From historic fortresses to beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to a Puerto Rican getaway. If you have your sights set on visiting, don’t miss out on these six things.
Visit Castillo de San Felipe del Morro
The 16th-century fortress of Castillo de San Felipe del Morro (also known as El Morro) looks more like a castle than a military command post, but this formidable stone complex was once San Juan’s main line of defense against attacks. Today, remnants of the cannons and towers that long protected San Juan and its people offer historical insight into Puerto Rico’s past, as well as some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Soak up the sun on Flamenco Beach
Book yourself a side trip to the island of Culebra to spend a day or two soaking up the sun on Flamenco Beach, often considered one of Puerto Rico’s finest. With its white-sand shores and turquoise waters, this beautiful bay is unmatched. If you’re not the lay-on-the-beach type, you can always grab some snorkeling gear and take a peek at the corals and marine life that lie just beneath the water’s surface.
Water sports in Rincón
If water sports are more of your thing, you’ll find Puerto Rico’s best waves along the coast of Rincón. Experienced surfers travel far and wide to hang ten on Rincón’s waves, while first-timers can take their time learning to master their balance at a local surf school. Parasailing and deep sea fishing are just a couple of the other water sports awaiting travelers in Rincón.
Explore the Rio Camuy Caves
Puerto Rico’s Rio Camuy Caves is one of the largest underground cave networks in the entire world, and you can explore these impressive caves on a guided tour. Beyond the tour, you can experience a thrilling side to these caves by rappelling, ziplining or body rafting your way through.
Hike through El Yunque National Rainforest
The U.S. National Forest System’s sole tropical rainforest highlights Puerto Rico’s untouched natural beauty, from lush hiking trails to rushing waterfalls. Plan to spend a day or two hiking your way through this rainforest to reach the stunning views at the top of El Yunque.
Spend an evening on Bioluminescent Bay
You won’t be able to take your eyes of the water when you spend an evening on Bioluminescent Bay, where even the slightest movement causes the bay to light up with bright blues and greens. The reason? Microorganisms in the water naturally glow whenever they sense a disruption in the water, so go ahead, wave your oar back and forth in the bay and watch the water light up with glowing trails of light.
(Main image: vxla)
