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A tropical paradise tucked away in between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, Puerto Rico, is known for its beautiful sandy shores and composed green surroundings. Visit it for an everlasting travel experience. The state boasts of great natural as well as historical wonders. Laze by the shores or get hypnotized by the untroubled charm of mountainous landscapes. Explore the unique Caribbean culture and savour the world-famous pina colada. Puerto Rico offers limitless opportunities to make your vacation an unforgettable journey. Here listed are the most exotic things to do when in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean gem of the USA.
Top Things To Do In Puerto Rico
1. Visit Castillo San Felipe Morro
One of the most significant citadels from Puerto Rico’s legacy within the Caribbean and the Americas, Castillo San Felipe del Morro is an engineering marvel from the 16th century. This historical masterpiece was erected between 16th and 18th centuries and since then, it has been the talk of the town. Today, it is one of the sparkling jewels of San Juan and is one of the most visited places in Puerto Rico. Any person who visits this gorgeous ancient architectural glory is sure to be transported to the bygone era.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Photographers
Price:
$7 for adults
Free admission for children below 15 years of age
Timings: 09:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: The weather inside the fort is often hot and sunny and hence, make sure to wear light summer clothes.
2. Take a Tour of El Yunque National Forest
Once known as the Caribbean National Forest or Bosque National del Caribe, El Yunque National Forest is the sole tropical rain forest in the United States. That’s the reason it has been drawing the attention of millions of tourists from around the world every year. It is one of the major Puerto Rico tourist attractions and must not be ignored for anything. Despite its diminutive area of just 29,000 acres, this rain forest is home to hundreds of flora and fauna, many of which are limited only to this ecological region. Visit it and step into a hidden world of natural wonders.
Recommended For: Nature Lovers, Photographers, Families
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: 07:30 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: Most of the attractions inside the forest get closed early in the afternoon. So, plan your visit accordingly.
3. Excurse Out to Vieques Island
Vieques Island is definitely a must-visit place in Puerto Rico. It is one of the few destinations on the island still holding the beauty and serenity of the ancient Caribbean. The place also harbours the magical presence of Puerto Mosquito, the brightest bioluminescent bay as declared by the Guinness Book of World Record. This cute tiny island is indeed a wondrous getaway for weekend travellers. Visit it and relish the best of coastal charm as you capture unseen sunsets.
Recommended For: Offbeat Travellers, Couples
Price: No entrance fee
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: Do not forget to try horse-riding along the beach as it is one of the most popular activities here
4. Visit La Fortaleza
The official residence of the governor of Puerto Rico, La Fortaleza is one of the most noted historical places in the country. Built in the early 16th century, it has been inscribed to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for being a structure of architectural and historical prominence. It is one of the oldest mansions in the Americas that are still in use by the executives of the state. That’s why it must be on the top of your bucket list while visiting Puerto Rico.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Photographers
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: 09:00 am to 04:00 pm
Pro Tip: If you are using public transport, then the best way to reach it is by taking a bus to Terminal Covadonga San Juan. From there, the fort is about 15-min walk.
5. Explore Ponce Historic Zone
A district comprising of structures dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, Ponce Historic Zone is filled with dozens of iconic sites. Describing the artistry of ancient Puerto Rico, these wondrous sites are sheer instances of unforgettable architecture. From the streets to the city hall, every corner speaks of legends that would surely astonish you. Plan a tour of this marvelous district and discover the untold stories of Puerto Rico and its glorious past.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Culture Explorers
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: Anytime
6. Learn About Arecibo Observatory
Housing the largest single-dish radio telescope in the world, the Arecibo Observatory must be on your places to visit in Puerto Rico if you have great interest in astronomy and celestial objects. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the compound and have fun time learning about the asteroids and weather forecasting. Watch movies on different subjects in the auditorium or get yourself to the observation desk from where you can catch awe-inspiring scenes.
Recommended For: Explorers
Price:
$10 for adults
$6 for students and seniors
Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: If you desire to learn about the place and its importance in detail, then do take the VIP tour.
7. Laze by the Flamenco Beach
Often claimed to be one of the top 10 beaches in the world, Flamenco Beach is recognised for its turquoise waters, sandy shoreline and tranquil atmosphere. The place also boasts of numerous beautiful diving spots and swimming sites. Hence, it has become customary for travellers visiting Puerto Rico to witness the glamour of this composed yet vibrant beach. The place is also good for camping and picnicking.
Price: No Entrance Fee
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: The place also has numerous budget stays. So, if you are visiting with your kids, then do stay here overnight and get the opportunity to watch the beautiful sunrise and sunset vistas.
8. Explore the Gorgeousness of Carolina
Carolina is famous amongst tourists for its peaceful environment and calm surroundings. It is one of the few cities in Puerto Rico where you can avoid the tourist crowd and still savour the splendours of shores. Isla Verde Beach is one of the most popular places here. Other major Puerto Rico attractions in Carolina include Buena Vista Ruins, Pinones Beach, Loiza’s Big River and Julia de Burgos Park. Plaza Carolina, one of the biggest shopping complexes in Puerto Rico, is a prominent place of interest here.
Recommended For: Nature Lovers, Families, Couples
Average Cost: $10 – $15
Timings: Anytime
9. Visit the Ever-beautiful Bayamon
Bayamon is another place that could be on your Puerto Rico itinerary for the city hosts a significant number of beauties to absorb. From the famous Casa Bacardi rum distillery to the beautiful Isla de Cabras, everything draws the attention of visitors. Other prominent places to visit in Bayamon are Caparra Archaeological site, Plaza del sol, Parque de Ias Ciencias and more.
Recommended For: Explorers
Price: No Entrance Fee ($15 – $20 for commutation and other entertainment places)
Timings: Anytime
10. Attend the Most Lively Ponce Carnival
With a history of more than 400 years, Ponce Carnival is one of the oldest and hence, the most-awaited cultural festival in Puerto Rico. It is celebrated every year with traditional performances wherein locals as well as tourists partake. People dance to funky music and participate in mock funeral processions. People also don cultural costumes and dance in demon masks. It is one of the liveliest festivals on the island. Hence, it must not be missed by any explorer visiting Puerto Rico.
Recommended For: Explorers, Culture Lovers
Location: Ponce
Time: February
Average Cost: No fee
Pro Tip: The hotel prices in the city go up during the festive season. So, make sure you have your stay booked in advance
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