Things To Do
Kioskos de Luquillo (Authentic Puerto Rican Food & Shops!)
The kiosks in Luquillo are a must if you want to experience authentic Puerto Rican food and shops! It is a strip of restaurants, boutiques, shops, and food carts directly along the beach of Luquillo. If you want authentic then you can't go wrong with a visit here! Grab some Mofongo and a pina colada in a coconut and enjoy the view!
El Yunque National Rainforest
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System but it is also a sacred place in Puerto Rican culture. Many believe its name comes from the Taíno word Yuke, or "white earth," a reference to the clouds that gather around the forest's mountainous peak; others believe it derives from Yúcahu, the Taíno deity of fertility. We'd recommend taking a hike to see and bathe in the natural pools beneath the most breathtaking waterfalls. There are many trails from beginner to more experienced so we recommend doing some research before you venture out (unlike us who decided to "wing" it and ended up battered and beaten along the way - though it was INCREDIBLE nonetheless!)
Vieques Island (Bioluminescent Bay & Beautiful, White Sandy Beaches!)
Vieques is a tiny island off the main island, only accessible by ferry or private boat. It is known for the world's brightest bioluminescent bay (Mosquito Bay), pristine, uncrowded beaches within the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, and iconic free-roaming wild horses. Fun fact - the first Puerto Rico photo of us was taken on a secluded cliff overlooking the most breathtaking beach on Vieques! Ask us to show you the video we took of our very unpaved and slightly scary drive finding the spot! We are considering a group charter excursion to either Vieques or Culebra because you must see one or both! Please look at the website provided and/or do some research and you will understand why you must visit!
Culebra Island (Flamenco Beach, Active Reefs & Sea Turtles!)
Culebra is another tiny island off the main island and is widely known for its pristine beaches, particularly Flamenco Beach in the main island and Tortuga Beach in Culebrita, which is protected by the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. It is also an active reef and home to sea turtles and other marine life.
So Many Beaches!
Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful, and unique beaches. Here is a list and review of some of them. You really can't go wrong but be sure to research the location before hopping in the car as these beaches are located all over the Island, and some are only accessible via ferry or boat. The drive from the East to West side is about 3 hours depending on the route.
La Placita de Santurce (Two-Tiered Market Square)
La Placita de Santurce, commonly known as La Placita, is one of the most iconic and vibrant cultural hotspots in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Originally established in 1910 as a marketplace, it has transformed over the decades into a dynamic hub where locals and tourists gather for food, music, and nightlife. By day, it remains a traditional marketplace, bustling with vendors selling fresh produce and local goods. By night, it becomes a lively social scene filled with dancing, live music, and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. You'll find recognized restaurants and local kiosks that sell fried foods like empanadillas, alcapurrias, and bacalaítos. The atmosphere is livelier from Thursday through Sunday, when locals flock here to hang out, have drinks, and dance salsa.
San Cristobal Castle (History)
Named after the saint patron of land travelers, Saint Christopher, Castillo San Cristóbal, is considered the largest fortress built in the Americas. It was built for the purpose of protecting the city of San Juan from attack by land from the east. It is a fortification with three levels and an extensive series of outer defenses and it took over 150 years to complete. Following the principles of the French-influenced “Vauban-style fortress” (featuring irregular and triangular shaped bastions) and a “Defense in Depth” strategy, San Cristóbal was built with a deep dry moat and a series of tunnels. These tunnels protected soldiers from enemy fire and allowed the safe movement of troops, weapons and supplies. The main plaza of San Cristóbal was the heart of the fort. It is where troops drilled, were inspected and assembled for formal events. Eleven casemates border the plaza. Casemates are large vaulted, bombproof rooms designed with gun ports for cannons.
La Casita Blanca (Restaurant)
La Casita Blanca, or “The Little White House,” is one of the most authentic, traditional dining spots in Santurce. Located in a traditional and picturesque house from the 1920s, La Casita Blanca is a hidden gem offering traditional Puerto Rican cuisine that takes you back to the flavors of the owners grandmothers. With its delightfully old-school setting, the restaurant embodies the essence of a traditional Puerto Rican fonda—a casual and affordable family-run establishment that serves delicious local comfort food. It is the first restaurant on the Island to receive the James Beard Foundation Restaurant and Chef America's Class Award. Hours 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. NOTE - Mike and I have never been to this restaurant but we've heard amazing things. It is also adorable! We may need to check it out ourselves on this trip!
The English Rose (Restaurant)
The English Rose is perched atop Pina Hill overlooking the most beautiful lush, jungle landscape in the Rincon area of Puerto Rico. As it is on the West side of the Island, it is a little bit of a drive (about 2.5 hours) from the hotel but well worth it! It is a small restaurant that has one of the Islands BEST breakfasts, and you cannot beat the view! You do need a reservation. After breakfast, check out the rest of Rincon. The West side of the Island is known for incredible sunsets, whale watching (time of year dependent), surfing, and many other things!
Casa Bacardi (Booze!)
Where they make the rum - yum!
Ocean Lab Brewing Co. (Beer!)
Where they make some of the islands craft beers - yum!
