Puerto Rico Island

Travel Guide

Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
Reserva Natural Playa Grande - El Paraiso showing general coastal views, a beach and a sunset
San Juan Cemetery
Luquillo Beach
El Museo Castillo Serralles

Discover pristine beaches, explore caves and hiking trails, and immerse yourself in the relaxed local culture of this Caribbean island.

Puerto Rico has a rich history, pristine white-sand beaches and forested mountains, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Puerto Rico is made up of several islands and keys Puerto Rico Island is the largest island and the main hub. 

Explore Puerto Rico’s fascinating cultural and indigenous past in the Old San Juan district in San Juan, the capital city located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico Island. Major historic attractions include El Morro (Castillo San Felipe del Morro) and Fort San Jeronimo (Fortin de San Gerónimo de Baquerón). To learn more about contemporary local culture, visit the Museum of the Americas (Museo de Las Américas) and Museum of Art of Puerto Rico (Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico).

Enjoy traditional cuisine and cocktails at one of the island's many fashionable bars and restaurants. The Ocean Park area offers beachfront dining and a relaxed island atmosphere. Venture further afield to try regional street food at Luquillo Beach, where there are dozens of kiosks selling typical snacks, such as pinchos (chicken, pork or shrimp kabobs) and tostones (fried green plantain).

Much of Puerto Rico Island is covered in forest that is excellent for hiking. Explore the network of caves at Rio Camuy Cave Park (Parque de las Cavernas del Rio Camuy), or hike through waterfalls in El Yunque National Forest.

All along the coast you’ll find stunning beaches. Condado Beach and Isla Verde Beach are just minutes from downtown San Juan. The island’s tropical climate means it’s warm enough to dip into the ocean year-round. The height of tourist season is December through April be aware that hurricanes can crop up the rest of the year.

Puerto Rico is serviced by the Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, and can be reached from destinations across the Americas. The public transportation in Puerto Rico is limited to parts of San Juan, so you’ll need to rent a car or travel by taxi if you want to explore the countryside.

Where to stay in Puerto Rico Island

Isla Verde Beach featuring boating, sailing and a beach

Isla Verde

4/5(687 area reviews)

Are you interested in stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and first-class casinos? A visit to Isla Verde might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Carolina Beach and Isla Verde Beach.

Isla Verde
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Miramar

4/5(155 area reviews)

Characterized by quiet streets and mature shade trees, this historical district boasts the Puerto Rico Convention Center, Isla Grande Airport, and Club Nautico. Just a short distance from Old San Juan and Condado, future plans include improved walkability and train connections.

Miramar
Luquillo

Mata de Plátano

If you're spending some time in Mata de Plátano, Luquillo Beach and Azul Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Mata de Plátano
Cine centro de todo

Hato Rey Norte

Hato Rey Norte is a destination travelers like for its restaurants, and you might hop aboard the metro at Roosevelt Station or Hato Rey Station to explore sights like Plaza las Americas.

Hato Rey Norte
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Cupey

Though Cupey might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Mercado de Rio Piedras and The Mall of San Juan.

Cupey
Isla Verde which includes tropical scenes

Cangrejo Arriba

If you're spending some time in Cangrejo Arriba, Balneario de Carolina and Isla Verde Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Cangrejo Arriba

Popular places to visit

Cities near Puerto Rico Island