Where to Stay in Puerto Rico, by a Local
👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico | Cities, Towns & Areas | Tips | Podcast | FAQ
I’m a Puerto Rico local here to help you decide where to stay in the archipelago.
If it’s your first time in Puerto Rico, I recommend staying in Old San Juan at Caribe Hilton. It’ll place you in the middle of the action with easy access to day trips. However, I’d say the El Conquistador Resort in Fajardo is the best hotel in Puerto Rico overall.
Of course, there are plenty of great places to stay in Puerto Rico. Deciding between staying in San Juan, the capital city, and other places depends on what you want to get out of your trip.
In this article, I’ll list the pros and cons of Puerto Rico’s best areas. But first, here’s a list of the best hotels on the archipelago:
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Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico
Just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Puerto Rico? Here are my top picks:
- 🏆 Best Overall Hotel – El Conquistador Resort
- 📍 Best Location – Fairmont El San Juan Hotel
- ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – St. Regis Bahia Resort
- 👪 Best for Families – La Concha Renaissance
- 👔 Best for Business – Sheraton Hotel & Casino
- 🛎️ Best Boutique – O:live Boutique Hotel
- 📍 Best in Old San Juan – Caribe Hilton
- 📍 Best near El Yunque – Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort
- 📍 Best in Culebra – Club Seabourne Hotel
- 📍 Best in Vieques – Bravo Beach Hotel
- 💵 Best Budget Hotel – Boutique Hotel Belgica
Click here to see all top Puerto Rico hotels or here for apartments.
Ok, let’s do a deep dive into the best areas and neighborhoods in Puerto Rico:
12 Best Cities, Towns & Areas to Base Your Stay in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an archipelago divided into 78 municipalities. San Juan is the capital city. San Juan has many Puerto Rico hotels and accommodation options, but it isn’t the best place to stay if you’re looking for breathtaking, uncrowded beaches or nature adventures. Let’s look into the best spots to stay around the island.
Old San Juan
👉 Best Area For Sightseeing | ✨ Best Old San Juan Hotels: El Convento • Caribe Hilton • CasaBlanca Hotel
Old San Juan is the most popular destination in Puerto Rico and the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy historical landmarks, delicious food, lively nightlife, and Puerto Rico’s local culture all within walking distance from your hotel.
San Juan is home to famous attractions like El Morro, Paseo de la Princesa, and the San Juan Gate.
El Convento is a luxury and historical hotel centrally located among all of these attractions.
If you’re also looking for the idyllic beaches that characterize Puerto Rico, San Juan also has a few to offer. Out of them, the most popular is Escambrón Beach, next to which you’ll find the renowned Caribe Hilton. Not only do you get a beachfront location but also lots of extra amenities like a spa, a swim-up bar, and reef tours.
If you’re on a budget, you won’t have to break the bank to stay in Old San Juan. CasaBlanca and El Colonial offer great amenities at an affordable price. Female backpackers can stay at Juliette Hostel.
The neighborhood has plenty of bars and clubs where night owls can party until sunrise.
Pros of Staying in Old San Juan:
- Attractions within walking distance
- Lots of fun restaurants and bars
- Great Puerto Rico nightlife
- Variety of hotels for all types of travelers
- Options for public transportation
- Renting a car isn’t necessary
- Easy access to famous Puerto Rico festivals
Cons of Staying in Old San Juan:
- Gets crowded
- Restaurants and hotels can be pricey
- Limited on-street free parking
- Heavy traffic during peak hours
- Noisy at night
📚 Old San Juan Mini Guide 📚
Best Area For Sightseeing
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – El Convento • Caribe Hilton • CasaBlanca Hotel
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Old San Juan
🍽️ Where to Eat – Deaverdura ($), Café el Punto ($$), Marmalade ($$$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – La Factoria, La Taberna de Lúpulo, El Batey
🎟️ Top Attractions – Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Paseo de la Princesa, Castillo San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza, El Morro
Rio Grande
👉 Best Area for Adventure | ✨ Best Rio Grande Hotels: Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach and Golf Resort • St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort • Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
Rio Grande is home to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States, which makes it the perfect place for adventure travelers to stay in Puerto Rico.
Outdoor activities include hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, ATVs, and cliff jumping.
But don’t be fooled! Despite being an adventure and outdoor destination, this town on the east coast has some of the most luxurious hotels in Puerto Rico, including the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, and the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico, both with numerous pools, restaurants, and mesmerizing gardens.
That doesn’t mean you won’t find options on a budget! There are many apartment rentals in the area, like this cozy apartment rental for two, near Rio Grande’s main plaza.
Besides being home to a rainforest, Rio Grande has one of the best beaches in Puerto Rico, Las Picuas. Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach and Golf Resort, another luxury hotel, is right in front of it.
Rio Grande is also close to Luquillo and Fajardo, two great cities with beautiful beaches.
Pros of Staying in Rio Grande:
- Access to El Yunque’s main attractions
- Outdoor activities
- Close the Luquillo Beach
- Variety of accommodation options
Cons of Staying in Rio Grande:
- Far from San Juan’s main attractions
- Rains frequently
- Not many attractions besides El Yunque
📚 Rio Grande Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Adventure
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Wyndham Grand Rio Mar • St. Regis Bahia Beach • Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Rio Grande
🍽️ Where to Eat – Las Picuas 123 Seafood Restaurant ($$), Ekelekua ($$), Pal Patio de Lola ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Bungalu Rest & Bar, Brew!!! Taller Experimental
🎟️ Top Attractions – El Yunque National Forest, Junglequi Zipline Park, Las Picuas Beach
Condado
👉 Best Area For Families | ✨ Best Condado Hotels: Condado Vanderbilt • La Concha Renaissance Resort • Condado Ocean Club
Condado is one of the best places for families to stay in Puerto Rico. It has some fabulous oceanfront resorts and some of the top San Juan restaurants.
The neighborhood is conveniently located between the coast and a lagoon, which offers many things to do, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and biking.
Although the area has plenty of accommodation options for families like La Concha Renaissance Resort, you’ll also find adult-only hotels like the Condado Ocean Club and business-friendly hotels like Forbes’ four-star hotel, the Condado Vanderbilt.
Keep in mind that although the community is by the coast, the area isn’t considered safe for swimming.
Pros of Staying in Condado:
- Family entertainment
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Close to Old San Juan
- Close to the airport
- Oceanfront location
Cons of Staying in Condado:
- Restaurants and hotels are pricey
- Heavy traffic
- Limited free on-street parking
- Not much exposure to local culture
📚 Condado Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Families
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Condado Vanderbilt • La Concha Renaissance Resort • Condado Ocean Club
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Condado
🍽️ Where to Eat – Cayo Caribe ($$), Cocina Abierta ($$$), Restaurante Antonio ($$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – ARYA Rooftop, The Atlantic at the Thrist
🎟️ Top Attractions – Condado Lagoon, Playita del Condado, Ventana al Mar
Isla Verde
👉 Best Area For Honeymooners | ✨ Best Isla Verde Hotels: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel • The Royal Sonesta • TRYP by Wyndham
Isla Verde is a luxurious resort area that offers honeymooners and couples a taste of the Caribbean while staying close to San Juan Airport and Old San Juan’s attractions.
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel ranks as one of the best in the area, combining elegance with a tropical vibe. The Royal Sonesta follows in elegance and popularity.
While it doesn’t have a beachfront location, the TRYP by Wyndham offers more mid-range fees per night and is close to popular restaurants in Isla Verde, which serve everything from authentic Puerto Rican dishes to international delicacies.
The bars and clubs in the area offer top-notch nightlife for night owls. Isla Verde is also next to Piñones, known for its food kiosks, beaches, forest, and culture.
Pros of Staying in Isla Verde:
- Close to airport
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Thriving nightlife
- Public transportation available
- Beachfront location
- Plenty of accommodation options
Cons of Staying in Isla Verde:
- Gets crowded
- Hotels and restaurants are pricey
- Not the best area to experience Puerto Rican culture
📚 Isla Verde Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Honeymooners
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Fairmont El San Juan Hotel • The Royal Sonesta • TRYP by Wyndham
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Isla Verde
🍽️ Where to Eat – Caña ($$$), Sirena Oceanfront ($$), Bistro Café ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Patio de las Flores, Entrevinos
🎟️ Top Attractions – Isla Verde Beach, Reserva Marina Arrecife de la Isla Verde, Pine Grove Surfing Beach
Fajardo
👉 Best Area for Offshore Adventures | ✨ Best Fajardo Hotel: El Conquistador Resort • Sueños del Mar
If you want to stay near some of the clearest waters of Puerto Rico, book your stay in Fajardo.
Fajardo is located on the east side of the main island and it has one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, El Conquistador Beach Resort. The resort has breathtaking coastal views and great amenities like a waterpark and a private island.
Sueños del Mar offers vacation rentals near Kayak Village, where you can take kayaking tours to the bioluminescent lagoon. This same neighborhood has numerous apartment rentals like La Casona Beach House, which is great for large families.
You’ll also find plenty of excellent beaches in Fajardo, like Seven Seas Beach, one of my favorite beaches in Puerto Rico.
Check out my full guide to staying in Fajardo for more specific hotel and area suggestions.
Pros of Staying in Fajardo:
- Clear water and sandy beaches
- Good location to visit Vieques and Culebra
- Lots of restaurants
- Has camping sites
- Easy access to a Puerto Rico bio bay
- Tours to offshore islands
- Access to great diving and snorkeling sites
- Lots of tours and equipment rentals
Cons of Staying in Fajardo:
- Far from San Juan
- Few indoor attractions
- Limited hotel offer
- Restaurants and bars are pricey
📚 Fajardo Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Offshore Adventures
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – El Conquistador Resort • Sueños del Mar
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Fajardo
🍽️ Where to Eat – La Estación ($$), Ahumado a Leña ($$), Café Playero ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Sábalos Marina Grill & Rooftop, Pescaito Restaurant & Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Seven Seas Beach, Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Lagoon, Hacienda Chocolat
📚 Get Planning: How to Go from San Juan to Fajardo
👉 Local Tip: If you stay in Fajardo, make sure to make a day trip to Icacos cay, where you’ll find some of the clearest waters of Puerto Rico. For more San Juan day trips, see my complete guide to the 25 top day trips near San Juan.
Ponce
👉 Best Area For History Lovers | ✨ Best Ponce Hotels: Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort • Aloft Ponce • Boutique Hotel Bélgica
Ponce, located on the south coast facing the Caribbean Sea, is a great place for people looking for a similar place to Old San Juan.
Ponce has multiple landmarks that take visitors back in time to the island’s Spanish colonial era. It’s also home to multiple museums where you can learn about Puerto Rican art, music, and culture.
Boutique Hotel Bélgica is located right in the town center, allowing you to explore the neighborhood on foot, where you can also experience Ponce’s restaurants.
In its countryside, you’ll find the Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Park, where you can walk in the lands that our indigenous inhabitants lived on.
But, if instead, you want to hit Ponce’s beaches, stay at Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort, where you’ll also love the extra amenities like the golf course.
To have easy access to the highway and make daytrips to other cities, Aloft Ponce and Caribe Hotel Ponce are great alternatives, plus they are more budget friendly.
Pros of Staying in Ponce:
- Lots of restaurants
- Central location to visit cities in the south
- Many interesting things to do in Ponce for history lovers
- Access to beaches
- Has both luxury and budget-friendly hotels
- Nightlife options
- Has one of the three Puerto Rico international airports
Cons of Staying in Ponce:
- Far from San Juan
- Food can be pricey
- Heavy traffic in some areas
📚 Ponce Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for History Lovers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort • Aloft Ponce • Boutique Hotel Bélgica
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Ponce
🍽️ Where to Eat – Bahias Restaurant ($$), Vistas ($$), Lola Eclectic Cuisine ($$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Sabor y Rumba, Birriola, Papa Rupe Brewing Co.
🎟️ Top Attractions – Parque de Bombas, Museo de Arte de Ponce, La Guancha, Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Park
Isabela
👉 Best Area For All-in-One | ✨ Best Isabela Hotels: Parador Villas del Mar Hau • Royal Isabela • Villa Montaña Beach Resort
If you want to stay in a city that’s tourist-friendly but not touristy enough to ruin the local cultural experience, then head over to Isabela.
Isabela is a coastal city with a prime location in the northwest that gives you easy access to other Puerto Rican cities like Camuy, Aguadilla, and Arecibo.
I love the local vibe and beachfront location of Parador Villas del Mar Hau, especially because Isabela’s beaches are the main attraction of this town. But, Royal Isabela offers a more upscale stay with incredible views of Playa El Pastillo, my favorite remote beach in Isabela.
Not far from there, Villa Montaña Beach Resort sits at the coast, between Isabela and Aguadilla, making it ideal for traveling between the two coastal towns.
Besides the beautiful Jobos and Montones beaches, Isabela is home to the Guajataca State Forest, ideal for hiking. But, even if the outdoors call you, don’t miss out on the towns’ cultural attractions and museums, like Museo del Tren.
Pros of Staying in Isabela:
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Prime location
- Great beaches
- Luxury and budget-friendly hotels available
- Home to surfing contests
Cons of Staying in Isabela:
- Far from San Juan
- Beaches have strong currents and riptides
📚 Isabela Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for All-in-One
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Parador Villas del Mar Hau • Royal Isabela • Villa Montaña Beach Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Isabela
🍽️ Where to Eat – Jobos Mojito Beach Bar & Restaurant ($$), Sonido del Mar ($$$), By Cheff’s ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – KAI, Ola Lola’s Tiki Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Playa Jobos, Guajataca State Forest, La Cara del Indio, Museo del Tren
Cabo Rojo
👉 Best Area For Beach-goers | ✨ Best Cabo Rojo Hotels: Combate Beach Resort • Douglas Highway Inn Hotel • BOHO Beach Club
Cabo Rojo is home to colorful sunsets, beautiful beaches, and landmarks filled with natural beauty.
Located in the southwest of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is the ideal getaway for young couples or groups of backpackers who want to experience the best beaches on the main island of Puerto Rico.
In the city, I recommend the BOHO Beach Club, which is centrally located in one of Cabo Rojo’s most lively neighborhoods, Boquerón. Combate Beach Resort is a short walk from the popular Combate Beach, where you can rent jet skis. Or stay at Buye Apartments, just by my preferred beach in Puerto Rico, Buye Beach.
Don’t sleep on the endless things to do outdoors. Some of its main highlights include Los Morrillos Lighthouse, Cabo Rojo’s National Wildlife Refuge, Boquerón Beach, and Buyé Beach.
Pros of Staying in Cabo Rojo:
- Access to some of the top beaches of Puerto Rico
- Lots of free things to do in Cabo Rojo
- Budget-friendly
- Many accommodation options
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Camping sites
Cons of Staying in Cabo Rojo:
- Far from the metro area
- Far from all main airports
- Beaches get crowded
📚 Cabo Rojo Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Beach Goers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Combate Beach Resort • Douglas Highway Inn Hotel • BOHO Beach Club
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Cabo Rojo
🍽️ Where to Eat – Los Remos Restaurant ($$), Lechonera & Restaurant Joyuda ($$), Dylan’s Grill House ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Buena Vibra, Sangre Boricua Bar & Tapas
🎟️ Top Attractions – Punta Guaniquilla Nature Reserve, Buyé Beach, Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge
Rincón
👉 Best Area For Surfers | ✨ Best Rincon Hotels: Villa Cofresi • Casa Verde Hotel • Rincon Beach Resort
Rincón is a beach town on the west coast, home to the best beaches in Puerto Rico for surfers.
It’s the ideal place to stay for people who want a vacation full of gorgeous beaches (although it also has a waterfall!), surfing, and small-town peaceful vibes.
It also makes for an affordable base if you’re doing Puerto Rico as a budget traveler, as it has plenty of budget-friendly hotels like Casa Verde Hotel near Sandy Beach and Villa Cofresi.
Rincon’s town center has restaurants, souvenir shops, bakeries, and art galleries ideal for exploring on foot.
On the first Thursday of the month, Rincon’s Art Walk takes place in the plaza. During this festival, you can enjoy live music, buy local crafts, and eat typical food.
Rincon is also the best town in Puerto Rico for whale watching during the winter and spring. The Rincon Beach Resort is a more upscale option located officially in Aguada, but a short drive from Rincon.
Read my full guide to where to stay in Rincon for more info.
Pros of Staying in Rincon:
- Beaches for surfing
- Home to great Puerto Rico snorkeling spots
- Budget-friendly hotels
- Lots of fun things to do in Rincon
- Amazing sunsets
Cons of Staying in Rincon:
- Far from San Juan
- Hard to move around without a car
- Not the best city to experience authentic local culture
📚 Rincon Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Surfers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Villa Cofresi • Casa Verde Hotel • Rincon Beach Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Rincon
🍽️ Where to Eat – Rincón Boricua ($$), The Beach House ($$), Red Flamboyan ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Shipwreck, Rincón Beer Company, Taste Gastrobar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Domes Beach, Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, El Último Brinco
Culebra Island
👉 Best Area for Relaxation | ✨ Best Culebra Hotels: Club Seabourne Hotel • Palmetto Guest House • El Navegante de Culebra
Culebra is one of the smaller islands that belong to Puerto Rico, and it’s the perfect destination to relax and disconnect from the daily rush.
With the lack of resorts, shopping malls, and tall buildings, the island’s main attractions are its paradisiacal blue turquoise beaches. The Club Seabourne Hotel offers guests that relaxation and tropical vibe in Culebra.
But, you’ll also find hotels on the more budget-friendly side, like Palmetto Guest House and El Navegante de Culebra.
Flamenco Beach and Tamarindo Beach on the west, and Zoni on the east coast, rank as some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico. You can also take day trips to some of Culebra’s cays, including Cayo Luis Peña and Culebrita.
Culebra’s unpolluted coasts are teeming with marine life, making the island one of the top places in Puerto Rico to swim with sea turtles.
For more, see my full guide to where to stay in Culebra.
Pros of Staying in Culebra:
- Uncrowded beaches
- Relaxing getaway
- Easy access to smaller cays
- Top-notch snorkeling and diving
Con of Staying in Culebra:
- Multiple transportation methods to get there
- Mostly outdoor attractions
- Lack of nightlife
📚 Culebra Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Relaxation
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Club Seabourne Hotel • Palmetto Guest House • El Navegante de Culebra
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Culebra
🍽️ Where to Eat – Dinghy Dock ($$), Lechonera La Criolla ($$), La Jíbara – Pizzería Creativa ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – La Lobina, Mamacitas Guest House
🎟️ Top Culebra Attractions – Playa Tamarindo, Playa Flamenco, Zoni Beach, Culebrita
👉 Local Tip: While Flamenco is probably the most famous beach on the island, Culebra has many beautiful beaches without the crowds, music, and boats.
Vieques Island
👉 Best Area For Nature | ✨ Best Vieques Hotels: Bravo Beach Hotel • El Blok • Blue Horizon Boutique Resort
Nature lovers should definitely include Vieques on their list of where to stay in Puerto Rico.
Vieques is a small island located off Puerto Rico’s east coast. Similar to Culebra, Vieques lacks shopping malls and large resorts.
But worry not! The island has numerous options to stay at, like the family-friendly Bravo Beach Hotel or the beachfront-located Horizon Boutique Resort. If you’re willing to stay in Vieques interior, then the Old Crow Hotel and Suites are definitely your best option in Vieques.
A national wildlife refuge covers more than 60% of the island, making it a paradise of wild and raw nature that is hard to believe was once a bombing range.
It’s a destination nature lovers can look forward to, with some of my top Vieques’ attractions being the Black Sand Beach and kayaking in Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. El Blok Hotel is centrally located near both.
If you’re staying in Vieques, be sure to bookmark my full guide to where to stay in Vieques.
Pros of Staying in Vieques Island :
- Access to the brightest bio bay in the world
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Natural breathtaking landscapes
- Great Puerto Rico diving and snorkeling spots
Cons of Staying in Vieques Island:
- Located offshore
- Multiple transportation methods to get there
📚 Vieques Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Nature
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Bravo Beach Hotel • El Blok • Blue Horizon Boutique Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Vieques
🍽️ Where to Eat – Biekes Bistro ($$), Duffy’s Esperanza ($$), Trade Winds Bar & Restaurant ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – The Mar Azul, Crab Island Rum Distillery
🎟️ Top Attractions – Mosquito Bio Bay, Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Caracas Beach
Utuado
👉 Best Area For Mountain Views | Where to Stay Guide | ✨ Best Utuado Hotels: Casa Grande Mountain Retreat
Utuado is located in Puerto Rico’s mountainous region and is a great place to stay to experience Puerto Rico’s peaceful countryside.
Although many travelers shy away from the town due to the curvy roads in the area, Utuado’s charm and relaxing vibe are worth the drive.
Things to do here include caving, river tubing, kayaking, and swimming in rivers. It’s also one of the best places to camp in Puerto Rico. Casa Grande Mountain Retreat is the best lodge in the area to stay near all of them.
If you wan;t to immerse in these town’s outdoors, stay glamping at Finca Remedio Eco Farm.
The mesmerizing landscapes, the relaxing atmosphere, and the warm locals make Utuado one of the best places to stay on the main island.
Pros of Staying in Utuado
- Relaxing and secluded place to stay
- Lots of natural attractions
- Free things to do
- Great camping sites
- Fresh temperatures all year
Cons of Staying in Utuado
- Need a rental car to get there
- Difficult roads to navigate
- Limited hotel offer
- Far from the beach
📚 Utuado Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Mountain Views
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Casa Grande Mountain Retreat
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Utuado
🍽️ Where to Eat – Creole Mofongo y Algo Mas ($$), Hijos del Josco ($$), Tavo’s Pizza ($)
🍸 Where to Drink – Bier Garden Utuado, Pueblo Viejo 419 Gastrobar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center, Cueva del Arco, Cañón Blanco
Tips for Staying in Puerto Rico
Choose the Right Location in Puerto Rico
To get the most out of your trip to Puerto Rico, I recommend choosing where to stay based on your goals. While Old San Juan is central (and the ideal base if you only have 3 days in Puerto Rico), it won’t fit every traveler’s taste. There are many places worth visiting in Puerto Rico!
Puerto Rico offers different accommodation options for surfers, history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beach bums.
Rent a Car if You Can
Old San Juan is a great city for walking on foot without the need to rent a car or take a taxi.
However, if you’re thinking about visiting other parts of the island, you should rent a vehicle in Puerto Rico. Public transportation is mostly limited to Puerto Rico’s metro region.
Be sure to read up on Puerto Rico’s driving rules, and use Discover Cars to find the best prices for car rentals.
Go Outside San Juan’s Touristic Zone
While Old San Juan, Isla Verde, and Condado are great places to stay, they don’t do justice to Puerto Rico’s culture and beauty.
Some of the island’s greatest destinations are in non-touristy municipalities like Utuado, Arecibo, Isabela, and Orocovis.
If you don’t dare to go on your own, hire a local guide who takes you to Puerto Rico’s best-kept gems.
Travel to Puerto Rico in the Off-Season
Puerto Rico can be an expensive destination, especially during the high season around Christmas. Visiting the island off-season can save you money on hotels, tours, rental cars, and even restaurants.
Puerto Rico has nice weather all year round, and you can visit the beaches in other seasons besides summer.
For more, see my guide to the best times to visit Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Doesn’t Have “All Inclusive” Resorts
While many people associate a Caribbean island vacation with an all-inclusive resort, you may be surprised to learn that there are no true “all-inclusive resorts” in Puerto Rico.
Yes, you can find some Puerto Rico resorts and hotels that offer packages including some meals or drinks, and even some entertainment options.
But you won’t find a full “all-inclusive” resort like you might in the Dominican Republic or other Caribbean islands.
I wrote a whole article explaining why Puerto Rico lacks all-inclusive resorts, if you’re curious about the topic.
Want More? Listen to My Puerto Rico Podcast Episode!
If you liked this post, you’ll love my Puerto Rico episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming Puerto Rico”).
I talk about where to stay in Puerto Rico at minute mark 13:16.
The host, Nate, and I also discuss things to do in Puerto Rico (20:03), language & cultural tips (32:32), how to get around Puerto Rico (28:01), why more people should visit Puerto Rico (31:09) and all the other common questions about travel to Puerto Rico.
Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you arrive in Puerto Rico.
FAQs
What is the best area of Puerto Rico to stay in?
The best areas to stay in Puerto Rico include Old San Juan for sightseeing, Rio Grande for adventure lovers, Rincon and Cabo Rojo to surf and find the best sunsets, Vieques to see the bioluminescent bay, and Culebra to relax on the beach.
Where should you not stay in Puerto Rico?
In Puerto Rico, visitors shouldn’t stay in any caserio or La Perla, as they aren’t areas for tourists. People who want to stay close to the beach or who don’t drive well on curvy roads shouldn’t stay in the mountainous region of Puerto Rico.
What side of the Island is best in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s west coast is best for beach bummers, surfers, and nature lovers. Puerto Rico’s north coast is best for people who like the buzz of the metro area but also natural escapes. The east side is best to find luxurious hotels and clear beaches.
What is the most beautiful part of Puerto Rico?
The most beautiful parts of Puerto Rico include Old San Juan, Ponce, and Arecibo for history lovers. Cities like Manatí, Isabela, Aguadilla, Rincón, Cabo Rojo, Vieques, and Culebra sport beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
Which is better, Condado or Isla Verde?
Isla Verde is better for visitors who want to stay close to the airport, but still want to enjoy the beach and the local cuisine. Condado is better for people who want to stay away from the crowd of Isla Verde, but still want to be close to the landmarks of Old San Juan and the beach. Condado is also a more family-friendly destination.
Is it better to stay in Old San Juan or Condado?
Old San Juan is a better location for visitors who want to be close to Puerto Rico’s top landmarks within walking distance. Condado is better for families that want to enjoy the beach, but still want to be close enough to Old San Juan’s landmarks.
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Thanks for reading! I hope this helps you find the best place to stay for your Puerto Rico vacation. While you’re here, don’t miss my complete guide to the 71 best things to do in Puerto Rico.
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Hi! I am in the beginning phase of planning a friends’ getaway to Puerto Rico in January. We are all singles and a couple are in the LGBTQ community. We are looking for an area that is a mix of relaxing, beachy vibes with some nightlife and flavor. Do you have a recommendation of an area or 2 to focus on? Thank you in advance!!
Hi Nicole! If you’re looking for a mix of great beaches and nightlife, I recommend checking out Rincón, Aguadilla, Cabo Rojo, Isabela, and definitely San Juan. While the capital is crowded, it does have the best nightlife in Puerto Rico, along with some great beaches like Ocean Park and Escambrón. If you’re open to sacrificing a bit of nightlife, consider Culebra, Fajardo, or Vieques. Hope that helps!
We are traveling with kids ages 13, 18 and 20. Looking at San Juan for a couple days, Vieques for one overnight and then ending in Farjardo. We like beaches but we also want to see things unique to Puerto Rico. Is Fajardo the best place to end? Or will that be too isolated ?
Hi Jen! Thanks for reaching out! Fajardo is a great spot to end your trip. It’s home to one of Puerto Rico’s famous bioluminescent bays (Laguna Grande) and has beautiful beaches within the Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve. It’s also a short ride from Luquillo Beach and El Yunque National Forest, and you’ll find plenty of boat tours departing from Fajardo.
So, it’s definitely not isolated, but it’s not super close to the airport either, so be sure to plan your departure accordingly. Check out my guide to where to stay in Fajardo for neighborhood tips and hotel recommendations!
Hello, I am looking to visit Puerto Rico for the first time for my 50th birthday, with friends (couples). I’ve read through your website. We are flying into San Juan, but only staying three nights, maybe four. I do want to plan to visit outside of the hotel, but also looking for a hotel that is more adult friendly and has a beach, swim up pool bar. Where would you stay if you were me? Was looking into caribe Hilton. Also I was looking at La Concha. I’m not against children being there but was looking for a place more adult friendly.
How would you say the Hyatt regency compares to the Wyndham rio grand
Hi Deb! Both the Hyatt Regency and Wyndham Grand Rio Mar are luxury hotels located in Rio Grande, offering spas, pools, golf courses, restaurants, and beach access. The Hyatt Regency is more secluded and is often seen as a better fit for slowing down and relaxing. The Wyndham Grand Rio Mar has a livelier, more traditional resort vibe and is generally considered more family-friendly and accessible. Both are excellent options, it just depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. Hope that helps!
I don’t want to stay in the “Best Hotel in Puerto Rico”! I want a cozy, atmospheric hotel that is clean, safe and homey. I go not want to stay in an ultra modern sterile hotel where I’m just throwing away my money. I’ve lived and traveled all over the world and have stayed in some wonderful hotels! with atmosphere, nature and its beauty, the ocean, etc. ok. not in a rush to go . At least 6 months to a year from now.
Hi Carol!
I totally get what you mean! If you’re looking for a cozier, more local vibe, I recommend checking out paradores. These are locally owned small hotels. There are several around Puerto Rico, but some of the most popular include:
• Parador MaunaCaribe in Maunabo
• Boquemar and Combate Beach Resort in Cabo Rojo
• El Buen Café in Hatillo
• El Faro in Aguadilla
• Villas del Mar Hau in Isabela
You could also look into posadas (small inns) and haciendas. Some options are:
•Hacienda Siesta Alegre
• Hacienda Pomarrosa
• Hacienda Moraica
• La Jamaca Hotel
Hope that helps! Safe travels!
Traveling to PR in July with my boyfriend and my 21 and 23 year old sons. they like adventures, love the beach. I love that too but I also want to be able to explore places like old san juan and get a taste of the locals ..any airbnb recommendations? how is Luquillo beach area? Thank you for any feedback.
Hi Audrey!
Staying in Old San Juan is a great option for exploring the city and enjoying the beaches—the capital has some beautiful ones! That said, it can lack a bit of that local vibe. I’d recommend checking out towns like Vega Baja, Vega Alta, Hatillo, Ponce, and Guayama, which offer a great balance of adventure, beaches, things to do beyond the water (like museums, plazas, restaurants, and farms), and a more local feel. Luquillo has lots of outdoor activities, especially on its beaches and in the rainforest, and even has a great cacao farm! However, activities outside the beach are a bit limited, and it tends to attract lots of tourists, which might take away from that “local” vibe.
Hope that helps!
Great info. My wife and I would like to spend Feb and Mar 2026. We have been to Puerto Rico 2x, but only close to San Juan. We are retired, want someplace warm, heated pool. Don’t need much else. We have used Airbnb and VRBO before and didn’t like them.
Any ideas?
Hi Greg!
I’m glad you’re visiting us again! If you’re looking for a warm place to stay, it’s safe to say you’ll want to stick to the coast—the mountain interior tends to be cooler, especially at night. Some great (and often hot!) towns to check out are Cabo Rojo, Aguadilla, Fajardo, Guánica, Santa Isabel, Isabela, and Culebra. You can use Booking or Expedia to find hotels and apartment rentals in these areas. I also have a “Where to Stay” guide for some of them. Hope that helps!
Hi Vanessa.
Thank you for all the info on your page it’s been extremely helpful. But could I get your advice please.
We are hoping to travel to PR in 24 April for 2 week with our 2 daughters who are 18 and 22. So do you think the weather will be hot? Will it be lively enough? Would you recommend staying a week in SJ and then a week in another area?
Kind regards Nicola Taylor
Hi Nicola! Yes, the weather is great during April and early May, although you can always expect some showers, especially if you’re staying on the north and east coasts. San Juan is lively, especially on weekends. If you’re coming for two weeks, I’d recommend staying at least in two different places, so you can explore Puerto Rico more comfortably. Vieques, Culebra, Ponce, Fajardo, Aguadilla, and Cabo Rojo are great alternatives. Safe travels!
Hello. Do you know if there’s a tour to the mosquito bay where they do not require us to stay overnight?
Hi Jade! You need to stay overnight because of the ferry and flight hours. The latest ferry usually leaves around 9 p.m., which means you won’t have enough time to catch it if you’re taking a bio bay tour. The last commercial flight departs around 6 p.m. You can try booking a private charter or boat that fits your itinerary.
Great article, really helps to plan my first visit, thank you🙏🏻. Would you be able to recommend local guides or companies who could guide me around the whole island in April? Thank you
Hi Ney Ney. There are multiple tour operators that can offer multi-day tours during your visit to Puerto Rico. You can check out Seeing Puerto Rico, Turismo Borincano, Bliss Adventures PR, Tours Express PR, and Buckelist Tours. Hope those help!
Great article! We loved St Regis and Dorado, and thought they were the best resorts in Puerto Rico if you have the budget. for families there’s some really cool villas and boutique options as well. The Condado area was so great for families as you’re close to the lagoon, Old San Juan, and Condado beach with lots of nice cheap eats.
Hi Vanessa
My group of 5 including 2 of in our 50s and 3 in their 20s are planning to travel to Puerto Rico in January for 5 nights. We’d like to visit the rain forest for a short hike and waterfall views, visit flaminco island, and have a relaxing beach day for the first 3 nights. We’d like to stay near San Juan for the last 2 nights to visit the historic sites and take in old San Juan and a bit of the night life. We plan to rent a car and Airbnb’s so we can be in one space and cook a few meals. Definitely looking to try local cuisine. Where would you recommend staying for each segment?
Hi Deb! I’m guessing you only want a quick day trip to Culebra, where you’ll find Flamenco Beach. Based on that, and your wish to explore the rainforest, I’d recommend staying the first 3 nights in Fajardo. In Fajardo, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico for your beach day as well as some great hikes and a bioluminescent lagoon. You’ll be less than 40 minutes from El Yunque National Forest and the Ceiba Ferry Terminal where you can catch the ferry to Culebra. You’ll also be near Luquillo’s food kiosks, where you can find some of the best local plates. For San Juan, you can stay in Old San Juan, and you could ditch your rental car if you want to, as the historic district is entirely walkable. Hope that helps!
Hi Vanessa,
Thank you for sharing this valuable information. It’s much appreciated.
I am hoping to explore PR on a budget. I’d like to stay for atleast a month while I’m working remote. Are you familiar with any guest houses or shared space rentals/ websites that you would recommend?
I’m not sure if I should stay in a central location and take day trips or if I should move around the island and stay a week at a time in different places.
I am most interested in history, local life, culture, beaches, water, nature.
I stayed in Isla Verde for just a few days last year. We went to Old San Juan for half a day too. I know I only saw such a small part of the island. And am anxious to get back and explore.
A concern is that I know little Spanish which I can work on but am afraid it won’t be enough. Thoughts?
Thank you for any input!
Hi Kathy! Glad you’re thinking about traveling long-term to Puerto Rico. One of the best ways to do Puerto Rico on a budget is through work exchange or volunteering. Both worldpackers and workaway are great for that. You can check out my article comparing the two platforms. Couch surfing or staying at a hostel are great alternatives too. If you’re working full-time, I’d recommend staying in a single place (or maybe two) and renting a property for an entire month. That way, you’ll save more than jumping between rentals and paying service fees for each reservation. In other words, since you’ll be working, you can settle in a single place and take day trips on weekends. You’ll need to rent a car in this case as taxi fees are high. But if you want to cover more of Puerto Rico, then stay in different rentals each week. VRBO and Airbnb are popular for apartment rentals, but you can check out a local page known as Clasificados Online Puerto Rico. The best way to save money is to meal prep, as food will probably be your highest expense. Outdoor attractions are mostly free, and many museums are cheap too. About the Spanish concern, basic Spanish will take you a long way, but when it doesn’t, Google traductor in your phone will be enough. Hope that helps!
Vanessa,
Thanks for all of your great work. We are a family of 6 (2 parents and 4 adult children (19-25) heading there right after Christmas 2024 for 6-7 days. We typically use Airbnb so we don’t have to get 2-3 hotel rooms. The boys are active and like to scuba dive, take adventure tours and hike, girls like the beach and shopping. We thought about staying in Old San Juan for a couple of days then not sure where to go next. Any thoughts? John
Hi John! If you’re staying in San Juan, you’ll have easy access to Puerto Rico’s best shopping malls and brand stores (Plaza Las Americas, Condado, Mall of San Juan). You’ll also be near Escambrón Beach, where the girls can swim and the boys can go scuba diving. After Old San Juan, I’d recommend a Cabo Rojo, to enjoy both great hiking and beaches. From here you can also visit Lajas, which is renowned among scuba diving fans. Other alternatives are Fajardo, Aguadilla, Isabela, Humacao, or Rincón. From Rincón, you can take a day trip to Desecheo, a great diving destination. If you’re willing to sacrifice the shopping malls, definitely choose Culebra or Vieques for the beaches (and multiple hiking options!). Keep in mind that beach conditions are often dangerous for swimming during the winter.
Hi Vanessa, thanks so much for all the information. My husband and I are coming to San Juan for 5days. Where would you recommend we stay between Hilton Caribe and El Convento? How do we contact you in order to arrange tours?
Hi Willa! It all depends on what you’re looking for. If you would rather be near most attractions and avoid driving and long walks, El Convento is a better option as it is sitting right in Old San Juan. If you want easy access to the beach and are ok with walking a bit to Old San Juan’s main attractions or taking an Uber, I’d suggest Caribe Hilton. This last one is also within a short walk of Condado. It also has larger pools and overall, more amenities. El Convento provides a unique historical and romantic experience which kind of adds magic to the whole historical city setting. Hope that helps!
Hi Vanessa. Great info here. Love it. We are planning a Feb 2025 trip for 4-5 nights. It will be two couples in our early 50’s. We’re looking for a cool place on a beach to stay but doesn’t have to be a fancy high rise hotel. During the days, we’re thinking of day trips to do some hikes(maybe a couple miles…nothing like all day hikes up mountains). Snorkeling would be nice but not sure if February it would be too cold to snorkel. We’re not foodies so we don’t need fancy restaurants but enjoy a good cocktail. We’d have no issues renting a car. We’re not museum type folks and walking around a big city doesn’t do it for us either.
Suggestions for us? Thanks in advance.
Hi Brian! I’m glad you find it useful! So, Puerto Rico’s waters are quite warm all year, so temperature won’t be a concern. However, February is a month with high tides, big waves, and riptides usually. SSorkeling is possible, you just have to make sure you’re doing it on a safe beach or on a good day to do so. Based on your requirements, it sounds like Rincon, Cabo Rojo, Arecibo, Fajardo, Culebra, Vieques, and Isabela could be great options. In all of these towns, you’ll find beaches for snorkeling, hiking opportunities, and budget-friendly hotels or rentals at or near the beach. Beach bars are quite popular at Isabela, Vieques, and Rincon. If you’re renting a car, add a day trip to El Yunque to your itinerary. Hope that helps!
Hello. I am looking to staybat an airbnb in Naguabo. Is that a safe area? Close enough to rent a vehicle and travel to local tourist attractions or a beach?
Hi Felicia! Overall Naguabo is pretty safe but you should take general safety precautions like on any trip. If you plan on visiting the town’s rivers and waterfalls, do so in company. Also, check the weather for possible flash flooding. Multiple tourist attractions near Naguabo include El Yunque, Seven Seas Beach, Laguna Grande, and Charco El Hippie. You’ll also be near Ceiba, where you can catch the ferry to Vieques or Culebra. There are car rental companies in nearby towns like Ceiba and Humacao. But, if you’re arriving at SJU airport, I recommend renting a car in the capital city and driving to Naguabo. The taxi fare from San Juan to Naguabo will be expensive! I hope that helps!
We are 2 guys in our 70’s. Never been to Puerto Rico. Want a nice place on the beach, but within a few miles of old san juan. We do walk alot. Would Condado area be best? What hotel/resort can you reccomend?
Hi Michael! Condado is a great option! If you’re staying near Condado’s bridge, you can reach Old San Juan walking if you desire it and if you’re used to walking long distances (50min+ walk to El Morro). Hilton Garden Inn, Condado Plaza, and Condado Ocean Club, are closer to Old San Juan (the last one is adult-only!), but La Concha is one of the best resorts in the area. Keep in mind Condado Beach is often dangerous for swimming. Isla Verde is also a great area by the beach and close to the SJU airport and Piñones, famous for its food and beaches. But, from this one, you’d have to take some sort of transportation to Old San Juan (20 min ride to Old San Juan). San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel, The Royal Sonesta, and Fairmonth ESJH are great resorts in the area. If you don’t want to worry about how to get to Old San Juan, stay in El Caribe Hilton or El San Geronimo hotels in Old San Juan which are right by Escambrón Beach. Safe travels!
Hi Vanessa, you have the best writeups on PR and we loved reading all the details. We would love to have your view on what is the best location for us to stay in for a 4 day vacation we are planning end of May.
We’d love to have close access to clear water, clean sand beaches (and some snorkeling where possible) but would also want to be in ok driveable distance to old San Juan/Ponce (if possible).
Based on all that you’ve described about PR… we were planning to cover El Yunque, Mosquito Bay, Old san Juan and maybe Ponce.. we wish we could do some of the west coast too but it seems too much for 4 days.
Hi Jack And Jill! So, I guess the question would be what do you consider an ok driveable distance? If an hour of driving is something doable for you, I recommend staying in Luquillo (45 min from San Juan) or Fajardo (55 min to 1:15 h from San Juan). These towns offer great beaches with clear water and also many snorkeling opportunities. They are also located on the east coast, where many of the attractions in your plan are located. From Fajardo you can take day trips to offshore islands like Vieques and Culebra, home to some of the best PR beaches. You do mention you’re planning on covering Mosquito Bay, but to do so, you will have to spend a night in Vieques if you’re taking the ferry. Since you only have 4 days, I recommend flying directly into Vieques and spending two days there (clear beaches, great snorkeling + bio bay). Arrive early morning on the third day into Ceiba (where the ferry back to mainland is). Cover El Yunque, and drive back to San Juan to spend the last night and day there before departing from SJU airport. You’ll be able to cover more, including Ponce, if instead of visiting Mosquito Bay, you visit Laguna Grande in Fajardo (mainland). Hope that helps!
Hello!
Your article is amazing! Thank you for detailed information. I’m thinking about planning a solo birthday trip in December (woman traveling alone). Can you recommend areas, and places to stay where if I want to go to the beach I have that option. I also like walking and plan on doing “tourist” things lol. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Hi Nacole! If you want to go to the beach, do the “touristy” things, and feel at ease as a woman traveling alone, then Old San Juan and Condado in the capital city are great options. If you want more beaches nearby, Fajardo, Culebra, Cabo Rojo, and Vieques are worth considering!
Hi! Thanks for the article! It has a lot of great information! I was wondering if Naranjito, PR is a good place to stay? There is an air bnb I was thinking about booking, but would like to know if this is a good area.
Hi Zarah! Naranjito is a mountainous town, so you’d have to be familiar with driving on smaller and curvy roads. Although it’s closer to the metro region and connected to Bayamon, Naranjito has more of a countryside vibe. The city has activities for outdoor enthusiasts (La Plata Lake) and for foodies (Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route, Hacienda Terruño JS), so it’s a great spot to stay if you want something near the metro region, but away from the rush. As long as you’re willing to drive in Puerto Rico’s mountains, I’d say it’s a great choice.
Hi needing some help with planning a group trip to PR……..would love to stay on beach, group enjoys offshore fishing and would like to be able to walk to lunch/dinner I’m not even sure if this is safe or should stay at a resort, the group doesn’t care for them bc they are super touristy …… we do love hanging out in the water and enjoying beverages, is there a more locals area to stay and eat etc so it’s not so touristy in a hotel or a lodging place for fishing vacations….I have no clue where to start looking I’m not familiar at all with PR thanks
Hi Ashton! I can assure Puerto Rico is safe! As space here is limited, you can read my guide “Is Puerto Rico safe?” to learn about general safety tips. Staying at a resort is optional and up to your taste, but if it is for safety reasons, it isn’t necessary. If you’d like to be by the beach and do fishing charter tours, Fajardo, Dorado, Aguadilla, Culebra, Rincon, Carolina, and La Parguera are good town options to stay at. But, if you’d like something more local and a bit less touristy, I’d go with Cabo Rojo, Santa Isabel, Salinas, Vieques, or Isabela. PR Adventure Co. is a type of fishing resort that organizes your stay and fishing trips located in La Parguera. Culebra, Vieques, and Cabo Rojo indeed have top-notch beaches.
Looking to visit in May. Looking for a carribean vacation with a wonderful beach to relax at. Not to far from the culture of pr. Would love your advise.
Hi Dawn! I’d say Luquillo, Cabo Rojo, Arecibo, Lajas, Guayama, Hatillo, Humacao, Ponce, and Fajardo are great alternatives. They all have great beaches and hotspots where you can try local food and catch local festivals. Vieques, Culebra, and Rincón have great Caribbean vibes but aren’t necessarily the best spots to immerse in the local culture. Hope that helps!
Hi Vanessa – thanks for all your amazing info! We’re planning a trip to PR with our adult kids (21 & 23yrs) for 6nts at the end of March ’24. Our wish list includes beautiful beaches for swimming, affordable bars/restaurants with a relaxed, fun vibe, and nice accommodation with a pool, within walking distance to the beach (mid-range price). Where would you suggest we go? My husband and I will stay on after the kids leave and want somewhere laid back to have a relaxing beach break. We don’t want to change hotels a lot but would be ok with 2-3 nights in one place then move to somewhere else.
Hi Theresa! Based on your description, I’d say, Cabo Rojo, Vieques or Culebra are your perfect destinations. These three towns are home to the best Puerto Rico beaches. The offers of hotel and apartment rentals are diverse, so you can totally find accommodation near the beach for a mid-range price. Cabo Rojo restaurants, however, are more affordable than those in Vieques and Culebra. In the last two, you kind of have to find the spots where the locals eat. But, Culebra and Vieques’ beaches are often ranked as the best on the island. Guánica, Arecibo, Luquillo, Humacao, and Fajardo are also good alternatives.
We are staying in Luquillo over Christmas so would really appreciate knowing which restaurants are open on Christmas eve and Christmas day in the area.
Hi Vanessa we are going in Feb. I am debating where to rent a vacation home. I found some in Punta Santiago Humacao but trying to figure out the best town to stay in. We are visiting the rain forest and the bacardi plant and going to island of Culebra.We have a rental car where would be the best towns to satay in?
Hi Cassie! It all depends on your budget, priorities, and the group size. A vacation home is best if you’re traveling with a large group and would like to stay together and if you’d like to prepare your own meals. I’d suggest staying at least one or two nights in San Juan or neighboring cities to visit San Juan’s attractions and the Bacardi Factory in Cataño (you might also be in time for the San Sebastian Festival in San Juan). Later, you can stay in Luquillo, Fajardo, Ceiba, or Humacao to explore the east coast, El Yunque, and be near the ferry terminal to Culebra.
Hi, thank you for all of this information. We are a group of 5 traveling after Christmas into January. We would like to be near San Juan to experience the sites and food (hoping to do the food tour) and then very interested in snorkeling and doing a bioluminescent kayak. Where would you suggest that we stay?
Currently, I am looking at homes/condos in Condado and then would love some suggestions on where to stay to be able to snorkle at this time of year.
Hi Heather! Condado is a great option to stay near Old San Juan. This neighborhood itself offers lots to do. Consider staying a few days in Fajardo to do a bioluminescent lagoon kayak tour and to have easy access to great snorkeling sites. It’s also easy to take boat trips to Vieques and Culebra, offshore islands with some of the best places to snorkel in PR. I’d even recommend staying there for 2-3 days if you’re all about snorkeling. Keep in mind there is a full moon during the last week of December, which affects greatly bioluminescence visibility.
Hi! Booked a last minute solo trip for this week! Young single female looking for beautiful beaches, sunsets and away from families… w a hint of young adventurous vibes. Thinking Rincon is too far for this short trip but could rent a car to explore a bit. Any tips?? Oct 13(land at midnight) -15th
Hello Amanda! Renting a car will expand your options. Rincon is almost three hours from SJU, but the sunsets on the west coast are the best! If you choose the West Coast, I’d recommend Cabo Rojo’s Wildlife Refuge and Punta Guaniquilla Nature Reserve for adventure and remote beaches. For something closer to San Juan, head out to Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve to enjoy beautiful beaches and you’ll be just in time for the new moon (October 14th), the best time to take a bio bay tour at Laguna Grande. Punta Yeguas in Yabucoa and Punta Tuna in Maunabo are worth checking out too. Welcome to PR!
Hello,
I love the way you detailed the places there. Thanks for that.
I am very adventurous and I thought about staying in the Rio Grande.
I am going by myself for the first time to Puerto Rico I would like to know where you recommend to stay to meet people there.
Hi Cris! I’m glad you found useful the post. The Luquillo Beach, La Pared Beach, and Luquillo food kiosks near the Rio Grande area are great places to get to know locals. Staying at paradores (locally owned hotels) is also a great way to connect with them. Visit Piñones, Pork Highway, La Placita de Santurce, and shopping malls too. Drive to the mountainous interior (Utuado, Lares, Cayey, Jayuya), and you’ll find both locals and adventures. Hope this helps!
Can you shed some light on Mar Chiquita area? Traveling in February likely (2 adults plus our 9 year old child and would like to know if it’s a good region/choice? All like a blend of chill time near/in water (wading, snorkeling) blended with day trips to other adventures.
Hello Lisa! Mar Chiquita is located in Manatí, which offers lots of things to do and has top Puerto Rico beaches (including Mar Chiquita). Check out our guide with the best things to do in Manatí to learn more. However, I’d suggest Culebra or towns in Puerto Rico’s south coast (Lajas, Guánica) if you’re visiting during the winter season and are interested in snorkeling. Generally, from October to February, beaches on the north and west coasts have rip currents and strong tides. Culebra and Lajas are great snorkeling spots and are mostly guarded by reefs and sandbars, so they are safer.
Hola! I am booking to 9 days in PR and I am wondering if to stay 4 nights in Aguadilla (visit Rincon and Cabo Rojo), and 4 nights in Condado. Will it be crazy to do just 2 nights in Condado and 2 nights by Luquillo? Thanks!
Hi Mary! 4 nights on the West Coast are great! Rincón, Cabo Rojo, and Aguadilla are definitely worth checking out. I would add Isabela to that if you have a chance. About your question, it’s not crazy at all! Two nights and three days are enough to explore San Juan’s main highlights. However, I would move them towards the end of your trip after the two nights in Luquillo. That way you’ll be closer to the airport on the last day of your trip. Hope this helps!
What are your thoughts on staying in Dorado, because we are going April 25-May 2nd and are very excited as this is our first visit to Puerto Rico and I am a little nervous that we picked the wrong place to stay. My wife and I are older, but traveling with my early 40’s cousin so we wanted a place by the beach but not too busy. If I need to change arrangements I should probably do so right away. Please let me know your thoughts.
Hi Thom, did you end up staying in Dorado? I’m booked at Hyatt Residence Club Dorado. Would love to know your thoughts on the West side? We are also renting a car, which I’m a little nervous about.
I wanted to know what you meant about beaches being dangerous in Isabella. Thank you.
I wondered the same thing myself. My wife and daughter stayed at Villa Montana in Isabela back in 2019 I think. Daughter and I went horseback riding and while riding on the beach we encountered a pack of dogs that were nipping at my horses legs. It was a beautiful place though.
According to posts elsewhere (see Trip Advisor), Isabella has extremely dangerous rip tides.
My boyfriend and I have flights for February but debating what area to stay in…Fajardo, Arroyo or Rincon. Any thought or suggestions?
Hi Vanessa,
Where is the best place to stay for two ladies going on a birthday trip looking to party at clubs at night and go to the beach bars in the day time.
Hi Vanessa,
I’m a single woman in her early 60’s that would like to travel to my island.
The last time I was there was in 1999 when my parents were alive.
What is your recommendation for relaxation and fun?
wow thanks for doing this! What are your thought for staying for a month to work from there? Someplace relaxing, beautiful and lots of light – less noise
First time visit with family and trying to decide between La Concha Renaissance or Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. I already cancelled one resort due to comments about airport noise.
Very helpful! Thank you, Vanessa!
What are your thoughts about staying near Mar Chiquita / Manati? I don’t see that discussed much in any guide. Would we be better to stay near Luqillo? It will be our first PR visit; two adults, one middle-schooler, all love water/outdoors. TIA!
The Island Of The Enchantment