Start your trip to Puerto Rico by exploring the historic district of Old San Juan. Wander through the colorful streets lined with Spanish colonial architecture and stop by Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, head to El Convento, a luxury hotel with a rich history that once served as a convent. End your day with a delicious dinner at Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar, known for its creative cuisine and extensive wine selection.
Escape to the beautiful Culebra Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Start your day by snorkeling at Tamarindo Beach to see an array of colorful marine life. After working up an appetite, grab some lunch at Heather's Pizza, a popular pizza place in town. Spend the afternoon at Flamenco Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and watch the sunset before heading back to the main island.
Get in touch with nature at the El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike to the top of La Coca Falls, a stunning 85-foot waterfall, and cool off in the natural pools. Afterwards, head to the Luquillo Kiosks, a strip of food stalls serving traditional Puerto Rican food, for a delicious late lunch. End your day watching the sun set at La Pared Beach, a popular surf spot.
Discover the southern city of Ponce, also known as the "Pearl of the South". Start your day at Plaza Las Delicias, the main square, and visit the iconic Parque de Bombas, a fire station turned museum. Continue your tour with a visit to the Museo de Arte de Ponce, home to one of the largest art collections in the Caribbean. End your day with a visit to the Caja de Muertos Island, a small uninhabited island off the coast of Ponce known for its natural beauty and crystal-clear waters.
End your trip by exploring the laid-back town of Rincon on the western coast of Puerto Rico. Start your day at Domes Beach, a popular surf spot known for its powerful waves and beautiful sunsets. Afterwards, head to The English Rose, a charming café serving fresh pastries and coffee, for breakfast. Spend the afternoon at Playa Steps Beach, a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and great snorkeling. End your day sipping on a piña colada at the iconic Bonfire Beachside Bar while watching the sunset.
Most attractions are easily accessible by rental car or taxi. Expect to spend around $100-$200 on car rentals and $10-$20 on taxi fares per day. Parking can be a challenge in Old San Juan, so it's recommended to park in a public lot and walk to attractions. Traffic can also be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
If you have more time, consider adding a trip to the beautiful island of Vieques, known for its bioluminescent bay. For a shorter trip, skip Ponce and spend more time exploring the beaches and attractions near San Juan.
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is the main airport in Puerto Rico, located just outside of San Juan. It is a 10.1-mile drive from Old San Juan with an estimated travel time of 45 minutes.