San Juan is one of the most visited cities on the island, after all it is where the main airport is located. Other than the airport, there are many things to do and it is the biggest city on the island. While visiting Puerto Rico, be sure to visit not only San Juan but its neighboring cities as well.
I will note that it is most beneficial to rent a car while on the island as there are many places to go and having your own car will allow you to do whatever you want with no time restrictions or difficulty getting around. Here is our most recommended places to see/things to do in San Juan/the Eastside of the island.
Old San Juan
A visit to Puerto Rico is not complete without a trip to Old San Juan. It is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean and most people visit Puerto Rico to explore it. The city is well-known for its rich history, culture, and incredible food. The streets are full of colorful homes and buildings and are probably the most photographed areas in Old San Juan. There are museums, cathedrals, a scenic promenade, and a vibrant nightlife. It is most easily accessible by foot so be sure to wear comfortable shoes! You can book a walking tour if you’d like to experience as much as possible.
Forts of San Cristobal and San Felipe del Morro
The forts are a popular tourist attraction and are truly a sight to see with a beautiful ocean backdrop! They remind you of old castles and are full of history. The forts were built to protect the city from invaders and they are a National Historic Site. You can explore them on your own or book a guided tour to really learn and understand the history and culture that surrounds the area.
Ziplining
There are many lush areas in Puerto Rico and what better way to experience them than from above! There are many ziplining (and other) excursions on the island. The rush from the zip and the incredible views of the forests is unlike anything you might experience on the island. There are many tours available, but EcoAdventure was our favorite and the local tour guides were really great.
El Yunque National Forest
El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System and you do not want to miss it during your trip to Puerto Rico. It is full of hikes, waterfalls, wildlife, and the most amazing natural beauty. We have a blog post dedicated to things to do in El Yunque. There is a reservation system and you will not be allowed into the rainforest without booking a reservation in advance. Tickets can be booked here – they are limited so we recommend booking as far in advance as possible.
Kioskos de Luquillo
The Luquillo Kiosks are made up of about 60 family-owned kiosks all in a row. They sell food, drinks, and souvenirs and you’ll find a great variety! The kioskos are all open-air and make for a perfect stop after a long day exploring or at the beach. It is bustling at night and many tourists and locals alike will hangout there for a night out.
Ferry to Culebra or Vieques
If you have time for a day trip, it is worth taking the ferry to one of Puerto Rico’s small islands off the East Coast. Culebra is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Flamenco Beach. Vieques is home to one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world. Both islands have their own treasures and it is worth doing your due diligence in research to determine which island is best for you to visit. The ferry tickets are limited and you must book them in advance.
Beaches
Beaches, of course. There are plenty of beaches to choose from and none will disappoint. There are many beaches that you can stop by on the side of the road and explore and I do recommend doing this as we found some of the most beautiful and private beaches this way. Check out our post on the best beaches in Puerto Rico.
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