1. Explore the Beauty of Puerto Rico
If you’re visiting San Juan for more than three days, it’s highly recommended to venture beyond Puerto Rico’s capital and discover other parts of the island. The good news is, you can explore some of Puerto Rico’s greatest attractions without joining an expensive tour group. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
2. Discover El Yunque National Rainforest
El Yunque National Rainforest stands out as one of Puerto Rico’s greatest attractions, and it is absolutely free to enter. This lush green oasis offers several hiking trails, a spectacular waterfall, and numerous scenic vistas to enjoy. Transportation options include renting a car for the day, which provides the freedom to explore. This allows you to combine the rainforest adventure with a visit to Luquillo Beach, where you can refuel at very affordable kiosks along the way.
3. Visit Culebra and Vieques
Visiting the beautiful islands of Vieques and Culebra can be done inexpensively, although it requires a bit of time. The process includes:
- Take a público to Fajardo. This option is budget-friendly, but it might take a few hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi, which costs around $25 and more, depending on the traffic conditions.
- Catch the public ferry to your chosen island. Make sure to check with the Puerto Rico Maritime Authority at (787-863-0705) for up-to-date schedules and to plan your trip accordingly.
- After arriving, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches that both islands offer. To get around, utilize the públicos on either island.
- Conclude your trip with a delightful meal at one of the affordable restaurants in either Vieques or Culebra.
Ensure that you are familiar with the ferry schedules for your return trip!
4. Experience Piñones
Due to its proximity and the appealing offer of free trips with dining at Soleil Beach Club, Piñones proves hard to beat for value. The beach is free of charge, and the numerous kiosks in the area create an enjoyable atmosphere. Even if you choose not to eat there, you can still soak in the unique vibe of this rustic retreat.
5. Join Local Festivals
Participating in the locally celebrated Patron Saint Festivals, known as Fiestas Patronales, offers an authentic glimpse into Puerto Rican culture. These festivals take place in many towns across the island to honor their patron saint, featuring a day of lively music, parades, delicious food, and overall merriment. Utilizing públicos becomes advantageous for those without cars, providing a way to travel between smaller towns and larger cities.
Often overlooked compared to Puerto Rico’s more famous attractions, the Guánica State Forest is just as remarkable as El Yunque. Located in the Southwest near Guánica city, this area is considered to be the best-preserved subtropical dry forest in the Caribbean. It boasts a diverse ecosystem, housing roughly half of Puerto Rico’s bird species and over 700 plant species, including nearly 50 that are endangered. Accessible trails allow visitors to experience the beauty of the forest, making the cost of transportation the main expense, which a rental car can conveniently cover.
