Road Tripping Through Puerto Rico

My first day in Puerto Rico was incredibly memorable. We started our journey driving from San Juan towards Ponce, winding through the lush mountains that offered breathtaking views at every turn. The scenery was stunning, with verdant landscapes and glimpses of local life along the way.

In Ponce, known for its rich culture and history, we stopped for a leisurely lunch. We savored delicious local cuisine, including mofongo and fresh seafood, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.

After lunch, we made our way to Rincon, a laid-back beach town famous for surfing and spectacular sunsets. We checked into the Grand Caribbean Rincon of the Seas Resort, where we experienced warm Puerto Rican hospitality.

We strolled through Rincon's Thursday night's art fair to cap off our day. It was a delightful experience immersed in local art, music and crafts, under the starlit sky. The atmosphere was magical, with live music adding to the vibrant ambiance.

Overall, our first day exploring Puerto Rico, from San Juan to Ponce, and then Rincon, was a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery. It set the tone for an amazing journey through this beautiful island paradise.

My day in Rincon was absolutely wonderful, starting with a relaxing morning at some of the local beaches. We visited Sandy Beach, which was lively with surfers catching waves, and I would rate it a solid nine out of 10 for its beauty and atmosphere. Later, we headed to Domes Beach, known for its stunning views and great surfing conditions, earning another nine out of 10. Both beaches offered picturesque scenery and crystal-clear waters that were perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

In the afternoon, we ventured to Rincon's Marine Reserve for snorkeling with Rincon Diving. The marine life was incredible and the coral was so colorful. I had the unforgettable experience of encountering a majestic sea turtle gliding gracefully through the water. It was a magical moment, seeing such a magnificent creature in its natural habitat.

As evening approached, we made our way to the Rincon Lighthouse, also known as El Faro de Rincon. This iconic spot is famous for its panoramic views and stunning sunsets over the Caribbean Sea. We watched in awe as the sky transformed into shades of pink and orange, casting a golden glow over the ocean. It was a perfect end to a perfect day in Rincon.

On day three, we drove back to San Juan along the island's northern coast. The drive from Rincon to San Juan was a picturesque journey that took us along the coastal roads, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and lush tropical landscapes. Leaving Rincon in the morning, we headed eastward towards San Juan, passing through charming towns and enjoying the changing scenery along the way.

Our first notable stop was Crash Boat Beach near Aguadilla. This beach is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It was bustling with activity as locals and tourists enjoyed sunbathing, swimming and water sports. I would rate Crash Boat Beach a solid eight out of 10 for its beauty and lively ambiance. Get there early because it tends to get quite crowded!

After some beach time, we resumed our drive towards San Juan, specifically Condado. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its upscale hotels, beautiful beaches and bustling nightlife. Arriving in Condado in the late afternoon, we enjoyed strolling along Ashford Avenue, lined with shops, restaurants and cafes. The atmosphere was lively and cosmopolitan, reflecting San Juan's dynamic blend of modernity and historic charm.

On day four of our Puerto Rico adventure, we started early with a visit to El Yunque National Forest. Opting not to hire a guide, we embarked on a challenging hike up to El Yunque Tower. The trail was steep at times, but the breathtaking views from the tower made every step worth it. From the lush rainforest canopy to panoramic vistas of the island and coastline, El Yunque offers a truly memorable outdoor experience.

After our hike, we headed to Luquillo, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and iconic food kiosks. The kiosks in Luquillo are a vibrant culinary scene, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy a variety of Puerto Rican dishes. Each kiosk offers its own specialties, from fresh seafood and mofongo to traditional snacks like alcapurrias and empanadillas. The atmosphere is lively, with music playing and the scent of grilled meats and seafood filling the air.

We spent the afternoon relaxing on Luquillo Beach, which boasts soft golden sands and calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. After soaking up the sun and enjoying the beach vibes, we indulged in a late lunch at one of the kiosks. The food was delicious and satisfying, complemented by the casual, beachside setting.

In the evening, we returned to Condado to go out to enjoy the neighborhood's lively nightlife along the famed Condado Beach.

On our final day in Puerto Rico, we immersed ourselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stepping into the cobblestone streets, we were immediately enchanted by the colonial architecture, colorful buildings and centuries-old forts that overlook the Atlantic Ocean.

Our first stop was Castillo San Felipe del Morro, commonly known as "El Morro." This impressive fortress, dating back to the 16th century, stands majestically atop a promontory overlooking the sea. We explored its expansive grounds, including the ramparts, sentry boxes and lighthouse, learning about its role in defending San Juan from attacks over the centuries.

Next, we visited Castillo San Cristobal, another historic fortification that guarded the eastern approach to Old San Juan. This fortress is a marvel of military engineering, featuring intricate tunnels, dungeons and expansive views of the city and coastline. Walking through its imposing walls, we gained a deeper appreciation for the strategic importance of San Juan throughout history.

After exploring the forts, we wandered through the charming streets of Old San Juan, lined with boutique shops, art galleries and quaint cafes. We admired the vibrant facades of buildings adorned with bougainvillea and enjoyed glimpses of local life unfolding in plazas and narrow alleyways.

As evening approached, we followed a recommendation from a friendly server and headed to Casita Miramar for dinner. Tucked away in the Miramar neighborhood, this restaurant exceeded our expectations with its inviting ambiance and impeccable service. The menu featured a fusion of Puerto Rican and international flavors, showcasing fresh seafood, flavorful mofongo and innovative dishes that highlighted the island's culinary diversity. It truly was the culinary highlight of our trip, with each dish leaving a lasting impression. A wonderful treat to end our adventure in Puerto RIco.