Puerto Rico offers some of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking beaches, with soft sand, clear water, and vibrant coastal scenery. From lively resort areas to peaceful hidden coves, the island provides incredible variety. This guide highlights the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico so you can plan the perfect coastal escape.
Puerto Rico is one of the top Caribbean destinations, with its warm hospitality and an island that is full of wonders. There are so many sights to see on the island. Puerto Rico is an archipelago that includes 143 islands, cays as well as islets. The main islands of Puerto Rico, Vieques and Culebra; are the only inhabited islands. The offshore islands, cays and islets, are all very unique offering visitors the more natural side of Puerto Rico.
You will not want to miss the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, the best art collection in the Caribbean. Take a day trip to the island of Culebra, explore the caves at Parque de las Cavernas del Rio Camuy, enjoy the sand and surf at Playa Flamenco, or paddle thru the Bioluminescent Bay off Vieques.
Puerto Rico has modern amenities and services, with world class hotels, gorgeous beaches, fun city life, historic sites and natural treasures. It attracts millions of tourists every year, many who come back year after year. Experience a different state of mind while in Puerto Rico, and allow the island to enchant you. Taste their food, move to their music, feel the warmth of the people and allow the beauty of the land to embrace you. There’s so much wonder in Puerto Rico, you’ll be coming back for more. The more you explore, the more you’ll fall in love. Puerto Rico is a great beach destination, and has so many wonderful beautiful beaches to explore.
For more information on Puerto Rico’s beautiful beaches, visit our Greater Antilles Travel page, or visit us on Pinterest.
Weather and When to Visit Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico enjoys warm, tropical weather all year. This makes it an easy destination for beach lovers. Temperatures usually stay between the low 70s and high 80s. And the water remains warm enough for swimming in every season. Because of this, you can plan a beach trip at almost any time of year.
The best time to visit is December through April. These months offer sunny days, low humidity, and calm conditions along most coastlines. Also, the winter season brings the clearest water for snorkeling and the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
May and June serve as a pleasant shoulder season. Hotels often have better rates, and the beaches stay less crowded. In addition, short afternoon showers help keep the island green and vibrant.
July through November marks hurricane season. Rain is more frequent, and storms are possible; especially in late summer. But, many travelers still enjoy this period because prices drop and the island feels quieter.
No matter when you go, Puerto Rico delivers warm water, bright sunshine, and lush tropical scenery. Consequently, it remains a reliable beach destination year-round.
Why Visit Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is one of the Caribbean’s most inviting destinations. It offers a rare mix of culture, natural beauty, and easy travel. Because it’s a U.S. territory, visiting is simple and stress-free for American travelers. The island also blends historic charm, warm hospitality, and year-round sunshine. So, Puerto Rico appeals to beach lovers, adventure seekers, food fans, as well as history buffs alike.
Top Reasons to Visit Puerto Rico
No Passport Required for U.S. Citizens
Because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, American travelers can visit without a passport. The currency is the U.S. dollar, and English is common in tourist areas. So, the island feels easy and familiar from the moment you arrive.
Diverse Natural Beauty
Puerto Rico packs a lot into a small space. You can hike through the lush rainforest of El Yunque, or explore mountain trails. In addition, just relax on beaches with white or even black sand. And, the karst region offers dramatic caves with limestone formations. This is great for visitors who enjoy natural wonders.
Bioluminescent Bays
The island is famous for its glowing waters. Puerto Rico has three bioluminescent bays. This includes Mosquito Bay in Vieques, the brightest in the world. A nighttime kayak tour here delivers a rare and unforgettable experience.
Rich History and Culture
Old San Juan highlights more than 500 years of history with its colorful streets and massive Spanish forts. In addition, local music, festivals, and warm hospitality create a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Incredible Food and Rum
Puerto Rico is known as the “Dining Capital of the Caribbean.” Classic dishes like mofongo and lechón asado reflect its mix of cultures. Plus, rum lovers can visit famous distilleries such as Casa Bacardí for tastings and tours.
Adventure for Every Traveler
Outdoor activities are easy to find. You can snorkel coral reefs, or surf in Rincón. Plus zipline through forest canopies, or stroll busy local markets. Also, warm, sunny weather makes the island a great choice any time of year.
Most Popular Coastal Municipalities of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has 78 municipalities, and 44 of them sit along the coast. These include the offshore islands of Vieques and Culebra, which are both popular with travelers. Each coastal town offers something different, from lively resort areas to quiet, natural beaches. Below are the municipalities visitors love most.
San Juan
San Juan is the capital and the busiest entry point for travelers. Old San Juan features colorful streets, Spanish forts, and more than 500 years of history. In addition, nearby beaches in Condado and Isla Verde offer hotels, restaurants, and a lively nightlife scene.
Cabo Rojo
Cabo Rojo sits on the island’s southwest corner and feels relaxed and natural. Visitors enjoy beaches like Playa Sucia and Boquerón. Both known for soft sand and calm water. Plus, the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge and the dramatic Los Morrillos Lighthouse; make the area even more scenic.
Vieques
Vieques is a short ferry or plane ride from the main island. It offers a serene escape with a more untouched feel. It’s home to Mosquito Ba, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. And creates a glowing, magical experience at night. The island also boasts beautiful beaches such as Sun Bay and Playa Caracas. Many of which are roamed by the island’s famous semi-wild horses.
Culebra
Culebra is another small island with some of the clearest water in the Caribbean. Its most famous beach, Flamenco Beach, often appears on lists of the best beaches in the world. The white sand, calm waves, and iconic military tanks make it unforgettable.
Rincón
Rincón, on the island’s west coast, is known as the surfing capital of the Caribbean. Winter waves draw surfers from around the world. In addition, the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve offers snorkeling, sea turtles, as well as bright coral reefs.
Fajardo
Fajardo is the main hub for water activities on the east coast. It is known for Laguna Grande, a glowing bioluminescent bay. Which is easily reached by kayak. Also, boats from Fajardo travel to nearby cays like Cayo Icacos and Palomino Island.
Luquillo
Luquillo is a family-favorite beach town. Balneario La Monserrate offers shallow, gentle water. And, there is also plenty of space for swimming. The nearby Luquillo Kiosks also serve classic Puerto Rican dishes in a fun, casual setting.
Bioluminescent Bays in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays: Mosquito Bay on Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and La Parguera in Lajas. Each one glows with vivid blue light. Created by tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. These illuminate the water when moved. Because of this natural wonder, these bays rank among the most magical experiences in the Caribbean. They are best viewed during a new moon. When the sky is darkest, and tours run year-round.
Mosquito Bay – Vieques
This bay is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. It’s officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. Mosquito Bay sits on the quiet island of Vieques. You can reach it by ferry from Ceiba. as well as a short taxi ride. The glow here is incredibly vivid and often the highlight of any trip.
Laguna Grande – Fajardo
Laguna Grande is located on Puerto Rico’s northeast coast. It’s the most accessible from San Juan. Kayak tours are the most popular way to explore it. The narrow mangrove channel leading to the lagoon also creates an exciting, glowing path on dark nights.
La Parguera – Lajas
La Parguera is the only bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico where swimming is allowed. It sits on the island’s southwest coast. It offers boat tours, paddleboarding, and access to nearby offshore keys. Plus, the glow here is easy to see on calm nights. In addition, it’s especially magical when you move through the water.
How to Visit the Bioluminescent Bays
- Mosquito Bay: Take the Ceiba–Vieques ferry, and then a quick taxi to the bay.
- Laguna Grande: Drive or join a guided kayak or boat tour in Fajardo.
- La Parguera: Drive to Lajas, where boat tours and water activities are available upon arrival.
What to Expect
- Dinoflagellates: These microscopic organisms light up when disturbed, creating the glowing effect.
- Lunar Cycle: The glow is strongest during a new moon, when moonlight is minimal.
- Year-Round Access: Tours operate every month, although brightness can vary with weather and tides.
- Activities: Options include kayaking, boating, and swimming (only in La Parguera).
Featured Beaches of Puerto Rico
For Swimming & Families (Calm Waters)
Flamenco Beach – Culebra Island
Flamenco Beach often appears on lists of the world’s best beaches. This is due to it’s bright turquoise water and soft white sand. The calm conditions make swimming easy. The two abandoned tanks on the shore also add a unique, photogenic touch.
Luquillo Beach (Balneario La Monserrate)
Luquillo is a top pick for families, since the water stays shallow and calm. A protective reef keeps the waves gentle, while the palm grove offers plenty of shade. And, the nearby Luquillo Kiosks make grabbing food simple and fun.
Mar Chiquita – Manatí
Mar Chiquita is a natural pool shaped like a half-moon. Limestone cliffs block the rough Atlantic surf. This creates a sheltered swimming area on the North Coast. Thus, the water often feels calm and crystal clear.
Isla Verde – San Juan Area
Isla Verde is one of the easiest beaches to visit. Especially if you’re staying near the airport or major resorts. Families enjoy its wide stretch of sand, gentle waves, and convenient beachfront amenities. Also, the lifeguards and calm sections make it great for younger swimmers.
For Surfing & Water Sports (West Coast)
Rincón – Domes Beach & Steps Beach
Rincón is known as the surfing capital of the Caribbean. This is especially true during the winter season. Domes Beach delivers big, consistent waves. While Steps Beach offers both snorkeling and surf; depending on conditions. So, it draws surfers from around the world.
Jobos Beach – Isabela
Jobos Beach has a lively atmosphere and a loyal mix of locals and travelers. The waves are steady and fun for intermediate surfers. In addition, the natural rock formations make the scenery stand out. Plus, beach bars nearby keep the area energetic.
Crash Boat Beach – Aguadilla
Crash Boat Beach is famous for its bright blue water and old pier, where many visitors love jumping from. The water stays clear, making it a great spot for both snorkeling and shallow diving. In addition, its colorful fishing boats give it a charming local feel.
For Seclusion & Unique Landscapes
Playa Negra – Vieques
Playa Negra is known for its rare black volcanic sand. It contrasts beautifully with the golden cliffs surrounding the cove. The trail to the beach adds a sense of adventure. Plus, the dramatic scenery also makes it a standout spot on Vieques.
La Chiva (Blue Beach) – Vieques
La Chiva sits inside the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. This keeps it quiet and undeveloped. The water is calm and clear. Plus, the long shoreline offers plenty of space to spread out. In addition, the offshore reefs make snorkeling particularly good here.
La Playuela (Playa Sucia) – Cabo Rojo
La Playuela is known for its wild, open feel. Along with sweeping views of the Los Morrillos Lighthouse and nearby salt flats. The water is gentle as well as shallow. In addition, the surrounding cliffs create a dramatic backdrop. Because it feels remote, many travelers consider it one of Puerto Rico’s most scenic beaches.
Activities and Experiences in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s beaches offer more than beautiful views. Many spots provide clear, calm water and easy access to outdoor adventures. This makes exploring the coastline even more rewarding. Below are some of the most popular ways to enjoy the island’s diverse marine environment.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Snorkeling is easy at many beaches. Especially in places with coral reefs and sheltered coves. Clear water allows you to see colorful fish, rays, and vibrant coral gardens. In addition, destinations like Rincón, Vieques, and Culebra offer guided scuba dives for visitors who want to go deeper.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Calm bays and protected coastlines make kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding perfect for beginners. Muri Lagoon in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and several beaches on the west coast; offer smooth, peaceful water. Plus, rentals are available at most popular beaches.
Boat Trips to Nearby Cays
Many coastal towns offer boat tours to offshore islands and cays with soft sand and bright turquoise water. Cayo Icacos, Palomino Island, and the tiny islets off Fajardo are top choices. These trips often include snorkeling stops, beach time, and views of untouched coastline.
Wildlife Encounters
Turtle sightings are common around Puerto Rico. Especially during the summer nesting season. Beaches in Rincón and Culebra are known for frequent turtle activity. In addition, many reefs host vibrant marine life. This includes parrotfish, angelfish, rays, as well as the occasional reef shark.
Coral Reef Exploration
Visitors can explore reefs from the shore or join guided tours for a closer look. These shallow reef areas create a colorful underwater landscape. It’s easy to experience even for beginners. Therefore, Puerto Rico remains a top destination for anyone interested in marine ecosystems.
Flavors of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s food scene is warm, bold, and full of local character. Many dishes come from a mix of Taíno, Spanish, and African traditions. So, the flavors feel rich yet familiar. So, eating on the island becomes a big part of the travel experience.
Classic Puerto Rican Dishes
The island’s best-known dish is mofongo. It’s made with mashed plantains, garlic, and your choice of meat or seafood. You will also see favorites like arroz con gandules, alcapurrias, and pastelillos. In addition, coastal areas serve plenty of fresh fish, shrimp, and conch.
Beachside Kiosks and Street Food
Many beaches have small kiosks where you can grab quick, tasty bites. The Luquillo Kiosks are especially popular. There are dozens of stalls offering fried seafood, grilled meats, as well as sweet treats. And, places like Piñones and Old San Juan serve classics such as pinchos and bacalaítos.
Rum, Cocktails, and Local Drinks
Puerto Rico is known for its world-class rum. Brands like Don Q, Ron del Barrilito, and Bacardí are easy to find. The island is also the birthplace of the piña colada. You can try one almost anywhere. For a lighter option, fresh coconut water and fruit juices are refreshing on a hot day.
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Desserts are simple but delicious. Bakeries often offer quesitos, flan, and tembleque, a coconut pudding with cinnamon. In addition, tropical fruits like mango and guava appear in smoothies, pastries, and ice cream.
Modern Caribbean Cuisine
Puerto Rico also has a growing farm-to-table scene. Many chefs use local produce and fresh seafood to create new versions of traditional dishes. So, cities like San Juan and Ponce offer a lively mix of classic and modern Caribbean flavors.
What to Pack for Puerto Rico’s Beaches
Packing a few smart essentials helps every beach day run smoothly. The Caribbean sun is strong, and some areas have rocky paths or natural trails. So, having the right gear makes a big difference. Here’s a simple list to keep things easy:
Reef-safe sunscreen
This protects your skin and, most importantly, keeps the island’s coral reefs healthy.
Lightweight, quick-dry towels or blankets
These are easy to carry, and they dry fast after swimming.
Water shoes
Water shoes help in rocky areas. In addition, they make walking to bioluminescent bays more comfortable.
Sun hat and sunglasses
The sun is bright year-round, so extra shade is always useful.
Bug spray
It will come in handy during evenings, As well as when visiting nature-focused beaches, especially near Piñones.
Travel Essentials for Visiting Puerto Rico
Traveling to Puerto Rico is simple, and a few basics help your trip go smoothly.
Entry Tips
U.S. citizens don’t need a passport—just a driver’s license or ID. The island uses the U.S. dollar and standard U.S. outlets, which makes things easy. In addition, English is common in hotels, restaurants, and tour areas.
Know Before You Go
Expect warm weather year-round, with quick tropical showers at times. Lightweight clothes work well, and sun protection is important. Also, follow beach flag warnings, since currents can change from day to day.
Getting Around
Renting a car is the easiest way to explore. Roads are clear, and everything is well-marked. However, Old San Juan is best explored on foot. Taxis, rideshares, and short flights or ferries can take you to Vieques and Culebra.
Staying Connected
Phone plans work just like they do on the mainland U.S. Free Wi-Fi is common, so using maps and making plans on the go is simple.
Final Thoughts on Puerto Rico’s Beautiful Beaches
Puerto Rico offers a rare mix of culture, sunshine, and stunning coastline, which makes it one of the Caribbean’s most rewarding beach destinations. Each region brings something different, from quiet hidden coves to lively resort areas and glowing bioluminescent bays. No matter how you explore the island, you’ll find warm water, friendly communities, and plenty of natural beauty. As a result, Puerto Rico delivers a beach experience you’ll remember long after the trip ends.
Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rico’s Beaches
What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico’s beaches?
The best time is usually December through April, when days are sunny, humidity is lower, and the water stays calm. However, you can still enjoy warm beach weather year-round.
Do U.S. citizens need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?
No. U.S. citizens can visit Puerto Rico with just a driver’s license or other government-issued ID. As a result, it’s one of the easiest Caribbean beach destinations to reach.
Which beaches are best for families and calm swimming?
Beaches like Luquillo Beach, Flamenco Beach (Culebra), and Isla Verde are known for gentle waves and easy access to facilities. In addition, many of these areas have lifeguards and nearby food options.
Where are the best surfing beaches in Puerto Rico?
The west coast is ideal for surfing. Rincón, Jobos Beach (Isabela), and Crash Boat Beach (Aguadilla) are popular spots, especially during winter swells.
Can you swim in Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays?
Swimming is allowed in La Parguera in Lajas, but not in Mosquito Bay or Laguna Grande. Kayak and boat tours are common in all three bays, and they offer the best way to enjoy the glow.
Puerto Rico really does sound like a destination that keeps surprising you the more you explore. I love how this highlights not just the famous beaches like Flamenco, but also places like Vieques, Rincón, and the bioluminescent bays. The mix of calm family-friendly beaches and adventure spots makes it feel perfect for so many travel styles. If someone had to choose between Vieques and Culebra for a first visit, which island do you think offers the better overall experience?
That’s such a great question, because both islands are special in very different ways. For a first visit, many travelers choose Culebra because Flamenco Beach is easy to access and instantly impressive, with calm water and postcard-perfect scenery. However, Vieques offers a deeper sense of adventure with more beaches to explore, wild horses, and the unforgettable experience of Mosquito Bay’s bioluminescence at night. If you love variety and natural beauty, Vieques often wins hearts, while Culebra feels ideal for a shorter, beach-focused escape.
I’ve been thinking about planning a trip to Puerto Rico, but I keep seeing mixed things online about safety. Is this actually a safe place to vacation right now? I’d love to visit the beaches and maybe stay a few days in Old San Juan, but I want to make sure it’s a good time to go.
Great question — and you’re definitely not alone in wondering! The good news is that Puerto Rico is generally very safe for travelers right now, especially in the main tourism areas like Old San Juan, Condado, Isla Verde, and the popular beach towns. These places are lively, well-patrolled, and full of visitors year-round.
Like any destination, it’s smart to use common sense: stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid wandering into unfamiliar neighborhoods, and keep valuables tucked away. But overall, the atmosphere is warm, friendly, and extremely welcoming to tourists.
If you’re planning time at the beaches or thinking about a day trip to Vieques or Culebra, you’ll find those areas especially calm and relaxed. What part of the island are you most interested in exploring first — the historical side of San Juan, or the nature and beaches?
We have never been to Puerto Rico but have recently been considering it as we have a recent family friend who is from there and speaks so highly of it. I appreciated the tip on the best time of year to visit and considerations for different times of year. Keeping an eye on weather can certainly make travel in the fall affordable and less crowded. The Bahia Mosquito was quite fascinating with the phosphorescence.
My dad was stationed there and he always talks about how wonderful it is there. I agree, Puerto Rico is a great travel destination. I think you would really love it. Thanks for visiting my Puerto Rico Travel Guide.
There are so many beautiful places such as Puerto Rico, and I do want to travel to places this. But i lack the money, and the bravery to ever get on a plane. On top of that, none of my family and friends could come I guess for now I’ll keep dreaming about it!
One day you will go! Thanks for stopping by and dreaming 🙂
Great site with so much info! My father was from Puerto Rico but I’ve never been and I’ve been wanting to visit there. I’m glad I came across your post on Puerto Rich, as now I know where to go to plan my trip….you have everything I need! I am looking forward to meeting my fathers side of the family, and hoping all is well with them after the devastation they’ve experienced. Thanks for providing the UNICEF link its nice to see that you really care about the places you write about. I am sure it might be a while before I will be able to visit, but when I am ready I will be back to your site. Maybe you can help me with my travel when I am ready?
Thank you so much, and yes I do care. Such beautiful places, and so much devastation. I am not sure how long it will take them to rebuild, I imagine a little while considering the damage they suffered. I would be glad to help you when you are ready to start making your plans. Thanks for reading the Puerto Rico Travel Guide!
Oh wow! I don’t think you missed anything here. Thanks for putting this together. Very informative. As a surfer, Puerto Rico is on my list of places to go. But after reading this, it’ll be the NEXT place to go. Can’t wait! I’d assume the best time of the year for waves is in the winter!?
Yes, November thru March is going to be the best time to go surfing in Puerto Rico. Hopefully they can rebuild quickly as a country so that visitors will be allowed back into their beautiful country. Thanks for reading!
When I was at Fort Gordon, some of my best friends were Puerto Ricans. They told me I could get a ticket extremely cheap and since it is considered with the U.S. it would be a pretty easy passage. I plan on going someday soon, it is very beautiful. I need to brush up on my Spanish first! Great post.
Thanks Patrick! Yes, you can go to Puerto Rico at a rather reasonable price. Hopefully, they can rebuild quickly and become the beautiful country they were before the hurricane. So you do have a little time to brush up on your Spanish! Thanks for visiting my Puerto Rico Travel Guide.
The most precious of Puerto Rico after its people and beaches, is the food, when visiting this beautiful island, don’t forget to ask the famous MOFONGO,(green plantain) BI-FONGO (green plantain & yellow plantain) and TRI-FONGO(green plantain, yellow plantain & yucca). The Puerto Rican’s are artists with plantain recipes.
hanI have never tried plantain. I guess I need to be adventurous and give it a try. Thanks for sharing and visiting my Puerto Rico Travel guide!
Hi, what a fantastic post! Puerto Rico is definitely on my travel bucket list after reading this. The islands of Puerto Rico look wonderful. If you were on a limited time frame and had to pick one to visit, which would it be? Thanks for sharing, cheers Karen
Thank you 🙂 Puerto Rico really does have a lot to offer. I hope and pray they can rebuild their beautiful country quickly. If I were on a limited time, I would visit Isla De Culebra and Flamenco Beach. That would be my top pick. Thank you for visiting my Puerto Rico Travel Guide!
After reading this excellent guide, I want to go to Puerto Rico!! This is a great article, really informative and well written, I love the fact that you have covered everything, and I can now feel the temptation coming on to travel! Thank you, I will check out your other pages too…. now, where shall I book to go for my Xmas holidays?…….
Lots of choices! So many actually to pick from. Please let me know if you have any questions about anything!
Hi there
This is a great review of this fantastic looking tourist destination and it looks fantastic, just going on the images that you have posted on this article.
There are so many places to see and visit and cost wise, it appears to be very inexpensive.
Naturally being an island in the Carribean, it has beaches and turquoise seas to die for.
Some of the island tours look very interesting and I suspect that in real life, they would make an even better experience for the visitor.
Thanks again for the great informative post
Cheers PB
You are very welcome Phil, and yes the beaches are even more impressive in person and yes, Puerto Rico is fairly inexpensive compared to other Caribbean destinations. Thank you for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com.
Hello
I have always been very interested in visiting Puerto Rico. It looks like such a beautiful place and rich in culture. Do you know if there are places to stay on Isla de Vieques? It looks gorgeous! my wife and I are from Canada and don’t get to the Caribbean very often but this looks like our next destination–thank you very much for the information.
Yes, stay at the Hacienda Tamarindo or the El Blok hotel. Both top rated and a guest favorite. Please let me know if you have any other questions and thank you for visiting the Puerto Rico Travel Guide.
Wow! I love your website! My husband works in Oilfield construction and he has stayed a several of the places that you mention in Texas. When he was in Rockport he sent me a few pictures but they were nothing compared to what you have on your site. Don’t get me wrong, the pictures he sent me were beautiful but very few. I wish I could have went with him but at the time, I had a toddler at home and was expecting our daughter. We actually went to Galveston for our honeymoon and it was absolutely amazing. I’m actually planning a trip to go visit family in Palm Bay, Florida. Do you have any suggestions for places to go or things to see in the area?
Palm Bay is close to Melbourne beach on Florida’s Space Coast. Oh, there is so much there and Texas beaches don’t come close to Florida beaches. I know, because I moved from Texas to Florida. Anyway, go to this link which is from my site and lists everything to see and do 🙂 Enjoy! Please let me know if you need anything else!
I am all about going to a remote Caribbean beach destination and completely unwinding for a while, but sometimes I like a bustling area with plenty of restaurants in a walkable historic setting, like Old San Juan possibly.
Are there good beaches within walking distance of the old section, or would we need to either lodge somewhere close by or maybe take day trips to the beaches and other areas from Old San Juan?
Thank you for the information.
There are beaches within walking distance to Havana, yes as it is fairly close to the coast. Puerto Rico is really a great beach destination that most would not consider. You would love it!
Wow! I love traveling, but haven’t been to Puerto Rico yet… I’ve been reading your interesting and informative article and wondering if this is my family’s next destination… escaping New England cold and snow this coming winter, perhaps? Is there a parking problem in San Juan and/or other places (if we decide to get around by a rented car)?
And what are these bio-organisms, which make the Mosquito Bay glow? How do people get to this beach? Is there a place to stay overnight? Thank you!
You won’t find any real parking problems per se. At the most popular beaches, the parking will get full but you should not have a problem finding a spot. They are phosphorescent dinoflagellates which glow. The dinoflagellate cell membrane that responds to electrical signals—offering a potential mechanism for how the algae create their unique illumination. The following hotels are the closes to Mosquito Bay: Bravo Beach Hotel, W Retreat & Spa Vieques, El Blok Hotel, and Malecon House. Thanks for reading BeachTravelDestinations.com and all about our Puerto Rico Travel Guide.
Excellent guide. Thanks for the thorough information.
Since I am vegetarian, I would like to try out Cocobana, but I also want the atmosphere at Oceano. I wonder if there are vegetarian options there?
I will be sure to check out Puerto Rico as soon as Irma passes! Its supposed to be one of the worst hurricanes in history. To anybody in Puerto Rico or elsewhere that is affected by this storm, my heart goes out to you!
Oceano is a seafood restaurant and I looked at the menu and did not see any menu items that did not include seafood, other than the salads. The best choice for vegetarian is going to be Cocobana. I suppose you could still enjoy the atmosphere at Oceano and stick with the salad or side dishes 🙂 Thanks for visiting my Puerto Rico Travel Guide.