Things To Do
Experiences
Viejo San Juan
The historic heart of Puerto Rico and one of the oldest cities in the Americas, Old San Juan is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and centuries-old Spanish colonial architecture. Walk along the massive stone walls that once protected the city and visit landmarks such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza, and Cuartel de Ballajá. Take time to wander because there is something beautiful around every corner. You can stop for a piña colada at Barrachina, which claims to have created the drink, shop for local art and crafts, or grab a coffee and enjoy the view. In the afternoons, locals gather to fly kites in front of El Morro, and in the evenings, Calle San Sebastián comes alive with music, bars, and a relaxed Puerto Rican atmosphere.
Playa El Escambrón
A local favorite right in San Juan. Great for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing by clear blue water with easy city access.
Isla Verde Beach
One of Puerto Rico’s most famous beaches, wide and beautiful with plenty of restaurants and hotels nearby. Perfect for a beach day close to nightlife.
Ocean Park Beach
A relaxed, walkable beach popular with locals. Great for morning walks, paddleboarding, and people-watching.
Vacia Talega Beach
A scenic, more hidden spot in Loíza known for its calm water and local food stands nearby.
Laguna del Condado
A beautiful lagoon in the middle of San Juan where you can paddleboard, kayak, or just relax by the water. You might even spot manatees if you’re lucky. Great for a morning adventure or a calm sunset paddle.
El Yunque National Forest
The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system, full of waterfalls, trails, and incredible views.
Carabalí Rainforest Park
Adventure meets nature with ATV rides, horseback trails, and local food at the edge of El Yunque.
Bahía Bioluminiscente
A natural wonder with glowing water that lights up at night when you move it. Book a kayak tour in Fajardo to experience it.
Toro Verde Adventure Park
Zipline through the mountains in Orocovis, including one of the longest ziplines in the world.
Casa BACARDÍ
Take a short ferry to Cataño for a rum tasting and a bit of history at the world’s largest Bacardí distillery.
Ron del Barrilito - Hacienda Santa Ana
A smaller, historic rum distillery in Bayamón with guided tours and tastings in a beautiful hacienda setting.
Pinones
A stretch of beach and food stands just outside San Juan, known for its local vibe and delicious Puerto Rican fritters like alcapurrias and bacalaítos. Perfect for grabbing a snack, enjoying the view, and taking in a true taste of the island.
Vivo Beach Club
A beachfront spot in Isla Verde with a pool, restaurant, and live music, perfect for an easy afternoon or sunset drink. Day passes are available on weekdays.
Restaurants
La Cueva del Mar | Calle Loíza
Vegetarian Friendly!
Cayo Caribe
There are many locations throughout the island including el Condado! It is a local chain and also Marimar's favorite spot to eat Puerto Rican food! Vegetarian friedly!
Pirilo Pizza Rustica - Old San Juan
Vegetarian friendly!
Restaurante Airelibre
This is a very local al-fresco restaurant. They are known for their delicious tostones and carne frita!
Cocina al Fondo
A James Beard Award–winning restaurant known for creative Puerto Rican cuisine and fresh, local ingredients. Simple, elegant, and very good. Reservations are recommended.
La Santurcina
This restaurant is first come, first serve. It does not offer reservations. Vegetarian friendly!
La Casita Blanca
La Ó Restaurant
Known for its amazing cocktails!
Trópiko Hato Rey
It's like a Puerto Rican chipotle!
Los Chamos Arepas
Late night muchies Venezuelan spot.
Ceviche Market Cocina Peruana
Great Peruvian restaurant.
Metropol Restaurant - Isla Verde
This is another local chain that is widely known! There is another location in Distrito T-Mobile.
Bars
La Factoría
One of the Old San Juan's most famous cocktail bars and ranked among the World's 50 Best Bars. Known for its creative cocktails, lively crowd, and live salsa music. Definitely a spot you want to check out if you want some good cocktails and to dance some salsa.
LA SOMBRILLA ROSA
LGBTQ friendly bar. Medallas, our local beer, are 3 X $5 and their drinks tend to be cheap.
Monostereo
Really good spot to go dancing at night, especially Latin Urban music.