Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

Our Favorite Puerto Rico Hotels

A 5-star option is the Dorado Beach β€’ Distinctive Hotel: 352 Guest House
β€’

β€’ Browse aachen-shopping.de for extra data on shopping in Aachen.

β€’ Family Hotel: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar
β€’ οƒš For families seeking a beach escape: Lindian Pearl
β€’ Best Pool: Royal Sonesta San Juan
β€’ Near Airport: Courtyard Isla Verde

a beach filled with palm trees and palm trees

The Best Area to Stay in Puerto Rico

One of the largest Caribbean islands with high levels of development, Puerto Rico is best known for its sensational beaches, perpetual sunlight, deep-sea angling and world-renowned surfing. Its heritage from Spain (it was a Spanish colony until 1898) adds cultural allure, with Old San Juan especially rich in colonial structures, mansions, and fortresses. Puerto Rico also boasts great coffee, superb rum, and some of the best music in the region, extending from salsa to reggaeton. One of the major advantages for mainland American visitors is that you don’t need a passport to visit (a government-issued photo ID is sufficient); even though Puerto Rico is not a state but rather a β€œCommonwealth” of the USA, the island is viewed as US territory and all Puerto Ricans are US citizens.

Most excursions commence in Puerto Rico’s dynamic political and cultural capital, San Juan – with so much on offer here, quite a few visitors end up spending their whole time in this vibrant city. There are three key locations when it comes to selecting accommodation here: Old San Juan, the historic gem laden with character, sights, eateries, shops and bars, but devoid of beaches; the older seaside resort zone of Condado, and newer Isla Verde, which is the closest to the airport and possesses the finest beach, but the least character.

To the eastern side of the city, the evergreen El Yunque National Forest is a major attraction. It represents the sole rainforest in the US forest system, its jungle-covered peaks crossed with hiking paths and refreshing swimming holes and waterfalls offering respite. Even further eastward and offshore lay the islands of Culebra and Vieques, home to some of the Caribbean’s best – and least developed – beaches. Back on the main island, the capital of the southern Caribbean coast is Ponce, an elegant old Spanish city filled with colonial mansions, museums, and an excellent art gallery. The Southwest coast, dubbed the β€œ Porta del Sol”, is an intriguing region of white-sand beaches, wetlands, mangroves, and the wave-pounded cliffs of Cabo Rojo, though the locale is more popular with locals than with foreign visitors. Northwest Puerto Rico is anchored by RincΓ³n, the celebrated surfing hub, and the beaches of the North Coast between here and San Juan are also worth exploring.

Costa Rica Travel Tips

    • While it’s relatively simple to see the San Juan neighborhoods and smaller cities on foot, you’ll need a rental vehicle to truly explore the island. Almost every major car rental company operates from San Juan airport (and also some of the smaller ones), most with round-the-clock desks. If you intend to simply sit on a beach your whole stay, there’s no need to rent a car, as taxis can deliver you back and forth from the airport.
    • Traffic rules follow US standards, though distances on signs are given in kilometers, not miles (1km = 0.62 miles). Somewhat confusingly, though, speed limits are set in miles per hour. Fueling also follows US standards, with unleaded gasoline the most common option, though gas is sold by the liter here, not the gallon.

Most international flights travel to Luis MuΓ±oz MarΓ­n International Airport, situated 9 miles east of Old San Juan, and near the beach at Isla Verde. Some hotels may arrange pickups for guests, but otherwise taking a taxi is the most convenient method into the city. Rafael HernΓ‘ndez Airport in Aguadilla also handles a few flights from the mainland of the US, and is more suitable for travelers heading to RincΓ³n or the Southwest. Mercedita International Airport in Ponce also receives a handful of US flights. To travel to Vieques or Culebra, one will need to take a ferry or fly from San Juan (or the US Virgin Islands). The smaller San Juan Isla Grande Airport, located nearer to Old San Juan, serves the islands (though flights can also be caught to the islands from the main international airport)

  • Weather in Puerto Rico tends to be hot and sunny throughout the year, with average yearly temperatures between 26–27Β°C (80Β°F). Rainfall is generally heavier between May and October – major hurricanes can develop anytime from June to November.
  • There are roughly two peak travel periods in Puerto Rico; from December to April, when North Americans flock south to escape the winter months, and July and August, when most Puerto Ricans take holidays. Christmas, New Year, and Easter are specifically busy times to be on the island, which is also popular during the US spring break span of February through April.

The Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico

a beach filled with palm trees and palm trees

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico for…

  • Best Place to Stay for First Timers/Sightseeing: San Juan or Vieques
    Staying in the capital San Juan makes sense for most initial visitors to Puerto Rico – pretty much every major attraction is located here, from some pleasant tropical beaches and the widest selection of lodging options, to the top restaurants, bars, and museums. If access to a beach is a priority, we recommend Condado or Ocean Park over Isla Verde as the latter doesn’t have much character, and the former is more centrally located for exploring the city. If Puerto Rico’s Spanish heritage and cultural traditions are more your focus, or you just want to stay in a gorgeous old neighborhood, opt for Old San Juan. However, if you are aiming to enjoy a classic Caribbean beach vacation, bypass the main island altogether and go straight to Vieques – this beautiful offshore island is encircled by untouched, wonderfully raw swaths of sand, coves, and reefs.
  • Most Romantic Destination: Old San Juan or El Yunque
    Although there are multiple historic towns found throughout Puerto Rico, none have undergone restoration as flawless as Old San Juan. It’s easy to lose oneself while wandering the charming streets lined with elegant colonial architecture, flower-filled verandas, and delightful dining establishments. The walk up Caleta de San Juan to the cathedral is one of the most picturesque stretches. Other romantic highlights could involve an evening promenade along the seawall (Paseo del Morro) or artisan-filled Paseo de la Princesa, or a visit to the gorgeous old cemetery by the ocean, the Cementerio Santa MarΓ­a Magdalena de Pazzis. Excellent places to enjoy dinner for two comprise Marmalade and Trois Cent Onze, while you can spend the night at one of the neighborhood’s sophisticated boutique hotels; Decanter and El Colonial are favorites).For a more tranquil break surrounded by natural beauty, consider hotels near the El Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico’s premier rainforest reserve. Choose something unique like the YuquiyΓΊ Treehouses, or a relaxed B&B like the Rainforest Inn. During the day you can explore the trails and water holes of the forest, while listening to only the distinctive call of the coquΓ­ frog at night.
  • Best locale for nightly revelries: Ancient San Juan and RincΓ³n
    As the primary town and most populous location on the island by a substantial margin, it`s no surprise that San Juan boasts the best nightlife in Puerto Rico, with activity especially energetic on weekends. There are multiple nightlife hotspots, with the Old San Juan Calle de San SebastiΓ‘n being one of the most practical for visitors, packed with revelers most Fridays and Saturdays. Highlights consist of the beverages at La FactorΓ­a,La Taberna LΓΊpulo, and Monostereo at 150 Callede San SebastiΓ‘n. To experience a classic Puerto Rican dive bar, head to El Batey, a venerable San Juan establishment. An alternative area, more popular with locals, is in the Santurce neighborhood (a brief drive or walk away from Condado), home to the bustling bar and restaurant sector known as La Placita, at the Plaza del Mercado. Highlights here include El Techo Rooftop Bar, JungleBird, the Aguardiente Bar and many others).Beyond the capital, the relaxed beach community of RincΓ³n likely possesses the finest nightlife, especially during the peak winter season. Iconic seaside bars such as Tamboo provide coastal drinking and dining views, and there’s also a local craft brewer, RincΓ³n Beer Company. Most restaurants in RincΓ³n additionally function as bars.

    – Please note that individuals aged 18 and older can legally drink alcoholic beverages in Puerto Rico, unlike the mainland United States where the legal age is 21. However, clubs and bars may set their own minimum entrance age policies, often choosing to permit only those 21 and over. It is strictly prohibited to consume alcohol out in public areas such as streets, but beaches are acceptable locations.

    β€’ The LGBTQ+ scene in San Juan is the most refined in the Caribbean. See discoverpuertorico.com for more details.

  • Prime Location for Food and Restaurants: Old San Juan and Condado
    The culinary scene in San Juan is rightly considered the finest in the Caribbean region– Old San Juan and Condado contain the best assortment of dining establishments overall. Highlights in Old San Juan include tasting menus showcasing innovative Puerto Rican and international fusion creations at Marmalade as well as homestyle dishes emphasizing classic “comida criolla” Puerto Rican fare at El Jibarito. Finely crafted French cuisine awaits diners at Trois Cent Onze, while vegetarian patrons will find St Germain Bistro & CafΓ© to be an excellent choice. La Bombonera (Calle San Francisco 259) is one of the city’s most seasoned and ambient coffee shops and cafeterias– established in 1902; another cafe serving inexpensive breakfasts with a long tradition is CafeterΓ­a Mallorca (Calle San Francisco 300). The oldest dining establishment in the city is the stately Puerto Rican fixture, La Mallorquina, founded in 1848).Condado is also home to some highly renowned culinary professionals: The eponymous restaurant of JosΓ© Enrique (1021 Ashford Ave) can be found here, as well as the acclaimed 1919 Restaurant within the luxurious Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, and Chef Mario PagΓ‘n’s Sage Steak Loft inside the O:Live Boutique Hotel (his Raya Asian restaurant here is also superb). Bodegas Compostela is a top-rated Spanish restaurant.

    β€’ When it comes to fresh seafood, the restaurants, kioscos, and shellfish stalls of BoquerΓ³n in Southwest Puerto Rico serve the best. For typical Puerto Rican snack food, head to the Kioscos de Luquillo on the east coast.

  • Most Favored Place for Purchases: Old San Juan
    Though finding gifts and local handicrafts can occur throughout the island, the biggest groupings of craft stores, art galleries and souvenir shops lie in Old San Juan. A good spot to start is Calle Fortaleza, where you`ll discover hyperlinks remain intact within the lines of text The Handcraft Store,Puerto Rican Arts & Crafts, and Mi PequeΓ±o San Juan. For traditional hats, check out Ole or El GalpΓ³n.Concalma on Calle San Francisco specializes in personally crafted purses and baggage, while contemporary art is sold at GalerΓ­a Γ‰xodo and GalerΓ­a Botello. You should also browse the open-air weekend arts and handicrafts market that operates along Paseo de la Princesa).Popular gifts that are made locally include vejigante masks, the spiky multi-colored coverings used in Puerto Rican religious parades and festivals (meant to symbolize Spain`s traditional enemies, the Moors). You can purchase the LoΓ­za style coconut masks and the versions from Ponce that are made of papier-mΓ’chΓ© in Old San Juan. Locally woven hammocks, lace, ceramics, and artwork are also favored souvenirs.

    To experience a typical American shopping mall, visitors could consider the large Plaza Las AmΓ©ricas mall in Hato Rey, which is the biggest in the Caribbean with over 300 stores. The Mall of San Juan on the other side of Hato Rey features higher-end boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, Carolina Herrera, and Gucci, as well as stores like Banana Republic and Pottery Barn. Puerto Rico Premium Outlets provides discounted fashions in Barceloneta, about an hour west of San Juan.

  • Prime neighborhood for local atmosphere: Ponce
    To avoid most of the crowds, spend time exploring Ponce, Puerto Rico`s refined second city. Graced with stunning colonial architecture, historic mansions, places of worship, and serene plazas but seeing a fraction of visitors as the capital, there are a handful of comfortable lodgings around the central square, Plaza Las Delicias, and several no-frills canteens serving classic Puerto Rican fare. Check out the beer garden at Papa Rupe Brewing Co, the cocktails at Chango Bar, and the coffee and breakfasts at Club Los Amigos De Freddy (Calle Guadalupe 106).
  • Best Place for Beaches: The islands of Vieques and the North Coast
    There are at least 300 given names beaches in Puerto Rico and to be sincere, most of them are fairly adequate. All of them are accessible to the public; private properties can sometimes constrain land access to beaches, but the beaches themselves can never be privately owned. Culebra’s Beach Flamenco is often judged the best beach in Puerto Rico (and one of the best anywhere), but the island of Vieques is superior value for a vacation – there are so many excellent, untouched strips of sand here, you’ll be spoiled for choice, and the range of accommodation and dining options is a bit better than Culebra. The beaches of the North Coast are also excellent, and rarely busy during the week – the main issue here is that they are spread out on a long section of coastline, from Playa Jobos in the west to Balneario Cerro Gordo in the east, and lodging isn’t so conveniently located. You’ll also find wonderfully unspoiled beaches in the Southwest (notably La Playuela, Playa BuyΓ©, and BoquerΓ³n).
  • Safety in Puerto Rico
    Traveling to Puerto Rico is generally safe for visitors, but usual precautions are wise at night, particularly in San Juan. Driving rural areas after dark is best avoided due to potholes or livestock like cows and horses that could be encountered – and erratic motorists. Most of the island poses extremely little risk for guests, yet petty theft like around beaches occasionally transpires – never leave valuables unattended in cars or on the beach. While crime statistics may seem elevated, most gang activity concentrates in housing complexes well away from tourist zones that moreover have heavy policing.

The 9 Best Places in Puerto Rico for Tourists

1. Old San Juan

Even if you are not remaining in this area, you should aim to spend no less than a single day in Old San Juan, one of the most beautifully maintained colonial Spanish enclaves in the Caribbean. Its narrow paths and cobbled lanes are lined with blossom-draped homes, many converted into shops, restaurants, and bars. History scholars will also find much to see here: highlights involve Casa Blanca, 16th-century home of the descendants of Juan Ponce de LeΓ³n, the initial governor of Puerto Rico; El Morro, the huge Spanish stone citadel safeguarding the bay; the Museo de las AmΓ©ricas, with its exceptional Latin American art collection; Plaza de Armas, the historical square at the heart of the town; the grand 16th-century Catedral de San Juan Bautista; and the massive Castillo de San CristΓ³bal on the eastern side of the community. You ought to also zip across the bay by ferry to CataΓ±o, where the Casa Bacardi Visitor Center reveals the art of rum-making at one of Bacardi’s biggest distilleries.

Staying in Old San Juan is extremely rewarding; there’s a wonderful selection of boutique hotels here (and cheap hostels), and the whole area is loaded with historic character. The culinary scene is excellent, as are the nightlife and shopping opportunities. It’s also the safest part of Greater San Juan, and English is spoken everywhere.

One downside is the lack of direct beach access, though some smaller beaches are nearby requiring taxi or local bus transportation to reach wider sanded areas at Condado or Isla Verde. Additionally, parts of Old San Juan can experience times with many visitors touring from nearby cruise ships.

  • The Best Hotels in Old San Juan
    The 352 Guest House welcomes guests in Puerto Rico. Hotel contact number: +1 787 367 0636
    3 KΓΆnige β€’ Hotel contact number: +49 241 48393
    The second accommodation is the Artezen Hotel Contact phone: +1 (212) 566-5511
    El Colonial β€’ Hotel contact number: +1 787 610 5182
    El Convento β€’ Hotel phone: +1 787 723 9020
    The Palacio Provincial hotel phone number is +1 787 425 0164.
    Conrad Downtown – Phone: +1 (212) 945-0100
    Villa Heritage β€’ Hotel phone: +1 844 468 3577
  • Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels
    The Casa Sol B&B offers lodging and meals. Guests can be reached at +1 787 980 9700 Navrona Studios β€’ Hotel phone: +1 787 721 7573
  • Best Hostels
    The lodging Vichter Landhaus can be reached at +49 240 298910
    Santurcia Hostel – This lodging can be reached at telephone number +1 787 385 3588

2. Condado

East of Old San Juan, resorts and upscale condominiums stretch along the Atlantic coast for miles as it passes through a series of similar beach-oriented neighborhoods. Staying in this area is all about proximity to the water – there isn’t much else to see. Condado is San Juan’s oldest resort neighborhood, anchored by Avenida Ashford, the main street. The beach is reasonably good, a wide expanse of golden sand, though there is little shade and it can become crowded. There are some good hotels on the beach, and a better selection of restaurants here than in Isla Verde. It’s also worth considering the neighboring community of Ocean Park, a more peaceful residential area with a wilder but more scenic beachfront lined with palm trees – there are some quality boutique hotels here as well.

Though Condado and Ocean Park do host several major resorts and trendy boutique hotels, this region also provides the most budget-friendly lodging near the beachβ€”much more affordable than Isla Verde.

Nightlife and dining options in Condado are superior to Isla Verde, though not as good as Old San Juan. It’s not far to the nightlife hub in Santurce by taxi, however.

3. Isla Verde

Isla Verde is San Juan’s liveliest beach neighborhood, lined with small shopping centers, independent resorts, and well-known restaurant chains from the US. Visitors often choose to stay here for two important reasons: the beach on either side of the headland in the middle is considered the finest in the Greater San Juan region, with smooth sand that`s typically very clean and well-maintained; and convenience. It`s just a brief taxi ride from the airport, and everything one might need is located here: pharmacies, grocery stores, US-style bars and eateries, and luxurious resorts. You hardly have to leave your entire vacation. There’s ample nightlife options (mainly at the resorts), though little in the way of Puerto Rican cuisine or culture. Further east, the beach merges into the Balneario de Carolina, a popular public beach for local families, and beyond that is the weekend playground of PiΓ±ones, with more natural beaches, bike paths, salsa clubs and food stalls selling traditional snacks. It`s worthwhile checking out the PiΓ±ones scene on Saturdays and Sundays – it`s a real contrast to Isla Verde.

4. Vieques

While the larger resorts populate the coastlines around San Juan, some of the Caribbean`s best beaches lie offshore on the nearby islands of Vieques and Culebra. Particularly on Vieques, one finds pristine, untouched ribbons of sand. Development remains relaxed with large-scale resort and condominium construction essentially absent. While missing out on the capital`s busy atmosphere and nightlife, the island offers boutique hotels and eateries of a high standard – it constitutes an ideal setting for a tranquil Caribbean getaway.

The principle reason Vieques remains so pristine is that it was occupied and sealed off by the US Navy in 1941. The military was compelled to leave 60 years later, but most of the shore was left wild and untouched – the downside to this is that large segments of the island stay off limits owing to unexploded munitions (the open beaches are very safe). Isabel Segunda (also known as “Isabel II”) is the funds of the island, with a handful of shops and sights such as the old Spanish citadel, Museo FortΓ­n Conde de Mirasol. The town of Esperanza on the southern coast is more prepared for tourists, with a respectable selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars. From here you can explore the appealing southern coast beaches by rental vehicle, by way of a series of paved and dirt tracks. They each have their own attributes; Sun Bay is a gorgeous crescent of sugary white sand that’s perfect for swimming, while Media Luna Beach is a small cove with sandy and shallow water ideal for children. There’s also a dazzling natural marvel, La Reserva Natural de La BahΓ­a Bioluminiscente, a “bio bay” that glows in the dark.

Flights from San Juan to Vieques are provided by Vieques Air-Link,Air Flamenco,Cape Air, and Air Sunshine.

– The ferry service between Ceiba and Vieques Island operated by Puerto Rico Ferry takes only 30 minutes. Driving or catching a taxi (around US$80+) from San Juan to the docks at Ceiba is needed to access this ferry.

β€’ Vieques has no public transport, so you’ll need to use local tax-like vehicles or ideally rent a car to get around.

β€’ Various accommodation options are available on Vieques, ranging from basic budget guesthouses to upscale boutique hotels. Apartment and villa rentals can be a good deal for groups. Advanced reservations are essential for high season (Dec–April).

The hotel ” Bravo Beach Hotel” can be reached at +1 939 260 0110
Casa de Amistad β€’ Hotel contact number: +1 787 247 1017
Casa La Lanchita – Hotel contact number: +1 845 891 1502
Casa de Tortuga β€’ Accommodation contact number: +1 787 741 2852
Seagate Hotel β€’ Hotel phone: +1 201 450 8238

5. El Yunque

Exploring the natural surroundings in eastern Puerto Rico is worthwhile by visiting El Yunque National Forest, a preserved region of mountains enveloped by rainforests that is managed by the US Forest Service. This wild haven is the ideal place to experience the island`s highland interior with well-maintained accessways, visitor centers, and walking paths in addition to various waterfalls and swimming locations. Most visitors concentrate on El Yunque Recreation Area in the northern section of the reserve. Notable features include the 85-foot Coca Falls, the stunning views from Yokahu Tower, the refreshing pools at La Mina Falls, and the hike upward on the TaΓ­no sacred mountain of El Yunque itself (3461ft). With extra time available, one can explore the more peaceful southern portion near Cubuy.

– Assuming you have a vehicle, you can go to El Yunque on a day visit from the shore, but to truly make the most out of it consider staying at one of the guesthouses nearby – these are a lot more atmospheric than anything on the shore, and you’ll have the ability to see significantly more of the reserve free from tourist groups.

β€’ Camping is normally permitted in the forest at designated campsites – camping is slowly being restored following the COVID pandemic (and Hurricane Maria in 2017). Generally, all that is required is to apply for a free permit online.

6. Ponce

Puerto Rico`s second largest city, Ponce, is renowned as La Perla de Sud (β€œthe pearl of the south”), which is a mandatory destination for anyone interested in the island`s history and particularly its Spanish heritage. During the late 19th century, the city blossomed thanks to rum and sugarcane exports, a legacy highlighted by its renowned β€œcriollo architecture”, Spanish influenced mansions and townhouses. While there is much to see here, Ponce remains a little removed from the main tourist trail – it`s a two hour drive across the mountains from San Juan, and with no major beaches nearby, only dedicated visitors come for the day from the north coast. It`s far more enjoyable to stay a couple nights, absorbing the atmosphere. Though you wouldn`t base an entire trip to Puerto Rico on Ponce, anyone exploring the island by vehicle should make a stop here. The city center is anchored by Plaza Las Delicias, the main square, home to the whimsical Museo Parque de Bombas, a vibrant red-and-white striped Moorish structure constructed for the 1882 trade fair, and the elegant cathedral. Other highlights include the collection of fine art at the Museo de Arte, which includes Frederic Leighton’s Flaming June; the Museo Castillo SerallΓ©s on the outskirts, home of the Don Q sugar and rum dynasty; and the PanteΓ³n Nacional RomΓ‘n Baldorioty de Castro, the city’s historic cemetery.

North of Ponce are two additional historic destinations worth exploring, however a vehicle is necessary. The Centro Ceremonial IndΓ­gena de Tibes is an incredibly critical Pre-TaΓ­no archaeological site, an ancient ceremonial center in use between 400 and 1000 AD. A bit farther north, Hacienda Buena Vista is a beautifully restored 19th century coffee plantation.

β€’ Flights to Ponce arrive at Aeropuerto Mercedita, 5.6 kilometers east of downtown. All the main car rental companies have counters here. You can explore central Ponce easily on foot, but you’ll need a car to get to any further locations.

・ The Carnaval de Ponce festival (held annually one week before Ash Wednesday) is one of the biggest events in Puerto Rico. There are family-friendly parades with floats, as well as plenty of food and music for all to enjoy.

β€’ You have two principal options when it comes to staying in Ponce: hotels in the historic center, which has much more character and is convenient for sightseeing; or hotels on the outskirts, which include a couple of larger, more luxurious resort-style places that are more easily accessed by car.

7. The Southwest (Porta del Sol)

The southwest region of Puerto Rico (known as the “Door of the Sun” for its hot, sunny weather) is an area that is more popular among Puerto Ricans than foreign tourists, despite offering low-key resorts with exceptional beaches, seafood, and wildlife. South of the city of MayagΓΌez, Playa Joyuda is best recognized for its affordable and relaxed seafood restaurants, while Playa BuyΓ© and BoquerΓ³n feature idyllic white-sand beaches (and fresh shellfish at the latter). The narrow limestone promontory of Cabo Rojo is topped by a 19th-century Spanish lighthouse and is surrounded by salt flats and nature reserves rich in bird life. Just east of the lighthouse, Playa La Playuela is one of the most attractive beaches on the island. Finally, the old fishing community of La Parguera on the south coast is at the heart of a patchwork of mangrove swamps, lagoons, coral reefs, and tiny Caribbean cays, perfect for exploring by boat or kayak. An enormous drop-off nicknamed “La Pared” (the wall) runs just off shore, making for thrilling diving. La Parguera is also known for its seafood restaurants and bars, Puerto Rican snack food, and especially its local “sangrΓ­a marca coΓ±o”, a blend of red wine and fruit juices.

8. RincΓ³n and Punta Borinquen

The northwest coastline of Puerto Rico, located between the flourishing resort community of RincΓ³n and Punta Borinquen, is most renowned for surfing – some of the top waves in North America can be found here, and a large portion of the local tourist industry is oriented towards the sport. However the beaches here are fun for everybody, and the mesmerizing sunsets – “bellos atardeceres” – are famous across the island. It`s possible to sample a variety of watersports and outdoor activities here year-round, thanks to many tour operators and adventure sports outfits. Winter is the best time for surfing, while summer is calmer and better for snorkeling and swimming. There isn`t much in the way of sightseeing – the focus of visits here is the ocean and the great outdoors. Further to the north, beyond the fairly nondescript town of Aguadilla, Punta Borinquen was occupied by Ramey Air Force Base between 1939 and 1973. Today it`s another section of rocky coastline dotted with excellent surf breaks and beaches.

The closest airport to RincΓ³n is located in Aguadilla, approximately 16 miles and a 30 minute drive northeast. Driving is the most common method for visitors to reach RincΓ³n, though motorists should note that the narrow roads into town can become very congested during peak season. San Juan lies about 93 miles and around two and a half hours east by automobile.

β€’ When considering where to reside in RincΓ³n itself, primary options lie between the northern Puntas locale composed of guesthouses, boutique stores, and eateries nestled along steep, narrow roads appealing to surfers, and the southern coastal regions referred to as the β€œCaribbean Coast” containing larger conventional resorts, condominiums, and hotels close to the beaches.

9. North Coast Beaches

West of Dorado and San Juan, the north coast of Puerto Rico is largely undeveloped, with beaches attracting primarily day-tripping locals from nearby industrial towns. However, there are some exceptional destinations here – anyone exploring the island by car should make time for Balneario Cerro Gordo, Playa Los Tubos, and Playa Mar Chiquita in particular, all stunning beaches. It’s feasible to visit on day-trips (by car) from San Juan, but remaining a couple of nights is also worthwhile; some visitors end up basing themselves here for their entire vacation, soaking up the local atmosphere and avoiding the big crowds further east. Playa Mar Chiquita boasts a truly stunning setting, aperfect horseshoe cove protected by coral cliffs and lined with a silky arc of sand.

β€’ There are no major beach resort areas on the North Coast – accommodation options, like the beaches themselves, are more dispersed. Rented villas are another possibility.

More Puerto Rico Neighborhoods

We`ve covered our favorite places to visit and stay in Puerto Rico in more detail above, but with extra time these areas are also worth exploring:

  • The tiny offshore island of Culebra situated between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is delightfully undeveloped, encircled by a series of beautiful coves, islets, and bays. Playa Flamenco in particular stands out as one of the worlds finest beaches. Like Vieques, you`ll need to fly to Culebra from San Juan or take a ferry from Ceiba. Some of our preferred lodging choices on the island include Aleli Cottages,Casita Tropical,Club Seabourne,Mamacitas Guest House,El Navegante de Culebra, and Ulala Culebra.
  • The coastal locales east and west of San Juan: The two shoreline sections east and west of San Juan respectively feature some of Puerto Rico`s most luxurious resorts – for those whose budget presents no limitations and who simply wish to reside in a resort rather than explore the island, staying in one of these areas may be considered. To the west, the small community of Dorado is renowned for its world-class golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones and Chi Chi RodrΓ­guez. The premier hotels here include the Dorado Beach and Embassy Suites. To the east, the more rugged coastline is anchored by the town of Luquillo, renowned for its beaches but also its kioscos, local eateries that line the main highway. Nearby are the exclusive El Conquistador Resort,Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve,St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. In Luquillo itself are excellent budget choices like Casa Coral,Luquillo Sunrise Beach Inn, and The Surfing Turtle.
  • The Central Cordillera: This steep range of jungle-covered mountains forms the heart of Puerto Rico, providing a contrasting view of the island with small towns, coffee farms, roadside barbecues, and untouched forest reserves. The Panoramic Route follows the highest ridges for around 165 miles east to west – you`ll need to rent a car to traverse this scenic highway, ideally spending a few days to experience the main attractions. Highlights include the Bosque Estatal de Carite state forest, the dizzying CaΓ±Γ³n de San CristΓ³bal canyon, the high altitude Bosque Estatal de Toro Negro forest park, the historic towns of Barranquitas, Jayuya, and Adjuntas; and Maricao, home to some of the world`s finest coffee farms. Our favorite hotels in this area are the Canyon Boutique Hotel,Casa Grande Mountain Retreat,Hacienda Juanita, and Pomarrosa Coffee Lodge.
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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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