Top Tourist Attractions in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican beach near San Juan

Puerto Rico is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world due to its rich culture, delicious cuisine, beautiful landscape, comfortable climate, and stunning attractions.

Here’s a rundown of several must-see sites and attractions for your Puerto Rico holiday.

Old San Juan

Locally known as Viejo San Juan, this residential district in the capital city boasts vibrant and historic architecture, world-class food, scenic vistas, exciting cultural traditions and events, and more.

Visit the welcoming communities that call this extraordinary area home. Stroll along its timeless cobblestone streets and peruse its colorful homes, busy marketplaces, and incredible restaurants. Explore some of the island’s most iconic historical sites, such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a fortress citadel built in the 1700s used as a military outpost.

Journey through some of the more quirky tourist hotspots, including Umbrella Street— featuring a massive canopy of umbrellas extending to the governor’s residence, known as La Fortaleza.

Tour historical religious monuments such as the revered Capilla del Cristo (Chapel of Christ), and Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista (Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist)—the second-oldest cathedral in North America, dating to the 1500s, and containing Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León’s tomb.

With plenty of interesting and alluring sites and attractions, a visit to Old San Juan is a worthwhile stop on your Puerto Rico vacation.

El Yunque National Forest

This beautiful tropical rainforest contains some truly breathtaking natural wonders and an extremely diverse array of plant and wildlife species. It is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, and historically, considered sacred lands by the native Taino peoples.

This preserved ecosystem at the northeastern end of the island features incredible natural wonders perfect for outdoorsy travelers and sightseeing enthusiasts.

Hike picturesque trails throughout the forest and take in its gorgeous scenery, including Cascada La Mina—a 35-foot-tall waterfall, where visitors can swim in clear, relaxing pools. Enjoy Mount Britton Tower Trail’s 45-minute, panoramic tour of the mountains, coastline, and neighboring towns.

More intrepid travelers can explore the forest at night, when the surroundings come alive with the sounds of the native wildlife, such as the nocturnal calls of coquí tree frogs!

Rio Camuy Cave Park

Officially discovered in 1958, this extensive network of caverns and underground waterways stretches more than 10 miles across three towns (Camuy, Hatillo, and Lares), comprises more than 220 distinct cave formations, and contains the third-largest underground river in the world.

Traverse stupendous and ancient natural cave formations—some more than 150 feet high and nearly 200 feet wide! Check out stalagmites and stalactites peppered throughout the park, trek along the walkway overlooking the underground river, or gaze in wonder at immense cavern walls as stunning rays shine down on its otherworldly flora.

Each cave has distinct features and history, and while only a relatively small portion is accessible to the public, a guided tour of its underground limestone caves is truly unforgettable, and a one-of-a-kind photo opp!

Enjoy a range of tours to fully appreciate the extraordinary natural wonders that make the region so famous. Embark on an adventure itinerary for a fun-filled day of exploration, amazement, and forever memories!

Cayo Icacos

No Puerto Rico vacation is complete without a trip to the beach, and Cayo Icacos is the perfect one for a relaxing day in the sun and sea.

This small, uninhabited island just off the coast of the nation’s Fajardo region is part of the La Cordillera Reef Nature Reserve. It’s home to a diverse collection of sealife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a colorful assortment of tropical birds and fish— making it an incredibly popular hotspot for sailing and snorkeling.

It’s only a 15-minute boat ride from Fajardo to this island oasis—an incredible getaway from the party scene and crowds, and an ideal place to lounge and relax in clear, blue waters and warm, white-sand beaches!

Book an excursion tour to this special island, ride the local water taxi, or charter your own private boat and experience its unique wonders on your own terms. There’s plenty of fun and relaxation to be had on a private island adventure!

Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay

This small bay on the island of Vieques boasts a unique ecological feature that draws visitors from around the world for its surreal beauty and intense, magical aura.

As its name suggests, Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay literally glows, due to a rare species of plankton only found on a handful of Caribbean islands—radiating a stunning, mystical blue. This enchanting and fascinating spectacle will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your vacation!

Stroll hand in hand with your loved one along the beach, gazing in astonishment at these otherworldly waters. Take a guided tour of the bay, and learn all about this wonder from your very own clear-bottom kayak!

Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay is best experienced at night during a new moon, when such ambiance truly dazzles, so consider the best time to travel to experience the best of this breathtaking marvel!

Work With InteleTravel to Plan Your Perfect Puerto Rico Getaway!

There are countless worthwhile attractions dotting Puerto Rico, and the best way to see everything you want while enjoying top accommodations, activities, dining, and entertainment is to enlist a travel professional with experience, knowledge, and expertise.

InteleTravel Advisors are certified travel experts who can help you plan the ultimate tripwhatever island experience you seek!

We’ll arrange the perfect custom itinerary with all your needs and preferences in mind, book the myriad aspects of your travels, and secure valuable upgrades to further enhance your vacation experience!

Contact an InteleTravel Advisor today to book your perfect Puerto Rico vacation!

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