Essential Guide: 13 Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico

With stunning oceanfront views, verdant mountains, tropical rainforests, vibrant nightlife, and an exceptional culinary landscape, a Puerto Rico vacation is all about savoring the experience.

Understanding some of the island’s unexpressed social customs can significantly enhance your enjoyment and provide insight into what makes Puerto Rico such a distinctive destination.

Whether you plan to hike, surf, zip-line, boogie board, or attend one of the island’s numerous festivals, here are our most valuable recommendations regarding planning, cultural etiquette, and health and safety considerations in Puerto Rico.

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1. Check the visa rules and passport requirements

While Puerto Rico possesses unique local laws and customs separate from those of the mainland United States, it remains a Commonwealth of the USA. Consequently, US citizens do not require a passport or visa for entry.

Flights from the US are classified as domestic; therefore, you will not encounter customs upon arrival, nor will you need to show a visa or pay a departure tax when leaving.

Nonetheless, visitors are obligated to pay the local tax of 11.5% on goods and services and must pass through the US Department of Agriculture channel at the airport prior to departure to ensure that no fruits, vegetables, or opened food packets are brought back into the US.

Non-US citizens heading to Puerto Rico may be required to obtain a 90-day visa prior to arrival, although countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program do not require a visa due to mutual agreements. Consult this list to identify which countries are part of the program and those with specific visa requirements.

2. Rent a car for long-distance road trips when traveling in Puerto Rico

When organizing your visit to Puerto Rico, be aware that public transportation may not be entirely reliable. This consideration is essential when deciding the duration of your stay.

The primary metropolitan area of San Juan, which includes the municipalities of San Juan, Bayamón, and segments of Carolina, operates a bus system managed by Autoridad Metropolitana de Autobuses (AMA), but services can be inconsistent.

To fully appreciate the scenic beauty of the central mountains, the beaches of the northwest, or the arid landscapes of the southwest, a rental car is advisable.

Rental prices may fluctuate seasonally, yet driving offers a richer experience, allowing for spontaneous stops to capture photographs at stunning miradores (viewpoints) along Expressway 22 in the north or Route 66 in the northwest.

3. Don’t expect to see the whole island in one trip

Puerto Rico spans 100 miles in length and 35 miles in width; however, do not be misled by its size—its geography offers a multitude of activities to explore. With a total surface area of 3,515 square miles, the island’s appeal extends far beyond its renowned white sandy beaches.

Visitors can experience the enchanting bioluminescent bays, ancient caves embellished with Taino hieroglyphics, and a rich assortment of rivers, canyons, towering mountain ranges, and salt flats.

While San Juan houses numerous popular tourist attractions and vibrant bars, authentic Puerto Rican culture is most distinctly perceived in areas beyond the metropolitan landscape. Traveling from one end of the island to the other may require up to three hours, and it’s probable that some routes may be temporarily closed for maintenance.

Using expressways can facilitate a swift journey, or conversely, navigating the island’s scenic backroads may result in a more protracted adventure.

Prepare for possible delays caused by construction and repairs along significant highways, along with substantial traffic congestion during peak commuting periods, generally from 6 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM.

4. Pack bathing suits and your Sunday best

As a former Spanish colony, Puerto Rico bears the legacy of Spanish colonialism, which includes the prevalence of Catholicism, a sentiment also reflected in other neighboring Latin American nations such as Cuba and the Dominican Republic.

It is perhaps not surprising that Puerto Ricans exhibit a degree of conservatism in their dress standards, particularly in various locations. In Old San Juan – home to the governor’s residence, La Fortaleza – it is common to see individuals dressed in formal attire irrespective of the tropical climate.

Flip-flops are generally reserved for beach outings or casual instances, such as visits to kiosks and beachfront eateries. Attending the main mall, Plaza las Américas, in swimwear may draw unwanted attention.

Certain establishments enforce dress codes as well, necessitating proper footwear for entry. Therefore, it is advisable to include swimwear and casual shoes in your packing list, but also formal outfits for outings in the evening and garments that cover knees and shoulders if you aim to visit any religious sites.

5. Buy tickets ahead for tours and attractions

If you plan to partake in snorkeling excursions, embark on a catamaran journey, or enjoy a meal at the 1919 Restaurant within the Vanderbilt Hotel, it is advisable to secure your reservations in advance. Organizing your plans ahead of time will undoubtedly enhance your overall experience.

6. Don’t expect everyone to speak English

Despite Puerto Rico’s contemporary political status, Spanish remains the predominant language spoken on the island. While numerous Puerto Ricans possess an impressive command of English, you are more likely to connect with these individuals in the metropolitan area and adjacent towns such as Caguas, Bayamón, Guaynabo, Carolina, and Trujillo Alto.

Even in Old San Juan, where staff in the restaurant and tourism sectors readily communicate in English, it is appreciated to first inquire if someone speaks English prior to continuing the conversation. If your travels take you beyond the primary tourist areas, taking the time to familiarize yourself with some basic Spanish phrases can create a friendly rapport with the local residents.

7. Discuss politics with care

Conversations surrounding the island’s political status can evoke passionate and emotional responses; this topic is often contentious, with Puerto Ricans holding diverse views.

The optimal approach is to approach such discussions with an open heart, recognizing that the political landscapes of Puerto Rico and the United States are distinct. Listening to the narratives and aspirations of Puerto Ricans will offer valuable perspectives on their envisioned future for the island.

8. Be ready to sample the full range of Puerto Rican cuisine

While delightful street snacks such as pernil (roast pork), alcapurrias (stuffed, fried fritters), and bacalaitos (codfish fritters) are certainly enticing, Puerto Rican cuisine encompasses a vast and complex array of flavors, influenced by traditions from West Africa, Spain, and Asia.

For instance, various vegetarian-friendly establishments, including the vegan cafe El Grifo in Caguas and 100% HP in San Juan, are available. Additionally, patrons can enjoy fine dining at the renowned 1919 Restaurant located within the Vanderbilt Hotel in Condado or savor dishes at the French restaurant Trois Cent Onze.

Pursuing extraordinary culinary experiences is invigorating in Puerto Rico, known for its talented local chefs and the well-loved Puerto Rican-Chinese eateries that offer cozy, family-run environments. Come for the mofongo (mashed fried plantains) and pernil, but remain enticed by the culinary diversity that awaits you in Puerto Rico.

9. Be ready for the real “island time”

It may be tempting to envision Puerto Rico as a serene getaway where the focus is primarily on beach days and soaking up sun rays. The truth, however, is that the island is home to bustling metropolitan areas, where residents frequently commute early in the morning and face traffic congestion at the end of the workday.

If you have errands to run, be sure to plan, as government offices, fast-food outlets, bakeries, and supermarkets often experience lengthy queues. Exhibiting impatience or frustration towards staff for minor delays may lead to unwelcome reactions from those around you.

Embrace the opportunity to relax and enjoy the local rhythm; you’ll quickly master the art of engaging in casual conversations while waiting.

10. Be aware of the hurricane season

The hurricane season in the Caribbean spans from June 1 to November 30. Although Puerto Rico is not frequently impacted by hurricanes, when they do occur, they can be severe. Always verify with your airline regarding their policies on natural disasters when making travel arrangements during hurricane season.

Should you find yourself in Puerto Rico during a hurricane, your accommodation is likely to have an emergency protocol in place. Tourists are generally well-cared for on the island, so be sure to inquire about contingency measures with your lodging ahead of your trip.

This does not imply that travel is inadvisable during hurricane season—indeed, June to November can be among the most delightful times to experience the island. Just stay informed through news outlets and diligently monitor your favorite weather applications for alerts regarding incoming storms.

11. Exercise caution on Puerto Rico’s beaches

Beaches in Puerto Rico showcase stunning white sands and inviting crystalline waters. However, these locations typically lack lifeguards, and for those staying on the Atlantic coast in the north, ocean conditions can be turbulent compared to the tranquil waters found along the Caribbean in the south.

Rip currents and whirlpools can generally be identified by inconsistencies in the water’s surface appearance, distinguishing them from the calmer waters closer to the shore.

Should you find yourself caught in a current, remain calm—according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the advised course of action is to conserve energy by swimming parallel to the shore until you escape the current. Despite the dangers, rip currents rarely pull individuals beneath the surface, but rather move them away from land.

Exercise prudence while swimming, particularly with children. If a section of water or beach appears completely deserted, it may indicate potential hazards such as jellyfish, spiky sea urchins, or aggressive undertows.

When heading to the beach, avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive cameras, and refrain from leaving bags unattended, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas such as Ocean Park and Isla Verde.

12. Exercise the same caution you would use in a big city back home

Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination for vacationers; however, it is prudent to remain vigilant regarding potential risks, particularly in dimly lit or deserted areas of Old San Juan and other San Juan neighborhoods. One area which demands caution is Santurce, as it has higher crime rates during nighttime.

Similarly, several urban beachfront locations are not advisable after sundown. Due to the lack of police presence, these beaches may be obscured by hotels and residences lacking sufficient lighting, which creates an environment attractive to petty criminals.

It is advisable to research your locality prior to arrival and, if possible, consult with someone familiar with the area for insights on safety levels.

13. Don’t skimp on sunblock and bug spray

Caribbean sunlight can be intense, especially for those not accustomed to it. Proximity to the equator results in direct sunlight exposure, particularly between noon and 4 PM when UV rays are at their strongest. Therefore, it is imperative to apply high-SPF sunblock—aim for SPF 50 or above—to avoid painful burns.

Moreover, local residents will attest that insects, notably mosquitoes, can be quite bothersome during summer evenings. In severe cases, these pests may carry tropical ailments such as dengue fever, Zika, and chikungunya.

Your best defense against these insects is to apply DEET-based insect repellent—particularly in areas near standing water such as mangroves, lagoons, and lakes.

This article was first published May 23, 2022 and updated Nov 30, 2023.