Puerto Rico, an enchanting island in the Caribbean, is a haven for travelers seeking a vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and historical depth. Despite setbacks in recent years, including natural disasters and the global pandemic, Puerto Rico has resiliently bounced back with even more to offer visitors in 2021. Here’s your guide to the top 10 things you must do when visiting this tropical paradise.
### 1. Explore Old San Juan
A trip to Puerto Rico would be incomplete without walking through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. This historic area is filled with brightly colored buildings, colonial architecture, and fortified walls that tell tales of its past. Visit El Morro and Castillo San Cristobal for breathtaking views and a touch of history.
### 2. Relax on Flamenco Beach
Located on Culebra Island, Flamenco Beach is often ranked among the top beaches in the world. Known for its white sandy shores and turquoise waters, it’s a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.
### 3. Visit El Yunque National Forest
As the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque is famous for its rich biodiversity, stunning waterfalls, and hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks.
### 4. Discover Bioluminescent Bays
Puerto Rico is home to three of the world’s few bioluminescent bays (Mosquito Bay in Vieques being the brightest). Take a nighttime kayak tour to see these waters light up with bioluminescent microorganisms – it’s truly an otherworldly experience!
### 5. Savor Puerto Rican Cuisine
From street food in San Juan to fine dining experiences overlooking sea vistas, Puerto Rican cuisine is a tasty blend of Spanish, African, Taino, and American influences. Be sure to try local dishes such as mofongo (mashed plantains), lechón (roast pork), and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
### 6. Enjoy Live Music and Dance
Experience the vibrant cultural scene by enjoying live salsa music which can be found all over the island but especially in San Juan’s popular nightspots like La Placita de Santurce or Calle Fortaleza ‘Soho’.
### 7. Visit Coffee Plantations
Head into Puerto Rico’s central mountains where you can tour one of many coffee haciendas to learn about coffee production – a crucial aspect of local culture dating back to Spanish colonial times – and sample some freshly brewed local blends.
### 8. Snorkel or Dive Near Coral Reefs
The clear waters surrounding Puerto Rico are perfect for snorkeling or diving among colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Popular spots include La Parguera on the southwest coast or Fajardo on the east coast.
### 9. Take Part in Festivals
Depending on when you visit, join in local festivals like San Sebastián Street Festival (January), Casals Festival (February), or Ponce Carnival which leads up to Lent; each offers unique insights into Puerto Rican heritage through music, danceboutsaling artistryoatsdsyoodsnd food.
### 10 Tour Colonial Forts
Round off your trip by exploring more historical sites such as La Fortaleza (the oldest governor’s mansion still used for its original purpose) or Fuerte Conde de Mirasol Museum located on Vieques Island.