What should I not miss in Puerto Rico?

Q: What are 3 things Puerto Rico is known for?

Puerto Rico is the worlds leading rum producer; 80% of the rum consumed in the United States hails from the island. There is a counted number bioluminescent bays in the entire world. Puerto Rico is home three bioluminescent bays.

Explore one of the best-preserved colonial centres in the Americas, where the narrow streets are lined with elegant townhouses and a rich choice of enticing restaurants.

Continue reading to find out more about...

#02 Paso Fino horses

Ride these friendly horses along the beach or through the jungle and experience their exceptionally smooth gait.

Paso Fino horse © horsemen/Shutterstock

#03 Playa Flamenco , Culebra

Nothing beats waking up on this unspoiled expanse of silky white sand, one of the most dazzling beaches in the world.

#04 Observatorio de Arecibo

The world’s largest radio telescope is an awe-inspiring sight, with plenty of thought-provoking exhibits on hand to satisfy budding scientists and aspiring astronauts.

Large radio telescope dish in Arecibo national observatory © Photo Spirit/Shutterstock

continued below

#05 Beach hopping in Vieques

Tour the mesmerizing beaches of Vieques, precious slices of untouched Caribbean wilderness.

Vieques, Puerto Rico © Danita Delimont/Shutterstock

#06 Diving and snorkelling

The crystalline waters off Puerto Rico contain some of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean, making it an underwater paradise ideal for diving and snorkelling.

#07 Ponce

Puerto Rico’s second city is a showcase of ebullient architecture, impressive art and poignant museums, including the lavish home of the Don Q rum empire, Castillo Serallés.

The old town of the city of Ponce in Puerto Rico © Aneta Waberska/Shutterstock

#08 Salsa

Learn to dance, check out a salsa club or just sit back and enjoy the pros on the island that was home to El Cantante , Gran Combo and Ricky Martin.

Dancing salsa © Ioana Catalina E/Shutterstock

#09 Piña colada

This sumptuous blend of rum, pineapple and coconut is served everywhere, from ritzy hotel bars to shacks on the beach.

#10 San Germán

Soak up the colonial history in this charming old town, with ornate mansions and delicate churches harking back to the boom days of sugar and coffee.

San German Cathedral in San German, Puerto Rico © Israel Pabon/Shutterstock

#11 Surfing

Puerto Rico is hammered by the full force of the Atlantic swells in the winter, its north coast lined with dizzying breaks.

#12 Casa Bacardi

Learn everything there is to know about the Caribbean’s favourite tipple at the “Cathedral of Rum”.

#13 Coffee

Puerto Rican coffee once supplied the Vatican, and today the island’s fertile soils and ideal climate are fuelling a resurgence in potent, gourmet brands.

Coffee plantation © Fotos593/Shutterstock

#14 El Yunque National Forest

Puerto Rico’s most enchanting reserve of pristine rainforest, jungle-covered peaks and bubbling cascades is laced with panoramic trails.

#15 El Morro

Even Sir Francis Drake couldn’t take this spectacular Spanish fortress, a whopping sledgehammer of stone and cannons that has guarded San Juan Bay for over four hundred years.

#16 La Ruta Panorámica

Explore this winding route along the island’s mountainous spine, a world of misty forests, coffee farms and roadside stalls selling roast pork.

Travel advice for Puerto Rico

Planning on your own? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Find even more inspiration for Puerto Rico here

Ready to travel and discover
Puerto Rico?

Get support from our local experts for
stress-free planning & worry-free travels

What is the #1 attraction in Puerto Rico?

1. Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo) Walking the streets of Old San Juan, with its lovely colonial architecture and imposing forts, is like stepping back into another era. This is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, so make sure you allow some time on your itinerary for this city.

What are 3 things Puerto Rico is known for?

Puerto Rico is the world's leading rum producer; 80% of the rum consumed in the United States hails from the island. There is a counted number bioluminescent bays in the entire world. Puerto Rico is home three bioluminescent bays.

What are some non touristy things to do in Puerto Rico?

El Yunque National Forest. 6,785. Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests. By JoDayne14. ... .

Flamenco Beach. 3,589. Beaches. ... .

Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay. 2,691. Bodies of Water. ... .

Hacienda Campo Rico. 688. Sports Camps & Clinics. ... .

Playa Caracas. 917. Beaches. ... .

Playa La Chiva. 806. Beaches. ... .

Cueva del Indio. 759. Caverns & Caves. ... .

Cayo Icacos. 583. Islands..

What is the most beautiful part of Puerto Rico?

The most beautiful parts of Puerto Rico include the west area of the island, for its beaches and breathtaking sunsets. Other beautiful areas include Vieques, Culebra, Fajardo, Utuado, and Manatí.