Best Road Trips in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico may be small but it is perfectly formed when it comes to incredible attractions. The island boasts a wide array of delicious food, lush landscapes, wildlife, and culture packed into an area of only 100 by 35 miles. Its relatively small size makes it an ideal road trip destination. Therefore, no drive is too long or too far, allowing you to embrace “island time” and savor every beach, roadside kiosk, and photo opportunity along the way.

From north to south, east to west, mountains to beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean Sea, here are the best road trips in Puerto Rico.

1. Cruise the Atlantic Coastline along Route 681

Best Route for Dramatic Coastline
Barceloneta–Arecibo; 11.5 miles

The northern coastal roads of Barceloneta and Arecibo provide easy drives by the seascapes of the rugged, dramatic Atlantic shore. Start your journey on Route 684 north and follow the farmlands along the river until the road becomes coastal Route 681.

Make a quick pit stop at Rolyn’s seafood kiosk, known for manta-ray empanadillas (turnovers), as you make your way to La Cueva del Indio (the Indian Cave). This seaside grotto features Taino petroglyphs dating back nearly a millennium and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Any seafood restaurant further along the road—Salitre is a local favorite—makes a great spot for lunch or dinner. Unwind at La Poza del Obispo beach, with its turquoise waters, towering limestone rock formations, and historic lighthouse.

Planning Tip: You’ll encounter plenty of beaches en route, but swimmers should beware: the tide can be strong on the north shore, especially in the winter months when large waves dominate, making it better suited for surfing.

2. Drive the Chinchorro Route

Best Route for Roadside Restaurants
Bayamón–Comerío; 23 miles

A chinchorro refers to a small, typically roadside restaurant or kiosk serving all kinds of Puerto Rican foods, especially deep-fried dishes. No road trip experience in Puerto Rico is complete without a day spent “chinchorreando,” which includes scenic drives through the mountains with stops at various establishments to experience food, drinks, and sweeping views of the lush countryside along the way.

Start in Bayamón, a suburb of San Juan, and head southwest towards Naranjito on Route 167. Capture a photo at the Mirador al Puente Colgante (hanging bridge) or continue to the many chinchorros along Route 152, such as La Casa de la Morcilla, Caldoso, and Asador San Miguel.

From there, make your way south to Comerío on Route 809 toward Doña Elena for some of the best carne ahumada (smoked pork) on the island.

Planning Tip: Take your drive on a weekend afternoon or evening to enjoy some live music performances at the chinchorros.

3. Marvel at Natural Scenery along the Ruta Panorámica

Best Coast-to-Coast Route
Maunabo–Mayagüez; 167 miles; allow for two to three days for the entire route

Puerto Rico’s most famous scenic drive is a 167-mile network of roads crossing the island from coast to coast through the central highlands. The itinerary is aptly named La Ruta Panorámica, or the Panoramic Route.

Since the drive includes plenty of narrow two-lane mountain roads with hairpin turns, cliff drops, and sharp climbs, this trip is for the adventurous traveler. However, the brave will find rewards in breathtaking views, nature, and plenty of great eats along the way.

Starting in Maunabo (on the eastern part of the island) and concluding in Mayagüez (on the west coast), you’ll pass through 15 municipalities. You can opt to drive the entire route or select a smaller section if you’re pressed for time.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy strolls along beaches in Punta Tuna Nature Reserve, rappelling at Cańón San Cristóbal, or hiking Toro Negro Forest.

Foodies will want to stop in Guavate, known as the Ruta del Lechón (Pork Highway), famous for its slow-roasted pork, or indulge in one (or more) of the many chinchorros along the way.

4. Catch Some Rays via the Beach Route

Best Drive for a Family Day Out by the Sea
Cabo Rojo Loop; 18 miles

The southwestern region of Cabo Rojo is home to some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches. The beauty and serene waters of the Caribbean Sea make them especially popular with local families on weekends.

Start your beach tour at the palm-fringed Playa Buyé. From there, enjoy the trails and limestone formations of the Punta Guaniquilla Nature Reserve.

Stop at the Boquerón boardwalk for lunch and capture a photo at Muelle de la Libertad (Freedom Pier). Next, visit Combate Beach, with its shining white sands and endless beach bars, followed by the Salt Flats, whose pink landscapes create a stunning backdrop.

End your day at La Playuela, a pristine half-moon bay with incredible views of the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse and the Caribbean Sea.

Planning Tip: To avoid crowds on this route, consider visiting during the week.

5. Hop on a Ferry to Explore Charming Vieques

Best Route for a Laid-Back Vibe
Ceiba–Vieques; 50 miles (including round-trip ferry)

Often overlooked, Vieques is located 7 miles off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico. Famous for its undeveloped beach coves, lush vegetation, and roaming paso fino horses, it offers a laid-back, small-town vibe that makes it perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the larger island.

To explore Vieques by car, board the cargo ferry from Ceiba (approx. 30 minutes) or catch a 25-minute flight from San Juan and rent a car upon arrival.

Start your trip at Sun Bay Beach, one of the most popular thanks to well-maintained facilities including lifeguards and a restaurant. Nearby, the lovely village of Esperanza features a malecón (boardwalk) lined with restaurants and bars.

Visit Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach) for a striking contrast with its black volcanic sand, then stop at Parque de la Ceiba to see the island’s most formidable tree. Lastly, before returning, check out Mosquito Pier, a top fishing and snorkeling destination where you can spot starfish, sea turtles, and various fish species.

Tips for Driving in Puerto Rico

• Plan for all kinds of weather and terrain, as sudden rain showers are common. Always pack a raincoat or umbrella.

• The central highlands are cooler than coastal areas, with mist or fog rolling in most afternoons. Drive carefully on windy mountain roads, and have cash handy, as many local businesses only accept cash or ATH Movil.

• Be vigilant: signage and road conditions can be unreliable in less-traveled areas, with potholes even on well-trafficked roads.

• Expect some backtracking due to unreliable navigation apps; however, this could lead to discovering more of this magical island.

This article was first published on February 13, 2022, and was updated on January 5, 2024.