Often dubbed the Isle of Enchantment, Puerto Rico—flanked by the Dominican Republic to the west and the Virgin Islands to the east—is characterized by bone-white beaches, lush jungle, and a rich indigenous past and present. Whether you want to lounge on the sands, get to grips with the fraught history of this Caribbean archipelago, or hike through dense rain forest, there's something to suit you in Puerto Rico, a destination which boasts multifaceted appeal and provides a wealth of activities for foodies, history buffs, and thrill seekers alike. San Juan, the Caribbean island's capital, teems with cultural vibrancy. Take a walking tour of Old San Juan, replete with colorful facades and lookout points, and home to La Fortaleza, built in 1533. History buffs also won't want to miss San Juan National Historic Site and San Juan Bay, both full of monuments. San Juan also serves as a convenient gateway to El Yunque National Forest, a biodiverse expanse of tropical rainforest boasting La Coca Falls, the reef-protected Luquillo Beach, and the Bacardi rum distillery. The bioluminescent bay in Vieques, an island off the mainland, offers one of the brightest displays of bioluminescence in the world—opt for a kayaking tour for an up-close display. For exceptional snorkeling, take a boat tour of Culebra, another island off the coast, with stops at Flamenco Beach; try the Cayo Luis Pena Nature Reserve from Fajardo; or go ziplining, horseback riding, or hiking through the lush jungle surrounding San Juan.
Sunny days and happy hours are seemingly endless in Spain’s Puerto Rico. December through March is heaven for winter sun-lovers, while the summer is popular with beach-seeking families and younger travelers. Meanwhile, the shoulder months of April and November see temperatures, crowds, and prices dwindle.
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