Ultimate Guide to Puerto Rico: Top Attractions, Hidden Gems and Travel Tips
Curated By
Soreily Santos
Curator’s statement
Puerto Rico holds a very special place in my heart. It was the first Caribbean Island I ever visited. Its vibrant culture, rich history, breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality continue to captive me even after all these years.
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Where to stay in Puerto Rico
Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Puerto Rico’s most luxurious resort, where apartment-sized suites and private butlers come standard, and there’s no bad view along the two-mile stretch of beachfront.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel El Convento
Long-time favorite in Old San Juan, with a traditional look and access to a sister beach club.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Art Deco beauty with a mix of heritage and modern rooms, most with Atlantic Ocean views.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico
A sparkling beach resort on a two-mile stretch of sand, with sea and rainforest views and a selection nature and watersports adventures.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Royal Isabela
Your Caribbean haven on the west coast of the island, where rugged beauty, championship golf and luxurious villas combine for an unforgettable stay in Puerto Rico.
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Things to do in Puerto Rico
Visit Old San Juan: The oldest settlement in Puerto Rico and the historic colonial heart of the island. Insider tip: Take a free walking tour offered by the city to uncover hidden gems and stories that you won't find in guidebooks.
Spend a day at El Yunque: The only tropical rainforest in the US with hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, tree-top walkways, birdwatching, natural pools and rivers.
Casa Bacardi: Puerto Rico's very own rum distillery. Insider tip: Schedule their Rum tasting tour and get a lesson in how to taste rum like a pro.
Go beach hopping at the island's best: Jobos, Mar Chiquita, La Playuela and Luquillo Beach.
Visit the famous Toro Verde: A popular destination for all adventure seekers, offering "The Monster" one of the longest and highest ziplines in the world, suspension bridges and Toro bikes.
Experience Puerto Rico's nightlife: Dance the night away in the island's open-air clubs or enjoy a tropical drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the ocean. Indulge in late night bites from the local food truck or try your luck at one of Puerto Rico's casinos. Who knows, it could be your lucky night!
Explore the magic of Bioluminescent Bays: Step into a world of wonder as you watch in awe as the waters come alive with a mesmerizing blue-green glow. Insider tip: Book a tour during the new moon phase. The less moonlight allows for more bioluminescent visibility.
Swing into paradise with gulf: Whether you're seeking a challenging round of golf or simply want to soak in the stunning views, Puerto Rico's golf courses offer an unparalleled experience. Insider tip: book in advance, pack light, relax and unwind.
Day Trips
Book a charter plane (skip the ferry lines) and head off to discover all the tranquility Culebra has to offer. Renowned for its beautiful beaches, including Flamenco Beach, often rated one of the best beaches in the world.
Rent a car and head southwest to Cabo Rojo. Once there, you'll enjoy stunning beaches, Los Morrillos Lighthouse, Cabo Rojo Salt Flats and Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge.
Eat your way through Guavate and La Ruta del Lechon, "Pork Highway" in Cayey.
Take a private tour to Icacos Island for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on its white sand beaches.
Places to eat & drink in Puerto Rico
The Eclipse Restaurant at Villa Montana Beach Resort: The Eclipse Restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience paired with stunning views. Insider tip: try their Eclipse Seafood Risotto made with risotto, seafood, fennel and tarragon, saffron and crushed tomatoes. You won't be disappointed.
Barrachina: The birthplace and home of the world-famous piña colada, where don Ramon Portas Mingot, first made the famous drink in 1963.
Santaella: Santaella offers a menu that combines classic Puerto Rican flavors with a modern culinary technique, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting. Insider tip: try their Pastelon de carne molida y amarillos, a sweet plantain purée and ground beef gratin with various cheeses.
La Factoria: Voted World's 50 Best Bars. Cocktails and classic bar bites dished up in a vibrant hangout with a rustic-chic vibe.
Chocobar Cortes: A chocolate enthusiast's delight. Insider tip: Must try their cookie chocolatte and madeleines.
La Central by Maria Pagan: Offering a diverse and creative menu, La Central showcases local ingredients with a modern twist. Insider tip: Try their Branzino with limoncillo & calabaza broth, al carbón tomatoes and roasted onion.
Antiguo 26: Set in a former Soda Factory, Antiguo 26 serves homemade sodas, craft cocktails and creative tapas. Insider Tip: Try the Ultima Llamada or Last Call drink, a Boricua twist on the classic coffee cocktail.
Puerto Rican local street food: Rich flavors, cultural immersion, authenticity, affordability and convenience. Try it, you'll thank me later.
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Travel Advisor
Soreily Santos
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Puerto Rico. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Arina Polyaeva’s guide, San Juan, Puerto Rico Getaway.