Travel Guide
Camping at Flamenco Beach on Culebra
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
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
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, tropical and totally delicious flavors of small batch ice cream.
San Juan Metro Area Bus Routes and Map
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
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
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.
History, Nature, Tour, Water Sports, Old San Juan, Cruise Ship
Hiking on Culebra
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
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
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.
Keeping Your Cool at a Waterpark
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
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
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. Stop by and check it out!
Chichaito - A Shot of Puerto Rican Fun
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
I like turtles. So when spring comes around, we head to the Luquillo town plaza to celebrate the annual Festival el Tinglar. Since 2006, this event helps educate people about our yearly turtle visitors and promotes awareness and conservation of the wonderful natural environment in this part of Puerto Rico. We encourage you to stop by!
Foodie, Music, Nature, East, Budget, Off Beaten Path, With Kids
Dramatic Cliffs and Arches in Cabo Rojo
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
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.
Los Picachos Trail - Some Great Views in El Yunque
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
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/ Puerto Rico International Rum Festival … More than just 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? The Taste of Rumis the biggest and best Rum Festival of Puerto Rico, dedicated to promoting delicious rums to the world.
Go West to Watch for Whales
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.
Viewing 321 to 340 of 569 Posts