Being an U.S. territory in the Caribbean makes Puerto Rico an easy and very desirable getaway. With beautiful beaches, tropical islands, El Yunque rainforest, Old town of San Juan, surfing, nightlife, casinos and more, Puerto Rico has lots to offer.
We spent one week back in 2009 staying in the small surfing town of Rincon. It was quite a long time ago and for that reason we’ve limited our recommendations to only Top 10 reasons why you should visit. We are planning another trip as we speak, so we can visit some of the small islands and give you an update. Make sure to follow because you don’t want to miss.
10 Great reasons to visit Puerto Rico
1. It’s Easy!
Since it’s U.S territory you don’t need a passport ( for the American travelers ). The currency is US$, your US phone would work, there’s plenty of direct flights and although Spanish is the main language, English is well spoken ( but don’t expect everyone would speak it )
2. Beautiful Beaches!
Whether you are looking to swim, snorkel, just laying on a tropical beach, playing with your kids or surfing you can find it all in Puerto Rico. Just to name a few of our favorites: Flamenco Beach, Seven Seas Beach, Guánica, Rincon, Sun Bay, El Escambrón, Playa Shacks.
3. Stroll the colorful streets of Old San Juan
Enjoy the colonial architecture with its vibrant colors that holds over 500 years of history.
4. Visit El Morro and Castillo de San Cristobal
The fortress is one of the most impressive structures on the island and the largest fort ever built by the Spanish in the New World. You will enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean and if you stay for sunset you won’t be disappointed.
5. Visit the Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay in Vieques
Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism. Each one makes a sparkle when agitated. When you have a bay full of them, the water literally glows when moved. The best experience is during a “New Moon” phase and it’s a must thing to see.
6. Hike and Explore the El Yunque National Park
Located on the eastern end of Puerto Rico this tropical mountainous forest covered with diverse vegetation and refreshing waterfalls to swim in would be the highlight of your trip.
7. Visit the Islands: Vieques, Culebra, Culebrita, Icacos
Although they are only a few miles from the coast of Puerto Rico, these Islands feel like a completely different world. Secluded and with their pristine beaches they will blow your mind.
8. Surfing in Rincon
Called the Surf capital of the Caribbean for a reason. Plenty of beaches accommodating all levels surfers, with enough of wave-riding opportunities. It’s a cute small town on the west side of the island with options to rent surfboards, take surf lessons, when the waves are small you can enjoy stand up paddle or just chilling on the beach and watching the surfers.
9. Kayaking among the mangroves in La Parguera
Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling or swimming in this crystal clear warm water. You can either take a tour or just rent a kayak and do it on your own.
10. Nightlife
If you are a night bird and into the nightlife scene Puerto Rico is your place. It’s known as the nightlife capital of the Caribbean. You can find numerous fine dining restaurants and bars, casinos and hot clubs where you can party and dance until the wee hours.
