I dive into #11 things to know before heading to Puerto Rico, various Puerto Rico travel tips and tricks that will make your trip a breeze!
So you’re thinking about heading to Puerto Rico to escape the winter chill and enjoy some time lounging on the beach. Maybe you’ve already bought your tickets. But now it’s time to start planning and you’ve got no idea where to begin. A lot of people have misconceptions about Puerto Rico, and I can totally understand that. Before I went, I didn’t really know what to expect either.
Luckily for you, I’ve gathered all the essential Puerto Rico travel tips right here to help you out! Let’s get into it!
#1 Do I need a passport and visa for Puerto Rico?
Good news for all you U.S citizens! Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the US, so US citizens don’t need a passport or visa. Residents of all other countries will need a passport, some will require visas and some will get a 90-day entry. Check out the Visa Program for more info.
#2 Is Puerto Rico solo travel friendly?
I found Puerto Rico to be pretty solo travel friendly. The only downside is needing to rent a car, which can get pricey if you don’t have someone to split the cost with. Renting a car can sometimes make it a bit harder to meet others as well.
There are a decent amount of hostels throughout Puerto Rico, though not as many as a lot of European countries. This also means they are a bit on the pricier side. I paid around $40 a night for all my hostels. I did meet a friend (who I still chat with and may go on some future adventures with) through a shared airbnb situation, so hostels aren’t the only way to make friends!
In general, meeting people while traveling solo really is more about the effort you put into it than opportunity alone. Overall I’d rate Puerto Rico a 7.5/10 for solo travel friendliness.
Paseo de Princesa in Old San Juan
#3 Is Puerto Rico safe?
Puerto Rico has a lower crime rate than most states in the U.S. Most crime is gang-related and extremely unlikely to affect tourists. Some of the more touristy areas may have slightly higher pickpocketing, so practice normal tourist precautions and use common sense. I’m not a trusting person, but I rarely felt like me or my valuables were at risk of harm. Old San Juan in particular was probably one of the safest cities I’ve traveled to.
I was always careful to keep my belongings locked at all times. I kept this lock on my day bag at all times to avoid pickpocketing and to protect my expensive camera. It only adds *max* 15 seconds to open your bag and it’s well worth avoiding the frustration and pain of dealing with losing your valuables. I also kept my birdie personal alarm with me and in reach at all times in case I needed help or felt unsafe.
A ‘Puerto Rico travel tips’ bonus for you: To avoid the risk of hurricanes and earthquakes, try not to travel in the off season. However, advanced technology can provide hurricane warnings weeks in advance now. So as long as you have travel insurance, there’s no need to worry! Check out the best time to visit Puerto Rico for more on planning your trip around the weather.
#4 What language is spoken in Puerto Rico?
Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico, though Spanish is far more common. If you don’t speak any Spanish you’ll be able to get around just fine. However, to really understand the culture, I’d recommend learning some basic Spanish before you go.
#5 How is the cell phone coverage in Puerto Rico?
Any US mobile phone will work in Puerto Rico. Some carriers might experience a bit more signal issues towards the center of the island (in the mountains/rainforest).
#6 Do I need to rent a car in Puerto Rico?
Unless you’re making a quick one-day stop from a cruise, or plan on only staying in San Juan your whole trip (not recommended), then you’ll NEED to rent a car. Public transport is very limited and very unreliable, and Ubers are really only available in San Juan. If you plan on exploring the rest of the island, you will need to rent a car.
I met a few travelers that didn’t do careful research before their trip and opted not to rent a car. Almost all of them regretted this decision quite a bit. They felt isolated to the hostel’s vicinity and limited to excursions unless they found someone they could carpool with.
Another ‘Puerto Rico travel tips’ bonus for you: Drive with caution up into the mountains of PR. The roads are narrow, steep and winding. If you can’t see around a corner, it’s advised to honk your horn before the turn so other cars know you’re coming. Also, most drivers in Puerto Rico don’t use turn signals. It definitely took a few days to adjust to driving here!
View of Banco Popular in Old San Juan
#7 What weather can I expect in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, the rainy season occurs in Summer and Fall, and the dry season in Winter and Spring. For the majority of the island, temps hover between 75-90 degrees F, (with summer humidity making things feel hotter). Closer inland, particularly up in the mountains, temps can get down into the 60s and occasionally high 50’s, depending on storms and time of year. (Once again, my post on when to visit Puerto Rico will provide a more detailed look at the weather year round)
#8 What is the currency in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s currency is the US dollar (since it’s a US territory). While living costs in Puerto Rico may be cheaper than most US mainland areas, general prices for food, activities and accommodation are about the same as US prices. click here for conversion rate from US dollars to your currency.
#9 Will I need Cash or do they accept cards?
You will want to carry some cash with you, as there are a few places that won’t accept cards, though overall I found I could use my card a lot more than I was expecting. Only a few places required cash and some were simply because their card readers weren’t working that day. There are lots of ATMs available in every town. Puerto Rico accepts all major credit cards, though some international travelers may have associated fees so check with your credit card carrier beforehand. And make sure you notify your bank that you will be traveling so your card doesn’t get locked!
The iconic flag wall in Old San Juan
#10 Do I need to tip in Puerto Rico?
Like the rest of the US, tipping is customary & an essential part of service industries. They don’t make full wages like they do in other places & their income relies on tips. It’s customary to tip between 15% to 20% of your bill at restaurants and anywhere from $2 to $10 for hotel staff and taxi drivers.
#11 What’s the emergency number?
Should you find yourself in need of any emergency help or assistance, just dial #911, same as the rest of the US! 911 operators will dispatch whatever service you are in need of, whether that’s fire services, an ambulance, or police.
Let me know which of these Puerto Rico travel tips was the most helpful for you, or if there are any remaining essential Puerto Rico travel tips you’d like to see added!
Beyond The Shire posts mentioned in Puerto Rico Travel Tips:
This article will go through when the best time to visit puerto rico is, according to your unique travel desires. Whether that’s smaller crowds, best weather, best surfing, and more.
When is the best time to visit Puerto Rico?
For smaller crowds: April-May & September-November
Best weather: January – February
Nicest beach days:January – March
Best surfing: November – February
For the Bioluminescent Bays – December – February
Best Overall: February
Let’s get one thing straight…when it comes to Puerto Rico, there’s no bad time to visit the island, but there are better times that depend on what kind of trip you want, so let’s dive into it!
There are so many wonderful reasons people travel to Puerto Rico. Maybe you want to see the historic landmarks, the pristine beaches or the only tropical rainforest in the United States. Perhaps you want to go surfing and catch some world-renowned waves. Maybe you want to experience the colorful and lively culture and cuisine. Puerto Rico has it all, and for U.S residents who don’t need to worry about passports or visas to get in, it’s the ultimate island destination!
For the least amount of tourists (and cheapest): September-November
Each year Puerto Rico sees about five million tourists. Over half of them arrive during the winter season (December – March) to escape the cold temperatures further north. April brings many spring breakers, and summer months see a rise in tourists as school gets out throughout the U.S.
For this reason, book your trip to Puerto Rico during the shoulder months of September-November to avoid the crowds. This way you’ll have a quiet trip where you can roam the streets without constantly bumping into others. Keep in mind that the weather will be a bit more unpredictable & rainy as this is hurricane season.
Because these months are peak hurricane season, they also tend to be the cheapest months to visit. If this is a key reason for booking your trip in these months, ensure you get good travel insurance. This prevents potential financial loss should the weather take a particularly bad turn.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico for beaches: January – March
For those looking for the best time to hit the beach, you can’t beat winter, particularly January – March. This time of year you’ll find consistent sunshine, blue skies, and warm (but not overly humid) temperatures. Perfect weather to lay out with a good book, stroll barefoot along the coast, and swim in some incredibly blue waters.
At the same time, some might prefer to hit the beach when the sun is blaring down in June & July. Keep in mind, the beaches will be much more crowded as school is out for all of the U.S. There will also not be as many dry and sunny days. I found my beach days in February to be plenty hot, and I often needed to dip into the water to cool off. Make sure to bring some reef-safe, all natural sunscreen! (Use code: BEYONDTHESHIRE11 for 10% off!)
For the best weather: January- February
In the deep of winter, while the northern U.S hunkers down for a cold, snowy winter, those in Puerto Rico continue to enjoy swimsuit weather. Daily highs remain in the 70s to low 80s F with lows occasionally hitting the mid-60s (this is generally only at night or further up in the mountains). In addition, this is also the driest period of Puerto Rico weather, making it the perfect time to go hit the beach.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico for surfing: November – February
Generally when talking about the best surfing in the US, most people jump to Hawaii. But Puerto Rico actually boasts some of the top surfing spots and holds many high-profile surfing comps. There’s a big surf community in Puerto Rico, specifically on the west coast, and there are plenty of surf rentals, lessons, hotels and more made for those looking to catch some waves in Puerto Rico.
The best time to surf these waves for more experienced surfers is going to be late fall through early winter (November-February). Low pressure systems of the Eastern Seaboard bring strong currents and big waves to the Caribbean, giving surfers some impressive swells and fast barrels.
If you’re a beginner looking to hit the waves, opt for spring and early summer, as the waves will be a bit more gentle and beginner-friendly.
Best time for bioluminescent bay viewing: December – February
In order to see the brightest bioluminescence, you want a dry, moonless night, hence the winter months being the best to visit. Dry weather helps the glowing algae sit undisturbed, making it easier to see when moved by your hand or paddle. The glowing moon will make it harder to see, so book your trip for the new moon if you can!
Best time to visit Puerto Rico overall: February
Personally, I feel like February hits the sweet spot for almost everyone. You’ll just miss the summer vacationers from countries whose school break falls Dec-Jan, as well as the spring breakers that tend to start mid-march. Skies will be sunny and blue, beaches will be the perfect temperature to lay out all day, and the waves will be peak quality for surfers. Plus, the bioluminescent bays will still be glowing at their brightest!
Puerto Rico is a beautiful island full of rich culture and history. I hope this article has helped you discover what the best time to visit Puerto Rico is for you. Whatever time of the year you decide to go, it’s sure to be a magical experience!
This post gives you a detailed and adjustable itinerary for two days in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. From sipping Piña Coladas at their birthplace and feasting on classic Puerto Rican dishes to exploring the historic forts and colorful streets!
Now, you might be thinking, how the heck can two days in one place be considered slow travel? If that was your first thought, then you’re in the right place. It means you have yet to experience the colorful historic district of Old San Juan!”
One could walk from one side of the town to the other in just under 30 minutes. And that’s not a fast-paced 30 minutes either. Technically, you could see all the main attractions here in a couple of hours, but just because you can do something doesn’t mean you should!
What & Where is Old San Juan?
Old San Juan is a historic district located on the westmost portion of Isla San Juan, an island located on the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. The island is accessible by three large bridges that connect to the rest of San Juan, in addition to its modern day ship port. The Spanish built Old San Juan in 1521, making it the second-oldest settlement in the Americas!
La Isla Del Encanto
In Old San Juan, one can easily see why Puerto Rico earns its nickname, “La Isla Del Encanto,” or “the island of enchantment”. Something about the medley of architectural styles, colorful buildings, and narrow streets reminds me of walking through a very humid Venice!
Day One Morning: The Historic Side of Town
Start your morning at Spiga cafe on Calle de San Justo. This place always has the most mouth-watering treats to pair with your morning coffee. They’ve also got delicious homemade pasta for brunch too.
Paseo De La Princesa
From here you’ll then head towards the main port and walk along Paseo De La Princesa. It’s a picture-perfect boardwalk with food vendors, art, culture, history, and a stop at the Raices Fountain overlooking the sea. It culminates at the San Juan Gate, the oldest city entrance in Puerto Rico. To avoid the crowds, consider walking in the morning or during the evening around sunset for the best experience. To go when all the vendors are up, visit on the weekends or holidays.
At the end of the long row of trees that hug the cobblestone path, you will arrive at Raices Fountain. Raices means Roots in Spanish, which is what the fountain represents, the roots of Puerto Rico.
Paseo de La Princesa ultimately ends at the red San Juan Gate, where the Spaniards would enter San Juan for centuries. They retired it long ago, and now it stands as a historical monument.
Paseo Del Morro
You could enter the gate here and walk up into the town. However, if you’re up for the steps, I highly recommend continuing on the walking path for more amazing views. From the red gate onwards the path becomes Paseo Del Morro (AKA El Morro). It winds around El Morro’s walls and eventually spits you out at the front entrance of the fort.
This path is where all the stray kitties like to hang out, you may even see some kibble and bowls of water that some locals leave out for them. You’ll also come across many large Iguanas, these guys are not as friendly but they make for a cool photo!
I’m not sure of the total distance of Paseo De La Princesa/Del Morro, but it took me around an hour. Keep in mind, I stopped every five seconds to photograph the cats so it can be done a lot quicker. P.S., check out @saveagato to support the amazing work done by this nonprofit working to rescue these kitties.
El Morro
Immediately upon seeing the vast beauty of El Morro, you’ll understand why it’s such a special place for Puerto Ricans. A brilliant green field unfolds to either side of the long cobblestone path that leads to the forts’ front gate. On sunny days you’ll see people picnicking on the grass and little kids flying kites in the breeze.
The inside of the fort is akin to San Cristobal, though much larger, and with more ocean views. During its nearly 500-year history, El Morro was an important military outpost for Spain and later the U.S. Due to its long, rich history, it was recently named a world heritage sight. The fort boasts views of Old San Juan, La Perla, and the ocean, so you’ll get some beautiful photos here!
*Tip: Keep the receipt for your ticket, it can be used for San Cristobal within two days of purchase*
Lunch in Old San Juan
There are loads of great places to dine in Old San Juan. For your first day here I recommend La Tortuga Bistro. It’s close to El Morro, so if your feet are tired from the morning you won’t have far to go. Many locals I’ve spoken to have named this their ‘go-to spot’ in Old San Juan, specifically for the empanadas. So grab a seat and take some time to relax out of the heat!
Day One Afternoon: The Historic Side of Old San Juan
Cementario Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis
While you’re still up near El Morro, head over to Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis cemetery. This cemetery overlooking the ocean dates back to 1863. It’s the burial spot of many famous and important Puerto Ricans throughout history. I know a cemetery doesn’t sound like the ideal vacation must-see, but this cemetery is not like most. It’s ornately and elegantly designed and boasts beautiful views of the ocean, El Morro, and the small, colorful town of La Perla located on the coastline of Old San Juan.
Promenade to Castille De San Cristobal
From the cemetery, stroll along Calle Norzagaray for a scenic coastal walk leading to Castille De San Cristobal. Use your ticket from El Morro to enter. San Cristobal is smaller than El Morro, but you get a whole different set of views from this side of the isle, specifically from the enclosed lookout on the top floor.
After you explore the Castille, I recommend heading back to your accommodation for an hour or two. At this point in the day, the sun is blaring down and the streets will be at peak crowds from cruise ship tourists. While in Old San Juan, I’d return to my hostel to freshen up, cool off, and do some work.
Dinner in Old San Juan
For your first night in Old San Juan, I recommend grabbing dinner at La Raices (not the fountain!) or Princesa – Cocina Cultura. Depending on when you go, you may need a reservation at the latter, as it can get busy. Both restaurants are renowned for their classic local dishes, such as mofongo!
After dinner, you’re a short walk away from the actual La Raices fountain, where you can go to enjoy some of the best views of the sunset from Old San Juan.
Finally, if you’d like to enjoy some drinks and explore the nightlife, you can head to Moreno’s for $1 beers and shots!
Day Two morning: Art & Architecture in Old San Juan
For your second day in Old San Juan, I recommend using Google Maps to find your general direction and then letting yourself wander the cobblestone streets till you find your new destination. The best way to truly see a place is to get a little lost in it! This way you’ll be sure to uncover all the architecture and colorful buildings Old San Juan has to offer!
Today, I want you to explore all the streets. I’m only going to give these in a loose order and not by what’s closest to the other, so you can wander around a bit more.
Cafe Botanico
Cafe Botanico is an adorable, plant-filled cafe located in a little yellow building. This was one of my favorite spots to stop for a morning coffee and was where I spent all my time working when it was raining too hard to walk around. The baristas were all so friendly too! I felt like I was sitting in a romance movie. Stop here for a morning or afternoon pick-me-up!
Poets Passage
If you enjoy art, poetry, and music, you must make time to stroll through The Poets Passage. It’s run by Puerto Rican poet Lady Lee Andrews and her French husband and painter Nico Thomassin. Also. if you’re there on a Tuesday, stop in from 7 pm-12 pm for their weekly poetry/music open mic night. I spent a lovely rainy evening listening to a mix of Spanish and English poetry and music!
End of Fort Wall
Back down towards the sea is a little secret garden at the End of Fort Wall. Okay…it’s not actually a secret, and it’s got no walls hiding it, but it feels magical. Amidst a stone pathway and a small stone sculpture, rays of light filter through lush trees rife with blooming flowers. Stand under the trees and look up to watch dozens of butterflies and small birds flit around from tree to tree. You may even spot an iguana while you’re there! I stumbled upon this place by accident, but I spent quite a long time here attempting to capture its magic with my camera.
Banco Popular – Old San Juan Location
The curved facade facing the bay is adorned with bronze eagles, while a towering stained-glass window portrays the shield of San Juan. Framing the glass on either side are reliefs of Greek and Roman gods, serving as a fitting tribute to the architectural influences and ambitions of the district.
Antigua Casino De Puerto Rico
This casino was built in 1910 in the Beaux-Arts style from 19th century Paris. It currently acts as an event space and wedding venue. You may not be able to enter on the day you visit, but the outside is magnificent enough to be worth the trip there. The entire building, including its walls and floors, consists of white marble. Look for the Tiffany-style glass windows, bronze roof, and ornate marble detailing.
Barrachinas
An absolute must-visit in Puerto Rico, Barrachinas is the birthplace of the Piña Colada drink. Get here a few minutes before they open at 11 to ensure a spot, otherwise, you will have to wait in line. I promise the wait will be worth it just for the Piña Coladas alone. Normally, I don’t like Piña Coladas, the rum always tastes too strong for me, but I found them to be quite delicious here! So even if you’re not usually a fan of the drink, I recommend giving it a try…at the least to say you did it!
I didn’t eat lunch here, but the dishes served at the tables around me looked delicious. Overall, most plates seemed to be well-cleaned by the end of people’s meals, always a good sign!
Plaza De Armas
Plaza de Armas, considered the heart of Old San Juan, is a tribute to the main plazas of Spain, and offers unique architectural views on every side of the square. To the northwest, you’ll find Casa Alcaldia, which is a replica of Madrid’s neoclassical city hall. To the west, Antiguo Palacio de La Real Intendencia (Puerto Ricos Department of State office), styled after an Italian high palace. Lastly, to the South you’ll find 20th-century American influences in the building ‘Gonzalez Padin’.
Iglesia De San Jose
Just up the road from Plaza de Armas, you will find Iglesia de San Jose. Originally built in 1532, this is the second oldest standing church in the Americas. This church displays classic 16th-century Spanish Gothic Architecture. Visits inside are welcome.
Cuartel de Ballaja
Cuartel de Ballaja is hard to miss as you walk towards El Morro. The colossal, three-story building was built by the Spanish in the mid-19th century and served as housing for military officers. Now the building houses cafes on the first floor and the Museum of the Americas on the second floor. Tickets are only $6 ($4 for students). The exhibits are relatively small but they are a great opportunity to learn about Puerto Rican history from the point of view of individual artists. This is a particularly great stop on a rainy day.
Anita’s La Mamma del Gelato
At some point in the day, when you find yourself in need of a cool-down, head to Anita’s shop for some extravagant and delicious gelato flavors. They have vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free options as well.
As we come to the end of this two-day journey through Old San Juan, I hope you’re excited to embark on your adventure in this vibrant city. Whether you’re captivated by the historic forts, charmed by the colorful streets, or indulging in the local cuisine, Old San Juan offers something for every traveler.
Not sure when to book your trip to the island of enchantment?
I’ve got you covered! Read ‘when to visit Puerto Rico’ to learn more about when the best time to visit is for different activities, cheaper stays, and smaller crowds! You’ll be booking that flight in no time!
Let me know in the comments which of these activies you’re most looking forward too! And if you’ve already been to Old San Juan, what hidden favorites have you stumbled upon?
Dreaming of travel is one thing, but actually taking the steps towards a solo trip can be daunting, especially for someone who struggles with anxiety like myself. I thrive on plans, but the thought of actually making them gives me anxiety. And yes, I see the double entendre…
The Decision to Explore Puerto Rico Solo
The decision to plan my solo adventure to Puerto Rico has become a journey of pushing boundaries, and embracing the allure of the unknown. Though I anticipated the road wouldn’t be easy, every step taken to transform this dream into reality has blended excitement and a healthy dose of nervous anticipation.
Navigating Choices and Overcoming Anxiety
As I sat down to purchase my tickets, I agonized over minute differences in prices and takeoff/landing times. The abundance of choices overwhelmed me, prompting me to shut my computer before buying my tickets. The following day, I knew I needed to decide, as the prices were only likely to increase.
Unmasking Anxiety: Beyond Dates and Prices
It wasn’t until I had wasted another two hours examining flights that I realized my anxiety had nothing to do with dates/times or incremental price differences. My anxiety lay in the knowledge that purchasing this ticket would mean finalizing what had until then only been ideas in my head.
A Reminder of Purpose and Courage
Fortunately, my dedicated efforts in building this site served as a crucial reminder of my purpose. Without it, I might have succumbed to the anxiety, but this site is a testament to why I’m embarking on this adventure, pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. With that, I found a reasonable ticket and swiftly filled out my information before my anxiety could conjure up another excuse to postpone.
From Decision to Commitment
Et voila! Puerto Rico here I come! Getting the ticket didn’t magically erase my fears and doubts, but it did offer a gentle reassurance. The decision was made. Now it’s less of a choice and more of a commitment to navigate through any anxiety that arises because. I know I’m capable and strong enough to handle any bumps in the road, viewing each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow for future travels!
Countdown to Adventure
While I’m still in the planning phase, I’m starting to feel the excitement build. The idea of stepping off a plane into the unknown and fully embarking on my solo trip is both thrilling and scary. Each day I spend exploring Puerto Rico will bring new challenges, yet it also holds the potential for magical discoveries and personal growth. This trip feels like a move away from my comfort zone and towards a more enriching and fulfilling life!
I’d love to hear your thoughts or first experiences with planning solo trips below!
