Puerto Rico, an island of roughly 3,500 square miles, might look like a tiny dot on the map, but it’s jam-packed with awesome places to visit. From the historic streets of Old San Juan and urban Isla Verde to the lush rainforests of El Yunque and the pristine beaches of Vieques, we know choosing the best part of Puerto Rico to visit can be overwhelming.
The challenge is not about finding something to do in Puerto Rico (the list is endless) but picking the best area for you to vacation. Each part of Puerto Rico has its own vibe, from the surfers’ paradise on the west coast to the quiet beaches and bioluminescent bays of the smaller islands off the east coast. The diversity makes this Caribbean island a super unique destination, where you can experience city life, mountainous landscapes, waterfalls and impressive history all within a short drive.
In this blog, we help you choose the best part of Puerto Rico to visit, so you can enjoy your vacation on this island as much as we did.
By Lauren and Jack – Updated April 2026
1. Old San Juan – Best part of Puerto Rico to visit for history and culture
Old San Juan is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for those who love history, nightlife, and restaurants and want to see the island’s traditional side. It’s filled with old Spanish colonial buildings, forts like El Morro and San Cristobal, lots of places to eat and shop, and some pretty cool speakeasies too. It’s perfect for travellers who enjoy walking through historic streets, checking out museums, and eating local food. It’s probably the most visited area of the island, so expect crowds and traffic. The best way to see it all is on a food tour or walking tour, which makes it easy to explore the area and take in all the sights at your own pace.
However, just outside Old San Juan, there are great beaches like Condado and Isla Verde, if you want some beach time and to escape the small streets of Old San Juan. Plus, there’s Plaza Las Américas nearby, the biggest mall in the Caribbean, and the new Mall of San Juan for shopping. This mix of history in Old San Juan and nearby beaches and shopping centres makes it a great choice for a varied trip to Puerto Rico, especially if you’re only here for a short visit.
🎒 Top Tip: You can base yourself in San Juan and still explore the beauty of the east and west coast by renting a car in Puerto Rico, or taking guided tours like this one to the west coast, this one to El Yunque National Forest, or this nighttime kayaking tour at the bioluminescent bay.
Old San Juan is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- A short city break
- Colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, museums, and galleries
- City vibes with easy access to nightlife, beaches and shopping
Top-rated places to stay in Old San Juan
- Hotel El Convento – Former convent with a stunning courtyard, luxury rooms and rooftop terrace, steps away from historic landmarks and restaurants.
- Decanter Hotel – Boutique hotel in a colonial building with rooftop views, close to El Morro and the Cathedral.
- Hotel Palacio Provincial – Adults only Hilton Hotel, modern spacious rooms, rooftop pool with city views, and exceptional service and walking distance to the top sites.
- Fortaleza Suites Old San Juan – Stylish suites with kitchenettes in the heart of Fortaleza Street, ideal for extended stays.
2. El Yunque National Forest – Best for nature and adventure
El Yunque National Forest is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for hiking, adventure, and nature lovers. As the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque is home to amazing waterfalls, unique wildlife, lookout towers, waterslides, swimming holes and trails for all hiking levels.
Located in the northeastern part of Puerto Rico, El Yunque National Forest covers about 28,000 acres (about 43.75 square miles or 113 square kilometres). The forest is home to hundreds of plant species – some of which are found nowhere else in the world – and rare animals like the Puerto Rican parrot, one of the most endangered birds in the world.
Besides the plants and wildlife, you can swim in natural pools, slide down waterslides formed by rocks, and stand under powerful waterfalls. Basically, visiting El Yunque means you’ll get amazing views, peace and quiet, and a real connection with nature. Just remember, it’s a rainforest, so it rains more often than other places on the island.
El Yunque is easy to get to from major areas including San Juan, making it great for a day trip or as being the best part of Puerto Rico to stay close to nature. However, it’s probably somewhere you want to base yourself for a couple of days rather than your entire trip. Additionally, its proximity to the east coast beaches and the bioluminescent bays near Fajardo means you can enjoy many of Puerto Rico’s natural attractions within a short distance.
Top tip: To visit El Yunque via road PR-191, you need a reservation. Book up to a month in advance or get limited next-day tickets released at 8 am. Tickets sell out fast, so create an account on recreation.gov and log in before 8am. Tickets are free, with a $2 booking fee.
🎒 If you’d prefer to skip the hassle of reservations, this 5-star El Yunque tour covers all the best spots, includes transport, pick up and drop off, hiking, swimming, waterfalls, cliff jumping, and a lunch stop at a local Puerto Rican restaurant.
El Yunque is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Nature loves and eco-tourists
- Hikers who want to explore some of the best trails on the island
- Adventurers who like waterfalls, swimming holes, rivers and natural waterslides
Top-rated places to stay in El Yunque
- Rainforest Luxury Villa – Luxury 4 bedroom villa with a heated pool and wrap-around balcony on 5 acres of pristine wilderness bordering the National Forest.
- El Yunque Rainforest Inn – Boutique bed and breakfast with saltwater pool, sea views, yoga classes, and nature trails.
- Casa Parcha – Cosy 1-bedroom house with kitchen surrounded by rainforest – tropical trees and waterfall views from bed.
3. Vieques – Best part of Puerto Rico for island vibes and seclusion
Vieques is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit if you’re looking for pristine beaches, a laid-back vibe, and a chance to forget about the rest of the world. The island’s beaches, like Playa Negra with its unique black sand and the secluded Playa Caracas, offer tranquil spots to relax away from the crowds. If you love beach days and peace and quiet, this is your place.
One of the coolest things about Vieques is the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Take a nighttime kayak trip and watch the water glow as you paddle through it – it’s a magical experience you won’t forget.
Vieques has a slower pace of life compared to the main island. With wild horses roaming its roads and the lack of large resorts, it feels like a step back in time. You’ll find it easy to immerse yourself in a more relaxed and authentic Puerto Rican experience.
There’s plenty to do in Vieques besides lounging on the beach. You can go snorkelling, horseback riding, or explore the remnants of its sugar cane plantation history. The island is all about disconnecting and enjoying the simple pleasures of island life.
Vieques is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Experiencing the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay
- Secluded and unique beaches for ultimate relaxation
- A laid-back, authentic island experience away from commercial tourism
Top-rated places to stay in Vieques
- Hix Island House – Beautiful hotel with minimalist design, outdoor pool, spa, stunning views, and a serene atmosphere.
- El Blok Hotel – Contemporary adults-only hotel with unique architecture, rooftop bar, and super close to the beach.
- Esperanza Inn – Super cosy hotel with a pool, warm and attentive owners, near the popular Malecón in Esperanza where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants.
- Blue Horizon Boutique Resort – Adults-only resort with an infinity pool and breathtaking ocean views on huge grounds.
4. Isla Verde and Condado – Best for families
Isla Verde and Condado are fantastic spots in Puerto Rico, especially if you’re travelling with family. Isla Verde boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico, with wide, sandy shores and gentle waves that are perfect for kids to play in safely.
This area is known for its family-friendly resorts, many of which have direct beach access, pools, and activities designed just for kids. Meanwhile, Condado offers a mix of beachfront fun and urban convenience. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, shops, and parks. The calm waters of Laguna del Condado are great for daytime kayaking with kids and paddleboarding, and nighttime kayaking in the glowing water is a must-try experience.
Both neighbourhoods are close to Old San Juan, making it easy to explore Puerto Rico’s most famous area without staying in the busy part of town. You’ll also find everything you need nearby, like supermarkets, pharmacies, and hospitals. For entertainment, there are plenty of options, from beachside water sports rentals to guided tours that suit all ages.
The combination of beautiful, accessible beaches, the convenience of urban amenities, and a wide range of activities make Isla Verde and Condado top picks for families visiting Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the city, these areas have something for everyone.
Isla Verde and Condado are the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for families due to:
- Safe and accessible beaches ideal for children
- Family-friendly resorts with kid-centric activities
- Proximity to Old San Juan for cultural excursions
- City conveniences mixed with natural beauty and recreational activities
Top-rated places to stay in Isla Verde and Condado
- Condado Vanderbilt Hotel – Beautiful 5-star oceanfront hotel with luxury amenities, spa services, and 3 restaurants.
- Coral Princess Hotel – An affordable but charming hotel with an outdoor pool, tropical garden, cosy rooms, and close to Condado Beach and dining options.
- La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort – Trendy beachfront resort with stylish rooms, an infinity pool overlooking Condado Beach, a 24-hour casino, several fine dining options and vibrant nightlife.
- San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – Family-friendly resort on Isla Verde Beach with beach access, 4 outdoor swimming pools, kids play area, multiple dining options and a casino.
5. Rincón – Best part of Puerto Rico to visit for surfing and sunsets
Rincón, Puerto Rico, is a laid-back town on the island’s west coast and the best part of Puerto Rico to visit if you’re looking to enjoy a surf town vibe: good waves, beautiful sunsets, eating and drinking at cute bars and restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its surfing, Rincón’s best beaches like Domes, Maria’s, and Sandy Beach, attract surfers from around the world. Even if you’re not into surfing, the beaches are great for watching the action or trying out a surf lesson.
The vibe in Rincón is super chill, making it ideal for a relaxing getaway. The sunsets here are stunning, and you’ll often find people gathering at the beach to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Besides surfing, you can enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving, where the clear waters of this part of the island let you see plenty of fish and underwater sights. Whale watching is also a big thing here, especially from January to March when humpback whales pass by.
Rincón is also a great hub for exploring Puerto Rico’s west coast. You can also join a guided tour to explore hidden gems like the Guajataca Tunnel, with its secluded beach, and the impressive Cara del Indio monument in Isabela. Or, you could visit Gozalandia Waterfall and Crash Boat Beach – we recommended renting a car to see these hotspots.
In town, you’ll find a mix of cute shops and cosy restaurants and bars – the restaurants in Rincon are some of our favourites on the island! We recommend trying the local seafood or grabbing a cold beer at one of the beachside shacks.
🚗 We recommend renting a car in Puerto Rico to explore Rincon. It’ll be cheaper than hiring a driver or taking a taxi from the airport, which is over 2.5 hours away, and all of the best things to do in the area are spread out with minimal public transport.
Rincon is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- World-class surfing with spots for all skill levels
- Kicking back and watching the sunset
- A relaxed surf town atmosphere with easy access to beaches
- A selection of restaurants and bars with relaxed atmospheres
Top-rated places to stay in Rincón
- Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel – Beachfront hotel in an excellent location! With tropical gardens, outdoor pool, and proximity to surf spots and beaches.
- Coconut Palms Inn On The Beach – Very well-reviewed studios and apartments on the beach with gorgeous gardens and hammocks to relax in, plus BBQ facilities.
- The Lazy Parrot Inn – Relaxed inn with pool, two restaurants, and a laid-back vibe.
- Casa Verde Hotel – Casual hotel in a great location close to Punta Higuero Lighthouse and Domes Beach, with a pool and burger bar.
6. Dorado – Best area to visit for luxury travel and golf
Dorado is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for luxury resort experiences and top-notch golf courses, making it a prime destination for those looking to indulge in comfort and leisure. Perched on the northern coast, Dorado has an idyllic beachfront with clear, calm waters that are ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The area is renowned for its high-end accommodations, providing guests with exceptional service, spa treatments, and gourmet dining options. For golfers, Dorado’s world-class golf courses are in the most beautiful locations – surrounded by tropical and ocean-side landscapes!
The area is home to elegant beach clubs and gorgeous public beaches like Playa de Sardinera. But, one of its main selling points is its proximity to San Juan. It’s less than a 30-minute drive to Old San Juan, allowing for easy transport to and from the airport, or day trips to explore the capital’s historic sites and cultural attractions, while still returning to the tranquillity of Dorado to end the day.
Overall, Dorado is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit if you’re looking for a mix of luxury and easygoing fun in Puerto Rico. It’s perfect for relaxing, having a good time, enjoying golf and spa treatments and some local vibes.
Dorado is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Luxury resort stays and spa experiences
- Golfing on world-class courses with scenic views
- A mix of private relaxation and easy access to urban exploration
Top-rated places to stay in Dorado
- Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – 5-star, luxurious beachfront resort with golf courses, pools, and stunning Caribbean Sea views.
- Hyatt Vacation Club at Hacienda del Mar – Family-friendly resort with an outdoor pool, beautiful sea views, and close proximity to San Juan.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort – More affordable beautiful oceanfront hotel offering free breakfast, outdoor pool, and beach access.
- Aquaville Dorado Moderna Villa 1 – Very aesthetic, 4 bedroom fully equipped villa near Sardinera Beach with a pretty garden, pool, and family-friendly amenities.
7. Cabo Rojo – Best for landscapes and beaches
Cabo Rojo, on the southwestern tip of Puerto Rico, is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit if you want stunning natural landscapes and a break from the usual tourist spots. Known for its breathtaking cliffs and pink salt flats, as well as the beaches in Cabo Rojo being some of the best on the island, this area is a hidden gem. Playa Sucia, in particular, is often said to be among Puerto Rico’s top-rated beaches and it’s easy to see why – it’s a huge moon-shaped bay with turquoise waters and scenic lighthouse views that are hard to beat.
We recommend renting a car in Puerto Rico to get to and explore Cabo Rojo. It’ll be cheaper than hiring a driver or taking a taxi from San Juan, which is over 2 hours away, and all of the best things to do in the area are quite spread out with minimal public transport.
Another highlight is Boquerón Beach, a stretch of white sand over a mile long with crystal-clear waters and lots of fun watersports. It’s a favourite among locals and tourists, especially on weekends when the atmosphere is lively and family-friendly. The nearby village of Boquerón adds to the charm with its street food stalls, quaint shops, and the chance to mingle with the friendly local community.
The laid-back atmosphere of Cabo Rojo makes it a fantastic spot for families and couples, with its combination of stunning beaches, jaw-dropping cliffs, and a quieter vibe. For us, Cabo Rojo is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for anyone who likes access to amenities but wants to venture off the traditional tourist path.
Cabo Rojo is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Exploring some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and natural reserves
- Enjoying scenic views and historical sites like the Los Morrillos Lighthouse
- A peaceful retreat with a genuine feel of Puerto Rican culture and nature
Top-rated places to stay in Cabo Rojo
- Wild Flowers Boquerón Rooms – Quaint guesthouse in the heart of Boquerón with comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen, and a garden, close to local eateries and the beach.
- Bohemian Casona Apartments – Stylish apartments near downtown Cabo Rojo with modern amenities, fully equipped kitchens, and a unique, artsy vibe, perfect for longer stays. This is where we stayed and we really enjoyed it – it was a super convenient location for exploring.
- Cabo Rojo Villa With Stunning Sea View – Beautiful villa with breathtaking sea views, spacious living areas, and a large terrace, ideal for families or groups seeking privacy and comfort.
- Douglas Highway Hotel – Conveniently located hotel with comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool and restaurant, and easy access to all the best things to do.
8. Culebra – Best part of Puerto Rico to visit for diving and snorkelling
Culebra, a tiny island 11 square mile island off the east coast of the mainland is the best area of Puerto Rico to visit if you love beaches, island life, diving and snorkelling. The water clarity here is exceptional because there are no freshwater run-offs, making it perfect for spotting turtles, stingrays, lots of other marine life and exploring the coral reefs.
Getting to Culebra is easy with a ferry from Fajardo or a short flight from San Juan. Some people go for a day trip from Fajardo, but if you really want to unwind and soak up the island vibe, stay for a few days somewhere like Island Charm Culebra Studios & Suites or take a full day private charter.
Culebra is great for all kinds of travellers. Families will enjoy the calm waters and boat trips, couples can find plenty of romantic spots to relax, and adventurers will love all the activities and renting a golf cart to explore the island. Despite its small size, it’s an awesome place to enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Rico.
Flamenco Beach is the highlight of Culebra. Often ranked among the best beaches in the world, its soft white sand and crystal-clear water are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can camp overnight and stargaze on the beach!
For hikers, Culebra has a few trails with amazing views. The trail to Carlos Rosario Beach is a favourite, with a bit of adventure and a peaceful beach at the end. It’s a great way to see the island from a different perspective.
In Culebra’s main town, Dewey, you’ll find some laid-back restaurants and bars. The whole island has a super relaxed vibe, and Dewey is a great place to chill after a day of exploring.
Culebra is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Superior snorkelling and diving in crystal-clear water
- Seeing lots of marine life and beautiful coral reefs thriving around the island
- An untouched environment perfect for beach days on world-class shores and lots of relaxation
Top-rated places to stay in Culebra
- Club Seabourne Hotel – This tropical hotel is perfect for couples. Close to all locations, it is a pretty and romantic hotel with an outdoor pool, bar, walking trail to the beach and access to water sports.
- Island Charm Culebra Studios & Suites – Fully equipped studios and suites, with gorgeous island views from the terrace/balcony where you can chill on hammocks.
- Villa Tampico – 10/10 rated villa on a private estate with 360 degree ocean views on its own peninsula. Perfect for a big group.
9. Fajardo – Best beaches and adventure in Puerto Rico
Fajardo, located on Puerto Rico’s eastern tip, is perfect for beachgoers and watersport and nature lovers – basically, anyone who loves being outdoors. Whether you’re into chilling on beautiful beaches, kayaking under glowing skies, boat trips, island hopping or exploring rainforests, Fajardo has something for everyone. It’s the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for families, solo travellers and adventure seekers.
The most well-known beach, Seven Seas Beach, has beautiful, calm waters and is great for snorkelling and picnicking with the family. Or, if you want to explore a couple of the best hidden gems in Puerto Rico, check out Playa Colora and Playa Escondida. These secluded beaches let you enjoy the coastline without the crowds.
Beyond its beaches, Fajardo is the gateway to tiny islands like Culebra and Vieques, accessible by ferry or boat trips, and Cayo Icacos, an uninhabited little island with perfect white sand beaches and some of the prettiest turquoise waters in the Caribbean.
There are some amazing things to do in Fajardo. One of the coolest is a nighttime kayak tour on Laguna Grande, where the water glows with bioluminescent organisms – it’s a must-see. Or, if you’re into deep-sea fishing, snorkelling and sailing, the marinas in Fajardo are popular for this. Plus, with the northeastern entrance to El Yunque National Forest from Fajardo nearby, staying in Fajardo gives you easy access to beaches, water-based activities, rainforests, hiking, waterfalls, and much more.
Renting a car is the best way to get to and explore Fajardo. It’s cheaper than hiring a driver or taking a taxi from San Juan, which is over an hour away, and it makes getting around much easier since public transport is limited.
Fajardo is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit for:
- Beach days on some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches
- Kayaking under the stars at the bioluminescent bay
- Island hopping adventures and a variety of water sports
- Proximity to El Yunque for hiking and waterfalls
Top-rated places to stay in Fajardo
- El Conquistador Resort – Luxury resort near Laguna Grande, with 4 pools, free water park access, a golf course, a marina and stunning ocean views.
- Las Casitas Village – Villa-style accommodations within El Conquistador Resort, with 10 on-site restaurants, private pools and personalised service.
- Fajardo Inn – Budget-friendly hotel with two pools, a gym, tennis courts, free parking and lush tropical gardens.
- CALIZO VIP GUEST HOUSE – Another budget-friendly and well-reviewed option super close to Seven Seas Beach, colourful aesthetic accommodation with an outdoor pool.
FAQs
Which is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit?
Honestly, picking the best part of Puerto Rico to visit depends on what you’re into. If you love history and vibrant culture, Old San Juan with its architecture and lively streets is a must. For nature lovers, El Yunque National Forest has stunning hikes and waterfalls. For pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe, Vieques is perfect. Surfing fans should head to Rincon, while those looking for luxury will enjoy Dorado. Or, if sunsets and interesting landscapes are your thing, Cabo Rojo would be the best part of Puerto Rico to visit. Each area has its own unique appeal, making Puerto Rico a versatile destination with something for everyone.
Which side of Puerto Rico has the best beaches?
For the best beaches in Puerto Rico, head to the west coast. Rincon is awesome for surfing and sunsets, while Cabo Rojo has some of the most beautiful and quiet beaches. On the east side, Vieques and Culebra offer some of the most pristine and picturesque beaches you can find.
What is the #1 attraction in Puerto Rico?
El Yunque National Forest often tops the list as the #1 attraction in Puerto Rico. It’s the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System and offers amazing hiking trails, waterfalls and a chance to experience Puerto Rico’s lush natural beauty up close.
Where is the safest place to travel to in Puerto Rico?
Old San Juan, Isla Verde, and Condado are super safe and popular with tourists. Just like anywhere, stay aware of your surroundings, but these areas are definitely visitor-friendly.
What is the most affordable part of Puerto Rico?
If you’re looking for affordability in Puerto Rico, head to areas like Cabo Rojo or Ponce. These parts of Puerto Rico offer beautiful scenery and plenty to do without the higher price tags of more tourist-heavy spots like San Juan.
What is the best way to get around in Puerto Rico?
Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore Puerto Ric and you’re limited to their scheRenting a car is definitely the best way to explor Puerto Rico. Taxis and drivers are reliable, but costs add up quickly, and you’re often stuck with a fixed itinerary. If you rent a car in Puerto Rico, you can be on your own schedule and visit all the hidden gems you like.
We did a 4-week road trip in Puerto Rico, and having a car made it one of the most memorable adventures of our lives.
It all depends on the type of traveller you are
Puerto Rico might look small on a map, but there are plenty of areas to choose from, and this island has something for everyone. We spent around a month travelling around this incredible place and loved every second of it. If you’re planning an extended trip, we’d highly recommend renting a car and staying in more than one area. This way, you can get a feel of life here and your preferences. Then, after your first trip, you’ll be able to decide what you think is the best part of Puerto Rico to visit, ready for next time.
Discover more about visiting Puerto Rico
During our road trip around Puerto Rico, we visited as many places as we possibly could, and it feels like we only scratched the surface. What looks like a small dot on the map is actually an island teeming with things to do and places to explore. Overall, Puerto Rico is one of our favourite places we’ve visited, and we hope to return some day. But, to help you plan your visit, we’ve written a selection of Puerto Rico travel guides based on our experiences.
- Should You Rent A Car In Puerto Rico?
- 9 Hidden Gems in Puerto Rico You Should Visit
- The 7 Top Things To Do in Rincon, Puerto Rico
- 7 Sensational Cabo Rojo Beaches in Puerto Rico
- Las Tinajas Falls, Puerto Rico: The Complete Guide
- Playa Negra, Puerto Rico: Your Guide to Vieques’ Astonishing Black Sand Beach
- Top Things To Do in Fajardo, Puerto Rico: 3-Day and 4-Day Itinerary (Updated 2024)
- Seven Seas Beach, Puerto Rico: Everything You Need to Know
- Playa Colora, Puerto Rico: A Secluded Paradise
- Playa Escondida, Puerto Rico: A Hidden Gem Beach in Fajardo
Did you know that…
When you choose to purchase through our links, you support us at no extra cost and help us keep creating content. Thank you for your support. ♥️
Leave a Reply