Puerto Rico

Escape to Puerto Rico to experience a sun-kissed adventure in the heart and soul of the Caribbean. Discover rich history and culture, exceptional cuisine, pristine beaches, majestic mountains and experiences that nourish body and soul — all packed into one Island of paradise! There are 101 things to love about Puerto Rico - 36 nature reserves, 19 state forests, 13 paradores, 11 lighthouses, 4 gastronomic routes, 4 James Beard Foundation nominations and 1 winner, 3 bioluminescent bays, 3 award-winning luxury hotels, 2 rum distilleries, 2 internationally recognised festivals, 2 award-winning beaches, and 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With seven distinct regions, made up of the North, the Metro area, East, South, West, the Central Mountains and Outer Islands, Puerto Rico offers a world of possibilities on one Caribbean Island.  Measuring approximately 100 by 35 square miles, the Island is small enough to drive around in a few hours, yet each region has its own unique identity waiting to be discovered.

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.

Discover amazing food, drinks, and shops while exploring the urban side of Puerto Rico, where history and culture intersect with bustling city life

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.

Puerto Rico’s enchanting East region offers secluded beaches, tropical cays and a legendary rainforest

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.

Immerse yourself in the colourful architecture, historic art, and natural beauty of the South

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.

Catch some waves and laid-back vibes in Puerto Rico’s capital of surfing and sunsets

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.

The Central Mountains are known for small towns, food excursions and endless adventures

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.

Enchanting islands just a short flight or boat ride from the Puerto Rico mainland, home to world-renowned beaches and the world's brightest bioluminescent bay

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.

With endless creativity and constant transformation, Puerto Rico has evolved into a true foodie paradise.

From seaside kiosks to fine dining, the Island’s chefs are reinventing beloved abuelita recipes and expressing the Island’s vibrancy and love through food. As you follow your appetite across Puerto Rico, you’ll taste that Boricua passion everywhere you go.

The Island’s cocktail scene has evolved with equal flare. Puerto Rico is the birthplace of the piña colada, and you’ll find an innovative approach to traditional cocktails in every corner of the Island — whether it’s one of the world’s top bars in Old San Juan, a brewery tour, a tasting of local rums, or a poolside cocktail, Puerto Rico’s mixology scene is one not to be missed.

Puerto Rico’s culture is a colourful tapestry of old and new, mixing indigenous, Spanish, and African traditions. You’ll find expressions of the culture all over the Island — from art museums and vibrant murals, to bomba dance lessons and lively festivals filling the streets.

To immerse in the cultural history of Puerto Rico, head to Old San Juan. From El Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, to Cuartel de Ballajá, and La Fortaleza, the cobbled streets of Old San Juan offer a plethora of history to explore.

Almost every weekend, there’s a festival or celebration on the Island including January’s Fiesta de Los Reyes Magos, the Festival de Teatro Puertorriqueño e Internacional in May and June, Noche San Juan in June, the Festival Nacional Indígena in November and the infamous Nochebuena held on Christmas Eve. 

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.