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Great Views at Punta Borinquen
17 Sep 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/punta-borinquen/
Punta Borinquen is a rocky area on the coast of Aguadilla. It is really part of the Borinquen Beach, so it is a quick walk from the beach for photographers to get some unique photos. There are some "secret" caves/indents you can visit, either by walking along the rocks and in the water, or snorkeling/paddleboarding there. It is a bit of an adventure, but you have to admit, it is a place of unique beauty!
The Colors of Crash Boat Beach
10 Sep 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/crash-boat-beach/
Puerto Rico is blessed with so many beautiful beaches, and Crash Boat Beach is one of them. It is very popular, so it can be busy (especially on weekends), but it is has two sandy areas with ample space people to spread out. here are some facilities, some food and water sports vendors, and even a chair/umbrella rental place. It is a colorful beach, with the pier and the fishing boats, you can get lots of good photos. Really, this beach offers something for everyone! If you are in the area, it is a must-visit stop.
Take a Sailing Cruise on the Katarina
03 Sep 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/katarina-sailing/
Katarina Sail Charters is the only sailboat tour that goes out of the Rincón area. They offer a couple tours per day, allowing you to get out on the water and experience Rincón from the ocean side. See where the winds take you … to great views of the lighthouse and beyond, maybe to check out the surfers and the large swells, watching for whales and other marine animals, to great snorkel spots, or just hanging around to relax and watch the beautiful show the sun displays as it sets for the evening.
What’s Happening? September 2017
27 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/september-events/
With the month of September comes the official end of summer … kids are back in school, and visions of the upcoming holidays are beginning to show up in the stores. Here in Puerto Rico, we still have plenty going on from hot beach days, to food festivals, to coffee and chocolate, zombies, and the height of Hurricane Season. Here are some highlights for September 2016.
See Old San Juan from the Water Side
20 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-water-tours/
Viewing Old San Juan from the water adds a new dimension to the experience - it kind of gives you an idea of what the original visitors saw and experienced some 500 years ago. San Juan Water Tours offers tours of San Juan Bay via boat. They depart from the Bahía Urbana waterfront area, at Pier 6, along the bay in Old San Juan - just steps from the cruise ships piers.
Enjoy a Unique Experience at Siete Chorros
06 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/siete-chorros/
We recently decided to spend a day exploring San Lorenzo. When we heard about a place with "Siete Chorros" (seven jets of water), we knew we had to see it! These "jets" of water form what appears like seven waterfalls that descend into a very nice pool. It is an easy-to-find location that will give you a real "local" experience.
What’s Happening? August 2017
30 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/august-events/
August is a fun time in Puerto Rico. The first two weekends are the final "summer flings" before school resumes and, after that, things calm down a bit. But it is still "summer" weather here … fruits are ripe, temperatures are high, and people are still in a party mood. Expect water-related activities to be busy as people try to keep cool during the "dog days" of summer! A few towns have their Patron Saint Festivals, so get ready for lots of music food and fun! Here are some highlights for August 2017.
Let Your Troubles Float Away at La Zanja
23 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-zanja-fajardo/
La Zanja in Fajardo was once one of those "lesser known" places, but it has become famous very quickly on social media as "the" spot to visit and snap a pic floating in the water. It is a very pretty area that is pretty remote, and requires a bit of a hike to get to, but the great views make it worth the extra effort.
Enjoy Paddleboard & Snorkeling in Old San Juan
16 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-sup/
When people go to Old San Juan, the first thing that comes to mind for most people is touring the forts and museums, and generally walking around the old city. But now, there are actually quite a few water sports available to enjoy right in Old San Juan. San Juan Water Tours offers a 2-hour Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) & Snorkel tour that goes from the San Juan Bay into the Condado Lagoon. SUP is an easy and relaxing way to enjoy this pretty lagoon, and see some of the local sea life … and maybe the manatees!
Chill Like a Local in El Río
09 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-mameyes/
El Yunque National Forest is full of rivers and waterfalls. As many people have come to appreciate, the rivers offer great places to jump in and cool off as they make their way to the ocean. The Mameyes River is a beautiful river that runs down from high in El Yunque National Forest. As it gets to the flat "Palmer" area in Río Grande, the river is known locally as Río la Poza. Here, you will find La Poza del Angel — a nice, deep swimming area surrounded by green areas for picnics and general enjoyment.
What’s Happening? July 2017
02 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/july-events/
The month of July is probably the busiest month here in Puerto Rico. We have lots of holidays this month, so locals take vacation in July. Combine that with the tourists spending their summer vacation on the island, and you can expect lots crowds and lots of activities happening, especially on the weekends and holidays. Here are some highlights for July 2016.
Take an Agro-Tour at Hacienda Muñoz Coffee Plantation
25 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-munoz-coffee/
Neither Ray nor I drink coffee, but that doesn't stop us from going to coffee plantations and enjoying the experience. That is because these plantations are about more than just a coffee product, it is a whole nature experience. Hacienda Muñoz, in San Lorenzo is an agrotourism farm that features a coffee plantation tour, but has so much more to offer.
Zoom Around Old San Juan on a Jet Ski
20 Jun 2017 Δ 22 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-jet-ski/
If you're looking for an exciting way to see Old San Juan, you can get a tour of the 500-year old city from a different angle — on a Jet Ski. San Juan Water Tours offers a Jet Ski Tour that is wet and wild, and combines some history and a lot of fun. Located at Pier 6 in Old San Juan, they are just a short walk from the cruise ship piers.
Architectural Genius at Museo Casa Roig
11 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/museo-casa-roig/
Casa Roig, built in the 1920s for sugar barons, is an excellent example of modernist architectural design adapted for the hot, humid Caribbean environment. You can take a quick tour of this house museum, and the rotating artist displays they have on the second floor.
What’s Happening? June 2017
04 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/june-events/
The month of June … It’s officially “summer” here on the island, beaches are in full swing, and El Yunque is starting to get more crowded. While there is almost always something interesting happening somewhere in Puerto Rico, there are a few special events each month that deserve a mention. Here are some highlights for June 2017.
Visit a Pterocaprus Foreset Inside Palmas del Mar
21 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/palmas-pterocaprus-forest/
The Palmas del Mar resort in Humacao has a really nice Pterocarpus Forest where you can commune with nature. There is a raised walkway through the marshy forest and observation tower, which allow you to comfortably enjoy the forest and bird watch. It's open to the general public, and admission is free.
Visit Beautiful Isla Cardona
14 May 2017 Δ 09 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/isla-cardona/
While I love the main island of Puerto Rico, sometimes just a short boat ride brings you to some of the prettiest little out-islands. Isla Cardona is just an 8-minute boat ride off of Ponce, but it offers a beautiful beach, nice snorkeling, some trails to explore, and a lighthouse. Unless you have your own boat or jetski, the trip offered by Waterland Adventures is your best way to get there.
What’s Happening? May 2017
30 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/may-events/
May is a the beginning of "summer" here on the island, and the beginning of "beach weather". Schools let out for the summer in May, locals head to the beaches, and the action really picks up! Expect fun family activities, lots of plant sales (especially for Mother's Day), food & drink fests, and dancing & music events. While there is almost always something interesting happening somewhere in Puerto Rico, there are a few special events each month that deserve a mention. Here are some highlights for May 2017.
Dare to Experience El Columpio de los Suspiros
23 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/columpio-suspiros/
Are you looking to challenge yourself and to experience an adventure in one of the most beautiful parts of Puerto Rico? El Columpio de los Suspiros has it all! There's a swing on the edge of a mountain that overlooks the rushing cascades of El Yunque … that you will soon be jumping into! This extreme adventure will get your adrenaline pumping. Montaña Explora offers a few tours on the south side of El Yunque, and this new one gives you a little taste of everything.
Visit Beautiful Borinquen Beach in Aguadilla
16 Apr 2017 Δ 30 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/borinquen-beach/
If you want to enjoy wide open beach, beautiful vistas, and a picnic with ocean breezes, then Borinquen Beach in Aguadilla is perfect for you! Located just a few hundred yards from the old lighthouse ruins, this beach is a great place to have a picnic lunch under the palm trees, or on the sand while enjoying this picturesque area. It is a large beach, on both sides of the parking lot … I doubt you will ever feel crowded here!
Kayaking in Ceiba with Para la Naturaleza
09 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/para-naturaleza-medio-mundo-kayak/
Para la Naturaleza is a non-profit conservation organization that owns and protects many environmentally and culturally significant parcels of land across the island. They have recently started offering tours in the Medio Mundo y Daguao area that they acquired in the old Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in Ceiba. We went on their Birding, Snorkeling & Kayaking Adventure in Los Machos Wetlands, and we had a great time!
What’s Happening? April 2017
02 Apr 2017 Δ 04 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/april-events/
April is our shoulder month between Spring and Summer. During this time, the rough winter seas begin to calm down, and the hotter weather starts — so beaches and water sports pick up as the month goes on. There are some gricultural fairs, fun family-oriented activities, and some food & drink festivals. Here are some highlights for for things happening in April 2017.
Swinging at El Columpio de Ceiba
26 Mar 2017 Δ 16 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/columpio-de-ceiba/
El Columpio de Ceiba is one of those places that was made popular by photos on social media. It is currently the hot spot for selfies and Instagram snaps in Puerto Rico. It's basically a couple of swings in crystal clear blue water in the old Roosevelt Roads Navy Base in Ceiba, which is on the east coast. It's a pretty area, with a small beach. It's a great spot for "how I spent my vacation" photos to post to make your friends envious.
Camuy Zipline Adventures at Río Camuy Caves Park
20 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/camuy-zipline-adventures/
Camuy Zipline Adventure allow you to experience the Río Camuy Caves Park from a completely different angle, as you soar high above the Tres Pueblos Sinkhole, and between the towns of Lares and Camuy. After flying across the river, you'll have the opportunity to visit the mouth of Spiral Cave, in a part of the park that is no long accessible to the general public. What a great way to enjoy the caves!
Hike to Survival Beach
12 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/survival-beach/
Survival Beach in Aguadilla is a stunning beach with huge rock formations at its western end. The hike starts at Surfers' Beach, and takes about 20 minutes along a wooded trail, over tree roots and rocks. Though not generally recommended for swimming, Survival Beach is great for walking, taking photos, or just enjoying time on the beach looking out at the waves.
What’s Happening? March 2017
05 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/march-events/
Golf Tournaments, Music Festivals, Races, Food & Wine Festivals, Orchid Festivals, and even a Saint Patty's Day parade! There are lots of activities going on in Puerto Rico in March 2017. Here are some of the more noteworthy events.
Get Nostalgic at the Drive-in Theater in Arecibo
19 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/arecibo-drive-in/
The Auto-Cine Santana is the last remaining drive-in movie theater in Puerto Rico. Located in Arecibo, this drive-in shows first-run movies in a nostalgic outdoor setting. If you've never been to a drive-in movie, or if you remember them from your younger years, you should definitely check this place out. It's an inexpensive night out that the whole family can enjoy!
Check Out Charco Los Morones in Utuado
12 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/charco-los-morones/
Charco Los Morones in Utuado - with it's waterfalls, natural pools, huge rock formations, petroglyphs, and backdrop of green mountains - is a photographer's paradise. Getting there is a bit of an effort, but it is totally worth it.
Spend Some Time in the Aguirre State Forest
05 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aguirre-forest/
The Aguirre State Forest in Guayama is over 2000 acres that contains a mangrove forest that has walking paths, salt water lagoons, and marsh areas. Given that environment, and the warm, dry climate, it's a perfect spot for migratory (land local) bards … and for bird-watching! This protected natural area is a nice place to spend some time exploring the marshy shores.
What’s Happening? February 2017
30 Jan 2017 Δ 01 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/february-events/
Marathons, festivals celebrating everything from coffee to music to rum, a BBQ competition, and Puerto Rico's blow-out pre-Lent "Carnaval Ponceño" … There are lots of activities going on in Puerto Rico in February 2017. Here are some of the more noteworthy events.
What’s Happening? January 2017
01 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/january-events/
Baseball, Fairs, Kings, Surfing, Biking, and the biggest street party this side of New Orleans. There are lots of activities going on in Puerto Rico in January 2017. Here are some of the more noteworthy events.
Glorious Sunflower Farms
11 Dec 2016 Δ 06 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sunflower-farms/
Puerto Rico has a wonderful climate for year-round growing of many ornamental and food crops. Lately, sunflowers have become all the rage. They are so beautiful and popular, so a number of sunflower farms have opened around the island. Some are just for growth and production of the cut flowers, but a few are open to the public for enjoyment, photographs and/or purchases.
What’s Happening? December 2016
04 Dec 2016 Δ 14 Dec 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/december-events/
December in Puerto Rico is a lively time, with a generally festive atmosphere. Holiday lights are everywhere, and everyone is getting in gear for Christmas and New Years. While there is always something fun happening somewhere in Puerto Rico, there are a few special events each month that deserve a mention. Here are some highlights for December 2016.
Explore Puerto Rico’s Taíno Roots
27 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ruta-taina/
La Ruta Taína is a loose connection of significant sites highlighting the indigenous people of Puerto Rico — the Tainos. Visiting these sites offers travelers the opportunity to embark on a cultural experience to learn about Puerto Rico’s heritage and indigenous traditions. La Ruta Taína runs north to south, from Arecibo to Ponce, passing through the towns of Utuado, Jayuya and Adjuntas. Along the way, visitors will discover the oldest ceremonial centers in the Caribbean, indigenous petroglyphs, villages, tombs, museums and legends, as well as caves, beaches and natural reserves.
Fun for the Whole Family at Playa Sardinera
20 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-sardinera-hatillo/
The town of Hatillo is known for a few tourist attractions, but I think that the beach Playa Sardinera and the adjacent Punta Maracayo should be at the top of that list. We finally (after 13 years of living in Puerto Rico) took the time to check out this beach and … wow! This beautiful beach was such a surprise to me. Besides being pretty, it has facilities, and it is a protected cove, which keeps the water calm so that people can enjoy the beach year-round.
Visit Casa Caracoles, for the Shell of It
13 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-caracoles/
Want to see something fun and unusual? Make a short visit to Casa Caracoles in Salinas. The owner of this property has covered almost every surface of his house and every item he owns … including his car … with locally collected sea shells. It's worth a quick stop if you happen to be in the area.
Stand on the Edge of the Earth at Cerro el Rodadero
06 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cerro-rodadero/
Cerro el Rodadero is high in the green mountains of Yauco, a town in the south western part of the island. From the peak, you can see all the way to the coast and many surrounding towns. If you are a photography buff, this place is a must-see. When I saw some friends' photos of this spot, I knew had to see it for myself. But be forewarned — this place is not for kids, nor the faint of heart. The drive itself is nerve wracking, the hike is really slippery, and the peak … let's just say, you are on the edge and the first step is a doozy! But it is beautiful and well worth the effort!
What’s Happening? November 2016
30 Oct 2016 Δ 22 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/november-events/
It's November already, and that means the official start of the holiday season in Puerto Rico. Look for many towns having their official town "Lighting of Holiday Decorations" celebrations, usually featuring Christmas lights, fireworks, traditional music, food, artisans, and more. Other things to do in November include the Winter Baseball League, various food festivals, concerts, and sporting events.
What’s Happening? October 2016
03 Oct 2016 Δ 08 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/october-events/
October is generally a slow month here in Puerto Rico. We're at the lowest point of our "low season" for tourists, and many businesses that depend on tourism cut back their hours either to take their own vacations, or to do their "annual maintenance" that they can't get accomplished during the busy times of year. There are still plenty of things to do this month, maybe the best of which is to enjoy some quiet time on one of our many beautiful beaches Here are some highlights for October 2016.
Spend a Half Day on an Exciting Zip Line Tour in El Yunque
18 Sep 2016 Δ 18 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/yunke-zipline/
Zip lining is one of those adventure activities that is on almost everyone’s
Puerto Rico at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games
06 Aug 2016 Δ 13 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/summer-olympics-2016/
As we all know by now, the 2016 Summer Games of the XXXI Olympiad are being held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 05 August to 21 August 2016. Puerto Rico will be represented by 41 athletes at these Olympic Games. They will be competing in Athletics, Boxing, Diving, Equestrian, Judo, Road Cycling, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball, Weightlifting, and Wrestling.
Zika – What You Need To Know
19 Jun 2016 Δ 23 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/zika-puerto-rico/
The news media is having a field day reporting on the spread of Zika across the Caribbean and Puerto Rico. If you listen to the news reports about Zika, you’d think that Puerto Rico was ground zero for the zombie apocalypse. If you have plans to travel to Puerto Rico you might be concerned. But, before you get all freaked out and start canceling your trip, do a little research, understand the facts, and make an informed decision. People here on the island are still alive and well, and we need tourists more than ever!
Try River Rafting in Puerto Rico
14 Jun 2016 Δ 27 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/river-rafting/
It has been a while since we have done any white-water rafting … I guess that’s mainly because there was never a company in Puerto Rico that offered it. I didn’t even know there was a river on the island that was suitable for it. But luckily, Puerto Rico Ríos Rafting Company started running trips out of Las Marias on the Río Grande de Anasco river. The river has lots of twists & turns, and ups & downs, to make for an exciting and fun adventure.
Relax A While at Parque Trece
08 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parque-trece/
While traveling around exploring Puerto Rico, it is nice to find a pretty spot just to stop and relax for a bit. That is what we found at Area Recreativa El Trece (aka Parque Trece or "Park 13"). Located in the town of Vega Baja, this recreation area is a perfect spot for families and friends to get together and enjoy nature. We found it to be a wonderful picnic stop on a busy day of exploring, and it is extremely popular in the summer and on weekends with families, for good reason.
Get Ready for an Underground Adventure in Lares!
24 Apr 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pr-interior-tours/
We like nature and adventure, and we were psyched to find Puerto Rico Interior Tours - an adventure company that offers something a little bit different than other adventure companies. Their tour has thrilling zip lines, hiking and cave exploration, but they also have subterranean hikes, waterfalls, and a rappel into a river inside a cave. You don't get to do those things every day!
Bosque Urbano de San Patricio: A Little Forest in the City
10 Apr 2016 Δ 20 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bosque-san-patricio/
I think nature is amazing, how it slowly and quietly rejuvenates, and how it always wins. This is true of anything it touches. The Bosque Urbano de San Patricio is a great example of nature reclaiming a concrete jungle. This park is a nice place to walk around, or bike with the family.
Nature & Art Collide in “Puerto Rican Light (Cueva Vientos)”
27 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/puerto-rican-light-cueva-vientos/
I am always interested in art, and I appreciate the impact it has different people. And all of our regular readers know how much I love nature. So a trip to see Puerto Rican Light (Cueva Vientos) was a must. This exhibit, in Guayanilla-Peñuelas, is a collaboration between the artists Jennifer Allora and Guillermo Calzadilla, the Dia Art Foundation, and Para La Naturaleza. Basically, it is a piece of artwork set in nature, but there is more to it than meets the eye … the artists want you to experience it. Beginning with a walk through a forest. The exhibit will be available for tours until the end of September 2017.
Sample Sangría, Hand-Crafted With Love, in Caguas
21 Mar 2016 Δ 02 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sangria-los-hermanos/
Sangría is a traditional drink in Spain … and of summer. This delicious and light blend of wine and fruit juices make it a perfect drink to enjoy any time. With Puerto Rico's Spanish heritage, and year round hot weather, it is only natural that sangría is all the rage here. Sangría Los Hermanos is a small (but fast-growing) family-operated business, specializing in hand-crafted sangría. It is a labor of love, and it tastes great! We had the opportunity to visit them for a tasting recently. Here's the scoop.
Check Out El Patrón Waterfall
14 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-patron-falls/
I like waterfalls, so when I see photos of local waterfalls, I make every effort to find them. That is how we found Cascada Patrón. This waterfall looks really nice in pictures, and it is relatively easy to reach. Technically, it is in the town of Morovis, but it is on the boarder with Vega Baja, so it is a quick stop when doing other things in the area. Another plus is that it is not too far from San Juan.
Views-A-Plenty at Arbol Solitario
06 Mar 2016 Δ 13 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/arbol-solitario/
The hike to Arbol Solitario, though difficult, rewards your effort with an amazing 360° bird's eye view of the central mountain range, the towns of Cayey and Salinas, and the Caribbean Sea. The tree itself is not the reason for the trek. It's the photo opportunity that awaits you at the peak. Strap on your hiking boots, slap on on sunscreen, grab a bottle of water, and get ready for a great cardio workout with a prize at the end!
Visit the Vieques Biobay by Electric Boat
21 Feb 2016 Δ 17 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mosquito-bay-electric-boat/
While Puerto Rico has a number of bio bays, Mosquito Bay on Vieques is the brightest and most protected. It is worth planning on spending at least one night on Vieques to see it. You used to be able to get to Vieques and see the bio bay without spending the night. But that is no longer true. Now, you need to stay overnight. But that is not a bad thing … Vieques has loads of beautiful beaches, and some other interesting things to do to keep you busy. And at nightfall, an easy way to visit the bio bay is by electric pontoon boat with Island Adventures.
River Treking & Petroglyphs in Utuado
07 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caonillas-utuado/
The Rio Caonillas in Utuado has a mystical feel to it. The river, the large rock cliffs, the majestic mountain in the distance … it's all really inspiring. I don’t think that I am the first person to feel this way … In numerous places along the river you can find a number of beautiful pre-Columbian petroglyphs carved into the rocks. Of all the places I have been in Puerto Rico, this is one of my favorite spots.
Farmers’ Markets: A Growing Trend
24 Jan 2016 Δ 21 Apr 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/farmers-markets/
If you are looking to buy fresh, locally grown or made items, then a Farmers’ Market is for you. These markets are where you will find some really unusual and wonderful stuff. And it is not just for health nuts. Buying fresh and local is a win-win for everyone — you get fresh food or some local and handicrafts, and you help support the local economy.
Learn About a Soldier’s Life
10 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fort-soldier-life/
Visiting one of the massive forts in Old San Juan is a must-do for a couple of hours while on vacation in Puerto Rico. But can you imagine what it was like to have lived in a fort? The National Park Service offers a number of different educational tours at the forts, and the Lantern Light Tour of a Spanish Soldier’s Life at Castillo San Cristobal offers some insight into life inside the fort. It is a 45-minute, guided, after-hours tour that tells you about life in the fort back in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.
Explore Salto de Jiménez Waterfalls & Pools
06 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/salto-jimenez/
We are lucky enough to be able to call El Yunque rain forest “our backyard”. We have explored many areas of it, and still we have not seen everything there is to see. When talking with some friends who live in our area, they mentioned the really nice waterfalls just up the road. What!? We’ve lived here 10 years … how did we miss them? We once did a little exploring down river, but obliviously didn’t go far enough! We’ll let you in on this little-know secret!
Go In Search of Sea Glass in Rincón
15 Nov 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rincon-sea-glass/
Sea glass hunting is a hobby I enjoy whenever we go to a beach. Some areas and beaches are more fruitful than others. Rincón is one of those bountiful places that have a number of different beaches that offer a variety of shapes, sizes, and some unusual colors of sea glass. I'll tell you where to look, and what we have found.
River Fun at Los Pilones Falls & Charco de los Caballos
08 Nov 2015 Δ 19 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pilones-falls/
You gotta love a pretty waterfall that is close to your home. Here in Puerto Rico, once you get out of the city, it is not too difficult to find some beautiful falls. We recently went to Los Pilones Falls and Charco de los Caballos, located just in the next town over from where we live. The river (Río Canóvanas) is actually a very pretty and interesting river that starts way up in El Yunque, and runs to the sea, with many waterfalls and swimming holes along the way. People have been enjoying this river for hundreds (if not thousands) of years, as evidenced by petroglyphs that we have found in other locations in this river. It was a real nice place to spend some time and cool down.
Puerto Rico’s 2016-2017 Winter Baseball League
25 Oct 2015 Δ 26 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/winter-baseball/
MLB Winter League Baseball in Puerto Rico is starting on 27 October 2016! Get out to one of the stadiums in Carolina, Caguas, San Juan, Aguadilla, or Mayaguez and support your favorite team. The action is non-stop, and it is a great family-friendly atmosphere!
Take a Day Trip to St. Thomas USVI
20 Sep 2015 Δ 02 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/st-thomas-day-trip/
Puerto Rico is so chock-full of wonderful history, beaches, shopping, and things to do that you can easily fill up many days of many vacations. Sometimes, it is fun to get off of “the rock” and see what other nearby islands have to offer. The US Virgin Islands are our closest neighbors, easy to get to, and don’t require a passport (when traveling from Puerto Rico). St. Thomas USVI is about 40 miles east of Fajardo (you can see it a clear day), so it is a do-able day trip either by air or by sea. We had been to St. Thomas a few times before on cruise stops, so we had an idea what to do and expect while there. St. Thomas has so much to offer, it would be hard to be bored. And they have Duty Free shopping! What is not to like? So Ray swallowed a couple Dramamine, took a deep breath, and we hopped on a boat to spend the day on St. Thomas.
Relax Surrounded by Nature at Reserva Tortuguero
13 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/laguna-tortuguero/
Laguna Tortuguero Nature Reserve is a large, natural body of water that is in the towns of both Vega Baja and Manatí. Just off the north coast of Puerto Rico, it is home to many species of plants and animals. Though the lagoon is known mostly as a fishing and kayaking area, the marsh and sandy land around it has other diversions like bird watching, trails for mountain biking and walking, and picnic pavilions. Managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, it is a nice place to spend some time exploring.
Mona Island 101 – A Primer
30 Aug 2015 Δ 22 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mona-island-101/
Mona Island, or Isla de Mona, is often referred to as the Galápagos of the Caribbean. It is a natural, uninhabited island, surrounded by crystal clear water, coral reefs, soaring cliffs, ample marine life, and the occasional white-sand beach. Top-side, the island is filled with caves, historically significant artifacts, and endemic plants and animals, some of which are endangered. The trip to Mona Island is not for the average person, but it is a remarkable place that is worth visiting if you are able.
Cool off at Salto Collores Waterfall
23 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/salto-collores/
During the "summer" months, you see and hear a lot more about "internal tourism" (turismo interno) both in the news and on the internet. That's great for everyone … we all find out about new and beautiful places to visit. Salto Collores Waterfall is one of those places that we found out about through local media. This pretty waterfall is one of the easiest places to visit on the island. It's not far from the Ponce area, so it can be added onto a day-trip to the area.
Manantial de Vega Baja – A Natural Spring
16 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/manantial-vega-baja/
While everyone knows that Puerto Rico has beautiful beaches and rivers, there are a few other natural bodies of water getting a lot of attention lately. One of those is the Manantial de Vega Baja. This is a small pool of crystal clear water that is fed by a natural spring. There are a few natural springs in Puerto Rico, but especially around the Tortuguero Nature Reserve area of Vega Baja and Manatí. Once a quiet “secret” spot, word has spread about it and now it is “The Place” to go.
Hiking and Exploring Cueva del Agua in Río Abajo Forest
09 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-abajo-cueva-agua/
Río Abajo State Forest in Utuado has a handful of hiking trails, and a couple of caves to explore. On this trip to the forest, we hiked to and explored Cueva del Agua. This cave is a multi-level cave system, with a river running through the mid-level cave that creates a waterfall in the lower-level cave. A visit to this forest can be combined with a trip to Cueva Ventana or the Arecibo Radiotelescope. It's worth a visit!
Hiking and Exploring Cueva Alta in Río Abajo Forest
26 Jul 2015 Δ 17 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-abajo-cueva-alta/
If you like to hike (like we do), then you will want to check out some of the forests in Puerto Rico, beyond El Yunque National Forest. As it turns out, the Río Abajo State Forest is pretty interesting, and it has some good hikes that will appeal to bird-watchers and people who enjoy exploring caves. It also has a really nice camping area. This forest, located in Arecibo and Utuado, is well worth a visit!
Surf’s Up in Luquillo with Surfing Puerto Rico
19 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/surfing-puerto-rico/
Puerto Rico is a great place to surf, with year-long summers and some of the best waves in the Caribbean. Learning to surf at La Pared Beach in Luquillo from a former Puerto Rico National Surfing Champion is an experience you will not soon forget. Surfing Puerto Rico offers surfing lessons for everyone, young and old, in a fun and encouraging environment. We recently took surfing lessons with them, and everyone in our group was able to get up and surf for real during the lesson. It is an amazing feeling of accomplishment!
Las Delicias Falls – A Slice of Heaven
12 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-delicias-falls/
Every so often we find a spot that just makes us really happy. Las Delicias Falls was one of those spots. We both said that it looks like something out of a tropical movie set. So pretty and perfect that it doesn't look real. The best part is that it is real, and it is actually easy to access.
La Guancha: A Fun Weekend Spot for the Whole Family
28 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-guancha/
If you are in the Ponce area on a weekend, and you want to go somewhere to hang out like a local, head to La Guancha. This boardwalk area is a family-friendly place to enjoy local food, music, and the company of other people. There are also some other fun diversions like a beach, a playground for the kids, kayak rentals, tarpon feeding, and boat rides. It is a fun place to spend a weekend afternoon or evening.
Waterfalls and More in Peñuelas
21 Jun 2015 Δ 12 Dec 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/soplaera-falls/
Located in the town of Peñuelas, La Soplaera Falls is a set of waterfalls that is easy to find and easy to access. Though probably not interesting enough to do as a stand-alone day trip, these waterfalls can make a fun side-trip if you're visiting Ponce, Cabo Rojo, or just driving through the south part of the island.
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan – Part 4
14 Jun 2015 Δ 14 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-walking-tour-4/
The first three parts of our walking tour took you to most of the older, historical sites in Old San Juan. This fourth installment leaves the "old world" and moves on to the "newer" parts (relatively speaking) of the city … those parts constructed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Taken together, these four walking tours make a full circle around Old San Juan.
Check Out La Lucía Sugar Mill Ruins
07 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/lucia-sugar-mill/
The sugar industry had hundreds of years of prosperity in Puerto Rico. But, now that era is over, all that is left as a reminder of the “sugar heyday” are a few empty structures and chimneys that dot empty fields throughout the island. Some of these are quite pretty, such as the ruins of La Lucía Sugar Mill (Hacienda Ingenio Azucarera La Lucía) in Yabucoa, along the eastern coast of Puerto Rico.
Passing the Day at Playa Golondrinas and Poza Mujeres
31 May 2015 Δ 14 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/golondrinas-poza-mujeres/
The town of Manatí is about 45 minutes west of San Juan, and it boasts a number of beautiful beaches. Playa la Cueva de las Golondrinas and Poza del Mujeres are two beach areas in Manatí that are very close to each other, and that each have small and beautiful beaches. They require a little bit of walking (a couple of minutes) to get to, but you should do both the same day as they are both worth the effort.
Poza Prieta Waterfall in Bayamón
24 May 2015 Δ 16 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/poza-prieta/
When I think of Bayamón, I picture a suburb of San Juan, with lots of people, stores, and general congestion. One thing that I didn’t expect to find in Bayamón is the Poza Prieta waterfall. This hidden gem in the back-country of Bayamón is one of the biggest surprises because of its size — probably one of the highest waterfalls in Puerto Rico (at least out of the waterfalls I have seen here). However, this waterfall is well off the "beaten path", so hiking to these falls is not for everyone, and it best done with an experienced guide.
Recycled Garden in Utuado
20 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/recycled-garden/
Sometimes, when you make a wrong turn, you find the most interesting things. We found this "Recycled Garden" along the road in Utuado the other day. It made us smile. Here's hoping it makes you smile, too.
Charco Azul and Cuevas Arenales
17 May 2015 Δ 03 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cuevas-arenales/
After exploring Puerto Rico since 2003, and writing about it here since 2007, I still find some beautiful sites that just amaze me. Charco Azul & Cuevas Arenales (Blue Pool & Sand Cave) in Vega Baja is one of these places. Located less than an hour’s drive from of San Juan, this little area looks like it is from another planet or era. Millions of years of rain and river water has carved these rocks into beautifully odd formations. It is a great place to spend a few hours cooling off.
Exploring Wuanikí Bawá in Ceiba
10 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/piedra-del-indio/
We have been wanting to see the Wuanikí Bawá or Piedra del Indio petroglyphs for many years. They are drawings of three figures, etched a monolith at the water’s edge, that are accessible only from the water. Now that the old Roosevelt Roads US Navel base is mostly open to the public, there are operators there that can make this a reality. We recently rented kayaks from Blackbeard Sports, and spent a couple hours exploring the petroglyphs and nearby mangrove lagoon.
Vieques: More Than Just Beaches – South Side
26 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-south-side/
What do you do when you've had too much sun or are simply tired of lounging around on beautiful beaches? You take a road trip! Even though Vieques is known for it's beautiful beaches, there are still some non-beachy things you can do to pass the time. Here is a list of things you can do on the south side of Vieques that don't involve a beach blanket.
High End shopping at The Mall of San Juan
29 Mar 2015 Δ 04 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mall-of-san-juan/
Puerto Rico boasts the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, and outlet malls in both Barceloneta and Canovanas. Now we can add to that list with the high-end stores at the Mall of San Juan, which opened in March 2015. Anchored by Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, it also has many upscale retail shops. The mall is located just across the San José Lagoon from Isla Verde and Condado, and only minutes from the SJU airport.
Photo Op: Comerío Represas
16 Mar 2015 Δ 22 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/comerio-represas/
Waterfalls, both natural and man-made, are always great backdrops for photos. These dams in Comerío are no exception. Built in the early 1900s as hydroelectric plants, these now defunct sites offer some great photo ops. And the best part is that you can see them from the side of the road without even setting foot on a trail!
Visit a Manatee Rehabilitation Center
08 Mar 2015 Δ 11 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/manatee-center/
Manatees are endemic to the ocean surrounding Puerto Rico. Due to boating "mishaps" and the loss of coastal habitat, there are fewer than 600 of these gentle creatures in our local waters. The Manatee Conservation Center at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and orphaned manatees. Their endeavors are supported by volunteers and donations. You can help by taking a tour of their rehabilitation center, meeting the manatees "in person", and making a donation. Your visit can help make a difference between saving this species … and extinction.
Snorkeling on Vieques
23 Feb 2015 Δ 23 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-snorkeling/
If you've spent some time on the island of Vieques, you have no doubt visited some beautiful beaches. But what do you do when you get bored of yet another gorgeous beach? You jump into the water with a mask, fins, and snorkel to see what lies beneath the waves! Here are some spots that on Vieques that we've found to be good for snorkeling. Is your favorite on the list?
Jardín de la Princesa Park in Old San Juan
12 Jan 2015 Δ 25 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/jardin-princesa/
The Jardín de la Princesa park in Old San Juan was opened to the public in October 2014. It features five bronze sculptures by Jose Buscaglia representing the Source of the Heritage of the Americas. There is a small garden, and a playground for the kids. It along Paseo de la Princesa, not far from the cruise ship piers … so it's an easy stop on your tour of Old San Juan.
Coffee Flavored Rum – A Great Puerto Rican Libation
21 Dec 2014 Δ 23 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/coffee-rum/
Coffee-infused Puerto Rican rum is a tasty treat that is quick and easy to make. It can be used in other recipes as a substitute for Kahlúa, added to coffee, or enjoyed as a shot or on the rocks. Make a bunch of bottles to give away as gifts, and be sure to keep one for yourself!
Holiday Season Family Fun at La Feria – The Park
30 Nov 2014 Δ 04 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-feria/
Do you know someone who loves amusement parks or carnivals? Then La Feria – The Park will be right up their alley. This annual carnival runs from Early December through the end of the first week of January. This family-friendly fair is full of amusement park rides and games, food and refreshments, live music and shows, holiday light displays and even a petting zoo.
Visit Loiza for Some Authentic Hand-Crafted Souvenirs
24 Aug 2014 Δ 06 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/loiza-art/
The town of Loiza has a long and interesting history. The African heritage of the area is seen all around town — in the music, dance and art. The Loizeno people are proud of their ancestry, and the local artisans often use it as a primary theme in their artwork. If you really want to take home a meaningful and authentic hand-crafted souvenir from Puerto Rico, skip the Made in China stuff that you'll find at the airport. Instead, take a short trip to Loiza where you can learn a little history, and buy directly from the artists.
Take a Hike on Vieques
03 Aug 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vereda-cerro-playuela/
If you are looking for something to do on Vieques other than go to beaches, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has made 3 new hiking trails. Called Vereda Cerro Playuela, they opened these trails in mid-2013. The trails offer the experience of going through a few different types of forests, great views, and remote beaches that are so beautiful you will be so happy for this diversion.
Volunteer to Help Save Puerto Rico’s History
20 Jul 2014 Δ 22 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-cabezas-dig/
Archaeologists have found evidence of pre-Taino people living in what is now Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo. They have uncovered human skeletons, bones, shells, tools, and clay pots that date back to 300-600AD. But now, this historical site is at risk of being lost due to actions of the waves and wind, and the rise in sea level. It is a race against time to save the remains - and they need your help!
Playa Grande Beach on Vieques
06 Jul 2014 Δ 16 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-grande-beach/
Vieques is known for it's beautiful, white-sand beaches with calm, sparkling blue water that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. There are other beaches on the island that have rugged beauty and seem to go on for miles. Playa Grande is that kind of beach. It's perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and countless photo ops.
Vieques: More Than Just Beaches – North Side
23 Jun 2014 Δ 16 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-north-side/
What do you do when you've had too much sun or are simply tired of lounging around on beautiful beaches? You take a road trip! Even though Vieques is known for it's beautiful beaches, there are still some non-beachy things you can do to pass the time. Here is a list of things you can do on the north side of Vieques that don't involve a beach blanket.
Chikungunya – What You Need to Know
01 Jun 2014 Δ 11 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/chikungunya-puerto-rico/
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes fever and intense joint pain. Primarily found in Africa and Asia, the first cases of Chikungunya in the Caribbean were detected in December 2013. The virus spread throughout the Caribbean in the first half of 2014, and on 29 May 2014, the Puerto Rico Department of Health reported the first local case of Chikungunya in Puerto Rico. This article provides a run-down of the symptoms and what you can do to help prevent the Chikungunya virus.
Try Some Puerto Rican Moonshine Rum
18 May 2014 Δ 18 Nov 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pitorico/
Moonshine, White Lightning, Hooch, Tennessee White Whiskey — call it what you will. Here in Puerto Rico, alcohol made in your backyard is called Pitorro or Cañita. Destilería Cruz produces a brand of legal Pitorro, called PitoRico, that is available plain or in various local fruit flavors. Their factory is in Jayuya, and the public is welcome to stop by to see them making it, have a taste of local moonshine, and pick up a few bottles to take back home.
My Favorite Beaches on Vieques
11 May 2014 Δ 03 Dec 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-fav-beaches/
Vieques is a small island located in the Caribbean. And guess what? It is loaded with beaches! And not just any beaches - some really amazing beaches. They come in all shapes, sizes and sand colors. I bet everyone that visits Vieques has a few that stand out for them as favorites. With so many beaches to choose from, it is hard to choose which one is the best!
Visit Maria de la Cruz Cave in Loiza
04 May 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/loiza-cave/
Maria de la Cruz cave in Loiza is a historical monument that contained evidence of some of the earliest inhabitants of Puerto Rico. This small, historically significant cave is a short drive from Isla Verde, and is worth a quick visit if you happen to be in the area.
Canyoning in South El Yunque with Kalichi Adventures
20 Apr 2014 Δ 02 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kalichi-el-yunque/
Puerto Rico is full of natural beauty, from the beaches and coastline, to the mountains, rivers, and forests. These can really be appreciated when you are able to visit some of the most remote and unspoiled parts of the island, and immerse yourself in the wonders that abound. Kalichi Adventures offers an amazing canyoning tour that puts you right in the middle of what we think is the most beautiful part of the island.
Hacienda Santa Ana: Home of Ron del Barrilito
13 Apr 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-santa-ana/
I love old, historic buildings and rum, so of course I had to make a point to visit Hacienda Santa Ana - the home of Ron del Barrilito, one of the local Puerto Rican rum producers. Their rum is made and aged here, on the family’s property, which used to be an old sugar hacienda. Though they don't offer a factory tour, nor offer rum samples, it's a quick stop where you can get some good photos of a historic site.
Experience Local Hospitality at Café Gran Batey
06 Apr 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/gran-batey-coffee/
We recently went on a tasting tour at Café Gran Batey in Utuado, and we fell in love. We got to see coffee growing in their fields, and how they process the coffee at every step … all the way up to bagging the freshly-roasted, warm beans for sale. This is not to be missed if you are in the area and have a couple hours to spare.
Saborea Puerto Rico 2017
04 Apr 2014 Δ 07 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/saborea-puerto-rico/
Food, glorious food ... Drinks ... Cooking technique & recipe demonstrations by famous local & international chefs ... Live entertainment ... All in a glorious ocean-front setting. That is what you will experience at the 10th annual Saborea Puerto Rico "A Culinary Extravaganza". It is April 7-10, 2016 at the Escambron Beach in Old San Juan. We have gone for the past couple of years, and we've really enjoyed ourselves. So you know we will be there again!
Experience Mosquito Bay Biobay in a Kayak
30 Mar 2014 Δ 16 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mosquito-bay-kayak/
There are only a few bioluminescent bays left in the world, and Puerto Rico is fortunate enough to have three of them. The biobays in Puerto Rico are Laguana Grande in Fajardo, Mosquito Bay in Vieques, and La Parguera in Lajas — with Mosquito Bay being the brightest of the three. We visited Mosquito Bay recently with Black Beard Sports, and had a great time!
Visit Playa Caracas on Vieques, With a Car or Not
24 Mar 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-caracas/
Vieques to known for it's remote and secluded beaches. Now, thanks to some relatively recent road improvements on Vieques, Playa Caracas (aka Red Beach) is a beautiful white-sand beach in the US Fish & Wildlife reserve that is accessible by the local public transportation. No Jeep required!
Take a Cheese-making Workshop in Old San Juan
17 Mar 2014 Δ 20 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-lila-cheese/
Beaches and rain forests are usually at the top of most people's to-do list when they plan a trip to Puerto Rico. For something a little different, you can try a cheese-making workshop offered by Casa Lila in Old San Juan. You'll make your own artisan cheese, and you'll learn how you can try making your own cheese at home.
Check Out the Museum of Transportation
02 Mar 2014 Δ 04 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/transportation-museum/
If you are a classic car buff, or if you are just interested in the history of transportation in Puerto Rico, you might want to check out the Museum of Transportation in Guaynabo. From horses, to trains, planes, and automobiles, this museum has a little bit of info on a lot of things related to moving people and things around Puerto Rico.
Discover Some of the Best of Culebra
23 Feb 2014 Δ 28 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cia-culebra-seaventure/
Culebra Island Adventures offers some tours that allow you see some great beaches, do some kayaking, and come face-to-face with sea turtles while snorkeling. They can coordinate all of your transportation and act as your tour guide, which makes for a carefree way to see some of the best stuff that Culebra has to offer.
Casa Cortés ChocoBar: Indulge Your Senses
09 Feb 2014 Δ 06 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-cortes/
Fine chocolate and fine art … what is not to love? Casa Cortés ChocoBar is a restaurant & art gallery in Old San Juan operated by the Cortés family. This chocolate-producing family has opened this venue to allow the rest of us in on some of their greatest family treasures — meals that incorporate their amazing chocolate, and pieces from their amazing art collection.
Chill Out on Secluded Playa Larga
02 Feb 2014 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-larga/
Culebra is loaded with amazingly pretty seaside spots. Some are very popular and crowded, while some are little, hidden gems. For us, one gem is Playa Larga on the north-east tip of the island. Playa Larga is not easy to get to, and it is not a spot to go to for swimming, but it is our favorite quiet spot to just sit and enjoy the view.
Find a Little bit of Everything in the Aguada Museum
26 Jan 2014 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aguada-museum/
The Museo Agricola de Aguada contains a varied collection of items and antiques, including carved wooden Santos, a restored locomotive, pre-Columbian artifacts, musical instruments, household items, … and a huge collection of clothes irons. It's an eclectic collection of "stuff" that will give you glimpse into the history of Puerto Rico.
San Sebastián Street Festival: The Party of the Year
13 Jan 2014 Δ 23 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-sebastian-street-festival/
It is no secret that people in Puerto Rico know how to party, especially around the Christmas holidays. Announce that there will be a parade, music, dancing, libations, food - then add in local artisan crafts for sale - and it all adds up to one crazy celebration! That describes the San Sebastian Street Festival, or Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian, which will be held in 2016 January 14-17th, 2016.
More Exploration in Guánica Dry Forest
05 Jan 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ballena-trail/
The Guánica Dry Forest has loads of hiking and biking trails, and it offers a number of different sights and opportunities for viewing nature. Our most recent hike on the Ballena Trail was no exception. Besides the amazing cactus and easy bird viewing, we found small cave, ruins, and a 700-year old tree.
Spend Some Time Exploring Culebrita
29 Dec 2013 Δ 03 Feb 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebrita/
Culebrita is a tiny cay located off the north-east corner of Culebra. It is uninhabited, visited only by a few people every day, and holds many wonderful “secrets” waiting to be explored. You can only get there by boat, but it is totally worth the effort in order to experience this unspoiled island.
Tembleque – A Typical Christmas Dessert
22 Dec 2013 Δ 25 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tembleque/
Tembleque is a coconut dessert that is like a cross between Jello and pudding (tembleque translates to trembling or jiggly). It is fast and easy to make, and it is a sweet (but not too sweet) and delicious way to end a meal.
Take a Relaxing Trip on the Río Espíritu Santo
15 Dec 2013 Δ 22 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-paseadora/
The town of Río Grande has branded itself as the “Cuidad del Yunque” - the “City of El Yunque”. While El Yunque National Forest is certainly the highlight, there are a few other things of interest to do here. One of those activities is a trip on the Río Espíritu Santo on La Paseadora pontoon boat.
Playa de Jobos and Pozo Jacinto in Isabela
08 Dec 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-jobos/
If you are looking for a fun beach spot in the north-west part of Puerto Rico, you can head to Playa Jobos (Jobos Beach) in Isabela. This stretch of sand offers surfing, beach bars, and a little exploration around the rocky coastline.
Search for Pirates at Playa Puerto Hermina
01 Dec 2013 Δ 04 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-puerto-hermina/
Playa Puerto Hermina in Quebradillas is a perfect spot for relaxing on the beach, or under a shady picnic pavilion, and just enjoying the beautiful scenery. It has historical ruins, soft sand, waves for surfing or body boarding, beautiful rock formations, and natural areas to explore.
Join in the SUP Craze
18 Nov 2013 Δ 02 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/stand-up-paddle/
Over the last few years, Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) has become extremely popular. It is very easy to do, requires just a little equipment, and provides a great whole-body workout. If you haven’t tried it yet, or even if you are an experienced pro, paddling in Puerto Rico is a great vacation activity that the whole family can enjoy.
Off the Beaten Path on Route 123 in Utuado
10 Nov 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/road-123/
We spent a half-day meandering off the beaten path on Route 123 in Utuado and found a number of cool things to check out. Taking the highway might get you where you're going quicker, but taking some of the winding roads through rural areas can give you a good idea of what the "back country" of Puerto Rico looks like.
Discover El Yunque History in the Río Espíritu Santo
03 Nov 2013 Δ 25 Mar 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cara-del-indio/
We've known for years that there are pre-Columbian petroglyphs in the river down the road from our house. We cross the bridge over that river every time we leave our house … that's how many times since 2005? We finally made the time to stop and check them out. Wow! What a great (and easy to get to) find!
Discover Hidden Beauty at Charca las Vegas
27 Oct 2013 Δ 02 Dec 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/charca-las-vegas/
There are so many little gems hidden around Puerto Rico, and Charca las Vegas is another one of them. This little waterfall and river swimming hole was a huge surprise. So peaceful and pretty. And obviously its beauty has been appreciated by people for many hundreds of years - there are pre-Columbian petroglyphs on the rocks around the pool as evidence.
Welcome to La Jungla
13 Oct 2013 Δ 28 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-la-jungla/
Playa La Jungla is a natural beach surrounded by mangroves in Guánica. Visited primarily by locals, it offers a quiet respite from the party atmosphere of nearby Playa Santa.
Surviving the Shutdown on Vacation
08 Oct 2013 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fed-gov-shutdown/
What impact will the US Government Shutdown have on your well-planned vacation in Puerto Rico? In this brief guide to navigating the tourist-related closures on the island during the government shutdown, we will tell you what's closed, what's open, and — most importantly — we'll suggest some options to help fill those empty spots in your vacation schedule.
Playa Capitolio – Sand & Sea Glass in Old San Juan
29 Sep 2013 Δ 09 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-beach/
Playa Capitolio (or “Bajamar”) is a small beach in Old San Juan, across the street from the Puerto Rico Capitol Building. While far from being the most beautiful beach on the island, It is a place you can visit if you're in Old San Juan for the day. And, if you're a collector of sea glass … this beach is the mother lode of sea glass in Puerto Rico!
Lions on Display in Ponce
22 Sep 2013 Δ 25 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ponce-lions/
Roaring Lions … not part a circus, but a colorful, outdoor art exhibit in Ponce. Like many towns around the world, Ponce is displaying life-size animal statues painted by local artists. Since the symbol of Ponce is the lion, they chose lion statues to be turned into magical works of art. These colorful lion statues are on display all around the main plaza, giving you one more reason to make the trip to Ponce.
Laguna Guaniquilla Reflections
15 Sep 2013 Δ 07 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/laguna-guaniquilla/
When I first saw a photo of Laguna Guaniquilla, I knew that I had to find it myself. Huge, jagged rocks that look like they came from the moon in the middle of a lagoon … you don’t see that every day! It was so unusual looking — hauntingly beautiful and roughed. A photographer’s and hiker’s dream …
Discovering Playa Buyé
08 Sep 2013 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/buye-beach/
Are you looking for a beach with soft, light sand, and warm, clear, blue water, with just little waves lapping at the shore? Well then look no further — Buyé Beach fits the bill. Buyé Beach (or Playa Buyé) is a bit tricky to find. But once you do find it, it is really nice. Located in Cabo Rojo, in the south-west corner of Puerto Rico, this beach is worth a stop if you’re in the area.
Look Through the Window at Punta Ventana
01 Sep 2013 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/punta-ventana/
Punta Ventana is a natural rock “eye” that very few people get to see. It is in an out-of-the-way place along the coast in Guayanilla, and not visible from any road. But, with the right planning, it is not too difficult to get to — and well worth the effort.
San Antonio de la Tuna – The Original Town of Isabela
25 Aug 2013 Δ 06 Jan 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-antonio-de-la-tuna/
Ermita San Antonio de Padua de la Tuna is the remains of the first Spanish settlement in the northwest part of Puerto Rico. It's an interesting bit of history that is worth a quick stop while you're in the Isabela area. It was the original town of what is now Isabela.
Peñón Amador Beach in Camuy
18 Aug 2013 Δ 24 Nov 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/penon-amador-beach/
Most people think that the town of Camuy is all about "the Caves". But there are more things to do and see in Camuy. Peñón Amador Beach is one such place — good for surfing (in winter), fishing and sunbathing. And there are a couple surprises to be found here, too!
Family Fun at Aguadilla Treehouse and Park
04 Aug 2013 Δ 14 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aguadilla-treehouse/
If you are looking for a fun place that the whole family can enjoy, head to Columbus Park (Parque de Colón) on the waterfront in Aguadilla. This little park has something for everyone in the family — a wooden boardwalk overlooking a small beach, playground equipment, and a big wooden treehouse for the kids.
Bahia Urbana – Waterfront Park in Old San Juan
28 Jul 2013 Δ 16 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bahia-urbana/
After years of planning and construction, the expanded waterfront area along San Juan Bay formally opened recently. Called Bahia Urbana, this public space runs east along the waterfront, from the cruise ship area (Piers 1-4) to the Pier 7-8 area. This space offers a great place to walk or sit and enjoy the cool breeze coming off of the bay. If you’re not in the mood to sit and relax, it is also active with various tours, activities and programs.
Unleash Your Inner Iron Man
21 Jul 2013 Δ 02 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/flyboardpr/
What do you get when you attach a wakeboard to a jet ski? The super fun of a Flyboard, of course! A Flyboard allows you to hover over the water, giving you a sensation like you have never had before. Seriously. Just check out the video and tell me it doesn't look like fun!
Art Museums in Bayamón
15 Jul 2013 Δ 31 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bayamon-art-museums/
If you are an art fan, Bayamón should be on your list of places to visit. There are two noteworthy art museums in town — the Bayamón Museum of Art, and the Oller Museum of Art and History. Both museums feature the works of local artists, from the mid-1800s through today.
Catch a Tram in El Yunque
29 Jun 2013 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-yunque-tram/
If you’ve ever visited El Yunque National Forest on a busy weekend in July, you know how crazy crowded the forest can get. The Forest Service has studied a Tram System to transport visitors between popular areas along the upper part of Road 191. This will make it easier to visit different parts of the forest without having to move your car. They have used the Tram during high visitation periods.
Fun for the Little Ones at Villa Campestre
23 Jun 2013 Δ 23 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/villa-campestre/
Milk a cow. Race pigs. Go ice skating. Ride a pony. Meet some farm animals. Those are some of the activities for little kids at Villa Campestre in Guaynabo. It's a small, local park, with facilities for parties and a summer camp program. It's not Disney, but it may keep the little ones entertained for a couple of hours.
Visit Hatillo for a Cheese Making Tour
17 Jun 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/quesos-vaca-negra/
Quesos Vaca Negra is a small, artisanal cheese producer in Hatillo, that makes some excellent cheeses. They also offer a hands-on cheese-making tour, where you'll learn about the dairy industry and cheese-making, taste some of their cheeses, and walk away with a cheese wheel that you've made with your own hands. It is a yummy, fun, and informative way to spend a morning in the heart of Puerto Rico's dairy farm region!
Be an Ambassador of the Environment at the Ritz in Dorado
02 Jun 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ritz-ambassador-environment/
The Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment program at the Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers eco-oriented activities for children, teens, and adults. Each of the programs are designed to highlight an aspect of Puerto Rico's natural wonders and cultural heritage, while promoting the importance of ecology and sustainability. Unlike most activities at the Ritz-Carlton, these ones are available to anyone, even those not staying at the resort.
Specialty Coffee Cupping Tour in Old San Juan
19 May 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/flavors-coffee-tour/
Do you love coffee? Do you want to learn (and taste) the differences between specialty and commercial grade coffee blends? Are you interested in the history of coffee production in Puerto Rico? If you answered Yes to a least one of these questions, then you should check out this Coffee Cupping tour offered in Old San Juan.
Cayo Matias: Local Island Day Trip
12 May 2013 Δ 28 Jun 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cayo-matias/
Cayo Matias is a small mangrove island off the south east of Puerto Rico, near Salinas, that is a popular local hang out. On weekends and holidays, there is a small ferry that you can take over to the island where you can be part of a very local island experience.
Who is Ready to Get Bushwacked?
05 May 2013 Δ 02 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bushwacke/
We had our first Bushwacker drinks while on Culebra, and every time we go there, this is our drink of choice. It is kinda like a Mudslide, but with a hint of coconut. We did our research and came up with a recipe that is delicious and easy to make at home. You just need to provide your own white sand beach and deep blue water. Enjoy!
Dance on the Water in Old San Juan
28 Apr 2013 Δ 20 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-rumba-party-cruise/
If you like to dance, and you find yourself in Old San Juan on a weekend night, La Rumba Party Cruise is floating nightclub that is different from the other clubs. They offer 2 hours on the water in San Juan Bay, with a DJ, 2 dance floors, and bar service. In addition to the party, you get some great views of Old San Juan from the water at night.
Suprising Discoveries at Julio Enrique Monagas Park
21 Apr 2013 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/monagas-park/
Julio Enrique Monagas Park in Bayamon offers both a unique nature respite for families, and amazing adventure opportunities. It is a great place for bird watching, walking trails, picnics and playground fun, without having to go too far from San Juan. For the more active person, it also has bike (MTB) trails and lots of karst (limestone) rock walls, perfect for rock climbing.
Exploring Cayo Luis Pena in Culebra
15 Apr 2013 Δ 03 Feb 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cayo-luis-pena/
We managed to snorkel, hike, explore white sand beaches, hunt sea glass and shells, play in the water and relax all in one day on a recent trip in Culebra when we kayaked over to Cayo Luis Pena. This little island is rarely visited, but it really is worth the effort to experience this beautiful nature reserve.
Museum of Coffee in Ciales
07 Apr 2013 Δ 03 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ciales-coffee-museum/
For more than 275 years, the haciendas throughout the cool mountain regions of Puerto Rico have been growing coffee. It was once one of the largest crops in production on the island. The Museum of Coffee in Ciales is a place where you can explore some of the history of coffee, and to experience some of the best coffee available in Puerto Rico today.
Caparra Ruins: Remains of the First Spanish Settlement
31 Mar 2013 Δ 22 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caparra-ruins/
The Spanish settlers made Puerto Rico their home more than 500 years ago, and you can see the archaeological evidence of their first settlement at the Caparra Ruins Museum and Historic Park in the town of Guaynabo. It is a small but important spot that has been set aside for its historical significance.
Hiking on Vieques: Cayo de Tierra
24 Mar 2013 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cayo-de-tierra/
What do you do when you get tired of lying on a beach on Vieques? You go for a hike! There aren't that many places for hiking on the island, but Cayo de Tierra, at the western end of Playa Sun Bay, offers a challenging uphill walk that has some great views at the top.
An Itinerary for 3 Days on Culebra
17 Mar 2013 Δ 02 Jun 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-itinerary/
If you are someone who just loves spending lazy days lying on a beautiful beach, or if (like us) you need more activity including beach-combing, snorkeling, hiking, and great photo ops … then the out-island of Culebra is for you. It offers the best of both worlds! Here is a sample itinerary that you can use for planning a quick getaway to Culebra.
El Pirata – My Favorite Rincon Sunset Drink!
14 Mar 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pirata/
While we don’t get out to the west coast of Puerto Rico very often, when we do, we make a point to toast the sunset with a Pirate Special. This amazing concoction of rum and coconut is devilishly delicious. Though we don't have the exact recipe, we've come up with one that tastes pretty good to us!
Get Some Variety with Del Encantos Eco Tours
10 Mar 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tierra-del-encantos/
I love exploring the karst region of Puerto Rico. The landscape is ruggedly beautiful, the caves hold many secrets from the past, and there is a great diversity of plants and animals. Tierra del Encantos Eco Tours offers a hiking adventure that allows you to get up close and personal with nature in the area.
Isla Ratones: An Island Too Pretty for its Name
24 Feb 2013 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/isla-ratones/
I really love visiting the small out-islands around Puerto Rico. They are so pretty - just spits of white sand and palm trees surrounded by clear blue water. But with a name like Isla Ratones (Rat Island), this one kind of scared me. But then I finally got to go, and it’s a cute little island. It’s a nice place to visit for a couple hours (or a day) if you are in the area.
Hombre de Puerto Ferro Archeological Site
21 Feb 2013 Δ 10 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/puerto-ferro-man/
Did you know that Vieques has been a favorite stop for travelers to the Caribbean for thousands of years? Seriously … there is archaeological evidence. The skeletal remains of a 4000 year old man, El Hombre de Puerto Ferro, were found on Vieques in 1991, surrounded by large boulders.
Visit a Vineyard and Taste the Wines of PR
17 Feb 2013 Δ 04 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bodegas-andreu-sole/
When you think of Puerto Rico, wine might not be your first thought for a local beverage - but it should be. Yet another great example of the island’s diversity is the Bodegas Andreu Solé vineyard and winery in Guánica. The coastal Guánica region has just the right weather conditions for growing grapes, and the winery is serving up some really nice local wines and liqueurs, and live music, in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Things to See in the Capital District of Old San Juan
10 Feb 2013 Δ 09 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/capital-district/
We recently took some time to explore the Capital District of Old San Juan. In addition to the Capitol Building, there are a number of memorial plazas and sculptures, including a Holocaust Memorial, Fallen Soldier Memorial, Monument to Police killed in the line of duty, and quite a few more. We've driven through this area many times over the years without even knowing these things were there. Boy, were we surprised by all that we found!
Cuartel de Ballaja Lights Up the Night
03 Feb 2013 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ballaja-light-show/
The Cuartel del Ballaja is now decked out in lights - the outside glows with different colored lights, luring you in to see the real show … a 3D projection mapping film called Puerto Rico, La Isla del Encanto. The film is projected onto the walls of the courtyard, creating an amazing show of light and sound.
Sail the Day Away on the Pez Vela in Culebra
27 Jan 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-sail/
Culebra is a small island off the east coast of PR, that offers some great water-based activities. There are some even smaller, less-visited islands surrounding Culebra that are just begging to be explored. But, to get to those, you need a boat. Captain Bill Penfield offers charters to all areas around the waters of Cuelbra on his Pez Vela sailboat. It is a great way to spend a day!
Glide High Above the Water on a Parasail
20 Jan 2013 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parasail/
Parasailing is one of those things that, once you see someone doing it, you just want to do yourself. It is amazingly calm and quiet up there, and takes almost no effort on the part of the passenger, so just about anyone can do it. It is an activity that is available all around Puerto Rico, so you’ve come to the right place if you want to give it a try.
Hunting Sea Glass in Vieques
17 Jan 2013 Δ 22 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-sea-glass/
Sea glass or beach glass collecting has been a long tradition in my family. I have many fond memories of going to the beach with my grandmother and hunting for sea glass with her. I enjoy continuing this tradition whenever I go to a beach. Some beaches in Puerto Rico are better than others for finding these sea-tumbled treasures, and Vieques has some really nice sea glass beaches.
Explore Playa Grande Sugar Mill Ruins on Vieques
06 Jan 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-grande-sugarmill/
Vieques is most popular for its bright biobay, and for its many lovely, unspoiled beaches. But there are other less-visited sites that are interesting. The ruins of the Central Playa Grande Sugar Mill is one of those sites.
It’s the Law: No Handheld Cellphone Use While Driving
30 Dec 2012 Δ 21 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mobile-phone-law/
Stuff you need to know - A new law, prohibiting the use of handheld mobile phones while driving, goes into effect in Puerto Rico on 01 January 2013. The law specifically bans drivers from texting or talking on cellphones, without the use of hands-free equipment. Violations carry a $50 fine.
Three Kings Museum in Juana Diaz
23 Dec 2012 Δ 02 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/three-kings-museum/
The big holiday in Puerto Rico is Three Kings Day, celebrated on January 6. And nowhere else on the island are the Three Kings taken more seriously than in the town of Juana Diaz, referred to by some as the Bethlehem of Puerto Rico. Juana Diaz is also home to the only museum dedicated exclusively to "all things Three Kings". Stop into the Casa Museo de los Santos Reyes to learn about the Christmastime traditions of the island.
Playa Negra: Black Sand on Vieques
25 Nov 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-playa-negra/
Vieques is probably most well known for its beaches, many of which have beautiful white sand. But there is one little beach that has black sand, called Playa Negra. Now, if you have read a few other of my blog articles, you know this little oddity would require a looks-see! This beach is a hidden site, so it takes some time and effort to get there to see it. It's a cute beach, once you find it.
Puerto Ferro Berdiales Lighthouse Ruins in Vieques
18 Nov 2012 Δ 25 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/puerto-ferro-lighthouse/
When I was looking for non-beach things to do during a recent trip to Vieques, I came across the Puerto Ferro Lighthouse ruins. Commissioned in 1896, and abandoned in 1926, these ruins are perched atop dramatic cliffs, offering a spectacular view of beaches and the southern coast of Vieques.
Discover White Sand Beaches in Ceiba
28 Oct 2012 Δ 28 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/los-machos-medio-mundo-beaches/
When it comes to beaches, I like white sand and clear, blue water. Most of the beaches on the big island are cream or beige colored, with the occasional black sand beach. So imagine my surprise when we went to Playa Los Machos and Playa Media Mundo … and discovered two more white sand beaches on the big island!
Canyoning in South El Yunque
21 Oct 2012 Δ 25 Apr 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/montana-explora-el-yunque/
We recently did an adventure trip that seriously tops all others we have done - Canyoning the Rio Blanca and Rio Icacos in Naguabo. Not for the faint of heart (nor body), this trek was extremely beautiful and extremely difficult. Words, photos, and video do not do justice to this trek - but we're going to try!
Santuario de la Virgen de la Providencia
14 Oct 2012 Δ 10 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/santuario-de-la-virgen/
The Santuario de la Virgen de la Providencia in Trujillo Alto is the future home for the Archdiocese of San Juan. Today, you can visit this site to see a 15-story cross, and life-sized bronze sculptures of the Stations of the Cross. It's an awe-inspiring sight.
Hiking and Body Rafting in the Tanama River
07 Oct 2012 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/explora-tanama-body-rafting/
Attention all adventure-seekers … we have another crazy thing for you to try … body rafting down a river. We recently did this trip with Explora Multi Aventura, and it was really fun. On this trip, you float down the Tanama River … rapids and all. This trip is challenging and exhilarating, and it will really get your heart pumping.
Route 66 Extension to Río Grande
01 Oct 2012 Δ 03 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/route-66-extension/
Traveling from the San Juan area to Rio Grande, Luquillo, and Fajardo just got a whole lot easier and faster! The second phase of Route 66 opened to traffic on 01 October 2012, and it extends Route 66 from Canovanas to Rio Grande. It’s not much of a day trip itself, but it will sure reduce the driving time for trips to El Yunque National Forest, beaches in Luquillo, the biobay in Fajardo, snorkel trips in Fajardo, and other eastern points on the island.
More in Caguas: Riverwalk and Plaza del Mercado
24 Sep 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caguas-mercado/
The Plaza del Mercado and the Paseo Honor al Rio are two nice places in Caguas where you can explore more of the local side of Puerto Rico. On their own, these are not really must see places, but they are still fun to check out if you have some time in the area.
A Church Within a Church: Ermita Espinar Ruins
02 Sep 2012 Δ 14 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ermita-espinar-ruins/
As you may know, I enjoy looking at ruins. So the ruins of the Ermita Espinar church in Aguada was on my list to see. But, as we explored the area looking for ruins in a field, we couldn't find it. As it turns out, these ruins have been enclosed inside of a new church. It was a very neat thing to see, and I am so happy they have been able to rebuild this parish while preserving the past.
Is Palominitos Island Disappearing?
29 Aug 2012 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/palominito-island/
Palominitos Island is a white sand beach east of Fajardo, with a handful of palm trees, that is very popular with the local weekend boating crowd. But something is happening to Palominitos Island - it looks like it is disappearing back into the ocean from which it was born.
VW Enthusiasts Will Enjoy VolkyLand
27 Aug 2012 Δ 12 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/volkyland/
What do you do when your pastime or hobby gets out of control? You open an exhibition to show off your collection! The VolkyLand of Puerto Rico is a museum dedicated to all things Volkswagon. Located in the small coffee town of Yauco, it is one of the largest private collections of Volkswagons and VW-related stuff in the world. It a must-see for the VW enthusiast in your family.
Cool Off at an Ice Skating Rink
19 Aug 2012 Δ 17 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aguadilla-ice-skating/
While growing up in the north-eastern part of the States, every winter, we would strap on skates a go out onto any frozen body of water for fun. As it turns out, anyone in Puerto Rico can try ice skating too! This is a great way to spend some time while you’re on the west coast. The Aguadilla Ice Skating Arena is a cool (literally!) place to spend an hour or more of your vacation.
Celebrate National Rum Day
16 Aug 2012 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/national-rum-day/
If you need an excuse to take off early from work and drink rum … now you have it. August 16 is Nacional Dia del Ron, which translates to "Let’s make up a holiday that gives us an excuse to drink rum". And what better way to celebrate that made-up holiday than with your favorite rum-infused beverage?
Look West to See the Best Sunsets
12 Aug 2012 Δ 27 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sunsets/
I don’t mean to state the obvious, but you have to look to the west if you want to see great sunsets. Weather permitting, almost every evening somewhere in Puerto Rico you can see an amazing sunset. We'll tell you some of our favorite places in Puerto Rico to watch the sun set. Where are you favorite Puerto Rico sunset spots?
The Convention Center is for More than Just Meetings
05 Aug 2012 Δ 22 May 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pr-convention-center/
The Puerto Rico Convention Center is more than just a venue for professional gatherings. It is often a place for fun — hosting fairs, shows and exhibitions of interest to the general public. Located in the Isla Grande/Miramar neighborhood, it is a short ride from Isla Verde, Condado, and Old San Juan. It may be just the type of fun you are looking for during your visit.
Puerto Rico at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games
27 Jul 2012 Δ 06 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/2012-summer-olympics/
As we all know by now, the 2012 Summer Games of the XXX Olympiad are being held in London from 27 July to 12 August. Puerto Rico will be represented by 25 athletes at these Olympic Games. They will be competing in Athletics, Boxing, Gymnastics, Judo, Shooting, Swimming, Weightlifting, and Wrestling.
Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame Museum
26 Jul 2012 Δ 09 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sports-hall-of-fame/
Puerto Rico might be a small island, but it is big on sports and it has supplied the world with some amazing sports heroes. While I admit that I am not a big sports fan, we did stop by the Puerto Rican Sports Hall of Fame just at the entrance to Old San Juan, and we learned a lot. It's a quick, enjoyable, and free stop!
Top 20 Things To Do on Culebra
22 Jul 2012 Δ 10 Jan 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-top-20/
Culebra Island is as laid-back as any place in Puerto Rico can be. This little island east of the big island of Puerto Rico offers naturally beautiful beaches, and a relaxed feel that many people love. Culebra offers white sand beaches, crystal clear blue water, healthy reefs teaming with sea life, and a tropical breeze that keeps you cool as you are watching the amazing sunsets.
Celebrate Fiesta de Santiago Apostol in Loiza
19 Jul 2012 Δ 06 May 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/loiza-festival/
Loiza is a town steeped in tradition. It has roots that combine Spanish culture and traditions with African culture, and meld them into a unique Puerto Rican experience. One of the most colorful examples of this would be the annual Saint James Festival in Loíza. It is a multi-day event that occurs around July 25, the feast day of Saint James.
Not So Usual Sights in Old San Juan
15 Jul 2012 Δ 21 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/unusual-osj-sights/
We love visiting Old San Juan - it is so colorful and interesting. One could spend ages there and never run out of things to do, see, photograph, and learn. Some of the most unique and interesting things are often overlooked. From the body of a Saint to a replica of the Liberty Bell, here is a list of some not-so-usual things that you can find in Old San Juan.
Hike the Meseta Coastal Trail in Guanica Dry Forest
08 Jul 2012 Δ 02 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/meseta-trail/
There are a number of trails inside the Guanica State Forest and Bioshpere Reserve that lead through the dry forest. There is also the Meseta Trail that leads along the southern coast in Guanica. It is a wonderful hike that offers cliff and beach views in a unique sea-side setting.
Make a Mojito for Some Cool Refreshment
05 Jul 2012 Δ 04 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mojito/
The mojito is a rum-based cocktail that is cool, minty, and just perfect for a hot summer day. While its origin is contested, it has become a local Puerto Rican classic. I have tried to make mojitos from scratch a few times, with varying results. Finally, I think I have come up with a winner of a recipe that is amazingly easy.
Rio Sabana Trail in El Yunque
01 Jul 2012 Δ 20 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-sabana-trail/
The Rio Sabana Trail is the newest trail in El Yunque National Forest. Officially opened in April 2011, this trail connects the Rio Sabana Recreation Area, at the end of Road 191 South, to the Trade Winds Trail. This trail is rated difficult, so it is not for everyone. It is the only official trail on the south side of El Yunque National Forest.
2017 Aibonito Flower Festival
27 Jun 2012 Δ 04 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aibonito-flower-festival/
Every year, the town of Aibonito hosts the largest plant show & sale on the island. It features flower & plant displays, a large section for plant sales, live local music shows (of course) and food kiosks. This year, the festival will be from June 30 to July 9, 2017.
Finger-lickin’ Good Food at the Smokin’ Hot BBQ Competition
24 Jun 2012 Δ 12 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cattlemans-bbq/
Barbeque … The word alone makes your mouth start watering for some smokey delicious meats. For me, the word conjures up the mental picture of family and friends, standing around the grill, drinks in hands, cooking and enjoying a sunny day. If you're looking for a big, backyard BBQ, the Smokin' Hot BBQ Competition is held at the Bahia Urbana for one weekend every year.
Playa Sardinera in Dorado
21 Jun 2012 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-sardinera/
Beaches abound on the islands of Puerto Rico. Playa Sardinera, located in Dorado on the north coast, is another one that we visited recently. It is a balneario, so you know that the water quality is safe, and it should have all the services that you could want on a beach. It is a nice long stretch of sand that provides access to the typically calm water, though it didn't fit my idea of the perfect beach.
Camping at Flamenco Beach on Culebra
17 Jun 2012 Δ 10 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-camping/
Culebra is a beautiful island, probably one of our favorite local beach mini-vacation getaway places. But lodging can be pricey. If you are looking for really low cost "lodging", and don't mind roughing it a bit, camping might fit the bill. The only campground on Culebra is the right on Playa Flamenco. It is an amazingly beautiful location, offering breezes and most of the amenities any camper could want.
Spend a Day at Cerro Gordo Beach
10 Jun 2012 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cerro-gordo-beach/
Balneario Cerro Gordo is a really nice government-run beach in Vega Alta, along the northern coast, with all of the amenities that anyone could ask for. It is just 45 minutes from San Juan, yet it has a far away feel — much more local than city. It is a favorite of locals from the surrounding areas (and one of my favorites) in the central northern coastal area.
Taste Artesanal Ice Cream at Jendys
07 Jun 2012 Δ 20 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/jendys-ice-cream/
Do you love ice cream like I do? Then a trip to Jendys Heladería (ice cream parlor) in Caguas is a must-do stop. No matter what you are in the mood for, they have probably made that flavor. They specialize in odd, unusual and totally delicious flavors of small batch ice cream.
San Juan Metro Area Bus Routes and Map
03 Jun 2012 Δ 12 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-bus-routes/
Public transportation on the island is always a hot topic among travelers. Puerto Rico's transportation system within the San Juan metro area is pretty good. But, unlike many other Caribbean islands, our public transportation system does not encompass the entire island. Info on the public bus system is hard to find. To counter that, we've put together this brief guide, and we've drawn our own version of the AMA bus route map, in the hopes of making travel on the island a little easier for at least a few visitors.
Ojo de Buey, a Natural Oddity
31 May 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ojo-de-buey/
We explore at lot of places in Puerto Rico, and I love it when we find something unusual that is relatively unknown. A recent find for us was Ojo de Buey along the coast in Dorado. This natural rock formation resembles the head of on ox, and it held special meaning for the pre-Taino inhabitants of the area. You may want to do a little exploring and check it out for yourself!
Take a Relaxing Sail in San Juan Bay
27 May 2012 Δ 15 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sailing-dreams/
Old San Juan is one of my favorite places in Puerto Rico. The history, the architecture, and the photo opportunities all make it a must-visit place. You can walk around in the city and see what there is to see. But for a whole different perspective, how about sitting back and relaxing while taking in the views of the old city from the sea? We recently took a sail boat trip in the San Juan Bay, and it was one of the most relaxing hours I have ever spent in Old San Juan.
Hiking on Culebra
20 May 2012 Δ 03 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-hiking/
While Culebra is known for its beautiful beaches, great sea life, and relaxing lifestyle, there are also some hiking trails for those times you want to get away from the beach. Some hikes are an easy walk on the beach, and others are longer and more difficult.
Beach Snorkeling Spots in Culebra
13 May 2012 Δ 03 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-snorkeling/
If you like to snorkel, then the island of Culebra is calling your name. Hardly developed, this tiny island has miles of shoreline, and lots of healthy sea life and coral formations. Which makes for what is arguably some of the best snorkeling available in Puerto Rico. To make things even better, most of the great snorkel spots are easy to get to right from the beach. So grab a mask, snorkel and fins, and jump in!
Chorros del Rio Hondo- La Planta Waterfalls
10 May 2012 Δ 27 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-planta-falls/
If you're a waterfall person, we have another one for you — Chorros del Río la Planta in Arecibo. While not a destination in itself, these waterfalls are a great quick stop while visiting something else in the Arecibo area.
Ride a Horse on a Beach Just Minutes from El Yunque
06 May 2012 Δ 19 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/catch-a-dream-horseback/
Riding a horse along the sand on a tropical beach is just a dreamy experience for most riders. You can "catch" that dream just minutes from El Yunque National Forest at Catch a Dream Ranch. We recently did just that, and enjoyed 90 minutes of fun, with some great picture opportunities to boot!
Keeping Your Cool at a Waterpark
03 May 2012 Δ 21 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/waterparks/
Waterparks are an enjoyable way to keep cool on a tropical island. Puerto Rico has a number of water parks to choose from, ranging from those for infants and small kids, to larger parks for bigger kids of all ages. Many of them are only open during the summer months (meaning mid-May to mid-August), but a handful are open year-round. Here's a list to help you keep your cool.
Wet and Wild Fun at Las Cascadas Waterpark
29 Apr 2012 Δ 04 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-cascadas-waterpark/
There are few thing more fun on a hot day then spending some time splashing around in a waterpark. We have visited a number of waterparks in the States, but had never been to any in Puerto Rico. Recently, we enjoyed a day at Las Cascadas Waterpark in Aguadilla. Though not a huge park, it has a little bit of something for all the members of your family to enjoy — pools, slides, lazy rivers, and a kiddie area.
Witness History at the Battle of 1797 Reenactment
22 Apr 2012 Δ 22 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/battle-1797-reenactment/
In April 1797, the British attacked San Juan and were defeated by the local militia. Each year, in April, a reenactment is held at the San Juan National Historic Site complete with living history volunteers in uniform, encampments, canon firings, and military drills. This year, the reenactment will be held April 29 to May 1, 2016. Stop by El Morro or Fort San Cristobal and check it out!
Chichaito – A Shot of Puerto Rican Fun
19 Apr 2012 Δ 01 Jul 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/chichaito/
Do you want to party like a Puerto Rican? I can't help you with that too much, but I can give you some recipes for a local favorite drink called Chichaito. Chichaito is a seriously strong alcholic beverage, made with Anisette liqueur and rum. It is a yummy, anise (licorice) flavored drink, typically served as a shot, though sometimes it is chilled and sipped.
Welcome the Turtles at the Luquillo Tinglar Festival
08 Apr 2012 Δ 24 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luquillo-tinglar-fest/
I like turtles. So when April comes around, we head to the Luquillo town plaza to celebrate the annual Festival el Tinglar. Since 2006, the Sierra Club has sponsored this event to help promote awareness and conservation of the wonderful natural environment in this part of Puerto Rico. This year's Festival el Tinglar is on Saturday, 8 April 2017. We encourage you to stop by!
Dramatic Cliffs and Arches in Cabo Rojo
05 Apr 2012 Δ 14 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cabo-rojo-cliffs/
We consider the cliffs of Cabo Rojo, near the lighthouse, to be one of the most beautiful places in Puerto Rico. We have found that, as you explore the area around the lighthouse and head northwest, you will see how these rugged cliffs have been worn and sculpted by the ocean waves over time. There are all sorts of arches, little caves, and other amazing rock formations along this coastline. The photo opportunities are endless!
Convento de Porta Coeli – The Second Oldest Church in PR
01 Apr 2012 Δ 19 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/convento-porta-coeli/
If you are interested in religious art and old architecture, a visit to the Convento de Porta Coeli church in the town of San German is a must. Convento de Porta Coeli, the second oldest church in the New World, was restored by the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, and is now a museum called the Museo de Arte Religioso. Located in the south-west part of Puerto Rico, San German is a bit off the beaten path. But, if you're visiting that part of the island, plan a little extra time to make a side-trip to this quaint, little town.
And All That Jazz
29 Mar 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/jazz-events/
I know that when people think about music in Puerto Rico, the first thing that comes to mind is probably Salsa or Reggaeton music. But Jazz lovers won't be left out when the visit the island, as there are quite a few places that have Jazz nights or shows.
Los Picachos Trail – Some Great Views in El Yunque
26 Mar 2012 Δ 07 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/los-picachos-trail/
We are fortunate to have El Yunque rain forest as our backyard, so we have had the opportunity to hike all of the trails in El Yunque National Forest. Los Picachos trail is a short, side spur along El Yunque peak trail that is definitely worth the effort it takes to get there. Los Picachos trail heads to the east, and leads to an incredible 360° view.
Everyone Loves an Orchid or Plant Show
22 Mar 2012 Δ 23 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/orchid-shows/
Spring is in the air, so that means that is is time for Plant Shows here on the island! There are a number of orchid and plant shows on the island, featuring displays, sales, and seminars. If you love tropical plants and flowers, be sure to mark these dates on your calendar!
Taste of Rum … More than just Rum
18 Mar 2012 Δ 02 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/taste-of-rum/
Puerto Rico is the self-proclaimed Rum Capital of the World, so what better place to come and enjoy the best Puerto Rican rums? It is that time of the year again — the Rums of Puerto Rico is holding its next Taste of Rum event on March 31 and April 1, 2017. Taste of Rum is the official Rum Festival of Puerto Rico, dedicated to promoting high-end Puerto Rican rums to the world.
Go West to Watch for Whales
15 Mar 2012 Δ 12 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/whale-watching/
The oceans and seas around Puerto Rico are full of amazing creatures. And every winter, humpback whales join us for a 2-3 month period to rest, mate, and care for their young before heading back up north. You will have the best chance of spotting them from mid-January though mid-March in the west coast/north west coast towns.
Rent a Boat and Visit Mangrove Cays in La Parguera
11 Mar 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parguera-boat-rental/
To make the most of the Parguera area, you need to get out on the water and visit the mangrove islands and/or the biobay. In order to do this, you obviously need to have access to a kayak or a boat of some kind. One option is to rent a little skiff. It is a fun, easy, and inexpensive way to get around to see the mangrove cays and maybe do a little snorkeling.
Black Sand Beach at Playa La Boca in Barceloneta
04 Mar 2012 Δ 14 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-la-boca/
Black sand beaches sound so exotic, don't they? On the big island of Puerto Rico, we have found only two beaches that have black sand, and both of them are in the Barceloneta/Manatí area on the north coast. This particular black sand beach, called Playa La Boca, is easy to get to, and is available 7 days/week.
Tease Your Taste Buds at a Food or Drink Festival
26 Feb 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pr-food-festivals/
If you are a foodie, then Puerto Rico is a place for you! Besides the multitude of award winning chefs and restaurants, there are a number of special food festivals and events held throughout the island every year. They range from local specialty-food celebrations to professional chef competitions. Make a point to attend one of these festivals, then get ready to enjoy Foodie Paradise!
Add a Little Jazz to your Weekend
23 Feb 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ventana-al-jazzfest/
If you like Jazz, Old San Juan is the place to be on the last Sunday of every month. That's when Heineken sponsors Ventana al Jazz - a free, open-air jazz concert at Bahia Urbana. Bring a chair or a blanket, make an evening of it!
Ride a Horse to New Heights in Cidra
19 Feb 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/madrigal-horseback/
The center of the island is full of mountains, and the views from these peaks can be breathtaking. If you want to get to a these views, and not get out of breath doing it, consider going on horseback at Hacienda Madrigal in Cidra. Not only do you get to enjoy a horseback ride, you enjoy the cool fresh air of the Puerto Rican countryside.
Isla Mata la Gata – A Tiny Island Paradise
16 Feb 2012 Δ 27 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mata-la-gata/
The mangrove cayos in La Parguera are really something to see. They are tiny specks of green in middle of the blue ocean. Most are nothing more than clumps of mangroves and broken coral. However, there is one in particular - Mata de Gata - that has the facilities that you need to make a perfect setting for a picnic. Being an island, you will need a kayak, boat or another type of watercraft out to it. But once there, you may never want to leave
Ponce Carnival or Carnaval Ponceño 2017
12 Feb 2012 Δ 04 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ponce-carnival/
The Ponce Carnival is an annual week-long celebration. There are parades with wildly decorated floats, crazy costumed people, lots of music, loads of spectators, and merriment. Similar to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, it is derived from the old world tradition of a final celebration before the beginning of Lent. But over time, it has transformed into a week-long party! For 2018, the Carnaval de Ponce will be from February 9th- 13th.
Playa Santa – A Great Place for Beach and Sunset
09 Feb 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-santa/
When you hear about the Guanica area, you probably hear all about how hot and dry it is. But, actually, Guanica also boasts some great swimming beaches - like Playa Santa. This lovely beach is a free, public beach, so it is open all the time, and it is a great place to cool down and relax.
Puerto Rico is for Lovers
02 Feb 2012 Δ 19 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pr-is-for-lovers/
Tropcial breezes, warm nights, swimming in secluded waterfalls, private beaches, beautiful views, hot & sexy salsa dancing - forget Virginia, Puerto Rico is for lovers! There are so many ways to romance your sweetheart here that you need only to decide which one suits your style.
Save with Puerto Rico Coupon sites
22 Jan 2012 Δ 15 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/coupon-sites/
For both locals and tourists alike, there are a lot of really great things to enjoy in Puerto Rico. But, when you’re busy enjoying yourself, the expenses can add up a lot quicker than you realize. But, thankfully, Puerto Rico has finally joined in the online-coupon trend that helps save everyone some money on the things they want to do.
Santuario Schoenstatt – A Little Bit of Germany in Cabo Rojo
19 Jan 2012 Δ 28 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/santuario-schoenstatt/
I know that when you see this cute, little church, you assume it is somewhere in Europe. But this lovely place is actually right here in Puerto Rico! The church is a replica of a church in Germany. The grounds are very beautiful, and they welcome all visitors who want to come and enjoy this peaceful place.
Cambalache Forest – A Great Place for Biking or Walking
15 Jan 2012 Δ 18 Apr 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cambalache-forest/
The Cambalache State Forest (Bosque Estatal de Cambalache) offers a lovely oasis for picnics and gatherings, and it has several miles of trails designed for enjoying nature via mountain bike or walking. This is one of the few places in Puerto Rico where you can mountain bike along cool and shaded forest trails.
Feliz Día de los Tres Reyes Magos
05 Jan 2012 Δ 05 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/three-kings-2012/
Puerto Rico has an extra-long holiday season. It starts at Thanksgiving and runs until mid-January. While you may think that Christmas is the big day, tradition dictates that Three Kings' Day, or El Día de los Tres Reyes Magos, is the biggest holiday in all the island.
Learn While You Play at the Museo del Niño in Carolina
01 Jan 2012 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/museo-del-nino/
Amazing ... That about sums up my feelings about the new Museo del Nino (Children’s Museum) in Carolina. The museum is a fun, hands-on place full of interactive, passive-learning activities. It has over 100 exhibits, each with something to play on, with, in, or around. Kids of all ages are sure to find something interesting and fun to do. I know we did!
Monument to El Jibaro
29 Dec 2011 Δ 11 May 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/jibaro-monument/
The spirit of the Jibaro of the past is still alive today in what their values and traditions mean to today’s Puerto Ricans. The Monumento al Jibaro Puertorriqueno on Route 52 in Cayey is a testament to that strong Puerto Rican spirit.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
24 Dec 2011 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/feliz-navidad-2011/
Felicidades y Próspero Año Nuevo to all of our readers!
Explore Arecibo Beaches – Miles of Sand and Great Views
18 Dec 2011 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/arecibo-beaches/
For a great drive along the north coast, take Road 681 in Arecibo instead of Route 2 or Route 22. This coastal road allows you to stop off and enjoy a number of amazing views and beaches. While the Atlantic Ocean can be too rough to swim during much of the year, it provides a great backdrop for a nice afternoon or quick stop by the beach.
Shore Excursions and Tours for Cruisers to San Juan
11 Dec 2011 Δ 31 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-shore-excursions/
We took a cruise recently, and I did all the planning for our excursions in the various ports. For those of you coming into San Juan and trying to plan your day in port — I feel your pain. It is not easy to decide what there is to do in (or around) San Juan, and there are so many questions that need answering. Will I have enough time in port? How will I get there from the ship? Do I need a guide or can I do it on my own?
La Parguera at Sunset – Magical Snorkel and BioBay
04 Dec 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parguera-sunset/
La Parguera offers natural beauty above and below the water. Going out in the afternoon and into the evening gives you some of the best of both worlds — clear blue water, green mangrove islands, colorful sunsets, and later, after dark, the sparkling Parguera Biobay lagoon water and thousands of stars above. We recently did a sunset snorkel and biobay tour with Paradise Scuba & Snorkeling and it was an enjoyable end to a great day.
Joyuda – A Seafood Paradise
01 Dec 2011 Δ 13 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/joyuda-seafood/
When people come to Puerto Rico, they are often bummed to find that fresh seafood is not all that readily available. It really is kind of shocking, being that we're on an island surround by vast oceans. But there is one area in Puerto Rico that should be known as the seafood heaven — the seaside community of Joyuda, in Cabo Rojo. We stopped in for lunch recently, and were pleasantly surprised.
Kayak and Snorkel Among the Mangroves at La Parguera
27 Nov 2011 Δ 08 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parguera-kayaking/
Located on the southwest coast of the island, La Parguera boasts about 30 tiny mangrove islands just 1 to 5 miles off the shore. Once you get to those mangrove cays, you can swim, snorkel, and ride the currents in the crystal-clear, warm water. We went kayaking there. It was a great experience, that was both fun and educational.
Playita Rosada – An Ocean Pool in Parguera
24 Nov 2011 Δ 14 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-rosada/
What does a town do when they have a beautiful waterfront area, but no natural beaches there? Enclose the ocean, build decks around it, and make an ocean pool. That's just what the town of Lajas did to create Playa Rosada — it boasts a nice ocean swimming area without the sandy beach, and without the risk of any "big critters" to bother you while swimming!
Take a Fishing Trip out of Fajardo
20 Nov 2011 Δ 04 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/787fishing/
If you are a fisherman you know how enjoyable it is to spend time out on the water, especially when you catch something. While no captain can gaurentee a catch, Captain Marcos of Light Tackle Paradise in Fajardo is known to have lots of luck. Our friends Wally and Anton recently had a productive morning of fishing, that included tarpon, king mackerel, grouper, and snapper.
Take the Controls on an Ultralight Inroductory Flight Lesson
06 Nov 2011 Δ 24 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fly4fun-ultralight/
Have you ever considered being a pilot? Do you want to get some amazing views over the northern coast of Puerto Rico? If your answer to either of these questions is Yes, then an ultralight First Flight Training Lesson might be just the thing for you! Arecibo Light Spot Club offers ultralight Introductory Flight Lessons that go out over the coastline in Arecibo, and you can even fly the plane yourself if you want.
Visit Balneario Punta Salinas Blue Flag Beach in Toa Baja
30 Oct 2011 Δ 06 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/balneario-punta-salinas/
Balneario Punta Salinas, in Toa Baja, is a Blue Flag Beach that offers a wide, crescent-shaped beach. Being a Blue Flag Beach means that it has restrooms, showers, life guards, water-quality testing, along with other facilities and amenities. Though it's not the prettiest beach on the island, it is only about 20 minutes from the San Juan area, so it a just a short drive to get to a beach "out of the city".
Cave Tubing, Hiking and Petroglyphs Around the Tanama River
24 Oct 2011 Δ 11 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/atabey-eco-adventures/
Though Puerto Rico is full of all sorts of neat things to do, one of the few things we don't have here is river rapids for tubing or rafting. We did find an adventure that offers "lazy river" tubing through a cave, along with some hiking and Taino cave exploration. Those are some of my favorite things all rolled into one day, and all in beautiful Utuado. So, when some family members came to visit, we decided to check it out.
Body Worlds: A Trip into the Heart
16 Oct 2011 Δ 09 Oct 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/body-worlds/
If you are at all interested in the workings of the human body, then a trip to Body Worlds: The Cycle of Life & A Trip into the Heart will really intrigue you. This touring exhibition was open for a limited time in Old San Juan. It features a number of whole human bodies, and numerous body parts and organs that have undergone a plastination process. It is an enjoyable experience for everyone. But it is no longer in PR.
Things We Like: Dralion, Aqua, Body Worlds and More
09 Oct 2011 Δ 03 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/things-we-like-oct-2011/
Whether you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day on vacation, a night on the town, or a little dose of the arts, you are sure to find something to your liking here in Puerto Rico. From local talent to world-renowned superstars, we have it all — concerts, performing arts, family entertainment. The lively entertainment scene on the island generally kicks into high-gear for the Christmas season.
Horseback Riding on the Beach in Isabela
25 Sep 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tropical-trail-rides-isabela/
If you have always dreamed about riding a horse on a beach on a tropical island, then Tropical Trail Rides in Isabela is just what you are looking for. They have combined a few of my favorite things — beautiful horses, the amazing scenery of the rugged north coast of Puerto Rico, and plenty of sandy beach riding time — into a reasonably-priced, great riding experience.
Top 10 Natural Wonders of Puerto Rico
11 Sep 2011 Δ 23 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/top-10-natural-wonders/
Some people spend a lot of time and money coming to visit Puerto Rico and explore its natural beauty. But did you ever wonder what local folks feel are the most beautiful places to visit on the island? Let us introduce you to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring spots in Puerto Rico!
Clean Campsites and a Nice View in Maricao State Forest
28 Aug 2011 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/maricao-campsites/
I am not a camper, but I know a number of people who are, so I am always looking for places where they can camp in Puerto Rico. I can’t say I have been too impressed with most of the campsites around the island, but Monte del Estado in Maricao gets my vote for probably the nicest, cleanest camping facility.
Lionfish On the Menu – How You Can Help
21 Aug 2011 Δ 12 Jun 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/lionfish-on-the-menu/
Since we first wrote about the Lionfish invasion, about a year ago, this fish species has continued its expansion in the waters of Puerto Rico, and throughout the Caribbean. In order to really make a dent in the population explosion, more people need to get involved in the eradication effort. Here are some things that you can do to help.
Snorkel Fun at Steps Beach in Rincon
14 Aug 2011 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/snorkel-steps-beach/
Many people come to Puerto Rico and are surprised to find that there are not that many good snorkeling spots that you can access directly from the beach on the big island. If you go to the west coast in the summer, Tres Palmas Marine Reserve in Rincon offers great snorkeling at Steps Beach. We went recently and found a healthy forest of Elk Horn coral, along with a bunch of marine critters.
Hike Las Bocas Canyon to Cascada Grande Waterfall
07 Aug 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-bocas-cascada-grande/
The Central Mountain range that runs through the middle of Puerto Rico is full of canyons, caves and waterfalls. We recently took a hike, sponsored by the local chapter of the Sierra Club, into Canyon Las Bocas to see the Cascade Grande waterfall. It was an enjoyable, and challenging, day of hiking and river-trekking.
Top 10 Must-See and Must-Do Things
31 Jul 2011 Δ 23 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/top-10-must-see-do/
We get asked lots of questions through this web site. One of the most frequently asked questions is "What are the must-do activities and must-see places for my visit to Puerto Rico?" Check out this article for our Top 10 in Puerto Rico list.
Get Ready for a Unique Outdoor Experience
24 Jul 2011 Δ 23 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/unique-outdoor-experience/
If you want to experience something fun that will get your blood and adrenaline pumping, try a zipline adventure trip. One of the newest zipline courses here in Puerto Rico is Unique Outdoor Experience. This adventure has everything that you need to make a memorable vacation experience - zip lines, rappeling, and hanging bridges.
Blend up a Pina Colada for the Taste of Vacation
10 Jul 2011 Δ 12 Mar 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pina-colada/
When someone says Piña Colada, you immediately picture a frosty drink with tropical fruit hanging off the edge of the glass. It is cool, delicious, and sweet. It is the "national" drink of Puerto Rico, and is available just about everywhere here — beaches, roadside stands, restaurants, and bars. Here's our recipe for this favorite, vacation-time drink.
Hiking, Waterfalls and Rappelling in San Cristobal Canyon
26 Jun 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-cristobal-canyon-rappel/
San Cristóbal Canyon has been named one of the top 10 Natural Wonders of Puerto Rico. With that high distinction, I needed to see it for myself. It is not the easiest place to get to (being at the bottom of a 500+ foot descent), so it does require some planning and, for best results, a guide! Montaña Explora, a family-run tour company, offers an extreme adventure that includes hiking and rappelling in the canyon. It was tough, but it was so worth the effort!
Northeast Ecological Corridor – Beaches, Turtles and More
12 Jun 2011 Δ 28 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/northeast-ecological-corridor/
The Northeast Ecological Corridor is a wonderful stretch of about 6½ miles of coastline, from Luquillo to Fajardo. We had never been in that area, so after some recent guests told us about the long walk they took along the beach there, we decided we needed to see it ourselves. It really is a wonderful, natural place. We hope that more awareness of Puerto Rico's natural wonders will encourge people to want to preserve it.
The Outworks Tour at Fort San Cristobal
05 Jun 2011 Δ 23 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-cristobal-outworks-tour/
When touring Old San Juan, no visit would be complete without a visit to at least one of the forts. Recently, we had the opportunity to take the Outworks Tour at Fort San Cristobal. This tour highlights just how much of a military engineering marvel this fort is, and how it is designed with all sorts of boobie traps, and visiual deceptions, to really mess with the heads of any invading enemy’s troops.
Batey Zipline Eco Adventure is Serious Fun
29 May 2011 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/batey-zipline-adventure/
If you enjoy adventure tours — those with ziplines, rappelling, hiking, caving, and other fun things — and you also enjoy going to special, off the beaten path places — then this tour is for you. Batey Zipline Adventure, in beautiful Utuado, offers all of that in a nice half-day package. The majority of the activities are on, around, and above an organic farm near the Tanama River, making this the most eco-friendly adventure tour we've taken in Puerto Rico.
Solitude and Snorkeling at Playa Carlos Rosario
22 May 2011 Δ 03 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-carlos-rosario/
Culebra has always been a popular island, with its beautiful beaches and easy snorkeling right from the beach. The problem is, the amazingly beautiful Flamenco Beach has also become so popular that it can be a bit crowded at times. For people who are looking for a quiter beach that still offers great snorkeling, Playa Carlos Rosario may be just right for you.
Walk to the End of the Waterline Trail
08 May 2011 Δ 09 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/waterline-trail/
Walking and hiking in El Yunque National Forest is one of our favorite things to do. On my brother’s recent visit, we decided to go to the south side of El Yunque and walk the Waterline Trail to Los Prieto Falls, and then to continue past the falls to the end to see the view. We have done this trail a few times, and we really like it. It's an easy hike, the trail is mostly flat, and there are some great views along the way.
BioBay Photos – Capturing the Glow
01 May 2011 Δ 06 Mar 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/biobay-photos/
A trip into a biobay is one of the best things you can do during your visit to Puerto Rico. Something as fascinating as the biobay certainly qualifies as a Kodak Moment, right? Well, yes and no. It's really difficult to take even mediocre photos of the bioluminescent glow. You can spend lots of time trying to get the perfect photo, or you can spend your time enjoying this natural phenomenon. If you want to try for the photos, we have some tips for you.
Puerto Rican Coffee – From Bush to Bag to Cup
24 Apr 2011 Δ 20 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/coffee-tours/
Puerto Rico is known for its coffee, and the best coffee comes from ripe beans grown high in the cool, moist mountain regions of the Toro Negro mountain range. There are a number of coffee Haciendas in the towns of Jayuya, San Sebastian, Ponce, Adjuntas, Las Marias and Lares. Most of larger coffee plantations are not open to the public, but some of the smaller, specialty/gourmet places are open for tours, and purchases. Our tour at the small, gourmet coffee plantation Hacienda Pomarrosa was informative and enjoyable.
In Search of Great Views in Naranjito
17 Apr 2011 Δ 16 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/naranjito/
Sometimes, finding off-the-beaten-path things to do leads to great discoveries. And, other times, it doesn't work out as planned. Lots of our adventures come about from some serious research for basic information and the general location of possibly interesting things on my part, and lots of stopping for directions and U-turns on Ray's part. One recent Sunday, we took a drive in Naranjito to find some exciting new waterfalls and amazing views. It turned out to be a bit of a disappointment.
Spend a Day at the Cibuco Historical Center in Corozal
10 Apr 2011 Δ 31 Dec 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cibuco-historical-center/
I love it when you explore some place new and you are happily surprised with the outcome. That is what happened to us on a recent visit to the Centro Histórico Turístico del Cibuco (Cibuco Historical Tourist Center) in Corozal. We had heard that they offered a tour of this park, but we had no idea what a gem this place was. There is something for every family member packed into this lovely place, where you can spend a couple hours or the whole day.
Punta Tuna Lighthouse and Beach in Maunabo
27 Mar 2011 Δ 23 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/punta-tuna-lighthouse-maunabo/
On a recent, sunny Sunday, we decided to take a drive down the east coast of Puerto Rico. It is a nice drive if you go along the coast, with some great views along the way. At the south-east corner if the island is the town of Maunabo, in which you can find the Punta Tuna Lighthouse (Faro Punta Tuna) and beach. While you can't enter the lighthouse itself, the park and beach area are worth a stop.
Explore or Relax on Beautiful Isla Caja de Muertos
06 Mar 2011 Δ 01 Sep 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/isla-caja-de-muertos/
I had heard that Isla Caja de Muertos (or Coffin Island) was lovely, but I think it has been kept a secret just how fantastic it is! Visiting the island has been on my "to do" list for 6 years, but we never really made the effort to go. We finally made it out there, and I can kick myself for waiting so long. It is a beautiful island and it is too nice to be missed, especially since it is an easy day trip.
Glimpse History at the Luis Munoz Marin Foundation
27 Feb 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luis-munoz-marin-foundation/
The minute you make your plans to come to Puerto Rico, you know his name — Luis Muñoz Marín. You might wonder Who was this guy that the airport is named after? Luis Muñoz Marín was the first elected Governor of Puerto Rico, and he changed Puerto Rico forever. A Foundation has been set up to preserve his legacy for future generations. While this is not a must do for most people, his home is an interesting place that deserves some attention.
Black Sand Beach at Playa La Esperanza in Manatí
20 Feb 2011 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-esperanza/
We've been to a number of beaches along the northern coast of Puerto Rico, and I've rarely been let down by their rugged beauty. Playa La Esperanza was no exception. Located in Manatí, it is a remote and beautiful place. Not only did it have a great cove for cooling off in the water and beautiful views, it had a surprise — a black sand beach area.
The Cisterns Beneath Fort San Cristobal
13 Feb 2011 Δ 10 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-cristobal-cisterns/
The forts of the San Juan National Historic Site are hundreds of years old, and they hold many secrets from the past, many of which can be discovered just by wandering around by yourself. There are others that can be found in areas only accessible on a tour with one of the park rangers. One of those areas is the water cisterns located below Fort San Cristobal. We recently had the chance to visit those cisterns, and we were amazed by what we found.
Relive the Sugar Era at Hacienda La Esperanza
30 Jan 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-esperanza/
The sugar era played a huge role in the history of so many Caribbean islands to make them what they are today. As the remains of the sugar mills disappear, a huge part of our local history goes with them — lost, not preserved, not discussed … forgotten. Recently, the Puerto Rico Conservation Trust has completed the first phase of the restoration of the old sugar plantation Hacienda La Esperanza in Manati. They are now offering tours to help educate people on this forgotten part of Puerto Rico’s history.
Walk the Talk at Tropic Ventures
23 Jan 2011 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tropic-ventures/
Everybody these days is talking about "going green" or being "eco" something or other. But, if you are really interested in learning about how to actually live green, and especially about sustainable forestry, Las Casas de la Selva is a place you should visit. This off-the-beaten path homestead is a an example of how you can live in and with nature, while still sustaining it.
Go Everywhere on this Amphibious Off Road Adventure
17 Jan 2011 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/frontier-adventures/
What do you get when you cross an ATV with a small boat? You get the ultimate all terrain vehicle — a UTV — that is capable of going where no ATV would dare go ... in super deep mud and even into deep water. It's an amphibious vehicle with the power to go anywhere. Campo Rico Ziplining Adventures has UTVs at Hacienda Campo Rico (just outside of San Juan), so everyone can experience the freedom of amphibious travel.
El Morro Lighthouse Tour
09 Jan 2011 Δ 20 Jul 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-morro-lighthouse/
If you have ever been to (or even seen) Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro Fort), you might have noticed the stark difference in the look and construction of the walls of the fort versus the lighthouse atop the fort. Have you ever wondered why they are so different? Why is the lighthouse grey? Can we go up in the lighthouse? All those questions will be answered when you take the free Lighthouse Tour offered by the National Park Service at El Morro.
A Perfect Zipline for Kids & the Less Adventurous
02 Jan 2011 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rainforest-zipline-corp/
Rain Forest Zip Line Corp is a new zipline company that offers a zipline experience, just seconds off the road that leads up to El Yunque National Forest. While not the largest nor the most modern zip line facility on the island, it offers a zip line experience that the whole family can enjoy. It would be great for kids or those people in your group who are "less adventurous" but who still want to try a zip line activity.
Playa Puerto Nuevo – Another Beautiful Beach
26 Dec 2010 Δ 07 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-puerto-nuevo/
Playa Puerto Nuevo is another must-visit beach. I would have to say it is on my Top-10 list of beaches in Puerto Rico. Located on the north coast, in Vega Baja, about 45 minutes west of San Juan, it is has something for everyone.
All Aboard the HMS Bounty in Old San Juan
23 Dec 2010 Δ 04 Nov 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hms-bounty/
The HMS Bounty, a beautiful wooden ship, with square-rigged sails is currently docked in Old San Juan for the winter. This ship was used in the movie Mutiny on the Bounty starring Marlon Brando, and later in the Pirates of the Caribbean. The ship is open for tours daily. So come aboard!
Thrilling Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park
19 Dec 2010 Δ 13 Feb 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/toro-verde-adventure-park/
Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park is the place for adrenaline junkies on vacation in Puerto Rico. They have plenty of ziplines (the longest on the island), mountain biking, and hanging bridges. You would need almost 2 full days to do everything in this park.
The Tunnels Tour at Fort San Cristobal
12 Dec 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-cristobal-tunnel-tour/
The forts in Old San Juan are amazing architectural marvels and defense systems, full of secret tunnels and passages. The National Park Service offers a guided Tunnels Tour at Fort San Cristobal on which you can learn about the fort and its defense systems. This tour also provides the opportunity enter a tunnel under the outworks that is normally off-limits to visitors.
Shop Beach-side at the Urban Market in Condado
04 Dec 2010 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/condado-mercado-urbano/
Are you looking for a fun shopping experience in San Juan? On the first Sunday of every month, the Mercado Urbano is set up at La Ventana al Mar in Condado. Under big tents, this market holds about 40 or 50 vendors of local, Puerto Rican made products. Everything is home grown or home made on the island. You'll be able to find all sorts of things. It is a great stop.
Relish the Ponce Museum of Art
28 Nov 2010 Δ 02 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ponce-art-museum/
The Ponce Art Musuem (Museo de Arte de Ponce) recently reopened its doors after more than 2 years and LOTS of money in renovations and acquisitions. It is larger and it now has more than 800 art objects on display. I think it is the nicest art museum on the island, that I have visited, and it is a must-visit for anyone who has even a remote interest in the arts.
Go on Safari at the Museo de Vida Silvestre
14 Nov 2010 Δ 02 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vida-silvestre-museum/
The new Museo de Vida Silvestre (or Wildlife Museum) in San Juan allows people to see what all sorts of wild animals from around the world look like. It is filled with a variety of mounted animals in displays that depict their natural origin and behavioral habits. It is a great way to learn about animals from far and wide without ever leaving the metro area.
Mar Chiquita – A Beautiful Beach in Manati
07 Nov 2010 Δ 27 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mar-chiquita/
The north shore of Puerto Rico has miles of beautiful shoreline and it is one of my favorite spots for great views on the island. Mar Chiquita is a small cove of a beach protected from the rough Atlantic by a rocky wall. This picture-perfect beach, located in the town of Manatí, is not always good for swimming, but it is always beautiful.
Discover the Fountain of Youth in Coamo
31 Oct 2010 Δ 12 Oct 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/coamo-thermal-springs/
The Coamo Thermal Springs is another one of those natural wonders that makes Puerto Rico a pretty cool place. For hundreds of years people have been enjoying these natural hot springs, which are said to have healing powers. And now, with the recent completion of a refurbishment of the public area, everyone can enjoy the springs in clean pools.
Hecho en Puerto Rico & Organic!
24 Oct 2010 Δ 22 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/osj-farmers-market/
More than 150 years ago, the Plaza del Mercado on Norzagaray Street in Old San Juan was the place to go to shop for food stuffs, fruits and veggies. Once again, it is open and, similar to in olden days, it is full of only organically grown and homemade organic products. Today, it is called the Mercado Agricola Natural Viejo San Juan and it is a treat for the eyes and the taste buds, for locals and visitors alike.
Casa Jesus T. Piñero – A Slice of Puerto Rican History
18 Oct 2010 Δ 04 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-jesus-pinero/
Here is another example of a local historical spot that is way under-visited. The Museo Casa Jesus T. Piñero is located right on Route 3 in Canovanas. Ray and I have passed this place literally hundreds of times and never have stopped in. We finally went for a visit recently and got a special tour of this beautifully restored home that has historical significance for Puerto Ricans.
Discover the World Inside Your Head
10 Oct 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/brain-exhibition/
BRAIN: The World Inside Your Head is a hands-on educational exhibition in Caguas all about our brains, how they work and what can go wrong. Though it is geared toward kids, it is still educational for people of all ages.
Reach for the Stars in Humacao
03 Oct 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/upr-observatory/
The nighttime sky has been beckoning people for probably as long as man has been on earth. I think most people have fond memories of their grade school solar system projects. If you really want to get a closer look at the night sky, you can go to the observatory at the Humacao campus of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR). It’s a fun and educational evening for the star-gazer in all of us.
Not Your Typical Trail Ride on a River Horse
26 Sep 2010 Δ 16 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/river-horse-adventure/
PR4Less Tours offers a River Horse Adventure that is unlike any other trail ride we've ever taken. We learned about Paso Finos and then rode our horses through town, fields, forest and along a river. Oh ... and we got to go swimming in the river with the horses, too!
Bugging Out in Puerto Rico
19 Sep 2010 Δ 20 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/upr-insect-museum/
Right on the grounds of the UPR Botanical Garden in Rio Piedras is a little-known museum all about insects. Called the the Museum of Entomology and Tropical Biodiversity, it houses the largest collection of insects in Puerto Rico. While I am not a big lover of insects, I understand their place in the world. So while we were visiting the botanical garden, we thought we would check out the "bug museum".
King Tut Comes to Old San Juan
10 Sep 2010 Δ 10 May 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/king-tut-exhibit/
Tutankhamen: The Exhibition in Old San Juan. The show contains replicas of objects associated with Cleopatra, Ramses II, Akhenaten, Tutmosis III and King Tut, including recreations of burial tombs, sarcophagi and King Tut's burial headpiece. The show will run through March 2011.
A Visit to the Little Museum on Campus
05 Sep 2010 Δ 04 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/upr-museum-history-anthropology-art/
The Museum of History, Anthropology and Art on Rio Piedras campus of the University of Puerto Rico contains a diverse collection of fine art, sculptures, Egyptian mummies, and pre-Taino archaeological remains. All in all, it was an interesting way to spend a couple of hours on a hot day in August.
Lionfish in Puerto Rico
29 Aug 2010 Δ 20 Dec 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/lionfish-puerto-rico/
Lionfish are beautiful fish that have distinctive red, maroon, brown and white stripes on their head and body, and fan-like fins. They are native to the Indo-Pacific oceans, but have started to show up in the waters of the Atlantic and Caribbean. There have been numerous Lionfish sightings reported around Puerto Rico and the surrounding islands.
Go Diving with Sea Ventures in Fajardo or Humacao
22 Aug 2010 Δ 25 Oct 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sea-ventures-scuba/
We had some guests staying with us last week, and I discovered that the husband brought his SCUBA gear and wanted to fit in a couple dives during their stay with us. As it turned out, he was the only SCUBA certified member of the family, and he would need a dive buddy. So I made some calls, and was able to hook us up for a 2-tank dive mid-week with Sea Ventures out of Palmas del Mar in Humacao. It turned out to be a nice morning of diving for both me and our guest.
Discover the Wild Side of Puerto Rico
15 Aug 2010 Δ 03 Jun 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/wildlife-in-pr/
Puerto Rico has lots of wonderful things to do, see, eat and listen to. One thing it is lacking is any form of "exciting" wildlife. I know that when you hear El Yunque rain forest you think of all sorts of colorful and exotic animals — like monkeys, jaguars, and macaws. You are not going to see those here, but we do have some critters that are worth being on the lookout for.
Free Flower Show at the UPR Botanical Garden
08 Aug 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/zingiberales-festival-2010/
Zingiberales is a family of tropical plants that includes heliconias, gingers, bananas and cannas, among others. These are some of the plants we fell in love with during our travels and now we take pleasure in introducing other people to these wonderful flowering plants. Here’s an easy opportunity for you to get to know these plants for yourself.
Exercise with Nature in a Waterfront Park in San Juan
01 Aug 2010 Δ 25 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/parque-lineal-marti-coll/
Do you want to get away from the concrete jungle of San Juan or Old San Juan for a while without traveling too far? Or have a nice place to bike, run or walk that is away from traffic? Then the Parque Lineal Martí Coll or Paseo Lineal (Martí Coll Linear Park, in English) might be just what you need. This "park" is actually an elevated, 8-foot wide concrete walkway that runs along the bank of the Maria Pena canal. It is 1.2 miles long, and a nice place to exercise or just enjoy the day.
Open Your Mind at an Art Museum in San Juan
25 Jul 2010 Δ 05 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-art-museums/
Are you looking for a little quiet culture in the heart of San Juan? Maybe something to do on a rainy or super hot day? The Museum of Art of Puerto Rico and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Puerto Rico are just a few blocks apart, and they are full of interesting objects of art.
Follow La Ruta del Corazón Criollo in Caguas
18 Jul 2010 Δ 04 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caguas-ruta-corazon-criollo/
Caguas is a wonderful small city, just 20 minutes south of San Juan, that offers many things to do for visitors. One of those things is La Ruta del Corazón Criollo (the Route to the Heart of Creole). It is a self-guided walking tour to 12 museums and places of interest, all within a few blocks around the town square. These museums provide visitors some insight into the history of Caguas and Creole.
2010 Central American & Caribbean Games
11 Jul 2010 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/central-american-caribbean-games/
The Central American and Caribbean Games have been held every 4 years since 1926. This year, the 21st Central American and Caribbean games will be held in Puerto Rico, officially in the town of Mayaguez. Opening ceremonies are July 17 and closing ceremonies are August 1, 2010. Athletes representing 31 countries from around the Caribbean and Central American region will be participating. Many events have free admission.
Help Out the Cats in Old San Juan
04 Jul 2010 Δ 03 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/save-a-gato/
Save a Gato is a volunteer organization that manages the care and feeding of the colonial cats of Old San Juan. Through an agreement with the National Park Service, Save a Gato provides food, water and medical assistance for these cats. They do what they can, as a completely volunteer organization, run on donations. But every trap-neuter-release costs money. Find out how you can help.
El Yunque Rules Change for Summer/Holiday Weekends
30 Jun 2010 Δ 27 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-yunque-july/
In the summertime, many locals and visitors flock to El Yunque National Forest to get away from the heat and enjoy the cool refreshment of the rain forest. Over the last few years, during July holidays and weekends, Road 191 North has become a zoo, overflowing with people and cars. During summer, on certain weekends and holidays, the National Forest Department is going to be changing forest access a bit to help limit the congestion.
Attend Carnival in the “City of El Yunque”- Rio Grande
24 Jun 2010 Δ 02 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-grande-carnival/
Carnival — the word itself conjures up images of festivals and fun from around the world! And Puerto Rico is no exception. Almost every town holds a carnival — some big, some small. No matter what the size, you can always count on finding music, dancing and food. Carnival will be held in Rio Grande at the end of June. Stop by and take part in the fun!
Get Wet & Get Lucky on Noche de San Juan
16 Jun 2010 Δ 22 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/noche-de-san-juan/
Are you looking for a little good luck, or perhaps you just want to experience a local tradition? La Noche de San Juan, or Saint John’s Night, is celebrated annually on the night of June 23. To take part in this tradition, all you need to do is get yourself to a beach, be prepared to stay up late and get wet. Are you ready to get lucky?
Something for Everyone in the Town of Luquillo
13 Jun 2010 Δ 18 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luquillo/
When looking for day trips to do, I sometimes forget to look at places close to home. Luquillo is a great little town in the north east part of Puerto Rico. It is home to diverse natural beauty — both miles of beautiful beaches and acres of rain forest. It has a rich and interesting history and a decently active, modern social life. Most people assume they have "done" Luquillo if they make it to the food kiosks and Luquillo Beach, but there is a lot more for people to do and enjoy. So take some time and come explore Luquillo!
Meet the Original Puerto Ricans at Caguana
06 Jun 2010 Δ 19 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caguana-ceremonial-park/
If you take a trip to the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park, you can learn about the people who lived in Puerto Rico (or Boriken as they called it) prior to the arrival of the Spanish. In this a small area, archaeologists have uncovered many artifacts, petroglyphs and a number of stone-lined areas. Many years later, after further excavations, research and preservation, this area is said to be one of the most important Taino-culture archaeological sites in the Antilles today.
A Melding of Sacred Symbols in Luquillo
30 May 2010 Δ 04 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-jose-church-luquillo/
If you are in the Luquillo area and enjoy seeing unusual artwork, a quick stop at Saint Joseph’s Church in Luquillo is worth a visit. Its old and lovely facade holds a rare treasure inside — some of the most beautiful wood carvings. While wood carvings are not unusual for a Catholic church, these ones are — they combine Catholic religious presentations, with nature and symbols from other cultures and religions. This is one of those rare and pleasant finds!
Cool Off at Charco Frio or Get Crazy at Las Tinajas
23 May 2010 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/charco-frio-tinajas/
Here is another fun adventure made possible by the rivers that flow down from El Yunque. The Río Fajardo in Ceiba offers two types of fun — mild or rugged. For the mild type of nature lovers, there is Charco Frio, which is a series of pools in the river that you can enjoy cooling off in on a hot day. The rugged part is Las Tinajas, which, after a hike in, has a rope swing, a little rock water slide, pretty waterfalls, river views and some nice pools to enjoy.
Hiking in Toro Negro Forest
16 May 2010 Δ 04 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/toro-negro-forest/
Almost everyone that visits Puerto Rico makes the trip to El Yunque National Forest to see some waterfalls and get some great views. But there are other forests in Puerto Rico that offer all that, too. We had hiked in the Toro Negro Forest a number of years ago. I remembered it was very nice and parts of the forest looked very much like El Yunque. So we decided to go back again recently to take notes and write about it for anyone who wants an alternative to hiking in El Yunque.
Driving in Puerto Rico
09 May 2010 Δ 28 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/driving-in-puerto-rico/
Once you decide to venture away from the San Juan metropolitan area, your best bet (and the cheapest way to get around) is to rent a car. You may have heard horror stories about Puerto Rican drivers, but, in reality, it is not that bad! Here are some tips to make your experience driving in Puerto Rico as painless as possible.
Sailing & Snorkeling with Erin Go Bragh
06 May 2010 Δ 22 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/erin-go-bragh-snorkeling/
We recently had the pleasure to spend another day sailing and snorkeling on the Erin Go Bragh III in the waters around Icacos and Lobos. It was a lovely day weather-wise, the food was delicious (of course), and the day was relaxing and fun. We even shot some nice underwater video while we were snorkeling.
Discover Petroglyphs at El Hippie and La Canoa Falls
02 May 2010 Δ 19 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-hippie/
We live on the north side of El Yunque National Forest, and I am pretty familiar with most of the trails and things to see in the rain forest in our area. But I have been on a quest to get to see the petroglyphs located in Rio Blanco on the south side of El Yunque for a long time. We were finally able to find them, along with swimming holes and a water fall.
Las Paylas or Las Pailas – A Natural Water Slide in Luquillo
29 Apr 2010 Δ 18 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-paylas/
Being a rain forest, there are plenty of rivers that come down from El Yunque. Over many years, the rushing waters have made some of these river rocks into natural playgrounds, complete with pools and water slides. There is a place in Luquillo called Las Paylas (or Las Pailas) were the rocks in this river are real smooth and make for some really fun slides.
Los Prieto Falls on El Yunque’s South Side
18 Apr 2010 Δ 09 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/los-prieto-falls/
The El Yunque National Forest covers 28000 acres, and much of it is protected as wilderness areas. Ray and I are always looking for new trails to hike and, of course, elusive waterfalls. We recently went to the south side of the rain forest in search of Los Prieto Falls. We found a great hike and beautiful set of waterfalls, too!
Beaches & Views in Isabela
15 Apr 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/isabela-beaches/
Isabela, the western-most town on the north coast, offers visitors great views and beaches. If you are like me, you will be in heaven watching the beauty of the ocean crashing onto the shore or over rocks. Though best-known for its beaches and surfing, Isabela also has a forest reserve, caves, lakes, rivers and historical sites all waiting to be explored.
Take a Boat Ride to Lunch at Lago Dos Bocas
11 Apr 2010 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/lago-dos-bocas/
Looking for a nice off the beaten path way to spend a weekend afternoon? You can hop in the car and head to Lago Dos Bocas toward the center of the island, where you can enjoy a free boat ride around the lake or, to make a longer day out of it, go to one of the lakeside restaurants and enjoy drinks or a meal while admiring the views.
Rio Espiritu Santo Waterfall in El Yunque
08 Apr 2010 Δ 25 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-espiritu-santo-waterfall/
El Yunque National Forest has a lot more to explore besides the forest along Road 191. If you have a little extra time and want to get a little more rain forest immersion, you can take a short drive up Road 186, above the El Verde area in Rio Grande, and find a hidden waterfall just steps from the road.
Saddle Up for a Trail Ride Close to San Juan
04 Apr 2010 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/campo-rico-horseback/
Campo Rico Trail Rides has a horseback riding excursion in Hacienda Campo Rico, just outside of San Juan. We had the opportunity to go on a horseback outing with them in their beautiful location and we had a lot of fun.
Cueva Ventana: A View Like No Other
01 Apr 2010 Δ 16 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cueva-ventana/
Cueva Ventana is one of my favorite places in Puerto Rico. Such a fantastic view- so worth the trip!
An Easy Get Away to Culebra for the Day
28 Mar 2010 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/culebra-east-island-excursions/
Culebra is a little island that is a nice day-trip away from the main island of Puerto Rico. We have been to a few beaches there and have never been disappointed. When we were invited by East Island Excursions to check out their Culebra Get-away trip, we were excited to go.
Beach Hopping in Luquillo
18 Mar 2010 Δ 14 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luquillo-beaches/
There are a number of beaches in the Luquillo that will suit most people — a protected cove, some snorkeling, boogie boarding and surfing beaches. Take your beach blanket, beach chairs and cooler, and have a great day in the sun.
Geocaching – Hunt for Hidden "Treasure"
14 Mar 2010 Δ 16 Apr 2010http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/geocaching-puerto-rico/
What do you get when you cross scavenger hunts with GPS technology? The "sport" called Geocaching. You can grab your GPS unit and try to find one of the 350 treasures hidden around Puerto Rico. You may be pleasantly surprised by what else you discover about the island during your hunt.
Enjoy Yourself Without Breaking the Bank
07 Mar 2010 Δ 12 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/budget-vacation-ideas/
Puerto Rico has many great "selling points" to attractive visitors to our shores — beaches, forests, adventure, history, food, music and friendly locals. Being an inexpensive vacation destination is not one of the island’s strong points. However, don’t be discouraged. With some careful planning, you can have a fun-filled vacation and still remain within your budget.
Dengue Outbreak – What You Need to Know
04 Mar 2010 Δ 09 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/dengue-puerto-rico/
Dengue is a tropical disease that one can possibly contract while in Puerto Rico. Occasionally a large number of people get it at once and an epidemic is called. The last one was in 2014. If you have plans to travel to Puerto Rico you might be concerned. But, before you get all freaked out and start canceling your trip, do a little research, understand the facts, and make an informed decision.
Guánica Beaches – Sun, Surf, Sand & Some Snorkeling
28 Feb 2010 Δ 15 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/guanica-beaches/
Guánica encompasses a large area with lots of shoreline — which, in turn, means lots of beaches. However, most of the area beaches are not protected coves, so you have to be careful of the water conditions. On a recent visit to the area, we stopped in to see a few of the beaches and, while we didn’t find any hidden gems, we did find some that might appeal to the outdoor enthusiast.
Some Scenic Views in the Coastal Town of Quebradillas
25 Feb 2010 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/quebradillas/
Nature lovers, avid photographers or anyone who just wants to make a nice pit stop on the way on your way out west, can head to Quebradillas. This little town is on the north coast boasts some beautiful beaches, an old sugarcane train tunnel, and endless photo opportunities.
Savor the Flavors of Old San Juan on a Guided Food & Walking Tour
21 Feb 2010 Δ 02 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/flavors-san-juan/
The Flavors of San Juan Old San Juan Food Tour is a guided walking tour in Old San Juan. Throughout this tour, you'll get to sample food & drinks at different restaurants, learn about the history & culture of Puerto Rico, see some of the sites in the city, and learn about some of the local arts & crafts. We thought it was an interesting & delicious couple of hours.
Disappointment in the Town of Añasco
18 Feb 2010 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/anasco-sights/
Añasco, a town just south-east of Rincon, is along the west coast of Puerto Rico and has beaches and forests to explore. We didn’t have a lots of time to spend in this area, but we did visit two points of interest. Unfortunately, I was left saddened by the state of disrepair of the places we visited.
Cabo Rojo Beaches
14 Feb 2010 Δ 14 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cabo-rojo-beaches/
The Cabo Rojo area, in the south-west part of Puerto Rico, offers many opportunities for nature and beach-lovers. Combate Beach and Balneario Boquerón are two of the beaches in the area that provide the backdrop for a great day at the beach.
Check Out the Views from La Torre de Piedra
11 Feb 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/torre-de-piedra-maricao/
If you are driving along the Ruta Panorámica in the Maricao area, and you may want to check out some amazing 360° views, make a stop at La Torre de Piedra (the stone tower). Though the tower itself isn't that tall, it sits on top of a mountain — so the views are great.
Explore Miles of Beaches in Rincon
07 Feb 2010 Δ 06 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rincon-beaches/
With names like Domes, Steps, Spanish Wall, Pools and Indicators, Rincon boasts miles of beaches. Some of the beaches are suitable for swimming. Others have world-class surfing conditions. And most are perfect for watching the sunset. So, grab a map or a GPS unit and start looking for your perfect beach.
Salt Flats & Wildlife Refuge in Cabo Rojo
05 Feb 2010 Δ 08 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cabo-rojo-salt-flats/
The Salinas de Cabo Rojo, or salt flats, is an active salt-mining operation in Cabo Rojo. This operation is part of the 1800-acre National Wildlife Refuge, which is a mecca for bird-watching along the many walking and biking trails. And it's right down the road from the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse.
Discover Your Inner Artist in the Rain Forest
31 Jan 2010 Δ 17 Nov 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/treehouse-studio/
I love art. I am in awe of people that can take a blank canvas and make something so beautiful. I always wanted to do it, but I really don't have an artistic bone in my body. Our friend, Monica Linville, is a fantastic artist, and she has recently started some workshops designed for the beginner, with fun in mind. She invited us to her studio one morning to take of the workshops ... and here's what happened.
Salto Collazo: The Easy Side & the Other Side
28 Jan 2010 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/salto-collazo/
One of nature’s gifts to us are waterfalls. Power and beauty at the same time. Here is another easy-to-find waterfall in the central/west region of Puerto Rico. Salto Collazo is located in San Sebastian, right along a bridge on the main road as you are going east out of town. It’s impossible to miss, and oh so pretty.
Mini Boats, Big Fun!
24 Jan 2010 Δ 11 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mini-boat-snorkel/
There are a number of small islands and cays off the coast of Fajardo with beautiful white-sand beaches, fringed by reefs with abundant marine life. Imagine spending a half-day piloting a mini-boat to these beaches and snorkeling in the open ocean. You can do just that on the new Island Hop & Snorkel Guided Mini Boat Tour offered by Kayaking Puerto Rico.
Explore the Old Aguadilla Lighthouse Ruins
21 Jan 2010 Δ 16 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aguadilla-lighthouse-ruins/
For all you lighthouse folks, photographers, or people who want to explore some off-the-beaten-path places — I thought the old lighthouse ruins in Aguadilla (or, as they are referred to here, Las Ruinas) were pretty cool. There is not much left of this lighthouse (only parts of 2 walls, really), but it provided a setting for some beautiful photos.
The Interpretative Trail In Guajataca Forest
17 Jan 2010 Δ 06 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/guajataca-forest-trail/
The Guajataca Forest, in the karst region of Puerto Rico, has 25 miles of trails within its boundaries. Most people will only use 2 of these trails: the Interpretive Trail and the trail to the Cueva del Viento. One can spend an hour or so exploring the Interpretive Trail and learn about what makes this part of the island unique.
Trek to Salto Curet in Maricao
14 Jan 2010 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/salto-curet/
Waterfalls are always beautiful, whether you pick the right day to go or not. Salto Curet in Maricao is another example of an off-the-beaten-path waterfall that is not easy to get to. Besides being about ½-hour drive along a small, twisty, turning mountain road, once you actually get to the river there is a hike in and then a walk up stream. But it is very pretty.
Canales Museum in Jayuya
10 Jan 2010 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/canales-museum/
For 3 short days in October 1950, Puerto Rico was declared an independent nation called La Republica de Puerto Rico by Blanca Canales and a band of Independentistas. Today, the Canales Museum houses a collection of memorabilia that provides a glimpse of the revolution of that time.
Trek to Gozalandia Waterfall in San Sebastian
07 Jan 2010 Δ 20 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/gozalandia-falls/
Gozalandia or Las Cataratas Waterfall in San Sebastian is sometimes called the secret waterfall but it is not that secret after all! A beautiful waterfall, with "secrets"- live an underwater cave and another waterfall upriver!
A Visit to the Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center
03 Jan 2010 Δ 09 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tibes/
The Tibes Indian Ceremonial Center is a window into the history of Puerto Rico. At this site, archaeologists have uncovered ball fields, burial sites and ceremonial plazas associated with the pre-Taino and Taino Indian cultures. You can spend a half day visiting and learning about one of the most important archaeological sites in the Caribbean.
El Ultimo Brinco Waterfall in Rincon
31 Dec 2009 Δ 19 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ultimo-brinco/
El Ultimo Brinco in Rincon is a 30-foot waterfall with a small, natural swimming pool at it's base. The only problem is there is no easy way to get to the pool - you either have to jump or climb down the rock wall. In the afternoon, there are lots of local teens playing in the falls - they showed us the best way to get to the bottom.
SCUBA or Snorkel on Culebra with Taz
27 Dec 2009 Δ 03 Feb 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/aquatic-adventures-culebra/
Some really nice SCUBA diving and snorkeling in Puerto Rico is in the Luis Pena Reserve on Culebra. We recently went diving with Taz from Aquatic Adventures and had some great dives. An added bonus is that he is able to work around the Fajardo ferry schedule, making this an easy day-trip to do for people staying on the "big island".
Tour a French Mansion – The Palacete Los Moreau
17 Dec 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/palacete-los-moreau/
A French coffee hacienda in Puerto Rico - what a surprise! The Old Labadie House (aka the Palacete los Moreau) is located in the town of Moca, in the north-west part of Puerto Rico. This lovely, old house has been turned into a museum, and they offer great, informative tours about the house and the people who lived there. What a wonderful piece of Puerto Rican history and a local treasure. I really thought it was worth a visit.
Visit the Fajardo BioBay in an Electric Boat
13 Dec 2009 Δ 20 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bio-island/
Puerto Rico is blessed with a natural phenomenon that is found in only a few other places on earth — it has 3 year-round bioluminescent bays. I am so excited to say that Bio Island offers an eco-friendly way to visit Laguna Grande without having to kayak or walk. They have an electric motor boat tour that is both safe for the environment and fun.
Catch Great Views at the Rincon Lighthouse
10 Dec 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rincon-lighthouse/
With 16 lighthouses to visit and explore, Puerto Rico is a dream location for lighthouse enthusiasts. Some of our lighthouses are very old and very beautiful. The Rincon lighthouse isn’t particularly either of those. However, it is a great place to watch surfers, the sunset, and dolphins and whales.
Ride an ATV Just Minutes from San Juan
06 Dec 2009 Δ 03 Jun 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/campo-rico-atv/
Campo Rico Trail Rides ATV Tours at Hacienda Campo Rico is located just a few minutes from San Juan, and yet it feels like a world away. Hacienda Campo Rico is a 2,200 acre "ranch" so the ATVs have loads of trails. They go through fields and forests, up and down hills and through mud puddles. And then you get to explore a cave filled with bats and more. It was a ton of fun!
Experience the San Sebastian Market
03 Dec 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-sebastian-market/
If you want to be part of a local experience, get up early on a Friday and head to the San Sebastian Market. I guess I would call it a large flea market or farmers market, since it had a little bit of everything. The market is located on the Centro Agropecuario grounds. It has slots for over 340 tables inside the grounds and, of course, there are other people selling things outside in the parking lot.
300 Miles of Beaches – How to Find Yours
29 Nov 2009 Δ 14 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/beaches-101/
Being an island, Puerto Rico has more than 300 miles of beaches, including the out-islands and cays. That’s one beach to explore and enjoy for each day of the year. There is a perfect beach for everyone - it all depends your idea of the perfect beach. Luckily, almost all the beaches in Puerto Rico are open to the general public.
Dive or Snorkel at Desecheo Island
22 Nov 2009 Δ 09 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/dive-desecheo-island/
A few years ago, Scuba Diving Magazine readers voted Puerto Rico as one of the Top 20 Overall Dive Destinations in the Caribbean. I have done a number of dives here over the past few years and I had yet to encounter a Top 20 -type dive. We were heading out west and I hoped to find one of those WOW dives at Desecheo Island. I was not disappointed.
Visit Casa Pueblo in Adjuntas
19 Nov 2009 Δ 09 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-pueblo/
Casa Pueblo is a community-based organization focused on, among other things, the protection and management of natural resources. On a visit to their headquarters in Adjuntas, you'll learn about their on-going eco-friendly endeavors and educational programs, and you'll have the chance to buy some local artisan goods in their gift shop.
Walk on the Dry Side in Guanica
15 Nov 2009 Δ 16 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/guanica-dry-forest/
The Guánica State Forest & Bioshpere Reserve is a dry forest that receives only 30" of rain annually. It covers almost 1000 acres and is home to many endangered plants and wildlife. There are a number of hiking trails throughout the forest, and it is a bird-watcher's paradise.
Taste Exotic Ice Cream Flavors in Lares
12 Nov 2009 Δ 04 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/lares-ice-cream/
If you love ice cream and exotic flavors, you need to visit Heladeria Lares and Heladeria El Grito, located on the town square in Lares. They have home-made ice cream in flavors like rice & beans, garlic, corn, pumpkin and cod fish (to name a few). Most are tasty. Some are just bizarre. For the faint of heart, they also have "safe" flavors like vanilla and chocolate.
El Portal Rain Forest Center & Walking Trail
08 Nov 2009 Δ 20 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-portal/
El Portal Rain Forest Center is the main visitor center in El Yunque National Forest. It features an elevated walkway through the tree tops, educational displays, a short interpretive walking trail, a deli/restaurant and a small gift shop. Though completely optional, the Forest Center is an informative stop for first-time visitors to El Yunque.
Discover Petroglyphs on Piedra Escrita in Jayuya
05 Nov 2009 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/piedra-escrita-jayuya/
Puerto Rico has a long history of Indian cultures that lived here many hundreds to thousands of years ago. The most recent Indian culture, the Tainos, left many petroglyphs on rocks near rivers or in caves. The town of Jayuya has a nice example of a piedra escrita that contains many different Taino drawings.
Cave of the Wind in Guajataca Forest
01 Nov 2009 Δ 25 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/guajataca-forest-cave/
The Guajataca Forest in Isabela is in the karst region of Puerto Rico and the landscape and plant life is totally different than what we are used to seeing in the north-east of the island. I thought the best part about this forest is exploring Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Wind).
Las Garzas Waterfall in Adjuntas
29 Oct 2009 Δ 19 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-garzas-waterfall/
There are lots of waterfalls that can be found throughout the island. Most are in obscure locations and can only be found with the help of a local. We knew about Las Garzas Falls in Adjuntas, but we didn't really know where it was located. So, one day, we decided to try to find it.
Cemi Museum – A Window to the Past
22 Oct 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cemi-museum/
The Cemi Museum (Museo El Cemi, in Spanish) in Jayuya is a visitor center for the area and a showcase of Taino artifacts. The leaders of Jayuya wanted to preserve and educate about the Taino culture, so they opened this odd-shaped museum in 1989.
Great Diving at the Wall in La Parguera
18 Oct 2009 Δ 09 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-parguera-wall-dive/
During a trip to the south-west part of the island, we found some diving that I would highly recommend. That region is home to "the Wall" and the diving was great! We went wall diving at La Parguera and I thought it was the best diving we have seen on PR.
La Playuela – A Picture-perfect Beach
15 Oct 2009 Δ 09 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-playuela-beach/
We were at the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse a couple weeks ago and the panoramic views were simply magnificent. I was surprised to see one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen in Puerto Rico. We asked the lighthouse ranger about the beach and, he said lovingly, "Oh – the jacuzzi? That is La Playuela".
Breathtaking Views at the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
11 Oct 2009 Δ 03 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cabo-rojo-lighthouse/
Located on top of 200-foot limestone cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse marks the south-west tip of Puerto Rico. Though the lighthouse is interesting, the big attractions are the dramatic views of the ocean and cliffs.
Dona Juana Waterfall – Easy & Beautiful
08 Oct 2009 Δ 11 May 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/dona-juana-waterfall/
Waterfalls are facinating — they are beautiful, powerful and natural. With the Cordillera Central that runs through the middle of the Puerto Rico, we get a lot of rain that falls on those peaks, resulting in a number of waterfalls across the island. Many of them require hiking in forests and wading rivers to get to see them. But Dona Juana Waterfall is right along the road. Can it get any easier?
Tiny Island, Giant Pleasures on Gilligan’s Island
04 Oct 2009 Δ 21 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/gilligans-island/
Gilligan's Island is a tiny island about a mile off the coast of Guánica. You can get to the island by kayak or ferry. We found some decent snorkeling, picnic pavilions and lots of privacy ... at least for us during low season. I'd guess it gets pretty crazy on a July weekend!
A Boat Trip into La Parguera Biobay
28 Sep 2009 Δ 09 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-parguera-biobay/
We recently had the opportunity to re-visit the biobay in La Parguera, after having visited it for the first time 18 years ago. The health of this biobay has declined immensely, to the point of the biobay glow being hardly noticeable. But they still take people out into the biobay nightly. If nothing else, it's a cheap nighttime boat ride.
Explore the Carite Forest
13 Sep 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/carite-forest/
The Carite Forest is located just up the road from the Guavate area in Cayey. The forest encompasses over 6000 acres and is maintained by the Departmento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales as a recreation area. The forest has some nice picnic and camping areas, some great natural pools and waterfalls.
Charco Azul – Swim in a Natural Pool in Carite Forest
06 Sep 2009 Δ 11 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/charco-azul-carite-forest/
If you like natural swimming pools, Charco Azul (blue pond, in English) is one of Puerto Rico's most famous ones. Located in the middle of the Carite Forest, about 10 minutes up the road from the lechnarias in the Guavate region of Cayey, it's the perfect spot for a picnic and swimming.
An (Almost) Perfect Public Beach in Condado
30 Aug 2009 Δ 06 Aug 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/condado-beach/
Playita del Condado is a small, public beach located on Ashford Avenue next to the Condado Plaza Hilton. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Condado Lagoon, it has shallow, calm water, a golden sand beach, rinse showers, and beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent.
Race Around the Track on a Go-Cart!
24 Aug 2009 Δ 05 Dec 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/go-kart/
Imagine speeding around a race track, in a convertible, with the wind whipping through your hair. What fun! OK — miniaturize that thought and think go-karts! There are a couple places in Puerto Rico that offer go-kart rides for a reasonable price.
40 Things to do in Northeast Puerto Rico
17 Aug 2009 Δ 05 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/north-east-puerto-rico/
Whether you have just a couple of hours or a couple of days, there are plenty of things to keep you busy and entertained in the northeast part of Puerto Rico. From the rain forest to beaches to biobays, we've put together a list of activities sorted by the amount of time you need to do each.
Take a Bicycle Tour in Old San Juan
09 Aug 2009 Δ 27 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rent-the-bicycle/
Get some exercise on vacation and take a tour of the San Juan area at the same time. Rent The Bicycle, in Old San Juan, offers bike rentals and guided bike tours in the Old San Juan, Condado and Piñones areas. They offer options that are great for cruise ship visitors, tourists and locals alike.
Can I Take My Car to Culebra or Vieques?
02 Aug 2009 Δ 09 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cargo-ferry/
Many visitors to Puerto Rico get the bright idea that they want to take their rental car on the ferry from Fajardo to Culebra or Vieques. Not only is that not recommended, it's difficult to do and doing so may void your rental car contract. Used mainly for local transport and delivery of goods to the islands.
Horseback Riding in the Foothills of El Yunque
27 Jul 2009 Δ 11 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-carabali-horseback/
Enjoy a 1 or 2 hour horseback riding tour in the foothills of El Yunque at Carabali Rainforest Park in Luquillo. They have over 70 horses ready to take you through the trails that criss-cross their 600-acre property. These tours are good for beginners and less experienced riders.
Salsa! Make a Few New Moves on Vacation
19 Jul 2009 Δ 22 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/salsa-lessons/
Salsa is practically the national dance of Puerto Rico. You can brush up on your moves, or learn your first basic steps, with some Salsa dancing lessons during your vacation, or just show off your skills on the dance floor. Just let the rhythm of the beat move you! Here is info on Salsa in PR.
El Yunque: From the North Side to the South Side & Back
12 Jul 2009 Δ 26 Nov 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tony-croatto-trail/
What do you do once you've hiked on all of the official trails in El Yunque National Forest? You start looking for unofficial trails ... which is exactly what we did. We found a new trail (currently under construction by the Forest Service) that leads from the north side of El Yunque down to the south side. Though it's not for the casual hiker, it does provide some nice views and an exhilarating workout.
Fun for the Whole Family at Moisty Skate Park in Caguas
05 Jul 2009 Δ 23 Mar 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/moisty-park-caguas/
Imagine all sorts of fun, outdoor activities like swimming pools, a paint ball field, skate ramps for skateboard and in-line skates, an "inflatables" park, a rope obstacle course, go carts, pony rides, and food. Now put them all together in one spot and what do you get? Moisty Skate & Family Park in Caguas, that’s what.
Rio Piedras Market – A “Real” Local Experience
02 Jul 2009 Δ 18 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-piedras-market/
For the real Puerto Rican local market experience, head to Rio Piedras. There, you will find a large indoor Mercado de Rio Piedras (Rio Piedras Market) and blocks of outdoor sidewalk shopping where the locals go to shop!
Spend Some Time Bird Watching in Puerto Rico
28 Jun 2009 Δ 21 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/birdwatching-in-pr/
If you are a birdwatcher, then Puerto Rico needs to be added to your must-visit bucket list. Puerto Rico has so many different geographical regions, all within a small 35x100 mile area — rain forests, dry forests, and forests in-between, seaside, mangroves and mountains. You have a pretty good chance of seeing at least a few of the 17 endemic birds and many of the 300 different types of bird species that call Puerto Rico home at some time throughout the year.
Make Yummy Habichuelas at Home with this Easy Recipe
25 Jun 2009 Δ 01 Mar 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/habichuelas-recipe/
My favorite Puerto Rican dish is Arroz con Habichuelas, or rice and beans. The beans are actually a stew, with potatoes, squash, other veggies, some ham and, of course, beans. Everyone here makes Habichuelas, so it was only a matter of time that I was able to find a good recipe. I got this recipe from a local woman and it’s really easy and delicious. Give it a try and enjoy!
Sun Bay – The Perfect Beach for a Day-trip to Vieques
21 Jun 2009 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sun-bay-vieques/
Visiting Vieques is usually best done as a multi-day trip — when you have time to rent a car and explore the most remote beaches. But what do you do if your vacation schedule only allows time to spend one day on Vieques? Head on over to Vieques and spend the day at Sun Bay, one of the many beautiful beaches on the island.
Hike to Jungle Rivers & Waterfalls on La Coca Trail
14 Jun 2009 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-coca-trail/
For reasons that I can’t figure out, of the trails right along Road 191 in El Yunque National Forest, La Coca Trail is seemingly unknown. It is as if someone found out how beautiful it is and decided to keep it a secret! We invested some time and effort in hiking this trail, and were handsomely rewarded with rivers, waterfalls and swimming pools galore!
Watch Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern in Puerto Rico
07 Jun 2009 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bizarre-foods-pr/
Andrew travels to Puerto Rico where the flavors of the food tell the history of the island, from the deep-fried treats brought in by Africans to the roasted pork made popular by the Spanish. Tune in on June 9 @ 10pm on the Travel Channel.
Sample the Tropical Fruit Available in Puerto Rico
04 Jun 2009 Δ 29 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tropical-fruit/
One of my favorite things about going on vacation is the opportunity to try food that is different than I can get at home. Tropical fruit has become somewhat of a passion of mine, and it's always something I seek out whenever we travel. Luckily for me, we can grow a bunch of different types of tropical fruit right in Puerto Rico. Luckily for you, there are many different places you can get a taste of the tropics!
Taste Puerto Rico at the Luquillo Kiosks
31 May 2009 Δ 09 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luquillo-kiosks/
The Luquillo kiosks (or kioskos) are a much loved part of Puerto Rico. This long row of humble (think almost ramshackle) buildings are right on Route 3 along the beach in Luquillo. But don't let their appearance discourage you — stop in and you will be in for an experience that is uniquely Puerto Rican.
Visit Museum Fort Conde de Mirasol on Vieques
28 May 2009 Δ 17 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fort-conde-mirasol/
If you can tear yourself away from the beautiful beaches on Vieques, and want to explore, you can make a quick stop at the wonderfully restored Count Mirasol Fort (or Fortin Conde de Mirasol in Spanish) high above the town of Isabel II. In addition to the view, it offers art exhibits and a nice museum of Vieques artifacts. The view alone is well worth the admission price!
Get a Full Day of Adventure Fun in a Half-Day with Rocaliza
24 May 2009 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rocaliza-el-salto-half-day/
Rocaliza’s Half-Day El Salto Adventure in the Carite rain forest crams a whole-day of hiking, waterfall climbing and ziplining into a half-day excursion. It's perfect for cruise ship visitors or other people who don't want to spend a full day on an adventure excursion.
Renting a Car & Getting Around in the San Juan & Fajardo Areas
21 May 2009 Δ 15 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/car-rentals-san-juan/
To really see Puerto Rico, you need to get out and explore. Whether you are in port for the day with a cruise ship or you’ve flown in for a couple weeks, renting a car is a great way to get around. There are loads of agencies that have all types of cars and vans, so even with a large family, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.
Making Bubbles on Vieques – Dive In!
17 May 2009 Δ 04 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-scuba-diving/
If you are looking for some nice diving, head over to Vieques. Good visibility and a plethora of sea life, you are sure to have a great day underwater.
Renting a Car & Getting Around on Vieques
14 May 2009 Δ 22 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/vieques-car-rental/
If you are planning a trip to Vieques, you need to plan on renting a car or jeep while you're there. This may seem odd because it is such a small island, but be forewarned — things you want to do can be spread out across there island. There are limited routes servied by the local public transportation, and many things of interest to tourists are not on these routes.
Catch a Wave – Learn to Surf in Luquillo
10 May 2009 Δ 09 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luquillo-surfing-lessons/
Have you ever wanted to learn to surf but never had the chance? People staying in the north-east part of the island can easily get a private surfing lesson without having to travel very far. Bob Roberts, a NSSIA-certified surfing instructor, offers lessons right in the Luquillo area. He can have you catching a wave long before your vacation is over.
Cabras Island & El Cañuelo – the Forgotten Fort
30 Apr 2009 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cabras-island-canuelo/
Located across from El Morro on the western side of the San Juan Bay, El Cañuelo fort was built in the late 1500s to help protect the entrance of the bay. Today, this fort is part of the San Juan National Historic Site that you visit on Cabras Island.
Have a Real Adventure with Hiking, Rappelling & Ziplines
26 Apr 2009 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rocaliza-hike-rappel-zipline/
What is vacation for if not to try different things and experience something new? If you are the adventurous type, Rocaliza offers an excursion along El Salto river in the Carite rain forest that includes hiking, rappelling & ziplines.
Take a Snorkel Trip on the Fun Cat
19 Apr 2009 Δ 14 Sep 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fun-cat-snorkel-catamaran/
It's been almost 5 years since the last time we went out on a snorkel catamaran trip. We recently had the opportunity to spend the day on the Fun Cat that sails out of Fajardo to the reefs near the island of Icacos.
Take a Long Rain Forest Hike on Trade Winds Trail
12 Apr 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/trade-winds-trail/
Currently closed, but at 4.6 miles, Trade Winds Trail is the longest single trail in El Yunque National Forest. It starts at KM 13.5 on Road 191 and climbs about 1100 feet to El Toro Peak, the highest peak in the rain forest. We found this hike both challenging and enjoyable-it is one of the least-used trails in the forest.
Carefree Kayaking & Snorkeling on Culebra
05 Apr 2009 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kayakpr-culebra-aquafari/
Some of the best snorkeling in Puerto Rico is around the islands of Culebra and Vieques. Kayaking Puerto Rico has put together a great trip that provides snorkeling at the Luis Peña Nature Reserve that can be done easily whether your staying on the big island of Puerto Rico or on Culebra.
Find Lodging for Your Puerto Rico Vacation on a Budget
22 Mar 2009 Δ 08 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/budget-lodging-puerto-rico/
It's possible to find budget lodging in Puerto Rico - it just takes a little research and planning. In this article we present some ideas to kick-start your planning effort.
Go For a Walk in La Marquesa Forest Park
15 Mar 2009 Δ 03 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/la-marquesa-forest-park/
Guaynabo City has created a beautiful forest reserve of approximately 600 acres for the enjoyment of future Puerto Ricans and visitors to the island, called La Marquesa Forest Park (or Parque Forestal La Marquesa in Spanish). Take a couple hours to enjoy the natural beauty of this forest.
Save $$ at Cruise Pier Duty Free Shop
11 Mar 2009 Δ 28 Dec 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-cruise-pier-duty-free/
If you're embarking on your cruise from San Juan, then you'll be able to purchase duty free liquor and cigarettes at the pier before you board the ship. We were in Old San Juan the other day and came upon a copy of ad for the duty free store at the cruise pier, which we've scanned so that you have some idea of what's available and how much it will cost.
Luis A. Ferre Science Park: An Eclectic Collection
08 Mar 2009 Δ 30 Sep 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/luis-a-ferre-science-park/
The Luis A. Ferré Science Park in Bayamón houses an eclectic collection of attractions — a Planetarium, a Zoo, an Observation Tower and museums ranging from Natural History, to Transportation, to Telecommunication, to Archeology, among others. It's an enjoyable way to spend a few hours of vacation.
¿Dónde Está el Baño?
05 Mar 2009 Δ 31 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-restrooms/
Finding a restroom while visiting a strange city can be difficult. We've scouted out some of the public (and not so public) places you can find a restroom during your time in Old San Juan. This is one list that you'll want to keep with you!
Hike El Toro Trail to the Highest Point in the Rain Forest
01 Mar 2009 Δ 22 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-toro-trail/
For an unobstructed view of north and east coasts, hike El Toro Trail to the highest point in El Yunque National Forest. We thought it was an enjoyable day of hiking, though it can be muddy and strenuous at times.
Go Outlet Shopping Near Arecibo
26 Feb 2009 Δ 07 Jun 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/shopping-pr-premium-outlets/
The recently expanded Puerto Rico Premium Outlets Shopping Village in Barceloneta now boasts over 85 designer and famous-name factory stores. You'll find discounts on brands like Coach, Gap, Tommy, Polo, Adidas, Nike, Reebok, and many more. And it's only about 1 hour from the San Juan area.
Visit a Taíno Indian Cave in Las Piedras
22 Feb 2009 Δ 23 May 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-piedras-cueva-del-indio/
Las Piedras is the home of an interesting Cueva del Indio (Indian Cave) that has hundreds of petroglyphs etched into the rocks by Taíno Indians centuries ago. A visit to this site provides a glimpse into the ancient Taíno culture.
Celebrate La Bomba in Piñones
19 Feb 2009 Δ 23 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/copi-bomba/
Join a community in their celebration of their African heritage at the COPI Center in Piñones. Enjoy the Bomba & Plena music & dance that invigorates this culture.
Playa Escondida – A Hidden Beach in Fajardo
15 Feb 2009 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-escondida-in-fajardo/
Playa Escondida is the perfect beach if you're looking for a secluded beach spot (though no swimming allowed). But you will have to do some work to get there! It's about a 25-minute walk through the mangrove forest from Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo.
Ride a Bike on the Boardwalk in Piñones
12 Feb 2009 Δ 06 Dec 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pinones-copi-bike/
Biking on the boardwalk in Piñones is a favorite activity of locals and tourists alike. It's just minutes from Isla Verde, and it has bike paths go along the beach and through the mangrove forest, where the views are fantastic.
Visit the Bio Bay on Foot at Las Cabezas Nature Reserve
08 Feb 2009 Δ 14 Jan 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-cabezas-bio-bay-walking-tour/
Until recently, the only way to access any of the bioluminescent lagoons in Puerto Rico was either in a kayak or aboard a boat. But now there is another alternative! The Fideicomiso de Conservación de Puerto Rico now offers night-time walking tours of Las Cabezas Nature Reserve and Laguna Grande.
Enjoy a Flamenco Dinner Show at Barrachina
02 Feb 2009 Δ 07 Feb 2012http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/barrachina-flamenco-dinner-show/
Enjoy a free Flamenco dance show while eating dinner at Barrachina Restaurant on Friday and Saturday nights in Old San Juan.
Go Back in Time 225 Years at Fort San Cristobal
18 Jan 2009 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fort-san-cristobal/
Fort San Cristobal is often considered the other fort in Old San Juan. For reasons that I can't fathom, people flock to El Morro and rarely visit Fort San Cristobal. But they don't know what they're missing - it is a definitely worth a visit!
Take an Easy Walk on the Caimitillo Trail
11 Jan 2009 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caimitillo-trail/
Caimitillo Trail is a short and relatively easy trail that gives you a taste of what the rain forest has to offer. If you are pressed for time time or short on energy, this is the trail for you! It is perfect for people who want to see a bit of the rain forest, but don't feel that they are able to "make it" on one of the longer trails.
Enjoy More Music & Dance with Le Lo Lai
06 Jan 2009 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/le-lo-lai-revisted/
We attended another performance of the Le Lo Lai Festival and were delighted to find that they update the show from time to time. The latest installment contains Salsa, Bomba and some "country" music & dances that make for an enjoyable hour of free entertainment.
Fly Like a Bird in a Hang Glider
24 Dec 2008 Δ 07 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hang-gliding/
Have you ever wanted to soar above the mountains and trees under your own power like a bird? You can do just that during your vacation in Puerto Rico on a Tandem Discovery Flight with Team Spirit Hang Gliding. It's really cool!
Visit an Island Run by Monkeys
16 Dec 2008 Δ 07 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/monkey-island/
You will see many neat things in Puerto Rico, but wild animals are not usually one of them - except if you visit Monkey Island. Monkey Island is a small island off of the eastern coast of Puerto Rico, that is home to about 1200 free-roaming Rhesus monkeys. The island is not open to tourists, but you can get an up close view of the monkeys from the water.
Catch a Flight at the Ceiba International Airport
15 Dec 2008 Δ 15 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ceiba-airport/
The Ceiba International Airport (RVR) opened at the end of November 2008. Located at the old Roosevelt Roads Naval Base, this airport replaces the recently closed Diego Jiménez Torres Airport (FAJ) in Fajardo.
Bacardi Fair 2008
05 Dec 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bacardi-fair-2008/
Every year the Bacardi Corporation in Catano holds a free Artisan Craft Fair that helps raise money for local charities. This year the fair will be one day only - Sunday, December 14, 2008. There will be over 460 artisans displaying and selling their crafts.
Kayak in Pinones – Just Minutes from San Juan
01 Dec 2008 Δ 01 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pinones-copi-kayak/
Though it feels like worlds away, Pinones is only a sort distance from the San Juan area. If you enjoy kayaking, you can rent kayaks at COPI, which is just over the bridge from Isla Verde. You can spend one, or many, hours paddling around Torrecilla Lagoon watching birds and iguanas going about their business.
Visit the Arecibo Lighthouse – A Great Park for Kids
26 Nov 2008 Δ 22 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/arecibo-lighthouse/
The Arecibo Lighthouse & Historical Park is a cultural theme park based on the history of Puerto Rico. Within the park, you'll find the lighthouse, the Pirates' Hideout cave, Taino village recreation, aquarium, mini-zoo, replica sailing ships, and kids' playground.
A Fun Day of Waterfalls, Hiking, Climbing, Rappelling, and Ziplines
21 Nov 2008 Δ 11 Jul 2013http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/acampa-toro-negro/
Acampa offers a day-long adventure in the Toro Negro Rainforest that includes hiking, swimming, waterfall-climbing and zip lines. We recently took this trip and had a blast!
BODIES … the Exhibition in Old San Juan
20 Nov 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bodies-exhibition/
The world-renowned BODIES ... the Exhibition will be on display in Old San Juan beginning November 22, 2008 for a limited time. This exhibit is about the amazing and complex machine we call the human body.
El Morro: Explore a 475 Year Old Fort
17 Nov 2008 Δ 09 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-morro/
El Morro Fort, or officially Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, stands guard at the entrance to San Juan harbor as a reminder of a by-gone era when invading countries would attempt sea attacks to take this prized city and harbor. No trip to Old San Juan is complete without a visit to this UN World Heritage Site.
View the Earth from Above Photo Exhibit in Old San Juan
07 Nov 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/earth-from-above/
A beautiful collection of aerial photographs by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, called Earth from Above, will be on temporary display along the Paseo de la Princesa in Old San Juan, beginning November 19, 2008 and running through April 30, 2009.
Visitor Center in Old San Juan Has Moved
03 Nov 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/prtc-visitor-center/
The Visitor Center of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company in Old San Juan has moved to a new location. But don't worry - it's still easy to find. They only moved right across the street.
Good Eats & Music at the SoFo Culinary Festival
30 Oct 2008 Δ 09 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/sofo-culinary-fest/
Twice a year the restaurant community in Old San Juan pulls together for their SoFo Culinary Festival. These festivals, typically in August and December, feature lots of great food & drinks, live music, outdoor dining and artisans selling their wares.
Experience the Beauty at a Paso Fino Horse Show
21 Oct 2008 Δ 06 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/paso-fino-horse-show/
For the horse lovers in our audience, have we got a show for you. The Puerto Rican Equestrian Art School (Escuela Puertorriqueña del Arte Ecuestre) puts on a beautiful Paso Fino horse show a few times a year called Asi Bailan Nostros Caballos.
Outdoor Art in Old San Juan: It’s All Around You
10 Oct 2008 Δ 26 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/osj-outdoor-art/
Old San Juan is a 400 year old city, that has come into the modern age with original great old buildings that blend well with the modern conveniences. You can see art all over as you walk around outside in Old San Juan. There are sculptures galore, in all sizes and styles, depicting all sorts of people and things. So explore the old city and see what wonderful art you can find!
Get Married or Renew Your Vows in Puerto Rico
01 Oct 2008 Δ 09 Jun 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/getting-married-in-puerto-rico/
Getting married on a tropical island, on the beach, with the sun setting behind you ... How romantic! Or how about getting married in a garden surrounded by tropical flowers ... or in the rain forest ... or just about anywhere your heart desires! If that is what you are looking to do while visiting Puerto Rico, you have many options.
Playa Colora – A Secret Beach in Fajardo
24 Sep 2008 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/playa-colora-in-fajardo/
We found a cute secluded beach, just a short 25-minute walk from Seven Seas Balneario in Fajardo, called Playa Colora.
Cataño Ferry: A Low Cost Ride & Quick Photo or Sunset Cruise
17 Sep 2008 Δ 09 Aug 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/catano-ferry/
The Cataño Ferry, also called La Lancha de Cataño, is a small commuter ferry that runs between Old San Juan and Cataño. It can be used as affordable transportation, or as a quick boat ride or sunset cruise.
23 Things To Do With Kids Within 1 Hour of San Juan
10 Sep 2008 Δ 12 Apr 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kids-1-hour-from-san-juan/
Traveling with kids changes everything. You need to find a place where there are things that everyone in the family can enjoy. Luckily, you are planning to visit Puerto Rico where there are many activities for every member of your family. We've put together this list with families and convenience in mind. All of these activities are within about a 1-hour drive of the San Juan area.
El Yunque’s Best-Kept Secret: Juan Diego Falls
23 Aug 2008 Δ 25 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/juan-diego-falls/
Juan Diego Falls is a series of beautiful waterfalls located a short (but demanding) walk from the road. We feel that the largest of the falls is better than the more popular La Mina Falls. Especially since Juan Diego Falls is virtually undiscovered by tourists!
Now Available: Current Weather & Storm Tracking
20 Aug 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/new-weather-tracking/
We are now offering resources from AccuWeather for current weather conditions and 15-day weather forecasts. We have satellite imagery from the National Hurricane Center so you can get a snapshot of weather systems in our vicinity. We offer a great tool from Stormpulse.com that tracks developing and established storms in the western Atlantic and Caribbean regions.
Spending An Evening In Old San Juan
15 Aug 2008 Δ 03 Dec 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/evening-in-old-san-juan/
We get asked time and time again about things to do in Old San Juan in the evening. And you know what? There are actually lots of things to choose from! In addition to the usual ideas of walking tours or having a drink, we complied a list of live music and dance shows that you can enjoy around town.
Laguna Grande: Fajardo’s Bio Bay Revisited
13 Aug 2008 Δ 22 May 2014http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/laguna-grande-fajardo-bio-bay/
In the spring of 2007, the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources banned tour operators from allowing swimming in Laguna Grande in Fajardo. This simple act reduced the wear and tear on the biobay and allowed nature to begin undoing the damage that humans inflicted on the environment. This past year we had heard the health of the biobay was making a comeback, so we were eager to see that for ourselves.
Walk Angelito Trail to a Great Swimmin’ Hole
03 Aug 2008 Δ 24 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/angelito-trail/
What could be more refreshing than taking a swim in a crystal clear river on a hot day? If you are in El Yunque and want to do some swimming, you may want to try Angelito Trail. The trail leads to Las Damas pool in the Mameyes River.
What is the Taxi Zone for My Hotel?
31 Jul 2008 Δ 11 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hotel-taxi-zones/
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has defined five tourism zones that encompass the areas around the SJU airport, Isla Verde, Condado, Miramar, Old San Juan, and the cruise ship piers. Taxi fares within and between these tourism zones are fixed and posted. If you're traveling to or from a hotel, it's helpful to know the taxi zone for your hotel.
Get Personal with an Erin Go Bragh Snorkel Sailing Trip
23 Jul 2008 Δ 22 Apr 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/erin-go-bragh-day-sail/
A day sail aboard the Erin Go Bragh III offers an intimate option for accessing excellent snorkeling spots near the islets of Icacos, Lobos, Palominos, and Palominitos, located off the coast of Fajardo. Longer overnight trips are available to the islands of Culebra and Vieques.
Find Lady Luck in a Puerto Rico Casino
20 Jul 2008 Δ 13 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/puerto-rico-casinos/
If you're looking for some casino action, Puerto Rico has something for you from Slots, to Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Texas Hold'em and Baccarat. Casinos are located in most of the resorts and large hotels all around the island.
Swimming in La Mina Falls
18 Jul 2008 Δ 18 Sep 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/swimming-in-la-mina-falls/
Swimming in La Mina Falls in El Yunque National Forest is lots of fun. Getting into the waterfall can prove to be challenging, as this video shows.
Kids Can Enjoy Old San Juan, Too!
13 Jul 2008 Δ 10 Mar 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kids-in-old-san-juan/
There are plenty of things to do with kids in Old San Juan. Whether you explore an ancient fort, fly a kite, feed 100s of pigeons, taste some local ice cream, or just enjoy one of the many family-friendly activities on the weekend, you'll be sure to keep busy.
Anyone Up Fore Golf?
01 Jul 2008 Δ 18 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/golf-in-puerto-rico/
Everyone comes to Puerto Rico for a different reason. If you are an avid golfer, Puerto Rico’s many golf courses might be reason enough! Here is a list of the golf courses in Puerto Rico.
Enjoy Lechon & Local Music in Guavate
07 Jun 2008 Δ 20 May 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/guavate-lechon-and-music/
Guavate is an area in Cayey that is full of "Lechoneras" (cafeterias serving roasted pork). It is a weekend place to be since it offers cooler temperatures, great food and live music. But the delicious food is available weekdays too.
A Botanical and Cultural Garden Blooms in Caguas
27 May 2008 Δ 13 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/caguas-botanical-garden/
Puerto Rico is rich in history and culture. It also has a perfect climate to grow some of the prettiest flowers and plants imaginable. Caguas decided to put these things together and opened the Botanical and Cultural Garden (Jardin Botanico y Cultural) in April 2007.
Kayak & Snorkel with your group along the Northeast Coast
18 May 2008 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kayakingpr-snorkel-trip/
Take a snorkel/kayak trip in Fajardo and learn all about the different ecosystems in the northeast corner of Puerto Rico, both above and below the water.
Grab a Fritura & Experience Delicious Local Food
02 May 2008 Δ 22 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/kiosk-food/
OK, with all this day-tripping around, you will eventually get hungry! And in your travels you'll see countless people cooking fried food or frituras by the side of the road, at the beaches, and in little kioskos or kiosks. This article will explain what the local stuff is!
How You Can Help Puerto Rican Dogs In Need
28 Apr 2008 Δ 30 Sep 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/manos-por-patas/
There are a few non-profit organizations dedicated to ending the suffering of stray dogs in Puerto Rico. These strays (called satos by the locals) are in need of medical attention, food, water, and, more importantly, a loving home.
There are a number of things you can do to help them.
Fish Tales: Deep Sea Fishing in San Juan
18 Apr 2008 Δ 22 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/san-juan-deep-sea-fishing/
The water around Puerto Rico is deep, rich, and full of some of the world’s best big game fishing. The Puerto Rico trench runs just beyond the north shore of the island. In this deep water swim loads of big fish, such as mahi-mahi , wahoo, tuna, white marlin, and blue marlin. If you want […]
Take a Horse & Carriage Tour Around Old San Juan
08 Apr 2008 Δ 08 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/osj-horse-carriage/
You can capture some of the history of Old San Juan, while moving about town like in the old days, while taking a horse and carriage tour through the Old City. The horse and carriage rides start near the Casita area, on the Bay of San Juan, just west of the cruise ship docks.
Beach Fun in the Sun at Balneario Carolina
05 Apr 2008 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/balneario-carolina/
You might think that all beaches in Puerto Rico are the same. If you do, then you couldn’t be more wrong. Every beach has something different that makes it special, so you will want to visit a few different beaches during your time on the island. If you are looking for a nice light sand […]
Visit the Vieques Biobay Without Staying the Night
02 Apr 2008 Δ 11 Dec 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/eastwind-vieques-biobay/
East Island Excursions no longer offers trips from Fajardo to Vieques so you can experience the bioluminescence in Mosquito Bay. However, another company PR Tour Desk offers a similar trip. This article is about our experience with East Island, we have no experience with the trip offered by PR Tour Desk.
Zip Around Old San Juan on a Segway
28 Mar 2008 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-segway-tour/
Segway Tours of Puerto Rico offers 45-minute and 2-hour tours of Old San Juan. Riding a Segway is fun, easy and a unique way to see the city and forts.
Bano de Oro Trail: A Peaceful Stroll Along a Forest Stream
23 Mar 2008 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hike-bano-de-oro-trail/
There are many trails in the El Yunque National Forest, but one great trail that is often overlooked is the Bano de Oro trail. Bano de Oro is one of my favorite trails because it goes along the river through a very lush part of the rain forest, there are sounds of the river and forest all around you
Best Night to Do the Biobay Depends on the Moon
18 Mar 2008 Δ 13 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/biobay-and-moon/
When you visit Puerto Rico, one of the must-do things is a trip to one of our bioluminescent bays. Whether you go to Laguna Grande in Fajardo, Mosquito Bay in Vieques, or La Parguera in Lajas, you’re sure to have an experience that you will never forget. One important thing to take into consideration is how bright the moon will be the night you want to go.
Shop ’til You Drop at Plaza Las Americas
15 Mar 2008 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/shopping-at-plaza-las-americas/
Plaza Las Americas is the largest mall in the Caribbean. People come from other Caribbean islands just to shop here! The mall is located in the Hato Rey district of San Juan. There are about 300 stores, including the anchor stores of JC Penney, Macy's, and Sears.
Soar Through the Treetops on a Zip Line
09 Mar 2008 Δ 01 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/marquesa-original-canopy-tour/
Fly from tree to tree on a zip line with La Marquesa Canopy Tours, only 30 minutes from San Juan.
How To Make the Best "Que Rico" Rum Cake
29 Feb 2008 Δ 27 Nov 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/homemade-rum-cake/
When you think of the Caribbean islands, you think of turquoise blue water, white sand beaches, wonderful local cuisine, and, of course, all those great rum-based drinks. It’s no wonder that rum is the spirit of choice in the islands. Historically, most islands had basis in the sugar trade. And where there’s sugar, there’s bound […]
Tour the Grounds of the Tropical Agriculture Research Center
27 Feb 2008 Δ 27 Feb 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/tropical-agriculture-research-station/
The Tropical Agricultural Research Station (TARS) in Mayaguez is the tropical research center of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Crops under study there include dry bean, sorghum, banana, plantain, cacao, papaya, and tropical exotic fruits such as rambutan, carambola, mamey sapote, lychee, longan, sapodilla and mangosteen.
Use a Taxi to Go "Out on the Island"
24 Feb 2008 Δ 10 Nov 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/taxi-out-on-the-island/
Depending on where you want to travel by taxi you’ll pay either a fixed rate or a metered rate. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has defined "zones" for the main tourism areas of Old San Juan, Condadao, Isla Verde, the airport and the cruise ship piers. The rates for traveling within and between those tourism […]
View Petroglyphs at Cueva del Indio in Arecibo
23 Feb 2008 Δ 24 Feb 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/cueva-del-indio/
At Cueva del Indio, you will be transported back in time. The Taino Indians held tribal meetings in this area and made numerous carvings in the walls of these natural limestone caves.
Bad Kitty, or "Why You Shouldn’t Tease the Lions"
19 Feb 2008 Δ 21 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/do-not-tease-the-lions/
We visited the Zoo in Mayaguez recently and found this little girl "playing" with a lioness. I don’t think the lioness was playing! I guess this is exactly why the safety glass is over 1" thick.
Get Wild at the Mayaguez Zoo
18 Feb 2008 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mayaguez-zoo/
If you enjoy animals and are in the Mayaguez area, you might consider spending a few hours at the Mayaguez Zoo. Formally, this little zoo is called the Parque Nacional Zoologico de Puerto Rico Dr. Juan A. Rivero
Hike the El Yunque Trail to the Top of the Rain Forest
10 Feb 2008 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hike-the-el-yunque-trail/
On a clear day, the view from the top of El Yunque is breathtaking. Looking out over the lush green tree tops, past the towns, you see the blue water of the northern coastline and the easternmost tip of Puerto Rico. You know you are pretty high when the clouds come rolling up the sides of the mountain toward you. Take El Yunque Trail to the top!
Getting Around By Taxi – Zones & Fares Explained
16 Jan 2008 Δ 20 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/getting-around-by-taxi/
To get around the San Juan metro area, your best bet is to take a taxi.
Hike La Mina Trail to La Mina Falls
11 Jan 2008 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hike-la-mina-trail-to-la-mina-falls/
Take a refreshing dip in clear rain forest water. Swim under a waterfall. It sounds like a dream. But it is actually a very popular and fun thing to do during a trip to El Yunque National Forest. The waterfall is called La Mina Falls, and it can be accessed by La Mina trail.
Hike Big Tree Trail To La Mina Falls
10 Jan 2008 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hike-big-tree-trail-to-la-mina-falls/
If you have always dreamed about swimming in a waterfall, having the water cascade onto your back, massaging you, then you are in luck. Many people have that experience at La Mina Falls in the El Yunque National Forest. Big Tree Trail in El Yunque gets you there.
Discover the City of Ponce via Trolley
09 Jan 2008 Δ 14 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ponce-trolley-tour/
The city of Ponce is spread out over a large area, so walking around the city to see everything can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Luckily, Ponce offers a trolley tour that takes you around the city and shows you some of its major attractions.
Step Back in Time with a Night Walking Tour of Old San Juan
04 Jan 2008 Δ 05 Jul 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-night-walking-tour/
There is something about Old San Juan at night that is really magical. Night Tales in Old San Juan is one of the tours available to educate you a little about Old San Juan.
Get a Bird’s Eye View of Ponce
20 Dec 2007 Δ 06 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/ponce-observation-tower/
La Cruceta del Vigia or El Vigia Cross is a 100-foot tall cross-shaped observation tower, located on top of Vigia Hill in Ponce. It is directly behind the Serralles Castle museum. Come chek out the view!
Hop Aboard the Free Trolley in Old San Juan
18 Dec 2007 Δ 18 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/free-trolley-old-san-juan/
Old San Juan has a free trolley service to help you get around the city.
Look Beyond Our World at the Arecibo Observatory
17 Dec 2007 Δ 03 Oct 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/arecibo-observatory/
The Arecibo Observatory is the home of one of the world's largest radio telescope, which is used to study the ionosphere and nearby planets as they pass overhead. Since it's opening in 1963, this radio telescope has been in continuous operation and has made many significant scientific discoveries.
Visit the House that Rum Built – Serralles Castle in Ponce
07 Dec 2007 Δ 04 Mar 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/serralles-castle-in-ponce/
If you are in Ponce and like antiques, gardens, hand-crafted furniture and stunning views, then a visit to the Serralles Castle (Castillo Serralles) should probably get on your "must do" list. Located on the hill above the City of Ponce, Serralles Castle was the "summer home" of the Serralles family.
Toast the Holidays with Coquito
07 Dec 2007 Δ 24 Dec 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/holiday-coquito/
In the States, the traditional Holiday drink is Eggnog. In Puerto Rico, it is Coquito. This super sweet, alcoholic concoction is a crowd favorite at any holiday gathering. Here is our favorite recipe for Coquito.
Go Underground at the Rio Camuy Caves Park
02 Dec 2007 Δ 22 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rio-camuy-caves-park/
Rio Camuy Caves Park (or, in Spanish, Parque de las Cavernas del Rio Camuy), offers tours of the cave system. This large cavern has guided tours through it, where you can see beautiful cave formations, a river and bats!
Enjoy the Holiday Glow in Old San Juan
30 Nov 2007 Δ 31 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/osj-christmas-lights/
Personally, I think one of the prettiest things about the Holidays is all of the lights. And Puerto Rico does not disappoint. Most towns decorate their town squares and government buildings with loads of lights and displays. This is especially true in Old San Juan. Check it out...usually from just after Thanksgiving until mid- January.
Enjoy Music, Food & Local Crafts at the Annual Bacardi Fair
30 Nov 2007 Δ 11 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bacardi-fair/
Due to "financial" issues, Bacardi is canceling the Bacardi Fair. If you are in the Puerto Rico these next two weekends and want to have some fun, make a point to get to the Barcardi Fair (or, in Spanish, La Feria Bacardi). This fair happens once a year – always the first 2 Sundays of […]
Look What’s New at Coqui’s Hideaway
16 Nov 2007 Δ 11 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/coquis-hideaway-whats-new-nov-2007/
Located in Rio Grande, in the foothills of the El Yunque National Forest, Coqui’s Hideaway offers a tranquil rain forest retreat, with 2 or 3 bedroom accommodations, that is the perfect combination of beach and rain forest vacations. We’re located just minutes from the rain forest, about 35 minutes from the SJU airport, 45 minutes […]
FYI: Puerto Rico is Smoke Free
26 Oct 2007 Δ 28 Jun 2011http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/smoke-free-puerto-rico/
Smoking in all public places is a violation of Puerto Rico Law 66. That means that smoking is prohibited in virtually any enclosed space, including restaurants, clubs, discos, casinos, bars, buildings, shopping centers, businesses, elevators, public transportation, ambulances, hotel rooms designated as no-smoking rooms, and private cars when children are present as passengers. In effect, […]
Visit the Museums of Old San Juan
25 Oct 2007 Δ 02 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-museums/
Besides the Forts, there are a number of smaller museums in Old San Juan that are really enjoyable, and I think are definitely worth making time in your schedule to visit. Two that we really like are the Casa Blanca and the Museum of the Americas. You'll find information on these, and many others, in the following article.
Tour the Foothills of El Yunque on an ATV at Carabali Rainforest Park
07 Sep 2007 Δ 19 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-carabali-atv/
If you like a little excitement while on your vacation, you can take a trip to Carabali Rainforest Park. This 600 acre facility, located in the foothills of the El Yunque National Forest, offers a wide range of activities. They have a fun ATV tour to get your heart pumping.
Plan Your Visit with our Interactive Island Map
26 Aug 2007 Δ 18 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/interactive-island-map/
Puerto Rico is actually a pretty large island, with lots of cool things to do and see. To provide some perspective on where things are on the island, we've put together an interactive map that shows the locations of attractions across the island, GPS coordinates too!
Take a Walk in El Yunque Rain Forest with a Forest Guide or Ranger
23 Aug 2007 Δ 28 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rainforest-adventure-tour/
The El Yunque National Forest is a large, lush and interesting place to visit. It easy to see the beauty, but to really know about the rain forest, an educational guided tour is great. The Federal Forest Rangers offers "Thematic Interpretive Talks", that are hour-long educational programs designed to teach you all about the El Yunque rain forest.
UPR Botanical Garden Map
20 Jul 2007 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/upr-garden-map/
A visit to the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico) is an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours. Here's a map to help guide you through the gardens.
Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan – Part 3
14 Jul 2007 Δ 08 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-walking-tour-3/
Part 3 of our San Juan Self Guided Walking Tour series sets you off to see Fort San Cristobal, the Capitol, and shopping!
Hike Mount Britton Trail in the Rain Forest
08 Jul 2007 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/mount-britton-trail/
The Mount Britton Trail is a 0.8 mile, one-way hike. It starts a short walk from Road 9938 off of Rd 191. But it climbs 594 feet in this short distance and get to an elevation of 2,493 feet. The trail is narrow, but paved, and well-maintained.
A Visit to the Hacienda Buena Vista Coffee Plantation
08 Jul 2007 Δ 31 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hacienda-buena-vista-coffee/
Puerto Rico is known for many things, and great coffee is just about at the top of the list. Hacienda Buena Vista in Ponce offers educational tours of a restored coffee plantation.
El Yunque Trail Map
08 Jul 2007 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-yunque-trail-map/
El Yunque National Forest has many trails, streams, rivers, and waterfalls that can be enjoyed year-round. Though the forest covers 28,000 acres, when most people (especially tourists) speak of "going to the rain forest" they're referring to the Recreation Area on the north side of the Sierra de Luquillo Mountains.
Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan – Part 2
04 Jul 2007 Δ 17 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-walking-tour-2/
Part 2 of our Old San Juan Self Guided Walking Tour series takes you to El Morro and down Calle Cristo to see the sites.
Self Guided Walking Tour of Old San Juan – Part 1
01 Jul 2007 Δ 21 Jul 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-walking-tour-1/
So you decided to spend some time exploring Old San Juan? You will not be disappointed! The old city is a small area, only 7 square blocks. But there is so much to do and see in that small area that you can spend days there and never see everything.
Old San Juan 101 – Basic Info to Know Before You Go
21 May 2007 Δ 18 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/old-san-juan-basic-info/
Ask anyone about what they consider a "Must See" while visiting Puerto Rico and they will most likely say Old San Juan. That is because this old historic city offers so much. There is literally something for everyone: beautiful views (great for photographers), architecture, restaurants, museums, shopping, history, outdoor-art, people-watching, music, dance, bars and nightclubs. But, to get the most out of a visit to Old San Juan, it is best to follow a self guided walking tour (like ours!) so that you don't miss out on something you really would have liked to have seen.
Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo – Fun in the Sun!
17 May 2007 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/seven-seas-beach-fajardo/
Seven Seas is a lovely, small, crescent-shaped beach, with soft sand and almond and palm trees that provide some protection from the sun. The views are fantastic, just beautiful to look out at the water and see the lighthouse in the distance. Water is blue and beautiful.
Spend the Day at Flamenco Beach on Culebra
11 May 2007 Δ 10 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/flamenco-beach/
If you are a sun worshiper, a beach lover or snorkel fanatic, I don't think a trip to Puerto Rico would be complete without a trip to Culebra. It has been voted one of the prettiest beaches in the world!
Catch the Ferry from Fajardo to Culebra or Vieques
07 May 2007 Δ 28 Jun 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fajardo-ferry/
An economical way to get to the out-islands of Culebra and Vieques is by using the passenger ferry (La Lancha). These ferries, operated by the Port Authority Maritime Division, carry about 200-600 passengers and run during the day hours, 365 days a year.
Enjoy Traditional Music & Dance at the Le-Lo-Lai Festival
03 May 2007 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/le-lo-lai-festival/
This show is temporary canceled until further notice. The Le-Lo-Lai Festival is a wonderful cultural program of traditional music and dance, sponsored by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. The Festival consists of different dances and music of the island and its heritage. These shows are free of cost and are amazingly high quality. They are […]
Walking & Kayaking in the Humacao Nature Reserve
28 Apr 2007 Δ 16 Feb 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/humacao-nature-reserve/
The Humacao Wildlife Refuge (now called the Punta Santiago Natural Reserve in Humacao) is located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. Within the reserve you'll find numerous trails for walking, biking and light hiking, long stretches of beach, spectacular views of the coast, lots of fishing opportunities, an area with picnic pavilions, some ruins from the area's history as a sugar plantation, old bunkers from wars past, and the availability of kayaks and bikes to rent.
Taste Local Flavor at a Fruit and Vegetable Market
22 Apr 2007 Δ 04 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/santurce-mercado/
The Plaza Mercado in Santurce is a market place with vendors selling things, including all sorts of fresh, local fruits and veggies. We definitely make an effort to stop by these vendors to discover something new. The colors and fragrances alone make it worth the trip.
Pinones Mangrove Forest – Nature Boardwalk & Waterfront Fun
17 Apr 2007 Δ 29 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/pinones/
Pinones mangrove forest (Bosque de Pinones) offers a unique experience for tourists and locals alike. We find that almost no matter what we like doing, we can find it and spend an enjoyable day or evening in this area. Food, music, exercise, beach...it has it all!
A Rainy Vacation Day is Better than a Sunny Work Day
14 Apr 2007 Δ 01 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/rainy-day/
So you came on vacation to Puerto Rico expecting all blue skies and sunny beaches. And now it’s raining. Or maybe pouring is a better description! Don’t worry. All is not lost. There are plenty of things to do on your PR vacation that don’t require perfect weather. With terms like “wet season”, “hurricane season”, […]
Escambron Beach – Catch Some Sun in San Juan
08 Apr 2007 Δ 18 Jun 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/escambron-beach/
Balneario El Escambron is a little beach, just outside of Old San Juan, that is part of the Blue Flag beach program. It is located in Puerta de Tierra section of town, next to the old Normandie Hotel and the Parque Sixto Escobar. Great little beaches for the whole family.
Casa Don Q – A Little History & Lots of Good Rum!
07 Apr 2007 Δ 22 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/casa-don-q/
April 2014 – Casa Don Q has closed. For a quick and tasty stop, we always go to Casa Don Q in Old San Juan. Don Q brand is the rum preferred by Puerto Ricans – they give samples, so if you want, you can stop in and taste for yourself, and see why! Casa […]
Bio-Bay in Fajardo by Kayak – A Sparkling Experience
07 Apr 2007 Δ 25 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/fajardo-bio-bay/
There are three bioluminescent bays (bio-bays) in Puerto Rico. La Laguna Grande in Fajardo is very bright, and it is convenient to do from San Juan and the main island. Kayaking there is a magical experience.
Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve
25 Mar 2007 Δ 30 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/las-cabezas-de-san-juan-nature-reserve/
The Conservation Trust of PR owns Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve in Fajardo, at the north eastern-most tip of the island. Encompassing hundreds of acres, the Conservation Trust offers tours to explain the different eco-systems that are in the reserve.
Snorkel Boat Tours – A Day of Sun, Wind & Sea Life
13 Mar 2007 Δ 16 Aug 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/snorkel-catamaran-tours/
Sun and Fun snorkeling to Icacos island on catamaran sailboat. Lunch and beverages included. Hard to beat for a great day of vacation. There are a number of snorkel boat tours that leave out of the Fajardo area and visit reefs and the out-islands.
Hipodromo Camarero – Try Your Luck Betting on the Horses!
28 Feb 2007 Δ 23 Jan 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/hipodromo-camarero/
Hipodromo Camarero Race Track. It is the only thoroughbred race track in Puerto Rico. If you enjoy horse racing, or just want a fun way to spend a few exciting hours - you can put this on your To-Do list.
The Outlet/Route 66 Mall – Shopping & Movies – Fun Rain or Shine
25 Feb 2007 Δ 29 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/route66-outlet-mall/
Looking for a bargain on new designer clothes, a new pair of designer sunglasses, or maybe just some time out of the sun or rain? There is always the all-enclosed air conditioned The Outlet- Route 66 Mall where you can "shop 'til you drop".
Passing some time in the Botanical Garden / Jardin Botanico San Juan
23 Feb 2007 Δ 12 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/jardin-botanico/
The National Botanical Garden of Puerto Rico is a big name for a lovely green oasis in the middle of a city. Locally, it is known as "el Jardin Botanico". The garden (Jardin Botanico SUR) is affiliated with the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), and it is open to the public free of charge.
A Day at the Beach in Luquillo – Monserrate Balneario
21 Feb 2007 Δ 08 Mar 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/balneario-monserrate-luquillo/
Balneario Monserrate is one of my favorites beaches, just due to the scenery - it is a crescent of fine sand, blue water and lots of mature palm trees for shade. And behind that, you have the Rain Forest - it's picture perfect.
El Yunque National Forest – Rain Forest 101
19 Feb 2007 Δ 30 Jan 2017http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/el-yunque-overview/
El Yunque Rain Forest is the only tropical rain forest in the US National Forest system. Ample rainfall (over 200 inches a year in some areas) creates a jungle-like setting - with lush foliage, waterfalls and rivers. Hike along the trails that cover miles of breathtaking terrain.
Icacos – A Private Island Paradise
14 Feb 2007 Δ 02 Jul 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/icacos/
Use one of the private boat "water taxi" ride over to Icacos for a day of quiet beach time and snorkeling. Icacos is a small island off of Fajardo. The boat ride took us only about 10 minutes from the boat launch in Las Croabas.
Bacardi Rum Factory – Tour & Drinks
14 Feb 2007 Δ 06 Aug 2016http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/bacardi-rum-factory/
We took a trip to Bacardi Rum Factory to see the tour. I have been on other sugar cane and rum tours on other islands and always enjoyed them. This was different, more of a tour about Bacardi that takes place at their factory, but not a factory tour. But it is generally entertaining.
Announcing the Opening of Coqui’s Hideaway at the Tropical Flower Farm
13 Feb 2007 Δ 11 May 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/announcing-the-opening-of-coquis-hideaway-at-the-tropical-flower-farm/
Nestled in the foothills of El Yunque, in Rio Grande Puerto Rico, we offer the ideal location for exploring the Rainforest, San Juan, and the beaches of Luquillo and Fajardo. Hike in the Caribbean National Forest. Swim in a waterfall. Kayak in the Bioluminescent Bay. Wander the streets of Old San Juan. Or just sway […]
Our Day Trips & Ideas for Things To Do On Vacation in Puerto Rico
13 Feb 2007 Δ 24 Apr 2015http://www.PuertoRicoDayTrips.com/day-trips-other-things-to-do-on-vacation-in-puerto-rico/
Welcome to our new web site. This is our first post ever! How are you planning on spending your vacation in Puerto Rico? Old San Juan The Caribbean National Forest / El Yunque / The “Rainforest” Ponce The Bacardi Rum Factory Culebra Vieques Rincon “the beach” PuertoRicoDayTrips.com is a compilation of our adventures here in […]
