried the infamous Pina coladas, went swimming in the beautiful turquoise beaches, and explored the one and only US tropical rainforest. I will never forget this experience, as it was one for the books.

Quick Facts:

1. The official languages are Spanish and English.
2. The currency used is the United States dollar.
3. There is no passport needed for United States travelers.
4. The tropical weather is warm and varies between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things to Do:

1- Annual Festivals-

There is a festival or celebration almost every weekend. Festivals are colorful and loud. Each festival is rooted in tradition, often Catholic in origin.

2- Local Rum Tasting-

Bacardi, the world’s most popular rum, has a massive distillery across the bay from Old San Juan. The rum tasting tour will not only teach you all about the history of the Bacardi family, but you will also learn how to taste rum properly. There is even a cocktail-making class that you can enlist in. The Pina coladas was said to be invented in Puerto Rico. I have tried one and believe that they are the best of the best.

3- El Yunque National Forest–

El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US. At nearly 29,000 acres, it is one of the smallest in size, yet it is one of the most biologically diverse. We were able to visit thehttps://tp.media/content?trs=288685&shmarker=509723&locale=en&destination=36&product=195978P10&powered_by=true&width=800&promo_id=8601&campaign_id=47" charset="utf-8"> rainforest on a tour. The tour took us to two natural waterslides, a hidden waterfall, a natural pool, and a cave! My sister and a few friends were able to slide down the waterslide. I was a bit scared, to be honest, because I did not want to hit my head on the rocks. 

4- LED Night Kayak–

Paddle through Condado Lagoon at night in a clear-bottom kayak that lights up.

5- Shop along the streets of Old San Juan-

San Juan is the second oldest European-established capital city in the Americas. Old San Juan, founded by Spanish colonists in 1521, has unique and colorful streets. Honestly, I have done little to no research before this trip. I was in shock at how incredible this place was. While strolling along, we tried iced coffee and Pina Coladas. I recommend trying all local food and drinks because you can have Starbucks anywhere. Although, I did have Starbucks a few times because it was the closest coffee shop to our accommodation. There are gift shops in Old San Juan, so it is the perfect place to buy a souvenir for someone special or yourself.

6- Food Tour in Old San Juan-

Get a taste of the flavor and culture of Puerto Rico with the ‘Sunset Walk & Taste Food Tour’ linked below. You will walk along the cobblestone streets and through the city’s oldest neighborhoods filled with beautiful architecture and try authentic foods like plantains and sofrito.

7- Sailing at Sunset–

Doesn’t it sound like a dream to sail at sunset from San Juan? It is possible to book a tour with complimentary drinks! Read more about the Sailing at Sunset Tour from San Juan!

8- Flamenco Beach on Culebra –

This beach is one of the top 10 beaches in the world. The island has 300 miles of coastline and nearly the same number of beaches. Culebra Island is a short ferry ride from mainland Puerto Rico. The beach itself does not offer extra services of overpriced snacks and drinks. It is best to pack a cooler full of drinks and snacks. The trip takes 45 minutes and leaves from Ceiba, Puerto Rico. No reservations are needed. The ferry leaves three times daily at 6:00 am, 10:30 am, and 3:00 pm.

9- Ziplining–

Ziplining in the El Yunque will be the time of your life!

10- Snorkeling–

Explore the underwater world of Puerto Rico on a guided snorkeling adventure. You will get to swim with fish and sea turtles on Vieques Island!

11- Jet Skiing-

The best, most exhilarating way to explore the turquoise waters of Puerto Rico is on a jet ski. Book your thirty-minute or an-hour rental with a guided tour!

12- Arenales Caves and River Adventure-

If you love that adrenaline rush, then the Arenales Caves and River Adventure Tour is for you. This fun tour is a full day surrounded by mountains, water, and nature. You will hike and river trek through beautiful greenish-blue pools. The best part is feeling the fresh water on your face as you jump in the water and float through an underground cave.

13- Bio Bay-

If you have never experienced putting your hand in the water and the water lighting up, then you have to visit the Bioluminescent Bay in Puerto Rico. There are a few places in the world where you can experience this, and Puerto Rico is fortunate to have three different bio-bays, including Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande, and La Parguera.

14- Horseback Ride on the Beach-

What better way to experience the beautiful, turquoise beaches of Puerto Rico than on a horse? You can either go horseback riding through the rainforest or on a beach.

15- Salsa Dance Class-

Immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s salsa culture during a fun dance class!

16- ATV Tour in San Juan-

Take the ride of a lifetime on an ATV in Puerto Rico!

17- River Trek in the White Canyon of Utuado–

Hiking through the white canyon of Utuado makes for a great adventure. According to research, the white rocks are enormous, and the river is a joy to visit.

18- Hot Springs-

The Coamo Thermal Springs is another one of those natural wonders that makes Puerto Rico a pretty cool place.

19- Cueva Ventana or Window Cave–

Cueva Ventana sits atop a limestone cliff in Arecibo. This cave is one of the most beautiful sights on the island. There is a hike to reach the stunning view.

20- Indian Cave-

The Taino Indian Cave is on the northern Arecibo coast. The cave should be added to your to-do list while visiting. This place is super unique and stunning.

Puerto Rico is a beautiful place with mountains, hilly terrain, and incredible beaches. It is considered a large Caribbean Island. Puerto Rico’s Caribbean Sea is seriously something special. Puerto Rico has 143 islands and is a must-see place to add to your bucket list.

Have you been to Puerto Rico? We would love to hear about your experience below in the comment section!