Maybe you've booked a flight to Puerto Rico or you are considering a trip to Puerto Rico. A vacation in Puerto Rico is nothing short of extraordinary. You will be surprised at how many things there are to do on the smallest island of the Greater Antilles. I have compiled a list of fun family things to do in Puerto Rico. Most of these activities are kid-friendly!
For information on Puerto Rico's Top Resorts click here.
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First things first, some facts about Puerto Rico:
It is a U.S. territory- Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898, following the Spanish-American War, and its residents are U.S. citizens.
No Passport Required – U.S. citizens do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, making it an easy vacation spot.
Official Languages – Both Spanish and English are official languages, with Spanish being the most widely spoken.
Rich History – The capital, San Juan, was founded in 1521, making it one of the oldest cities in the Americas. Its historic forts, such as El Morro, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Climate – Puerto Rico enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures averaging between 70°F and 85°F, making it a great travel destination in any season.
Things to do in Puerto Rico:
There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico, which brings us to the first on our list of things to do in Puerto Rico:
Head West to the Beach
Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, however, the west side of the island has some of the best beaches! It offers a wide range of activities for everyone from world-class surfing to some of the most family-friendly beaches on the island. Almost every beach there is special in its own way. Our favorite beaches for swimming and snorkeling, with highly recommended nearby dining places:
Crash Boat
Rompe Olas
Pozo de Teodoro (Theodore's well), also known as "La Pocita" or "Montones".
Crash Boat is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico. This beach has a pier that is very popular for fishing and diving in the water. There are plenty of on-site delicious food stands where you can grab some kabobs or, as the locals call them, "pinchos", or for a more formal dining experience consider Rico's, Sazones, Desecheo or Mona by the1 PR-107 road.
Great for:
Snorkeling or scuba diving
Swimming
Jumping from the pier
Relaxing on the sand
Enjoying local cuisine
Photo Ops!
If you have to choose just one beach to visit, choose Crash Boat!
Rompe Olas is located in the downtown area of Aguadilla. It is a nice relaxing beach, perfect for little kids. It is conveniently located near the boardwalk that also happens to host popular restaurants and downtown parks.
Great for:
Families with small kids
Enjoying local cuisine
Playing in the sand
Swimming
Exploring downtown Aguadilla
Pozo de Teodoro is a great choice for families with little kids. It resembles a wide and shallow swimming pool. A little further from the shore, the beach also has another formation that resembles a pool that is great for snorkeling and viewing colorful fish. Families can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with plenty of exploration options, like seashell collecting, looking for crabs around the rocks, or watching the surfers ride the waves on the beach next door.
Great for:
Families with small children
Playing in the sand
Sea Shell collecting
Exploring
Snorkeling
El Yunque is a tropical rainforest and is a tourist favorite. This beautiful rainforest is also home to the Puerto Rican tree frog, the "Coqui". It is a very popular hiking spot, hikers enjoy the hike leading up to beautiful views of the island or hike to some of its impressive waterfalls.
Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts flock to El Yunque for its extensive network of hiking trails that offer a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region. The trails wind through dense foliage, leading hikers to panoramic viewpoints that showcase the beauty of the island from above. Additionally, some trails lead to stunning waterfalls where visitors can cool off in the refreshing cascade of water, surrounded by the symphony of nature.
If you can visit Puerto Rico on a night when there is little to no moon, visit a bioluminescent bay where you can see the water sparkle brightly as you move your hand through the water. Puerto Rico has not one, but three bioluminescent bays (out of only five in the world!).
These bays are considered among the most spectacular in the world, with their ethereal glow captivating visitors from around the globe. Among these three bays, Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico, stands out as the world's brightest bioluminescent bay. The sheer intensity of the bioluminescence in Mosquito Bay is unparalleled, creating a luminous spectacle that is nothing short of breathtaking.
So, if you ever find yourself in Puerto Rico on a moonless night, make your way to one of these enchanting bioluminescent bays for an experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.
There are many kinds of tours offered, you could kayak around the bay or take a boat tour with a chance to take a dip in the water.
Visit a Hacienda
Hacienda is a term deeply rooted in the history and culture of Spanish-speaking countries, particularly associated with vast agricultural estates or plantations. In Puerto Rico, these haciendas not only represent a significant part of the island's past but also serve as unique destinations for visitors seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights.
One such captivating hacienda is El Paladar Campesino, where the essence of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine meets the charm of a rural setting. This hacienda offers a feast for the senses, with its picturesque surroundings and a menu that showcases the island's rich culinary heritage. El Paladar Campesino offers an amazingly flavorful menu with a spectacular view.
Another notable hacienda worth exploring is Hacienda La Fe, a place where history whispers through the rustling leaves of the surrounding vegetation. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the land while indulging in delectable dishes that fuse local flavors with modern culinary techniques. Hacienda la Fe offers more for the kids (and grown-ups) with a small rope bridge, walking trail, zip lining, and bungee.
Visiting these plantations goes beyond enjoying gorgeous views and fantastic food; it is a journey through time, a chance to connect with Puerto Rico's agricultural legacy, and an opportunity to savor the authentic tastes of the island. Each hacienda tells a story, not just of the past, but of the resilience and creativity of the people who have shaped Puerto Rico's culinary landscape.
At first, I was going to write "El Morro", but Old San Juan is more than just "El Morro". Old San Juan is the perfect place to learn more about Puerto Rico's rich Spanish history. It is a beautiful historic place with lots of shopping and dining. Located in Old San Juan is "El Morro" which was designed to guard and protect the entrance to the San Juan Bay. This is the perfect spot for history buffs and photographers. Also a great spot for a picnic and some kite flying.
Visit the Salt Flats of Cabo Rojo
The salt flats, known for their stunning natural beauty, are strategically situated in a prime location that offers visitors a unique blend of attractions to explore. Not only are they in proximity to the picturesque beaches that line the coast, but they also provide easy access to the iconic Cabo Rojo Lighthouse, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Additionally, visitors can indulge in the vibrant local culinary scene by sampling a variety of delicious dishes at the numerous popular restaurants in the vicinity. This convergence of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights makes the salt flats a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the best that the region has to offer.
Address: PR-301, Boquerón, Cabo Rojo 00622, Puerto Rico
La Parguera, a charming coastal area situated in the town of Lajas, Puerto Rico, offers a plethora of opportunities for a memorable day out. One of the must-visit spots in this region is Cayo Caracoles, a picturesque island known for its crystal-clear and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
To reach this hidden gem, visitors can opt to rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely ride through the calm waters, soaking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. The boat journey to Cayo Caracoles is not only convenient but also a delightful experience, with the refreshing sea breeze and stunning views enhancing the overall adventure.
For those who may not be comfortable with renting a boat, fret not, as there are alternative options available. Local boat tours and charters operate in La Parguera, offering guided trips to Cayo Caracoles. These tours provide a hassle-free way to explore the island, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the journey while experienced guides navigate the waters. This option ensures that everyone, regardless of their boating experience, can still access and appreciate the beauty of Cayo Caracoles.
There are various ziplining locations across Puerto Rico. One of them is at Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park, where Jimmy Fallon was brave enough to adventure. At this park, you will enjoy hours of adventures and beautiful landscapes.
A visit to Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park is not just about ziplining; it's about embracing the spirit of adventure, connecting with nature, and creating lasting memories. So, whether you're looking to conquer your fears or simply seeking an escape from the ordinary, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone craving an unforgettable experience in Puerto Rico.
Exploring Puerto Rico on horseback is truly a magical adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the island's stunning landscapes and rich culture. One of the most enchanting aspects of horseback riding in Puerto Rico is the opportunity to traverse diverse terrains that showcase the island's natural beauty.
When it comes to choosing where to embark on this unforgettable journey, two standout options are Tropical Trail Rides and Carabalí.
Tropical Trail Rides offers a unique experience with a beach atmosphere, allowing riders to feel the gentle sea breeze and admire the picturesque coastal views as they meander along the shore. It is located in Isabela and offers two-hour horseback riding tours through a beautiful private-like beach.
On the other hand, Carabalí provides a different ambiance with its mountainous terrain and refreshing river crossings, offering a more rugged and adventurous ride through lush forests and scenic valleys. It is located in the town of Luquillo and is an adventure park complete with ATVs, UTVs, go-carts, and hayrides.
Cueva Ventana (Window Cave) is a large cave with an opening that overlooks the Rio Grande of the Arecibo Valley. The guided tour begins with a hike through some of Puerto Rico's beautiful fauna and then through the cave.
Update: It has permanently closed. But there are other amazing natural places to visit. We will be updating our list soon.
Here are some of the most frequently searched questions about Puerto Rico:
Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico? No, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory.
Is the water safe to drink in Puerto Rico? Yes, the tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink, as it follows the same sanitary standards as the U.S.
What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico? The best time is between mid-December and April when the weather is warm and dry.
Should I rent a car in Puerto Rico? Renting a car is recommended if you want to explore beyond San Juan. However, taxis and public transport are sufficient for getting around San Juan.
Do I need an international phone plan in Puerto Rico? No, Puerto Rico uses U.S. phone networks, and most mobile services work without additional plans.
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