Puerto Rico

Discover impressive caves, beautiful beaches and fine resorts

Puerto Rico’s north region is made up of nine towns including Manatí, Dorado and Arecibo. Famed for its scenic views and breathtaking natural pools, Manatí is a unique town distinguished by large limestone hills and impressive rock formations. The highly sought-after destination of Dorado boasts lavish beachfront resorts including the opulent Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (one of only seven in the world) as well as pristine golf courses and upscale neighbourhoods. Arecibo is Puerto Rico’s third-oldest city and is famed for its incredibly diverse terrain, inviting visitors to enjoy iconic beaches, limestone caves and majestic mountains all in close proximity.

The metropolitan area refers to seven towns that make up the urban “downtown” of Puerto Rico, including the capital, San Juan, a city with over 500 years of history. The city’s must-visit neighbourhoods include the charming Old San Juan, with its pastel-coloured buildings and cobblestone streets, cosmopolitan Condado, which is home to fashionable boutiques and high-end restaurants and Santurce, which offers  speakeasy bars, street food markets and iconic art murals.

Beyond its colourful capital, Puerto Rico is home to incredible outdoor and adventure experiences. Situated in the municipality of Río Grande sits El Yunque rainforest - the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Its 238,000 acres are crisscrossed with hiking trails, waterfalls and unforgettable views - perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Nearby, Fajardo is home to some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches and nature reserves, and acts as the perfect base for day trips to nearby islands Culebra and Vieques. Situated at the western end of the East region, Caguas is an innovative town filled with art, culture, nature, entertainment, and nightlife.

The city of Ponce is nicknamed the “Pearl of the South” and “Museum City'' due to its historical and cultural riches. Must-visits include Plaza Las Delicias, the town square, the once iconic fire station, Parque de Bombas, and the Museo de Arte de Ponce. The Island’s third-oldest town, Coamo, is famously known as the “City of Thermal Waters” due to being home to the only thermal pools in Puerto Rico. For less than $5, travellers can enjoy a soak surrounded by majestic mountains in an outdoor spa setting.

Known as the surfing capital of Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean as a whole, the West region has a different feel from the hustle and bustle of the Metro area with a distinct laid-back, surfer vibe. Surfers from all over the world flock to Rincón to ride the waves at iconic beaches including María’s beach and Domes. Visitors will also have the chance to spot migrating whales in the winter. 

South of Rincón, Guánica is home to hidden beaches, dense flora, unique and dramatic landscapes, protected beaches, and local seafood - the perfect recipe for a surfers paradise. Along the coast, travellers will delight at the town of Cabo Rojo, complete with its limestone cliffs, stunning beaches, nature reserves, infamous salt flats and creative restaurants.

Uncover the highland town of Ciales, complete with intricate cave systems, coffee plantations, and waterfalls. The indigenous culture and natural beauty of the mountains and an array of outdoor activities in Utuado and Orocovis including sport fishing and kayaking at Lago de Matrullas.

Totalling just 10 square miles, Culebra is divided into six barrios (districts), and surrounded by more than 20 cays bustling with marine life - an absolute haven for underwater adventurers and casual beachgoers alike. The stunning island of Vieques lies six miles southeast of Puerto Rico mainland, and is home to a pristine wildlife refuge, wild horses, and the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay.

For an adventure to remember, travellers are invited to explore Guánica State Forest, Corredor Ecológico del Noreste, and Aguadilla Coast Trail’s wildlife trails by bike. Delve into the rainforest by horseback or ATV at Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park and go snorkelling around Icacos Island’s colourful coral reefs.

Puerto Rico is home to three of only five bioluminescent bays in the world. For glow-in-the-dark fun, take a guided aquatic tour to Fajardo’s Laguna Grande, Lajas’ La Parguera, and Vieques’ Mosquito Bay bioluminescent bays. Get off the beaten path on a guided underground adventure at Cañon de Tanamá, Río Camuy Cave Park, Cueva de Viento, and Cueva del Indio.

Go zip lining at Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park, Toro Negro, or San Juan’s Distrito T-Mobile urban zip line park. Relax deeply, rejuvenate, and pamper yourself as you let Coamo Hot Springs’ curative mineral waters seep into your skin and aid physical conditions.

Puerto Rico’s culture is a vibrant blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, creating a colourful mix of music, art, dance, and tradition. From street murals and art museums to bomba dance and lively local festivals, culture is everywhere you look. Step back in time in Old San Juan, where cobbled streets lead to historic gems like El Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, and La Fortaleza. The island celebrates all year round, with festivals nearly every weekend – from January’s Fiesta de Los Reyes Magos to June’s Noche San Juan and the festive Christmas Eve Nochebuena.

Dance and music are essential when describing the energy and vibrancy of Puerto Rico. They are the epitome of traditional expressions of the Island’s Boricua culture and heritage. With many different styles performed, including bomba and plena, salsa, pop music, and urban sounds, here’s a quick guide to the beats you’ll hear as you explore the Island.