You’ve booked your flight, you’ve arranged your lodging, you’ve investigated the top activities, and now you’re likely wondering what to wear in Puerto Rico.
As a Puerto Rico local, I’ve witnessed too many visitors fill their Puerto Rico packing list with solely beachwear and aesthetic summer dresses. While these things undoubtedly have their place, they aren`t precisely the most suitable way to comfortably explore many Puerto Rico attractions.
For guidance on avoiding common mistakes, I`ve created a comprehensive guide on Puerto Rico attire. Check out my in-depth Puerto Rico travel ebook for even more trip planning assistance.
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Table of Contents
What Should I Wear In Puerto Rico?
When dressing for a trip to Puerto Rico, the following are suggested attire:
- Footwear for strolling
- Casual tops
- Sleeveless tops
- 1 pair of gently warm gloves
- Shirt with UV protection
- Buttoned Shirt
- Denim shorts
- Loose-fitting shorts with extra pockets
- Fitness Attire
- Jeans
- Swimsuit
- Attire for covering up at the beach
- Light rain jacket
- Casual dresses
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Sun hats and caps
Of course, what to wear in Puerto Rico will vary depending on two factors – which attractions in Puerto Rico you’re visiting and what clothing you find comfortable. Puerto Rico’s climate is humid and warm, but you cannot use your beach vacation wardrobe for every situation.
Instead, I recommend packing casual clothing, yet bringing multi-purpose pieces you can wear to sites with a modest dress code like Puerto Rico museums and La Fortaleza.
Samples of suitable items include casual maxi dresses, denims, blouses, button-ups, and t-shirts. Lightweight attire and bright colors are preferable, regardless of any scheduled conventions, concerts, or business meetings.
For exploring the top Puerto Rico hiking trailsand visiting the El Yunque rainforest, pack sports apparel, hiking boots, comfortable walking shoes, and a sun hat within your luggage items for Puerto Rico.
What to Wear in Puerto Rico at the Beach
To visit beaches in Puerto Rico, bring swimsuits, a hat for sun protection, and sandals. Your list for packing for the beachcan vary depending on how much you prefer to cover up or if you’ll be trekking to the shoreline. Here are some proposed items:
- Swimsuit
- Clothing items
- Sun hats and caps
- Attire for covering up at the beach
- A shirt that protects against ultraviolet radiation
- Sandals
- Footwear
It is likely that visiting Puerto Rico’s splendid sandy beaches will account for much of your schedule for a Puerto Rico vacation. Because of this, a bathing suit and a cover for the beach are essential items on your list of things to bring to Puerto Rico.
However, if intending to spend the day at the shore, you`ll want to shield yourself from the sun with a long-sleeved UV shirt and a hat. If trekking to your beach, wear trainers or watershoes.
Cover Up
What to Wear in Puerto Rico During the Winter
San Francisco`s weather is quite predictable and unlikely to present any real surprises. The city stands as one of California`s most frequented destinations, but it`s best visited during fair conditions.
- Light jacket.
- Long sleeved outer garment
- Sneakers
” Here was a recommendation for bringing a light jacket on a trip, denoted with an embedded link
Though temperature changes aren`t as dramatic as other areas, temperatures slightly drop, especially at night, during winter. If you`re sensitive to cold, bring a jacket or cardigan just in case.
But don’t go overboard! Keep your wardrobe choices fresh, as it will usually be above 85°F (29 °C) during the daytime.
Light Jacket
What to Wear in Puerto Rico for Festivals
The top Puerto Rico festivals and events occur outdoors, so it’s imperative that you wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing. To remain cool, bring along the following:
- Sneakers
- Headdresses that protect from sunlightand headgear
- Denim shorts
- Loose-fitting shorts with extra pockets
- A shirt that protects against ultraviolet radiation
- Casual tops
- Fitness Attire
- Ties for Hair
No matter the time of year, locals dress casually for most festivals. Shorts, jeans, tops, activewear, and tees are common.
Sun Hat
What to Wear for Nightlife in Puerto Rico
For night outs in Puerto Rico, casual glam is your dress code. Here are some things that may come in handy to pack in your luggage:
- Trousers
- Blouses
- Casual tops
- Short-sleeved shirt
- Trousers with pockets
- Casual dresses
- Attire
- Button ups
- Sandals
There are various spots to enjoy nightlife in Puerto Rico. If you’re visiting casual outdoor bars like La Placita, one of San Juan’s primary attractions, pants and a nice top are best for ladies, while men wear jeans with a T-shirt or short-sleeved shirt.
For trendier clubs in Isla Verde and Old San Juan, you`ll find short dresses, button-down shirts, and dress pants to be more standard attire.
Casual Bodycon Dress
What to Wear for Going Out in Puerto Rico
While Puerto Ricans normally dress casually, we mostly reserve shorts for the beach. In a shopping center, restaurant, or at the movies you can wear:
When you visit Puerto Rico, you’ll notice Puerto Ricans are informal in their style but they like to look well assembled. Jeans, crop tops, short-sleeved shirts, dresses, skirts, and blouses are common outfits for concerts, restaurants, bars, and for a day out.
Jumpsuit
What to Wear for Hiking in Puerto Rico
Your selection of clothing should emphasize sportswear for hiking in Puerto Rico. Here are some things you should bring:
- Leggings
- Supportive top
- Hiking boots or hiking shoes
- A shirt that protects against ultraviolet radiation
- Tank top
- Headdresses that protect from sunlightand headgear
Some of Puerto Rico’s best sitesare only accessible through hiking, including Puerto Rico nature reserves, some beaches, and forests.
Although shorts may suffice for most outings, it`s advisable to wear long leggings to shield your legs. Also carry a light raincoat when touring El Yunque National Park.
Hiking Boots
What NOT to Wear in Puerto Rico
Regardless of the time of year you’re traveling, you’re still visiting a tropical island. Your Puerto Rico packing list shouldn’t include thick or heavy fabrics.
Even during winter, temperatures generally stay above eighty degrees. Outerwear like coats, scarves, and thick materials will be too hot and uncomfortable.
Unless attending a business conference, you should avoid packing your bags with office attire as well.
As a general safety tip for Puerto Rico, avoid wearing expensive jewelry, especially when clubbing or at the beach.
Tips for Dressing for Puerto Rico
Consider Your Trip Style
While Puerto Rico is popular for beach getaways, not everyone visiting wants to spend their time at the shore. Depending on the activities planned, sportswear or dressier apparel may be worn instead of packing just for potential scenarios. Pack after creating a planned itinerary for Puerto Rico
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even if you’re not an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be doing a lot of walking in Puerto Rico. Anything other than closed comfortable shoes is impractical. Keep sandals for indoors, the beach, and short walks.
When in Doubt, Bring Sportswear
If you don’t have space in your suitcase, then I recommend packing lots of sportswear. Puerto Ricans use sportswear for the outdoors, hiking, the beach, and some indoor settings like the mall. Sportswear pieces will work for multiple scenarios on your trip.
Pack Breathable Fabrics
Puerto Rico`s humid climate causes easy sweating. Pack light-colored, breathable pieces to stay comfortable all day according to your Puerto Rico luggage list.
Bring the Extras
After worrying about your clothes, you should also bring other essentials like a waterproof bag and a reusable water bottle.
Beach enthusiasts shouldn’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, aloe vera gel, and bug repellent. If creating content, then an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case will prove useful.
While Puerto Rico`s tap water is safe for consumption, you may also want to bring a filtered water bottle like the GRAYL UltraPress 16.9 oz Water Purifier. Additional details regarding packing for Puerto Rico can be found in our guide on preparing luggage for a Puerto Rico trip.
FAQs About What to Wear in Puerto Rico
Can I wear jeans in Puerto Rico?
Visitors to Puerto Rico can wear jeans. While the climate is warm and humid, it`s a common sight to see both locals and tourists dressed in denim. Looser palazzo-style or baggy jeans are more comfortable options, though slim or straight jeans are also frequently donned.
What type of clothing should I wear in Puerto Rico?
When visiting Puerto Rico, visitors should wear light, breathable clothing. Essentials for a Puerto Rico packing list include lightweight shirts, jeans, activewear, sports shoes, and swimsuits.
What do you wear to a night out in Puerto Rico?
You`re now all set to pack your bags and explore the finest places to check out in California! You can also look over my guide on the prime time to visit California to strategize the perfect trip.
Do people dress up in Puerto Rico?
Locals in Puerto Rico limit beachwear only to beaches and pools depending on the event. The typical Puerto Rican outfit is casual with staples like dresses, blouses, shirts, button-ups, and jeans. Heels and accessories are utilized to dress up.
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