Puerto Rico, an unincorporated U.S. territory, stands out as one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. It features a varied topography that includes high mountains, cascading waterfalls, lush tropical rainforests, and the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. However, Puerto Rico’s distinctive aspects extend beyond its natural beauty; its cultural identity boasts a rich amalgamation of Spanish, African, U.S., and Taíno influences.
With a vibrant capital and its proximity to the United States mainland, Puerto Rico has remained a major tourism destination for many years. Although San Juan is undoubtedly the hub of tourist activities, the territory encompasses several smaller islands that merit exploration.
This article delves into the island’s highlights to assist you in determining where to stay during your visit.
San Juan
Historically a fortified city, San Juan serves as both the capital of Puerto Rico and its cultural heart. Renowned as one of the premier Caribbean destinations, the city is distinguished by its historical allure coupled with the vibrancy of modern urban life. Old San Juan invites visitors to step back in time, revealing cobblestone streets flanked by colorful colonial homes. With its centuries-old forts, fascinating museums, and a lively cultural scene, Old San Juan provides an enriching experience. Not to be overlooked is the San Juan National Historic Site, an essential visit for photography enthusiasts. In contrast, New San Juan, which includes Condado and Ocean Park, showcases world-class dining and shopping, in addition to an energetic nightlife.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: Castillo San Cristóbal, Casa Blanca, Museum of Art of Puerto Rico, Museo de las Américas, Fortín de San Gerónimo, and Museo de Arte e Historia de San Juan.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Condado Vanderbilt Hotel – Located merely a short walk from the beach, this exquisite seaside property offers opulent accommodations equipped with plush beds, cable TV, a seating area, and a private bathroom. Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the on-site eatery and rejuvenate by swimming in the outdoor pool before venturing out to explore the city. Spend your afternoons at the fully-equipped fitness center or indulge in treatments at the luxury spa. Ideal for all types of guests.
- Hyatt Place San Juan – City Center – A brief drive from Old San Juan and Condado Lagoon, this refined hotel presents spacious, well-furnished rooms alongside amenities such as a swimming pool, 24-hour reception, business center, lovely terrace, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the premises. Each morning, enjoy a complimentary breakfast. Suitable for a variety of guests, including larger groups of up to five members.
- San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino – Just steps from the beach, this stylish resort features a magnificent oceanfront pool, a buffet-style dining option, a gelato counter, and an expansive casino. A 24-hour fitness center with modern apparatus provides an excellent venue for those wishing to stay active. Certain room packages include complimentary breakfast. Perfect for all types of travelers.
Isla Verde
Located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, Isla Verde epitomizes the essence of an “all-inclusive” resort destination. Its central location offers visitors the chance to explore the rest of the island while enjoying the vibrancy of this upscale beachfront community. The San Juan Airport is conveniently near, making it easy for travelers to head directly to this lively area post-flight. Boasting several popular nightclubs, upscale restaurants, high-end shopping, and pristine beaches, Isla Verde is also rich in natural attractions. Whether lounging at the beach with family, enjoying club-hopping with friends, or engaging in exhilarating water sports such as surfing, banana boating, or jet skiing, endless enjoyment awaits in this glamorous neighborhood.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: San Juan Waterfun, Carolina Beach, Mall of San Juan, Plaza Las Americas, and Loiza Forest Trail.
Hotel Recommendations:
- ESJ Azul – As one of the finest hotel properties in Puerto Rico, ESJ Azul boasts fully-equipped modern condo units with views of the Caribbean Sea. Located 15 minutes from Old San Juan and 5 minutes from the airport, this stylish establishment features a large outdoor pool complete with lounge chairs, a café, a well-stocked bar, a game room, and an advanced fitness center. Each morning, enjoy a complimentary American breakfast. Excellent for all types of travelers.
- InterContinental San Juan – Situated a couple of kilometers from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, InterContinental San Juan presents state-of-the-art accommodations along with luxurious on-site amenities such as an executive floor, a full-service spa, a 24-hour fitness center with ocean views, and six in-house restaurants. A lavish buffet breakfast is complimentary with selected room rates. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Hampton Inn & Suites San Juan – Located a short walk from the beach and just a kilometer from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, this hotel features luxurious accommodations equipped with modern amenities including flat-screen TVs with cable, hardwood desks, tea/coffee makers, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, swim-up bar, American bar & grill, and fitness center. Suitable for various travelers, including large groups of up to five members.
Culebra
Culebra, an often-overlooked treasure in the Caribbean, is celebrated for its serene environment and extraordinary natural beauty. Despite its proximity to the lively life of Puerto Rico, it offers an escape that feels worlds apart. Culebra serves as a popular haven for nature enthusiasts, presenting a variety of activities to captivate visitors. This natural refuge, shielded from commercial influences, provides exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, beachcombing, diving, and hiking in a tranquil setting. The jewel of Culebra for many travelers is Playa Flamenco (Flamenco Beach), renowned as one of the most stunning beaches in Puerto Rico.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: Culebrita, Museo El Polvorin, Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, Playa Soni, Playa Tamarindo, and Playa Resaca.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Club Seabourne Hotel – Featuring breathtaking views of Fulladoza Bay, Club Seabourne Hotel accommodates fully-furnished villas with private pools, seating areas, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, free Wi-Fi, and balconies overlooking the ocean. Guests can engage in water sports accessible from the hotel dock or relax in a hammock in the garden. Each morning presents a delicious complimentary breakfast. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Culebra Island Villas – A short distance from the beach, this charming property features well-appointed apartment units with ensuite bathrooms and kitchens. Located on Culebra Island, it also provides boat access to other regions of Puerto Rico. Appropriate for all types of travelers.
- Villa Ensenada Honda – Known for its outstanding hospitality, Villa Ensenada Honda offers beautifully decorated apartment units with balconies featuring barbecue areas, TVs with satellite channels, seating areas, kitchens with microwaves and refrigerators, and ensuite bathrooms stocked with complimentary toiletries. Perfect for families and groups.
Mayaguez
Mayaguez, the third largest city in Puerto Rico, possesses a uniquely European charm and is recognized as the “capital” of Puerto Rico’s West Coast. As a sub-neighborhood of Porta del Sol, it is known for its port facilities and numerous tuna processing plants. Notably, Mayaguez houses the only zoo in Puerto Rico, the Zoologico Dr. Juan A. Rivero, which provides an engaging venue for families, categorizing its inhabitants into two primary divisions: the African Savannah and the African forest. Following a significant earthquake in 1918 that damaged many key structures, concerted efforts have been made to restore the area, particularly the picturesque Plaza de Colon, often regarded as one of the most delightful plazas on the island.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: Tropical Agriculture Research Station, Mayaguez Mall, Parque de los Proceres, Teatro Yaguez, and Cabo Rojo Beaches.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Holiday Inn Mayaguez & Tropical Casino – Located just minutes from stunning Caribbean beaches and the lively attractions of Porta del Sol, this intriguing property features an on-site restaurant and bar, an outdoor pool, a fully-furnished fitness center, and an in-house casino. Guest rooms and suites are equipped with high-quality amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with cable and pay-per-view channels, and private bathrooms. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Mayagüez Resort & Casino – Featuring a full-service à-la-carte restaurant with a focus on local dishes, along with a bar and lounge, fitness center, spa and wellness facilities, and a casino, Mayagüez Resort & Casino is situated near several important sights, including Puerto Rico’s Zoo. Guestrooms include comfortable double beds, private bathrooms, and cable TVs. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Howard Johnson Downtown Mayaguez – Positioned in the heart of Mayaguez, Howard Johnson Downtown Mayaguez offers well-furnished accommodations along with upscale on-site amenities such as an indoor pool, a Bonsai Sushi Bar, snack shop, business center, and a 24-hour reception desk. Mayaguez Cathedral is located directly across the street. Suitable for all types of travelers.
Rio Grande
Rio Grande, recognized as Puerto Rico’s premier luxury beach resort area, features opulent beach resorts with private beach access and fewer crowds. Nestled in the Northern Coastal Valley, this district is the gateway to El Yunque National Rainforest, which spans over 28,000 acres and ranks as the most visited attraction in Puerto Rico while being part of the U.S. National Forest system. Rio Grande also boasts world-class golf courses and numerous spa options. Nearby Fajardo is famed for its bioluminescent bay, Laguna Grande, making it an ideal site for evening excursions.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: La Coca Waterfall, Cascada La Mina, Juan Diego Falls, Las Paylas, and Historical Park Cueva María de la Cruz.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort – A luxurious beachfront resort offering state-of-the-art amenities, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort includes three outdoor pools, ten dining options, thirteen tennis courts, two golf courses, and a spa and wellness center. The spacious guest rooms are equipped with televisions and satellite channels, private bathrooms, and stunning views. Guests can engage in numerous activities, including water sports, Sea Turtle Nesting, and iguana feeding. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.
- Margaritaville Vacation Club Wyndham Rio Mar – This upscale property features fully-furnished deluxe studios equipped with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and cable TVs. Offering direct beach access, it includes an on-site restaurant, tennis courts, game rooms, and a casino. Golfing and snorkeling are popular nearby, with bicycles available for rental at the 24-hour reception. Suitable for a variety of luxury travelers.
- Ocean Villa Yunque Mar – Centrally located in Rio Grande, this property provides serviced apartment units with barbecue facilities, kitchens, cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. It features a dedicated beach area and a large outdoor pool. Ideal for families and groups.
Rincon
Rincon, famous for its picturesque sunsets and acclaimed surf breaks, is a coastal town situated on Puerto Rico’s western shore. This destination is particularly popular for destination weddings and honeymoons, offering an idyllic, laid-back beach atmosphere. While summers here may be tranquil, winter attracts professional surfers from around the globe seeking to conquer the waves. Notable surf breaks include Dome’s, Rivermouth, and Maria’s for experienced surfers, while Sandy Beach and Marina Beach are more suited for beginners. Steps Beach, one of many in Rincon, is recognized as a premier snorkeling destination during the summer months. Punta Higuero Lighthouse Park serves as a fantastic photo opportunity for sunset watchers and those hoping to spot humpback whales during the winter season.
Ideal for: All travelers, particularly surfers.
Highlight attractions: Corona Pro Circuit Surfing (March), Plaza of Rincon, Rincon Cultural Center, and Isla Desecheo.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Rincon of the Seas Gran Caribbean Hotel – Located a short drive from the town center, this elegant property features well-appointed guest rooms equipped with satellite TVs, mini-refrigerators, safety deposit boxes, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy swimming in the outdoor pool or exploring the beautiful gardens. Live cooking events are hosted on weekends alongside an à-la-carte menu available at the on-site restaurant. Suitable for a variety of travelers.
- Rincon Beach Resort – Featuring spacious accommodations with vibrant décor, Rincon Beach Resort is set on exquisite Añasco Bay, presenting guests with a swimming pool, an à-la-carte restaurant, a poolside bar & grill, and exceptionally friendly front desk staff who can assist in arranging water activities such as surfing and scuba diving. Ideal for all types of travelers.
- Villa Cofresi – This establishment features an outdoor pool, a game room, a beach bar, and a restaurant specializing in seafood, Puerto Rican cuisine, and grilled specialties. Situated on Rincon Beach, it offers well-furnished guest rooms with cable TVs and refrigerators. Complimentary breakfast is available daily. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
Isabela
A hidden treasure, Isabela is a charming beach town featuring a stunning coastline and exceedingly friendly locals. It is a popular choice for those wishing to establish a vacation home in the Caribbean, offering an abundance of scenic locations and local dining establishments. Often viewed as a modernized version of Culebra, Isabela’s beaches are its main highlight. Whether you prefer relaxing in a lounge chair, catching up on reading, or seizing the opportunity to learn how to surf, Isabela’s beaches cater to all interests. Surfing and swimming are available year-round, and the natural shallow pools found here offer a safe environment for toddlers. During winter, the beaches may appear nearly deserted, providing a tranquil experience. Playa Jobos, known among locals, is renowned as one of the island’s most prominent surfing locations along the western coast.
Ideal for: All types of travelers, particularly surfers and nature enthusiasts.
Highlight attractions: Playa Middles, Playa Pozo De Teodoro, Pozo de Jacinto, Guajataca State Forest & Del Viento Cave, and Paseo Lineal.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Parador Villas Del Mar Hau – Located a short drive from Rafael Hernandez Airport, Parador Villas Del Mar Hau features tropical villas near a private beach. The on-site restaurant offers fine dining options, and a convenience store is available for refreshments. Activities such as tennis, kayaking, and horseback riding are popular in the area, making it perfect for families and groups.
- Villa Montaña Beach Resort – Spanning five kilometers of pristine beaches, this luxurious resort offers fully-equipped villas, suites, and guest rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy swimming in one of two outdoor pools or pamper themselves at the spa. The facility also offers a fitness center, tennis courts, and two restaurant options. Beachfront picnics can be arranged upon request. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Secret View – The beautifully designed guest rooms at Secret View come with kitchens, seating areas, private bathrooms, and balconies overlooking the ocean. The on-site swimming pool offers views of the surrounding greenery, making it a great option for couples, families, and small groups.
Fajardo
Situated on the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, Fajardo is renowned for the captivating Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Bay. This charming neighborhood is an excellent base for island exploration. Aside from its bioluminescent bay, Fajardo is home to El Conquistador – A Waldorf Astoria Resort, celebrated for its exceptional service and natural beauty. For a truly memorable experience, join a nighttime kayaking tour to witness the breathtaking glow of the bio bay. Cayo Icacos, a small islet off the coast of Fajardo, is part of the Cordillera Keys Nature Reserve and serves as a fantastic spot for snorkeling and sailing. Additionally, El Yunque Rainforest is just a short drive away.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: Isla Palomino, Natural Reserve Cabezas de San Juan, Seven Seas Beach, Coqui Water Park, and Playa Escondida.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Fajardo Inn – Located a short distance from Fajardo Bay, Fajardo Inn is a modern resort featuring a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis courts, mini golf, swimming pools complete with whirlpools and slides, and two restaurants, one specializing in Tex-Mex cuisine and cocktails. Guests can request arrangements for horse riding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Suitable for all types of travelers, including groups of up to six individuals.
- A Seascape Guest Room – Close to El Yunque Rainforest, this property offers elegant accommodations featuring flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee makers, outdoor furniture, and balconies with stunning sea views. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities in the vicinity. Well-suited for solo travelers and couples.
- East Island Waterfront Suites – This 4-star beachfront property offers stylish suites equipped with flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, kitchens and dining areas, safety deposit boxes, outdoor dining spaces, and private entrances. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, a diverse restaurant, barbecue facilities, and airport shuttle services. Suitable for all types of travelers, including large groups of up to six members.
Vieques Island
Puerto Rico is home to three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays, with Mosquito Bay in Vieques considered the brightest among them. It is nearly impossible to leave Puerto Rico without experiencing a nighttime kayak trip through Mosquito Bay, where you can witness this “life-changing” natural occurrence. Although Vieques hosts one of Earth’s premier attractions, it remains a serene escape, presenting a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Walk along pristine beaches, savor authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, and explore the rich history of a town that predates the original Arawak tribes. Additionally, visitors can enjoy varied activities such as swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, biking, and hiking. The island’s laid-back ambiance, together with its natural beauty and captivating history (extending back to ancient cultures) make it a compelling destination. Visitors may also explore remnants of military bunkers from World War II.
Ideal for: All types of travelers.
Highlight attractions: Ceiba Ecological Coastal Park, Vieques Wildlife Refuge, Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust, Faro Punta Mulas Lighthouse and Museum, and Puerto Ferro Archeological Site.
Hotel Recommendations:
- The Wave Hotel – A pleasant drive from the celebrated bioluminescent bay, The Wave Hotel features comfortable guest rooms equipped with air conditioning, TVs, wardrobes, and optional balconies with sea views. The on-site restaurant specializes in diverse culinary options, including American, Mexican, and seafood dishes, while accommodating dietary restrictions. Ideal for all varieties of travelers, including groups of up to eight.
- Esperanza Inn – Located within walking distance to the coast, Esperanza Inn features well-appointed guest rooms (some with accessibility options) with amenities such as outdoor furniture, washing machines, board games, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool or prepare meals in the shared kitchen area. A hearty breakfast is provided daily. Suitable for all types of travelers.
- Acacia Guesthouse – Surrounded by a manicured garden, this property offers a terrace, a playground, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout. It is conveniently located just a short distance from the beach. Each accommodation features a kitchen, seating area, and private bathroom. Opportunities for fishing, cycling, and horseback riding are available nearby. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
