San Juan Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico

There are many reasons that Puerto Rico is one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean. The weather is wonderful much of the year, the beaches are long and pretty, nightlife is dynamic, the variety of restaurants is delectable and you won’t lack for fun things to do in Puerto Rico.

One of the largest Caribbean islands, this territory of the US is home to 4 million people of with a rich diversity in heritage. Those of European descent make up 75% of the population with African American accounting for 12%. Spanish and English are the primary languages.

Most tourists choose the winter months to visit Puerto Rico. Its tropical marine climate is cooler and drier then. Hurricane season runs from June to November, and even if a tropical storm isn’t brewing, the hot and wet weather produces steamy conditions. No worries even then, though. The water is refreshing, and the top resorts in Puerto Rico are air conditioned and have all the amenities you desire.

Life is Full in Puerto Rico

San Juan Puerto Rico StreetsYou get the full Caribbean experience here with enough of a “taste of home” if you’re from the US to add comfort to adventure. If you immerse yourself in the culture of PR, here is what you’ll enjoy.

  • Cuisine in Puerto Rico: Food traditions are a delicious blend of ancient Taíno, Spanish and wider European influences and African culinary ways. Grains and legumes are staples. A rich mix of herbs and spices season most dishes. Poultry, seafood and shellfish are plentiful. Key accents include olives, peppers, onions, garlic, oregano, eggplant and much more. Spanish-style sweets are favorites. Restaurants in Puerto Rico range from Michelin-starred establishments to tiny food stands where you’ll get a real taste of what the locals like.
  • Music in Puerto Rico: Diversity is the norm in Puerto Rican music. Influences include European, Caribbean, American and West African styles. Top genres are bomba y plena, Aguinaldo, danza, reggaeton and classical. Live music is a staple in many bars and lounges. There are plenty of places to dance, too.
  • Sports in Puerto Rico: Baseball is huge here, and professional leagues offer great spectating. Visitors who enjoy sports can also watch live boxing, basketball and volleyball played by top amateurs and pros.

Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Here’s an overview of the top activities in Puerto Rico.

  • Dig in the Sand: The top beaches in Puerto Rico include Flamenco, Playa Sucia, Blue, Caracas, Zoni, Sun Bay, Media Luna, Crashboat and Secret, of which one reviewer from Germany said, “It’s not secret. This beach is amazing!”
  • Dive into the Sea: Like most Caribbean islands, there is wonderful snorkeling and scuba diving in Puerto Rico. Outfitters and PADI professionals are ready to equip you and provide instructions and guiding if needed.
  • Delve into History: History buffs love PR. The top historical sites and museums include the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, San Juan National Historic Site, Old San Juan, Castillo de San Cristobal, Museo de Arte Ponce, Gallery Galleon, El Museo Castillo Serralles and Paseo de la Princessa. There are several old lighthouses too that fans of these edifices will want to tour: El Faro and Cabo Rojo for starters.
  • Dance the Night Away: San Juan nightlife is energetic with a diverse collection of bars, clubs and lounges for you to enjoy. Other large towns don’t have the numbers, but do have the energy.
  • Drift with the Wind: Sailing is a favorite activity in PR for tourists. You can rent a small boat and do it yourself or grab a seat on a touring sailboat and just sit back and relax. One reviewer called her boat tour, “The most relaxing day of our vacation.” Windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking are also fun things to do in Puerto Rico out on the water.
  • Do the Day Spa: You can get the works, including a great message or manicure, at a dozen wonderful spas in Puerto Rico.

These are the top things to do in Puerto Rico, but you’ve got great options for shopping, family fun, hiking, bird watching (300+ species) and Eco touring too.

Cave exploration in Puerto Rico

Who Should Consider Visiting Puerto Rico?

If you enjoy being “where the action is,” rather than on a more secluded Caribbean island, Puerto Rico is an excellent choice. It doesn’t mean you can’t find a secluded spot here and there, but mostly you’ll be among larger crowds of locals and visitors. As a territory of the United States, you’ll find many of your favorites from back home with enough new things to explore to make it interesting.

Helpful Resources

Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Board: http://www.prhta.org/

Government of Puerto Rico: http://www2.pr.gov/Pages/default.aspx