I’ve visited Puerto Rico twice, once for my 24th birthday and another for a workcation. From beautiful beaches and warm weather to delicious food and no passport needed for U.S. travelers. The island of enchantment is always a good idea, and below I’m sharing where to eat, play, and stay.
Where to stay
Condado Ocean Club
A beautiful adults-only hotel located in the Condado beach area, in fact, it’s located right on Condado beach. This hotel has it all from delicious food and impeccable service to a unique boutique shop and spacious rooms. I’d highly recommend staying here if you’re looking to be close to many attractions.
Airbnb
There are so many Airbnbs to choose from when staying in Puerto Rico, I rented a very spacious Airbnb in Rio Grande.
Where to play
El Yunque National Forest
There’s so much to do at El Yunque National Forest from hiking and horseback riding to ATVs and waterfalls:
- Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park: This ranch provides numerous activities including ATV, horseback riding, Mountain Biking, and more. I’d suggest booking your activity in advance to ensure you get the time slot and duration you want.
- Hiking: This is in a different location from the Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park. If you decide to hike, you’ll be able to swim in beautiful waterfalls like La Mina. Be prepared as the hiking path can be slippery, narrow, and steep. The 30-minute hike to La Mina waterfall, in particular, is easier going down than up. If you decide to hike to La Mina Falls, try to go early to avoid the crowd. I’d also suggest bringing water shoes since walking around the waterfall will be very rocky. Note: Cell service will be spotty when hiking.
Luquillo beach
My Airbnb was very close to Luquillo Beach so I decided to relax there. This beach has such a beautiful backdrop of El Yunque National Forest.
San Juan
Another must-visit when coming to Puerto Rico, there’s a lot to see and do in, and around, San Juan including:
Old San Juan: See the colorful buildings and graffiti-covered walls. Or walk to El Morro to relax at the park, or even tour around the fort.
Casa BACARDÍ
Learn how Bacardí came into existence and how they make their rum. You get a free drink, a Bacardí cup, and the opportunity to try five different rums.
Crash Boat Beach
This is one of the most popular beaches on Puerto Rico’s west coast and I understand why. The water is clear, the locals are so nice, and the food options are delicious. My friend and I got boozy passion fruit piña coladas from one vendor and pinchos from another, which were yummy.
La Placita de Santurce
A plaza full of bars and restaurants that’s great during the weekends due to its lively nightlife atmosphere. I went on a Friday and it was crowded with a range of music blasting from clubs and bars on the street. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to eat pinchos — a skewered pork or chicken with BBQ sauce.
Where to eat
La Parrilla
Great place that offers traditional Puerto Rican cuisine, seafood, and steak. I got mofongo (made with mashed sweet plantains) with jumbo shrimp and holland cheese fondue. I also tried their appetizers like stuffed tostones (filled with seafood) and pastelitos. La Parrilla is a bit pricey, but the food makes it worth it!
Bistro Cafe
I’ve gone to their Miami location and was so excited to go to their flagship restaurant. I love this place because I can mix sweet and savor, and can order a mimosa with a popsicle included! They don’t allow for reservations so I suggest going early in the morning, or later in the afternoon.
Acapulco Taquería Mexicana
If you want true, authentic Mexican food in Puerto Rico then this place is a must. From their fresh guacamole to their al pastor tacos with corn tortillas and pineapples, this place is SO good! They have two locations and the Calle Loiza location is fairly small so keep that in mind for dining-in.
La Casita de Rones
A restaurant, bar, and even a souvenir shop. My friend and I went for a late lunch/early dinner and the food and drinks were nicely presented and delicious.
Peccas Helado Artesanal
Grab a boozy (or non-boozy) ice cream, coffee, or crepes, I got their guava-flavored ice cream with delicious guava drizzle!
4 comments
Very beautiful nature in Puerto Rico
So true, Puerto Rico is absolutely stunning!
Hi Paula!
Thanks for sharing the information, really helpful!
I wanted to ask you few questions, was it safe for you to travel solo as female? Which month did you go? I am thinking of going during the 4th of july week, and do a long weekend, perhaps from Wednesday to Sunday, I hope that would be enough?
And, do you think you can move around without renting a car?
many thanks!
Bhavna
Hi Bhavna,
Great questions!
1. I definitely think Puerto Rico is safe for a solo female traveler. I didn’t travel there solo, but I know others who have and loved it!
2. I went in June for my birthday!
3. I think Wednesday-Sunday is good enough time depending on what you’re looking to do. There are so many things to do in Puerto Rico, so you’ll definitely want to have a good idea of what you want to see/do in that period of time. I definitely want to go back as they’re so much more I want to see!
4. Hmm, it depends on what you’re looking to see/do. I’ll honestly say I think it’ll be tough to get around (outside of San Juan) without a car, but this is really dependent on what you’re looking to do.
I hope this was helpful and feel free to ask any additional questions!