If the chilly winter weather has you longing for warmer days, maybe it’s time to book a getaway down to the sunny isle of Puerto Rico. A trip to this American territory doesn’t have to leave a dent in your wallet, either; check out these four ways to enjoy Puerto Rico on the cheap.
Beaches
Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of a trip to Puerto Rico is the chance to spend leisurely days on white-sand beaches. Hundreds of beaches line this Caribbean island, and they won’t cost you a pretty penny, either. Stake out your own sandy paradise for free or, at most, for the cost of a parking permit at one of Puerto Rico’s public beaches.
Casa Bacardi
Bacardi fans won’t want to miss a chance to explore the rum’s Puerto Rican home in Catano. Tours are free, and after you take in the history of this popular rum, you can sample it with two free drinks. Skip the overpriced organized tours and take a ferry over from San Juan – tickets are just $1 and the cab ride from the pier to the distillery will run you less than $10.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
You can’t visit Puerto Rico without a day trip to Castillo San Felipe del Morro, one of the most historic sites on the island. As one of the largest Spanish forts in the Caribbean, El Morro has stood for centuries as a symbol of 16th-century Spanish engineering. Today, you can stroll through the fortress grounds to see the cannons and 60-foot walls that once defended this isle. Admission is just $3 per person.
El Yunque National Forest
Nature lovers will enjoy hiking through El Yunque National Forest, a free nature preserve that also happens to be the only rainforest in the U.S. national parks system. Escape the bustle of San Juan with an outdoor adventure in El Yunque, where you can hike through the lush forests and discover natural pools and waterfalls. The forest itself is free to visit, and you can camp for free with a permit.
(Main image: mihir1310)
