Curator’s statement
As a proud Puerto Rican, I've carefully crafted this four-day itinerary to showcase the vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty of our beloved island. Each experience is handpicked to offer travelers an authentic taste of Puerto Rican life, from savoring traditional cuisine to exploring hidden gems off the beaten path. Join me on this journey as we delve into the heart and soul of Puerto Rico, uncovering its many treasures along the way.
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Day 1: Discover the Charms of Old San Juan
Before we get to the fun part, Puerto Rico isn’t really known for its public transport and this itinerary includes leaving the metro area therefore renting a car is recommended. Driving in Puerto Rico is fairly simple, and all GPS apps work great.
Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the rich history and captivating architecture of Old San Juan. Park conveniently at La “Puntilla Parking" and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Paseo de la Princesa, where you'll soak in the charm of colonial-era buildings and lush greenery. Make your way to the historic walls of La Puerta de San Juan, marking the entrance to the old city, before venturing to the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perhaps the most iconic fortification built by the Spanish in the Americas. You can visit “El Morro” from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
After exploring the fortifications, wander the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, dotted with charming restaurants and bars. One of Puerto Rican’s favorites pastimes is to “chinchorrear” which is basically bar hoping (make sure to try the passion fruit mojitos!), some of the best bars are: La Verguenza, La Taberna de Lupulo, Monostereo, La Factoria (one of the top bars in the world) and El Batey.
Day 2: Sail to Paradise
Embark on an unforgettable journey by boat to discover the untouched charm of Puerto Rico's beaches. Whether you opt for the tranquil shores of Icacos or the mesmerizing beauty of Culebra, each promises a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Departing from Fajardo, just an hour's drive from San Juan, numerous tour options await your selection. Reach out to me for personalized recommendations to make your adventure truly memorable.
Icacos
Set sail to Icacos, a secluded cay boasting crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches.
Culebra
Alternatively, venture to Culebra, home to the world-famous Flamenco Beach, renowned for its pristine sands and vibrant marine life. Choose from snorkeling tours or beach day excursions by catamaran.
Day 3: Sun, Sand and Gastronomic Delights
Escape to the sun-drenched beaches of San Juan for a day of relaxation and culinary exploration. While Condado Beach may be popular it is not the greatest for swimming, I would even go as far as asking you to not swim in Condado. However, you can venture a short distance to discover hidden local gems.
Playa El Escambron, offering tranquil shores and stunning views just 5 minutes away from Condado. It is a public beach and has ample parking, however there is no food or drinks for sale so stop by a gas station/supermarket and bring your own.
La Posita en Piñones, a hidden gem located about 15 minutes from Condado, park just across the beach next to the road. Rent chairs and umbrellas as you soak in the sun, then explore the vibrant food scene of Piñones, known for its delectable street food and authentic Puerto Rican flavors. Don't miss out on indulging in savory delights at El Rinconcito Latino.
Day 4: Explore El Yunque and Relax at Luquillo Beach
Venture into the lush wonders of El Yunque National Forest for a day of adventure and rejuvenation amidst tropical rainforests and natural wonders. Located approximately 40 minutes from San Juan, El Yunque offers an array of hiking trails, natural pools, and scenic vistas to explore. Hike along the La Coca Trail to discover hidden ponds perfect for a refreshing swim, or head to El Angelito Trail for the thrill of a rope swing into a tranquil lagoon.
After your rainforest adventure, unwind at nearby Luquillo Beach, known for its pristine sands and calm waters. Rent chairs and umbrellas for a relaxing beach day, then explore the nearby Kioskos de Luquillo for a taste of authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Indulge in frozen drinks behind Rellenao (kiosk #40) and savor traditional fritters like empanadillas (filled with seafood, shrimp, octopus, meat or pizza (my personal favorite)).
Need to know
General Recommendations:
As you explore San Juan and its surrounding areas, take time to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and flavors of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rican culture is best explained by our food so venture out and try some of the following: Mofongo filled with your seafood choice (my personal favorite), Lechon (fried pork), Arroz y Habichuelas (Rice and beans), Bacalaitos (cod fritters, look for this in Pinones or Luquillo kiosks) and Alcapurrias – fritter made of yucca stuffed with meat among others.
I hope this itinerary has sparked your curiosity and ignited a passion for exploring our island's wonders. If you need any assistance booking accommodations, activities, or have any questions along the way, please don't hesitate to reach out.
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Travel Advisor
Mariela Reyes
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Puerto Rico. For more travel tips, check out my guide, Miami Getaway: Girls' Weekend Edition - Shopping, Dining, Beach & Cocktails.