Looking for the best Puerto Rico itinerary for your first trip there? I just visited Puerto Rico, and I have all the details you need about visiting the island as a first timer.
I had been wanting to visit Puerto Rico for YEARS. An island that doesn’t require a passport? Sign me up! I found a great deal, so I went ahead and booked it. I couldn’t get anyone to join me, so I decided to bite the bullet and go by myself.
I can say without a doubt this was one of the best vacations of my life. On this mesmerizing island, there are beaches, a rainforest, a city, small islands, waterfalls, and historical landmarks. Not to mention the delicious food, rich culture, and friendly people.
If you’re planning to visit this gorgeous island, I’ve compiled a 7 day Puerto Rico itinerary to make sure you hit all the best spots. And even though I didn’t bring my kids this time, I still researched a lot of kids activities (for when I bring them on my next trip!)
Want to learn how I can afford to travel so much? Read over my money savings tips for traveling by clicking here!
Key Takeaways
- Puerto Rico is full of activities and natural beauty, spread all over the island. Each region has it’s own vibe and attractions. What you want to do during your time, and what kind of vacation you want, will determine which area you stay in.
- There are many activities that you will not be able to find anywhere else – it has America’s only rainforest, El Yunque, three of the five bioluminescent bays in the world, even deserted islands. These types of activities are musts when visiting the island.
- A week itinerary in Puerto Rico should include El Yunque, Old San Juan, the beach, a bioluminescent bay, visiting one of the islands, exploring the west coast, and an adventure park.
Table of Contents
⚠️ Need more info about Puerto Rico? ⚠️
Read these posts!
The 14 Best Puerto Rico Excursions
The Top 5 Best Beaches in San Juan
12 Beachfront Hotels in San Juan and Isla Verde
10 Best Beaches in Puerto Rico
The Basics About Visiting Puerto Rico for the First Time
- Travel: American citizens don’t need a passport to enter Puerto Rico. You can travel there like any other US state.
- Language: Spanish is the main language spoken on the island (remember, it was ruled by Spain for centuries), but English is widely understood and spoken, especially in the tourist areas.
- Weather: Puerto Rico’s weather is tropical (duh, it’s in the Caribbean) so it’s warm and sunny all year. The best time to visit is December to April when the weather is cooler and drier.
- Transportation: To get around Puerto Rico, the best option is to rent a car. Roads are well-maintained. Rideshare services are available in the tourist areas of Puerto Rico. Taxis are common but ask for a price upfront. Public buses are available, but not very reliable.
- Renting a car: when you rent a car from a rental agency at the airport, they will try to sell you insurance. If you do not want to buy it, they will require you to show them your proof of insurance so have your insurance documentation handy. Also, it is a slow process.
- Currency: Puerto Rico’s currency is the US dollar.
- Cell Service: Cell service works like it does on the mainland US, no roaming charges. Wi-Fi is available in all tourist areas.
- Time Zone: Puerto Rico follows Atlantic Standard Time, which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
- Gastronomy: Puerto Rico’s traditional foods are mofongo (fried plantains), lechon (roast pork), and pastelon (sweet plantain casserole). The pina colada was invented in Puerto Rico and local rum is very popular.
- Safety: Puerto Rico is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. Like everywhere else, stay aware of your surroundings and stay out of areas that look questionable.
- Electric Outlets: Puerto Rico uses the same electrical outlets as the mainland US.
- Island Time: Things run slower in Puerto Rico than what you’re probably used to. Get used to the laid-back island vibes.
Puerto Rico History
Puerto Rico is an island with an interesting past, so let’s have a quick history lesson!
Christoper Columbus landed on Puerto Rico during his second trip to the Americas in the 1400s and claimed it for Spain. So for centuries, it was a Spanish colony (why Spanish is widely spoken there). It went through battles and invasions and even slave arrivals.
After the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico became a part of the United States when Spain ceded the island to them. In 1917, Puerto Rico became a US territory and all of the civilians became US citizens.
All of these events made Puerto Rico the vibrant one-of-a-kind island it is today. And after speaking with locals during my trip, it’s so clear how proud Puerto Ricans are to be from their island.
How Many Days Do I Need in Puerto Rico?
The number of days you need on the island depends on how much you want to do. To really explore and experience all the great things the island has to offer, you will need a week minimum.
But if you have limited time and want to just get a taste of the more popular attractions, you can enjoy a shorter visit of 4-5 days. Anything under 4 days just isn’t worth it in my opinion. There are just too many things to do in Puerto Rico!
When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico?
The best time to visit Puerto Rico is between December and April. The weather is the best then (not too hot with less rain). There are also many events, festivals, and activities going on at that time. The bad news is that the prices will be higher during this time.
The months of June to September are less crowded and more affordable, but the weather is very hot and there’s a chance of tropical storms of hurricanes. (Hurricane season is from June to November).
April to June and September to November are Puerto Rico’s shoulder seasons. There will be less crowds and you’ll be able to snag some affordable deals. However, hurricane season peaks from August to October.
Puerto Rico 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore San Juan
Day 2: El Yunque + Luquillo Beach
Day 3: Beach hop in your area + Bioluminescent Bay
Day 4: Island excursion
Day 5: West Coast
Day 6: Adventure Park
Day 7: Relax at the resort
Extra: Day for kid’s activities
5 Must Do Attractions
Short on time? I’ll give it to you straight. Here are the top attractions I recommend.
El Yunque National Rainforest
The only tropical rainforest in the US! It’s lush with waterfalls, hiking trails, amazing views, water vistas, and so much more. This tour through El Yunque was my favorite part of my trip!
Old San Juan
Old San Juan is full of culture, history, beauty, and fun. Explore all the best parts of the city on this walking tour, visit El Morro the military fortress, eat your way through the city on this authentic food tour, take in the beautiful architecture, or visit the new entertainment hub.
Bioluminescent Bay
There are five bio bays in the world and three of them are in Puerto Rico! If you’re staying on the east side, check this tour out in Fajardo, take this tour in Lajas for the only bay you can swim in, or venture to the island of Vieques for the brightest bio bay.
Beach Day
There are amazing beaches all over the island. My favorite is El Escambron in San Juan or venture to the west side and go to well-loved Crashboat Beach.
Boat Tour to Icacos Island
A chartered boat to a deserted island for the day. When will you ever get the chance to visit a pristine, deserted island again? Take this tour.
Day One: San Juan
Things to Do in San Juan
It’s best to start your day by exploring the adorable, colorful Old San Juan. There was so much beauty everywhere I looked—the Spanish architecture, the historical monuments, the endless amounts of bright colors, and the history.
Old San Juan is only seven square blocks, so you can easily see everything in one afternoon. It’s a great budget activity if you want to discover Puerto Rico on your own.
However, before you venture here, check cruise schedules! Cruise ships dock in Old San Juan, and your peaceful day will become loud and crowded very fast once a ship docks.
Explore Old San Juan with a famous author that will lead you to the best sites in the city while giving you insight into the history of Puerto Rico.
✅ Check prices and book this award winning Old San Juan Walking Tour by clicking here!
…and if you’d rather EAT your way through the city, try a food tour! Try authentic Puerto Rican food at several different famous spots around Old San Juan!
✅ Check prices and book this 5-star (with over 3k reviews!) Flavors of San Juan Tour by clicking here!
Some other great things to do include visiting El Morro (full name Castillo San Felipe del Morro), which is a military fort that was built to protect the city from invaders over 500 years ago. It’s only $10 to tour it, so it’s well worth a visit.
On the grounds of El Morro, there are kite vendors too. It’s a perfect spot to fly a kite and very popular with families. Another great kid spot is Parque Infantil del Niño, near the Marina.
Later in the day, stop by Distrito T-Mobil, San Juan’s brand new entertainment hub. It has over 10 restaurants, ziplining, rock climbing, arcades, and live music. There’s also a state-of-the-art concert facility, a movie theater, and newly built hotels just steps away. Read all about it here.
Dining in San Juan
The biggest challenge about getting food in Puerto Rico is choosing where to go. There is amazing food everywhere!
The places I got the most recommendations to go to, from locals and other tourists, were:
- Pinky’s for breakfast
- An excellent American cafe – people often recommend the banana pancakes, fruit smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches.
- Caficultura for brunch
- This nice Latin brunch cafe has all types of delicious dishes, including French toast, Mallorca, and pancakes.
- Deaverdura for lunch or dinner
- Deaverdura is an excellent spot for Caribbean food. Many people recommend getting the Sampler and steak or pork with rice and beans.
- La Casita Blanca for lunch for dinner
- La Casita Blanca is another great Caribbean restaurant to check out when visiting Puerto Rico. People love the ambience, along with its many dishes, including the complimentary soup, seafood dishes, and stuffed avocados.
- Santaella for dinner
- A nice restaurant in San Juan, known for seared scallops, pork belly, and cocktails.
- Marmalade for dinner
- A fine dining option in San Juan that serves four, five, or six course meals.
- MUSA for brunch or dinner
- This San Juan restaurant offers anything from French toast to pork belly.
- Senor Paleta for a treat
- If you’re looking for dessert after your tasty meals, you can get a tasty paleta (ice pop) from this adorable little shop.
Day Two: El Yunque National Rainforest
If you see ONE thing in Puerto Rico, it must be El Yunque. It’s a lush rainforest with waterfalls, hiking trails, and unbelievable views. It will transport you to a completely different world. Plus, it’s the only tropical rainforest in the US! (Yes, even including Hawaii. El Yunque is the only one!)
It goes on for 28,000 acres, so you will have to decide how you will want to attack it because it’s impossible to see it all in one day. During the day, explore the various trails and stop to get photos by waterfalls and sightseeing areas. At night, it’s best to take a guided tour to safely explore the rainforest and spot nocturnal wildlife.
If you want to drive through it on your own, tickets to the park are required. Tickets are available 30 days before the entry date and are issued per vehicle. They go fast! Buy them here.
For help planning your day, check out El Yunque’s directory or stop by El Portal, the Visitor Center when you get there.
Things to Do in El Yunque
El Yunque Tours
This is what I would recommend if you’re in a group of adults. There are a variety of tours available with different options of what to do. You can choose a half day or full day tour. Some are hiking, some have activities like water slides and rope swings, some have repelling. Some have hotel pickup too!
I did a half day tour that was a mix of hiking and water slides and a rope swing. We hiked through the rainforest and the tour guides stopped a few times to explain the surroundings.
We stopped at a natural pool, climbed up rocks to slide down two waterfalls, jumped off a cliff, and jumped into the pool using a rope swing.
I thought a half day was perfect, I was out a little after 12 and still got the rest of the day to explore.
Extra plus was that the tour guide records you and sends the videos to you at the end of the tour, so you don’t even need to bring your phone!
The El Yunque tour was my FAVORITE part of my whole trip to Puerto Rico.
If you do anything while you’re there, do this tour!
✅ Check prices and book the award-winning, 5-star El Yunque Natural Waterslide and Rainforest Hike Tour by clicking here!
El Yunque family-friendly spots
Most of the tours do not allow small children (minimum age is 5 for most of the tours, and even that I think is pretty young), so the better idea would be to explore the family-friendly spots.
Start off with El Portal Visitor Center – (no park res necessary) it’s newly redone and has interactive exhibits and displays, two interpretive trails, plenty of beautiful views, plus endless amounts of information about the rainforest. If you get hungry there’s also a counter service restaurant. It would be a great idea to start here to get all the best tips!
El Yunque family-friendly hikes
Yokahu Tower – A 69-foot tower that offers 360-degree views of the rainforest. It’s a short hike from the parking area. This is on 191 at Km. 8.8.
Juan Diego Creek – A short hike leads to a natural pool along Juan Diego Creek with a waterfall that you can swim in! It’s a small area though, so you can only park in the area for 30 minutes. This is on 191 at Km 9.6
Caimitillo Trail – One of the easiest hikes in El Yunque, the trail is only half a mile, but visitors can still enjoy everything the rainforest has to offer. This is on 191 at Km 12.1.
Angelito Falls – Less than half a mile, this hike ends with a natural pool at Rio Mameyes. This trail shows a different type of vegetation than what’s offered on the other side of the rainforest. This is on road 988 at Km 3.6.
TIP: Wear water shoes or sneakers, most of the paths are MUDDY. You cannot avoid it. You need something with some grip, or you will slip. Wear light clothes because it will get hot—rash guards are perfect since you can swim in some spots, plus it’ll protect you from the sun and insects.
Dining in El Yunque
Despite being surrounded by nature, there are a few restaurants nearby. You can also choose to pack a lunch and eat it at a picnic area.
Here are some local restaurants to consider:
- Smoky Joe Caribbean Grill
- On the outskirts of the El Yunque National Forest, you’ll find this Caribbean Barbeque destination. Ribs, pork belly, and smoked octopus are just a few of their specialties.
- El Yunque Rainforest Cafe
- Not to be confused with the Rainforest Cafe chain, the El Yunque Rainforest Cafe is a Caribbean restaurant surrounded by the beautiful sites of the rainforest. It features empanadas, tacos, and snacks.
- El Yunque Treehouse
- This Caribbean restaurant has a nature theme inside while also being surrounded by nature. The crab meat empanadas and chicken skewers are just a few popular choices.
- El Yunque Food Truck Family Park
- If you eat at this food truck, you won’t have to leave the beautiful sights of El Yunque. You can choose from several food trucks so everyone can find something they enjoy.
- Bungalu Rest & Bar
- A delicious Caribbean restaurant nearby serving delicious seafood, arepas, and empanadas.
Things to do around El Yunque
After your adventure in the rainforest, head over to Luquillo or Monserrate Beach. It’s less than 20 minutes away from El Yunque is a great place to unwind. Both beaches (that are right next to each other) offer restrooms, showers, and lifeguards.
And if you’re hungry, enjoy a meal at the famous Luquillo food kiosks. There are a number of little food stands that line a section of the road right off the highway. You’ll have your choice of 60+ cuisines, and some of the best Puerto Rican food you’ll find!
Day Three: Daytime Activity - Beach Day
There are so many beaches in Puerto Rico, it’s hard to choose a favorite. But you should add a day either beach hopping or just lounging at one to your Puerto Rico itinerary.
You can stay at your resort and do this, or you can explore different beaches in the area you’re staying in.
Here are some beaches to visit in different areas of the island, each with their own vibe and attractions.
Note: A beach labeled as a balneario means that it’s owned by the government and has things like public restrooms, lifeguards, parking lots, showers, etc.
San Juan Beaches
El Escambron Beach–Balneario del Escambron
Balneario del Escambron (my favorite beach in this area!)
A popular beach and for great reasons. First of all, it’s gorgeous. It has beautiful, clear waters, the sand is soft, plus there are gorgeous views of mountains and a rocky island named Peñon de San Jorge.
The best part is that it’s in a protected cove, so the waves are calm and it’s a perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming for all ages, and even sunbathing. For more convenience, there are also restaurants and cafes nearby.
Carolina Public Beach—Balneario de Carolina (on the same stretch as Isla Verde Beach)
One of the busiest beaches in the area, it has soft sand and clear waters—it’s even been awarded the Blue Flag Aware for cleanliness and water quality.
Besides the obvious swimming and sunbathing, there are watersports, volleyball nets, and plenty of food options.
And there’s a BIG bonus for small kids—a small water park called Parque Acuatico Infantil Aquasol. It has slides, water triggers, and a pirate ship with water cannons. It’s right off the sand too!
Puerto Rico's East Coast Beaches
Monserrate Beach—Balneario La Monserrate
Located in Luquillo, Monserrate is perfect for everyone. It has an amazing calming vibe with swaying palm trees welcoming you as soon as you step in. It’s huge, so you’ll have plenty of room and the backdrop of lush green mountains is amazing.
You can have a relaxing day in the water or enjoy some snorkeling, because it’s protected by a coral reef so the waves are calm (also great for small kids!) The added bonus for this beach is it’s within walking distance of the famous Luquillo Kiosks. There are numerous kiosks that offer local food and souvenirs.
Seven Seas Beach—Balneario Seven Seas
In Fajardo, Seven Seas is a smaller, crescent-shaped beach. Another Blue Flag beach, it has light tan sand and calm, crystal clear water perfect for lounging in the water. There’s a coral reef near the beach to break up the waves so this is also a perfect place to go snorkeling.
And to top if all of, there are amazing views of lush mountains and a beautiful lighthouse.
Puerto Rico's West Coast Beaches
Crash Boat Beach
In Aguadilla, it’s the most popular beach in the area, and probably one of the most popular beaches on the island. Locals rave about it because there is something for every type of person. You can swim, snorkel, or scuba dive in the clear turquoise waters.
There’s also a fun vibe here. There’s music, food kiosks, and even a long pier that you can jump off of into the water.
Buye Beach
In Cabo Rojo, this immaculate and secluded beach has the most beautiful shades of blue water, the calmest waves, and a family-friendly beach culture. It’s a hidden gem loved by locals and more of a secret compared to the other beaches on the island.
Day Three: Evening Activity - Bioluminescent Bays
A bioluminescent bay is a body of water where microscopic organisms (dinoflagellates) grow in large enough quantities to produce a bioluminescence or glow-in-the-dark effect. When the water is touched, these organisms shine in a bright neon blue color making it look like the water is being lit up!
There are only five of these natural wonders in the whole world—and THREE of them are in Puerto Rico. So, this should obviously be on your Puerto Rico itinerary.
This is a must-see activity when on the island BUT the experience quality depends on the moon. The darker the sky, the better.
Check the moon calendar when you’re booking your trip and, if your dates are flexible, try to come when there is the LEAST amount of moonlight. Check out the moon phases calendar here.
Mosquito Bay on Vieques
This one is the brightest of the three— it even has the award for brightest bioluminescent bay in the world by Guinness World Records. This bay is only accessed by kayak, but some have glass bottoms.
Like I mentioned above, you’ll have to stay overnight in Vieques to see this one.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing the brightest Bio Bay in the world!
✅ Check prices and book this highly rated, Badge of Excellence award winning Vieques Small-Group Bioluminescent Bay Tour by clicking here!
La Parguera in Lajas
All the way in the southwest corner of the island, this bay offers a bit more than the others.
It’s the only bay that allows motorboats, so if you’re not a fan of kayaking this one is for you. It’s also the only one that permits swimming! They also offer glass-bottom boat rides.
It’s far away from the usual tourist spots, so spending the night in the area is probably a good idea.
Cruise to a sandbar at sunset then visit the only Bio Bay that allows swimming!
✅ Check prices and book the Sunset and Biobay Swim Experience by clicking here!
Laguna Grande in Fajardo
Because it’s located in a more touristy spot, this bay gets a lot more visitors. And it’s actually not even a bay—a long, narrow canal leads to a lagoon.
Some people I spoke to said that it’s not as bright as it used to be, and some tour guides have you put a drape over your head to really be able to see the bioluminescence. But I still heard a lot of great reviews about the experience!
There are many types of tours offered, and some even offer a combination bio bay tour with another activity in the area.
For the most convenient Biobay experience, book a tour in Fajardo!
✅ Check prices and book this Bio Bay Kayak Tour by clicking here!
Day Four: Island Excursion
Even though you’re already ON an island, you have to add visiting one of the smaller islands onto your Puerto Rico itinerary.
The beaches are absolutely breathtaking—one being one of the most beautiful in the world. There are many options that you can take, but here are four of the best.
Palomino Island
If you stay at the El Conquistador Resort (which I did, and recommend), you have easy access to their private island, Palomino Island.
It’s a short boat ride over from El Conquistador (they’re on the hour, every hour). The island is a continuation of the resort. Plenty of beach chairs, beach-side food/drink service, a dine-in restaurant and bar, a convenience store/rental shop, and activities.
Palomino is what you imagine when you think of a small, private island. Pure, white, soft sands. Crystal clear, turquoise waters. It’s picturesque. I absolutely loved my time there!
If you’re curious about the El Conquistador Resort,
✅ check prices and pictures here!
Culebra
Culebra is a small island located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. There are only a few towns on the island, and it has laid-back, small-town vibes.
The beaches are breathtakingly beautiful— one of them being Flamenco Beach, which is consistency ranked as one of the best beaches in the world!
Many people just take day trips there to lounge on the beach, but visitors can hike, snorkel, and kayak too. Tamarindo Beach is one of the best places to snorkel in all of Puerto Rico (or you can just kayak and check out the sea life from above.)
Culebra is also home to the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, a protected area where you can see sea turtles, birds, and all kinds of other wildlife.
You can take a ferry ride (roughly 45-60 minutes from Fajardo) or a short flight from Ceiba (like 15 minutes) to Culebra. Some popular dining options include Dinghy Dock, Susie’s, and Zaco’s Tacos.
Want to take a tour of the best islands of Culebra?
✅ Check prices and book this Full Day Culebra Islands Catamaran Tour by clicking here!
Vieques
Vieques is another small island off Puerto Rico’s east coast. More jaw dropping beaches like La Chiva or Blue Beach, which is ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean—plus 40+ more to choose from.
There’s also a black sand beach, Playita Negra, surrounded by golden cliffs that makes for a dramatic, jaw dropping landscape. Animal lovers will love all the diverse wildlife, like wild horses roaming around freely and several species of endangered birds.
The big draw of Vieques is Mosquito Bay, a bioluminescent bay. Even though there are three bioluminescent bays to choose from just in Puerto Rico, this one is known as the best one. There are guided kayak tours offered at night to view the water light up. (To do this tour you will have to stay in Vieques overnight as there are no more ferries or flights that late.)
You can learn about Vieques’s history by exploring the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. It was once a military testing area but now a protected sanctuary.
During the day, you can travel to Vieques via ferry or flight. A flight from San Juan is about 25 minutes while a ferry from Ceiba is about 30 minutes. While visiting Vieques, add some of the island’s delicious restaurants to your Puerto Rico itinerary, such as The Quenepo, Bananas, and Coqui Fire Cafe.
If you just want to visit the island for the day, check out this snorkel tour to Vieques!
✅ Check prices and book this Snorkeling Tour to Vieques Island by clicking here!
Icacos Island
If you really want to get away, an excursion to the tiny, uninhabited Icacos is the way to go. Many people I spoke to that have taken excursions there have said it was the best part of their whole trip to Puerto Rico!
It’s literally a deserted island so it’s unspoiled, picture perfect, and an amazing snorkeling site. But it also means that there are no facilities there, so you’ll have to bring your own food and beach gear.
You can only reach Icacos by boat, and you can choose between a water taxi or a boat charter. If you do a boat charter, they’ll usually have food and drinks available.
When will you ever have the chance to visit a deserted island again??
✅ Check prices and book this amazing, full day Icacos Deserted Island Catamaran and Picnic Tour by clicking here. You won’t regret it!
Day Five: Head West
The east side of the island gets all of the attention from tourists, but the west side definitely deserves to be on your Puerto Rico itinerary too. The west side is known for even better beaches, more laid-back vibes, and deeper local culture. You’ll get to experience a more authentic side of Puerto Rico on the west.
Two of the more well known towns on the west coast are Cabo Rojo and Rincon.
Cabo Rojo is located on the southwest tip of the island. It’s known for gorgeous natural beauty. Rincon is referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the Caribbean”. It’s a laid-back surf town known for stunning beaches and killer waves. It’s also a great spot to go whale watching from December to March.
Things to Do on Puerto Rico's West Coast
West Coast Beaches
Aguadilla’s Crash Boat Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the west coast and recommended by locals. The clear water is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. It also has a fun vibe with music, kiosks, and food stands.
You can also try Sandy Beach in Rincon. It’s also loved by locals because it’s walking distance from lots of hotels and dining options.
Waterfalls
Gozalandia is a natural water park with a waterfall in San Sebastian. It’s easy to reach too! Just a short walk from a parking lot to the waterfall.
Or you can try Cascade La Planta in Arecibo. It used to be a dam. Some people attempt to jump into the waters (but I wouldn’t recommend that.)
Visit Cabo Rojo
Cabo Rojo’s El Combate Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the island. While you’re in the area, check out El Poblado de Boqueron, a spot filled with restaurants, bars and local stores.
Playa Sucia is also a popular beach and the nearby Cabo Rojo Lighthouse offers amazing views of the coastline.
There’s also a huge area of salt flats in Cabo Rojo called Las Salinas. Because of the salinity of the salt flats, the water is pink!
La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay
Lastly, La Parguera bioluminescent bay is on this side! If you’re staying on the West side for the night, this is the perfect evening activity.
Cruise to a sandbar at sunset then visit the only Bio Bay that allows swimming!
✅ Check prices and book the Sunset and Biobay Swim Experience by clicking here!
Dining Options
You’re bound to get hungry during this exciting day of your Puerto Rico itinerary. Here are some great dining options on Puerto Rico’s west coast:
- Isla Cueva
- Isla Cueva is a popular burger restaurant located near the La Parguera bioluminescent bay.
- Brasas Bar & Grill
- This Caribbean/Latin bar & grill is located near Gozalandia, and it offers a wide range of dishes.
- Mona
- Mona is a breakfast restaurant near Crash Boat Beach, so it’s a great place to get some food before your beach day.
- The Beach House
- This beloved Caribbean restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner near Sandy Beach.
- Lola Eclectic Cuisine
- A Caribbean fusion restaurant in Ponce, known for a variety of delicious pasta dishes.
- Campioni Pizza Beer & Tapas
- This Ponce dining option is perfect for families looking for casual dining and delicious brick oven pizzas.
Day Six: Adventure Parks
Do you want to experience some thrill while on the island? Add one of these adventure parks to your Puerto Rico itinerary.
Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park
Located on the east side of the island in Luquillo, Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park is a 600-acre ranch in between El Yunque and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a must-do for adventure lovers because it offers many thrilling activities.
Activities range from horseback riding and ATV rides through the foothills of El Yunque, to go-karts and ziplining through treetops. Most activities are only an hour or two so this is a great area to spend a couple of hours while you are adventuring through the east side of the island. There’s also an on-site restaurant here.
Toro Verde Adventure Park
Located in Orocovis, close to the middle of the island, this adventure park is a thrill seekers paradise in the middle of the mountains. (So, the views are amazing!)
There are a few options for different types of ziplines, but the most famous ones are the Monster zipline which is the longest in the country with a 2.5km cable, and ToroBikes which is the longest cable bike in the world. There are also dining options here.
Kids Day Itinerary: Kids Activities in Puerto Rico
If you are venturing down to the island with kids, there are a couple of kids spot you want to add to your Puerto Rico itinerary. Whether you want a break from the beach, want to get some energy out, or are trying to find something to do while it rains, this is where to go.
Carolina Children's Museum - Museo del Nino de Carolina
This museum is a hit with kids of all ages. And it’s packed with activities. It features over 100 different exhibits that focus on science, technology, art, and culture. A few favorites are a mini-supermarket, fire station, space shuttle, and hurricane simulator.
The fun continues outdoors where there’s a playground, go-kart track, a mini zoo, an actual real life American Airlines plane, and even a small ferry. Good luck trying to get your kid out of here!
Sector Sixty6
The Outlet on Route 66 is an outlet mall in Canovanas, next to Carolina. They have numerous shops, a food court, a movie theater, and a full entertainment center with five different activities.
Funbox: An indoor obstacle course that’s created for kids AND adults. Adults have 17 obstacles to choose from while kids have 8.
K1 Speed: Race go-karts on a 40,000 square foot track! The electric go-karts can go up to 45 mph, the fastest in the industry.
There’s also a bowling alley and an arcade!
Puerto Rico Events
Puerto Rico hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Check out some of the most notable ones:
Winter
- San Sebastian Street Festival in January. An iconic festival, it celebrates the island’s culture with parades, music, dancing, and more. In San Juan.
- Festival of the Masks in December. A cultural event celebrating traditional masks with a parade, music, dancing, and food. In Hatillo.
Spring
- Puerto Rico Open in March. A PGA Tour event that brings in the top golfers from all over the world. Rio Grande.
- Casals Festival in March. A classical music festival that brings famous musicians to the island for concerts and performances. In San Juan.
- Pineapple Festival in May/June. Vendors sell their locally grown pineapples and other treats with live music in the background. In Parguera.
Summer
- Pina Colada Festival in July. A festival dedicated to the pina colada (it was invented in Puerto Rico!) 40 bars serve cocktails and desserts inspired by the pina colada. In Old San Juan.
Transportation Tips for Getting Around Puerto Rico
When you visit Puerto Rico, there are a lot of transportation options to consider for your 7 day Puerto Rico itinerary. The following are the main options.
Walking
Many areas of Puerto Rico are walkable, allowing you to access restaurants, shops, and attractions all from your hotel. Old San Juan, Ponce, and Condado are just a few areas that are great for tourists wanting to explore Puerto Rico on foot.
Ride Share Services
Puerto Rico cities are very accessible through ride share services like Uber. This is a great option for tourists who want to explore nearby areas that are a little too far to walk to.
Renting a Car
Many people plan to get a rental car as part of their Puerto Rico itinerary. There’s so many amazing spots all over the island, and the best way to see them all is by renting a car. There are lots of popular rental car companies at the airport.
Public Transportation
There are lots of public transportation options in Puerto Rico, including trains, buses, taxis, shuttles, and limos. These options are the most common in populated areas, such as San Juan. Most public transportation accepts cards, but it’s still a good idea to have some cash on you just in case.
👉 I always use rentalcars.com to find the cheapest deals on cars!
They can multiple agencies at your destination to get you the best deal.
Different Regions of Puerto Rico and Where to Stay
A big part of the best Puerto Rico itinerary is finding a place to stay. Here are some accommodations in each area of Puerto Rico, ordered from least expensive to most luxurious.
San Juan
San Juan is the capital city, and most popular area of the island. This area has historic and walkable Old San Juan, vibrant nightlife, museums, landmarks, and the most amazing food. If you want to be in the middle of the action, or don’t have a lot of time to spend, stay here.
The beachy areas of Condado and Isla Verde are also in this region.
They are family-friendly and has beachfront resorts with pools, lots of dining options, and plenty of entertainment for kids. Stay here if you want to be close to the city but still want family friendly accommodations.
👉 Check out prices and book:
Hotel Miramar
El Colonial
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Fairmont El San Juan
East Coast
This region includes the towns of Fajardo and Luquillo. It’s calmer than San Juan and has amazing resorts. It’s known for beautiful beaches, a bioluminescent bay, amazing seafood, and is near El Yunque National Forest. It’s also the closest area to the islands off PR.
If you want to be at a great resort and be central to everything on the east side, stay here.
👉 Check out prices and book:
Parador Palmas de Lucia
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
El Conquistador (I stayed here and can’t recommend it enough!)
West Coast
This region includes Rincon, Cabo Rojo, and Isabella. It’s a more local, relaxed vibe and known for amazing, natural beaches, surfing, and the best sunsets. If you want to see the “true Puerto Rico” then you should stay here.
👉 Check out prices and book:
Hotel El Guajataca
Rincon of the Seas
North Coast
Known for fancy resorts, the north coast includes the towns of Dorado and Vega Baja. If you want to be pampered, stay on the North Coast!
👉 Check out prices and book:
Selva Boutique Hotel
Hyatt Place Manati
Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton
Islands – Culebra or Vieques
These two small islands off the coast of Puerto Rico are known for their white sand beaches and relaxed atmosphere. They are both very popular 1 or 2-day excursions, but a some people choose to spend their whole trip there to really enjoy the peace and quiet.
Note: If you want to do a bio bay tour in Vieques, which is known to be the best, you must stay overnight at least one night.
👉 Check out prices and book:
The Vieques Guesthouse
El Navegante de Culebra
Finca Victoria Vieques
How to Get to Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has several airports and while SJU is the most well-known, depending on where you stay, you might want to fly somewhere else.
SJU—Luis Munoz Marin International Airport
In the capital, San Juan, this is the largest airport on the island. It serves domestic and international flights with 30 airlines and around 130 daily flights. You’ll most likely find the best times and prices to SJU. There are airport shuttles available from SJU to various hotels, Go Puerto Rico Shuttle is a popular one.
BQN—Rafael Hernandez Airport
In Aguadilla, on the west coast, this airport serves mostly domestic flights but some international and about 36 daily flights. If you’re staying on the west side of the island, consider flying here.
PSE—Mercedita Airport
On the southern coast in Ponce, this airport serves mainly domestic flights, and has about 8 daily flights.
If you want to fly to the islands of Culebra or Vieques, they both have their own airports and you can fly to both from San Juan or La Cieba airport—LCE. Cieba airport is about 20 minutes away from Fajardo. The two airlines are Air Flamenco and Vieques Air Link.
Culebra’s aiport is CPX—Benjamin Rivera Noriega and has flights from San Juan but also charter flights from La Cieba airport.
Vieques’s airport is VQS—Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (VQS) and flies to and from San Juan but also charter flights from Cieba.
FAQs: Puerto Rico Itinerary
What are the best months to go to Puerto Rico?
The best months depend on your preferences. If you’re looking for the best temperatures (mild temperatures and low humidity), December through April are the best. However, those months are also the most busy, so if you’re looking for less crowded seasons, visit from May through November.
What is the cheapest time to travel to Puerto Rico?
The cheapest time to visit Puerto Rico is August through November. You may have to plan for rainy days if you visit during these months, but it will be more affordable and less crowded.
How many days do you need in Puerto Rico?
The number of days you need on the island depends on how much you want to do. To really explore and experience all the great things the island has to offer, you will need a week minimum.
But if you have limited time and want to just get a taste of the more popular attractions, you can enjoy a shorter visit of 4-5 days. Anything under 4 days just isn’t worth it in my opinion. There’s just too much to do.
Do you need a car in Puerto Rico?
You can get by without one if you stay in San Juan for your whole trip, but I strongly recommend getting a car and exploring the island! There is so much to see and do and you’ll miss out on it by not being mobile.
Note about renting a car from a rental agency: when you rent a car, they will try to sell you insurance. If you do not want to buy it, they will require you to show them your proof of insurance so have your insurance documentation handy. Also, don’t think you will get out of there quickly, it is a slow process.
Is there Uber in Puerto Rico?
Yes, Uber is available in Puerto Rico, most commonly in concentrated cities. So, you can rely on Uber for some of your transportation needs during your Puerto Rico itinerary.
What US cities fly direct to Puerto Rico?
Lots of US cities fly directly to Puerto Rico, including Miami, Orlando, New York, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, Boston, Tampa, Philadelphia, Chicago, Charlotte, and Baltimore. Check current flights to see if your local airport flies directly.
Wrapping up: Puerto Rico Itinerary
The only way I can end this is by saying, I hope that you go to Puerto Rico! I absolutely loved it there and I had tears in my eyes as I was flying back home.
It’s an island full of activities, beauty, nature, and warmth that you need to see for yourself. But that being said, I strongly recommend going in with a game plan.
Because there is SO much to do, you’ll want to really put the effort into finding the perfect spot to stay in and activities you want to enjoy.
I hope that this my Puerto Rico itinerary gives you enough information to get your plan together!
