Where to Stay in Puerto Rico in 2024, by an Area Local
If you’re planning a visit and wondering where to stay in Puerto Rico, then you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right place to stay in Puerto Rico could very well make the difference between a great vacation and a forgettable one.
Not to worry, though, because I’m a Puerto Rico local who is here to help you map out your trip.
Because I know it’s hard to decide between staying in the capital city of San Juan and other municipalities around the island, I’ve put together this complete guide on where to stay in Puerto Rico to help you choose the perfect stay for your vacation.
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Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico
Just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Puerto Rico? Here are my top picks:
- 🏆 Best Overall Hotel – Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Golf & Beach Resort
- ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – St. Regis Bahia Resort
- 👪 Best for Families – La Concha Renaissance
- 👔 Best for Business – Sheraton Hotel & Casino
- 🛎️ Best Boutique – O:live Boutique Hotel
- 📍 Best Near Old San Juan – Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel
- 💵 Best Budget Hotel – Boutique Hotel Belgica
Ok, let’s do a deep dive into the best areas and neighborhoods in Puerto Rico:
11 Best Neighbourhoods & Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an archipelago divided into 78 municipalities. San Juan is the capital city as you can see on this map. San Juan sports many Puerto Rico hotels and accommodation options but it isn’t the best place to stay if you’re looking for breathtaking uncrowded beaches or colorful sunsets. Let’s look into the best spots to stay around the island.
Old San Juan
👉 Best Area For Sightseeing | ✨ Best Old San Juan Hotels: El Convento • Sheraton Old San Juan • CasaBlanca Hotel
Old San Juan is the most popular destination in Puerto Rico and the perfect place to stay in the city of San Juan if you want to enjoy historical landmarks, good food, nightlife, and Puerto Rico’s local culture all within a short walk.
San Juan is home to famous attractions like El Morro, Paseo de la Princesa, and the San Juan Gate. The capital city also has plenty of bars and nightclubs that invite visitors to party until sunrise.
Pros of Staying in Old San Juan:
- Attractions within walking distance
- Lots of fun restaurants and bars
- Great Puerto Rico nightlife
- Variety of hotels for all types of travelers
- Options for public transportation
- Renting a car isn’t necessary
Cons of Staying in Old San Juan:
- Gets crowded
- Restaurants and hotels can be pricey
- Limited on-street free parking
- Hard to navigate in a car
📚 Old San Juan Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for On-foot Sightseeing
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – El Convento • Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel • CasaBlanca Hotel
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Old San Juan
🍽️ Where to Eat – Deaverdura ($), El Jibarito ($$), Marmalade ($$$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – La Factoria, La Taberna de Lúpulo
🎟️ Top Attractions – Fort San Felipe del Morro, Paseo de la Princesa, Castillo San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza
Rio Grande
👉 Best Area For Adventure Lovers | ✨ Best Rio Grande Hotels: Wyndham Grand Rio • St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort • Margaritaville Vacation Club
Rio Grande is home to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the entire United States and one of the most popular attractions in Puerto Rico.
Rio Grande is the perfect place to stay in Puerto Rico for adventure travelers.
There are many outdoor activities like hiking difficult trails, sliding down natural waterfalls, horseback riding, and ziplining.
This city also has the most luxurious hotel in Puerto Rico, the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, and is close to Luquillo and Fajardo, two great cities with beautiful beaches.
Pros of Staying in Rio Grande:
- Close to El Yunque
- Outdoor activities
- Close the Luquillo Beach
- Variety of accommodation options
Cons of Staying in Rio Grande:
- Far from San Juan’s main attractions
- Rains frequently
- Not many attractions outside El Yunque
📚 Rio Grande Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Adventure Lovers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Wyndham Grand Rio Mar • St. Regis Bahia Beach • Margaritaville Vacation Club
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Rio Grande
🍽️ Where to Eat – Dos Panzas Taqueria ($$), El Rey del Mofongo ($$), Carabali Bar & Grill ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Ekelekua, Brew!!! Taller Experimental
🎟️ Top Attractions – El Yunque, Hacienda Carabalí, Las Picuas Beach
Condado
👉 Best Area For Families | ✨ Best Condado Hotels: Condado Vanderbilt • La Concha Renaissance Resort • Condado Ocean Club
Condado is a neighborhood conveniently located between the beach and a lagoon. It houses beachfront resorts and some of the top San Juan restaurants.
Condado is one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico for families and has some fabulous Puerto Rico resorts.
Condado sports multiple accommodation options with an outdoor terrace, swimming pool, dining area, comfy beds, outdoor pool, and in-house casino, and is home to Ford’s four-star hotel, Condado Vanderbilt.
Pros of Staying in Condado:
- Family entertainment
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Close to Old San Juan
- Close to the airport
- Located near the beach
Cons of Staying in Condado:
- Restaurants and hotels can be pricey
- Heavy traffic
- Limited free on-street parking
📚 Condado Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Families
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Condado Vanderbilt • La Concha Renaissance Resort • Condado Ocean Club
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Condado
🍽️ Where to Eat – 1919 ($$$$), Raya by Mario Pagan ($$$), ($$) Pannes ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – ARYA Rooftop, Wicked Lily
🎟️ Top Attractions – Condado Beach, Condado Lagoon
Isla Verde
👉 Best Area For Couples and Honeymooners | ✨ Best Isla Verde Hotels: Hampton Inn & Suites • Embassy Suites by Hilton • TRYP by Wyndham
Isla Verde is a luxurious resort area that offers visitors a taste of the Caribbean while staying close to San Juan Airport and Old San Juan’s attractions.
Isla Verde is a great location to stay in Puerto Rico for honeymooners and couples.
Isla Verde restaurants serve everything from authentic Puerto Rican dishes to international delicacies.
The bars and clubs in the area offer top-notch nightlife for night owls. Isla Verde is also next to Piñones, where you can enjoy the best Puerto Rican cuisine.
Pros of Staying in Isla Verde:
- Close to airport
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Thriving nightlife
- Public transportation option
- Beachfront location
- Accommodation options
Cons of Staying in Isla Verde:
- Gets crowded
- Hotels and restaurants can be pricey
- Not the best area to experience Puerto Rican culture
📚 Isla Verde Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Couples and Honeymooners
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Hampton Inn & Suites • Embassy Suites by Hilton • TRYP by Wyndham
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Isla Verde
🍽️ Where to Eat – Caña by Juliana Gonzalez ($$), Sirena Oceanfront ($$), Bistro Café($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Patio de las Flores, Entrevinos
🎟️ Top Attractions – Isla Verde Beach, Hobbie Beach, Calle Loíza
Fajardo
👉 Best Area For Clear Beaches | ✨ Best Fajardo Hotel: El Conquistador Resort
If you want to stay close to some of the clearest waters of Puerto Rico, book your stay in Fajardo.
Fajardo is located on the east side of the island and it sports one of the best hotels in Puerto Rico, El Conquistador Beach Resort, with a breathtaking view of the coast and a new waterpark for kids.
Some of the best things to do in Fajardo include the bioluminescent lagoon and Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve. You’ll also find plenty of excellent beaches in Fajardo and the surrounding area.
Pros of Staying in Fajardo:
- Clearwater and sandy beaches
- Good location to visit Vieques and Culebra
- Lots of restaurants
- Has camping sites
- Easy access to a Puerto Rico bio bay
- Tours to offshore islands
- Access to great diving and snorkeling sites
- Lots of tours and equipment rentals
Cons of Staying in Fajardo:
- Far from San Juan
- Few indoor attractions
📚 Fajardo Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Clear Beaches
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – El Conquistador Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Fajardo
🍽️ Where to Eat – La Estación ($$), Ahumado a Leña ($$), Sal y Pimienta ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – El Chinchorro de J, Pescaito Restaurant & Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Seven Seas Beach, Las Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, Laguna Grande Bioluminescent Lagoon, Hacienda Chocolat
📚 Get Planning: How to Go from San Juan to Fajardo
👉 Local Tip: If you stay in Fajardo, make sure to make a day trip to Icacos cay, where you’ll find some of the clearest waters of Puerto Rico. For more San Juan day trips, see my complete guide to the 15 top day trips near San Juan.
Ponce
👉 Best Area For History Lovers | ✨ Best Ponce Hotels: Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort • Aloft Ponce • Boutique Hotel Bélgica
Ponce, located on the south coast facing the Caribbean Sea, is a great place to stay in Puerto Rico for people looking for a similar place to Old San Juan.
Ponce has multiple landmarks dating back to the Spanish colonial era that will transport every visitor to the island’s past lifestyle.
It’s also home to multiple museums where you can learn about Puerto Rican art, music, and culture.
The beach is an entertainment option in Ponce, and Ponce’s restaurants will make you experience the best of the local cuisine.
Pros of Staying in Ponce:
- Lots of restaurants
- Central location to visit cities in the south
- Many interesting things to do in Ponce for history lovers
- Access to beaches
- Has both luxury and budget-friendly hotels
- Nightlife options
- Has one of the three Puerto Rico international airports
Cons of Staying in Ponce:
- Far from San Juan
- Food can be pricey
- Heavy traffic in some areas
📚 Ponce Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for History Lovers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Hilton Ponce Golf and Casino Resort • Aloft Ponce • Boutique Hotel Bélgica
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Ponce
🍽️ Where to Eat – Bahia Restaurant ($$), Vistas Restaurant ($$), Lola Eclectic Cuisine ($$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Asturias Lounge Bar, Birriola
🎟️ Top Attractions – Parque de Bombas, Museo de Arte de Ponce, La Guancha, Tibes Indigenous Ceremonial Park
Isabela
👉 Best Area For Experiencing Local Island Vibes | ✨ Best Isabela Hotels: Parador Villas del Mar Hau • Royal Isabela • Villa Montaña Beach Resort
If you want to stay in a city that’s tourist-friendly but not touristy enough to ruin the local cultural experience, then head over to Isabela.
Isabela is a coastal city with a prime location between the north and northwest attractions.
Besides the beautiful Jobos Beach, Isabela is home to the Guajataca Forest, Cueva de las Golondrinas, Montones Beach, and some of the best restaurants to eat seafood in Puerto Rico.
Isabela is close to other nearby Puerto Rican cities like Camuy, Aguadilla, and Arecibo.
If staying here, be sure to bookmark my guide to the best things to do in Isabela.
Pros of Staying in Isabela:
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Prime location
- Great beaches
- Luxury and budget-friendly hotels available
- Home to surfing contests
Cons of Staying in Isabela:
- Far from San Juan
- Beaches have strong currents and riptides
📚 Isabela Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Experiencing Local Culture
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Parador Villas del Mar Hau • Royal Isabela • Villa Montaña Beach Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Isabela
🍽️ Where to Eat – Jobos Mojito Beach Bar & Restaurant ($$), Sonido del Mar ($$$), Uma’s ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – KAI, Ola Lola’s Tiki Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Playa Jobos, Guajataca Forest, La Cara del Indio
Cabo Rojo
👉 Best Area For Young Travelers | ✨ Best Cabo Rojo Hotels: Combate Beach Resort • Douglas Highway Inn Hotel • BOHO Beach Club
Cabo Rojo is home to beautiful sunsets, beautiful beaches, and landmarks filled with natural beauty.
Located in the west of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is the ideal getaway for couples or backpackers traveling in groups who want to experience the culture and beauty of Puerto Rico.
Cabo Rojo offers a few of the best landmarks in Puerto Rico, like Los Morrillos Lighthouse in Cabo Rojo’s National Wildlife Refuge, Boqueron Beach, the Pink Salt Flats, and Joyuda.
Pros of Staying in Cabo Rojo:
- Access to some of the top beaches of Puerto Rico
- Lots of free things to do in Cabo Rojo
- Budget-friendly
- Accommodation options
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Camping sites
Cons of Staying in Cabo Rojo:
- Far from the metro area
- Beaches get crowded
📚 Cabo Rojo Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Youngsters
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Combate Beach Resort • Douglas Highway Inn Hotel • BOHO Beach Club
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Cabo Rojo
🍽️ Where to Eat – Boho Kitchen ($$), Dylan’s Grill House ($$), Luna Llena Bar and Grill ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Buena Vibra, Cactus Bar and Grill
🎟️ Top Attractions – Pink Salt Lakes, Playuela, Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge
Rincón
👉 Best Area For Surfers and Beach Bums | ✨ Best Rincon Hotels: Villa Cofresi • Casa Verde Hotel • Rincon Beach Resort
Rincón is a beach town on the west coast that is home to the best beaches in Puerto Rico for surfers.
It’s the ideal place to stay in Puerto Rico for people who want a vacation full of gorgeous beaches, surfing, and small-town peaceful vibes.
It also makes for an affordable base if you’re doing Puerto Rico as a budget traveler, as it has plenty of budget-friendly hotels.
Rincon’s town center has restaurants, souvenir shops, bakeries, and art galleries, plus small colorful houses that make for a great photo background.
Rincon is also the best town in Puerto Rico for whale watching during the winter and spring.
Read my full guide to where to stay in Rincon for more info.
Pros of Staying in Rincon:
- Beaches for surfing
- Home to great Puerto Rico snorkeling spots
- Budget-friendly hotels
- There are lots of fun things to do in Rincon
- Amazing sunsets
Cons of Staying in Rincon:
- Far from San Juan
- Hard to move around without a car
- Not the best city to experience authentic local culture
📚 Rincon Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Surfers and Beach Bummers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Villa Cofresi • Casa Verde Hotel • Rincon Beach Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Rincon
🍽️ Where to Eat – Rincón Boricua ($$), The Beach House ($$), Red Flamboyan ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Shipwreck, Rincón Beer Company
🎟️ Top Attractions – Domes Beach, Rincon Beach, Tres Palmas Marine Reserve
Culebra Island
👉 Best Area for Relaxation | ✨ Best Culebra Hotels: Club Seabourne Hotel • Palmetto Guest House • El Navegante de Culebra
Culebra is one of the smaller islands that belong to Puerto Rico, and it’s the perfect destination to relax and disconnect from the daily rush.
The island’s main attractions are its paradisiacal blue turquoise beaches like Flamenco Beach and Tamarindo Beach, some of the best beaches in Culebra and Puerto Rico.
Culebra Island is also one of the places in Puerto Rico where you can swim with sea turtles while scuba diving or find their nests on the sandy beach.
For more, see my full guide to where to stay on Culebra.
Pros of Staying in Culebra:
- Uncrowded beaches
- Relaxing getaway
- Easy access to Culebrita and Vieques
- Top-notch snorkeling and diving
Con of Staying in Culebra:
- Difficult to get there
- Mostly outdoor attractions
- Lack of nightlife
📚 Culebra Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Relaxation
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Club Seabourne Hotel • Palmetto Guest House • El Navegante de Culebra
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Culebra
🍽️ Where to Eat – Dinghy Dock ($$), Lechonera La Criolla ($$), DomiRico ($)
🍸 Where to Drink – La Lobina, Mamacitas Guest House
🎟️ Top Culebra Attractions – Playa Tamarindo, Playa Flamenco
👉 Local Tip: While Flamenco is probably the most famous beach in Puerto Rico, the island has many beautiful beaches without the crowds, music, and boats.
Vieques Island
👉 Best Area For Nature Lovers | ✨ Best Vieques Hotels: Bravo Beach Hotel • El Blok • Blue Horizon Boutique Resort
Nature lovers should definitely include Vieques in their list of where to stay in Puerto Rico.
Vieques Island is a small island located off Puerto Rico’s east coast. Vieques’ attractions go from walking on a black sand beach to kayaking in Mosquito Bay, the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
If you’re staying in Vieques, be sure to bookmark my full guide to where to stay in Vieques.
Pros of Staying in Vieques Island :
- Access to the brightest bio bay in the world
- Lots of restaurants and bars
- Natural breathtaking landscapes
- Great Puerto Rico diving and snorkeling spots
Cons of Staying in Vieques Island:
- Located offshore
- Difficult to get to
📚 Vieques Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Nature Lovers
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Bravo Beach Hotel • El Blok • Blue Horizon Boutique Resort
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Vieques
🍽️ Where to Eat – Biekes Bistro ($$), Coqui Fire Cafe ($$), El Resuelve de Carmen ($)
🍸 Where to Drink – Saint Voodoo’s, Crab Island Rum Distillery
🎟️ Top Attractions – Mosquito Bay, Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, Caracas Beach
Utuado
👉 Best Area For Experiencing the Countryside | ✨ Best Utuado Hotels: Casa Grande Mountain Retreat
Utuado is located in Puerto Rico’s mountainous region and is a great place to stay to experience Puerto Rico’s peaceful countryside.
Although many travelers shy away from the town due to the curvy roads to get there, Utuado’s charm and relaxing vibe are worth the drive.
Utuado’s things to do include caving, river tubing, kayaking, and swimming in rivers. It’s also one of the best places to camp in Puerto Rico.
The mesmerizing landscapes, the relaxing atmosphere, and the warm locals make Utuado one of the best places to stay on the island.
Pros of Staying in Utuado
- Relaxing and secluded place to stay
- Lots of natural attractions
- Free things to do
- Great camping sites
- Fresh temperatures all year
Cons of Staying in Utuado
- Need a rental car to get there
- Difficult roads to navigate
- Limited hotel offer
- Far from the beach
📚 Utuado Mini Guide 📚
Best Area for Experiencing the Countryside
Google Map
✨ Best Hotels – Casa Grande Mountain Retreat
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Utuado
🍽️ Where to Eat – Creole Mofongo y Algo Mas ($$), Hijos del Josco ($$), Tavo’s Pizza ($)
🍸 Where to Drink – Bier Garden Utuado, Pueblo Viejo 419 Gastrobar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center, Cueva del Arco, Cañón Blanco
Tips for Staying in Puerto Rico
Choose the Right Location in Puerto Rico
To get the most out of your trip to Puerto Rico, you must choose where to stay according to your goal vacation. While Old San Juan is central (and the ideal base if you only have 3 days in Puerto Rico), it won’t fit every traveler’s taste.
Puerto Rico offers different accommodation options for surfers, history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and beach bummers so visitors can find the ideal place to stay.
Rent a Car if You Can
Old San Juan is a great city for walking on foot without the need to rent a car or take a taxi. However, travelers who are thinking about visiting other parts of the island should rent a vehicle in Puerto Rico since public transportation is mostly limited to Puerto Rico’s metro area.
Be sure to read up on Puerto Rico’s driving rules, and use Discover Cars to find the best prices for car rentals.
Go Outside San Juan’s Touristic Zone
While Old San Juan, Isla Verde, and Condado are great places to stay in Puerto Rico, they don’t do justice to Puerto Rico’s culture and beauty. Some of the island’s greatest destinations are in non-touristy municipalities like Utuado, Arecibo, Isabela, and Orocovis.
If you don’t dare to go on your own, hire a local guide that takes you to Puerto Rico’s best-hidden gems.
Travel to Puerto Rico in the Off-Season
Puerto Rico can be an expensive destination, especially during the high season. Visiting the island off-season can save you money on hotels, tours, rental cars, and even restaurants. Puerto Rico sports nice weather all year round and you can visit the beaches in other seasons besides summer.
For more, see my guide to the best times to visit Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Doesn’t Have “All Inclusive” Resorts
While many people associate a Caribbean island vacation with an all inclusive resort, you may be surprised to learn that there are no true “all inclusive resorts” in Puerto Rico.
Yes, you can find some Puerto Rico resorts that offer packages including some meals or drinks. But you won’t find a full “all inclusive” resort, like you might in the Dominican Republic or other Caribbean islands.
I wrote a whole article explaining why Puerto Rico lacks all inclusive resorts, if you’re curious about the topic.
FAQs About Staying in Puerto Rico
What is the best area of Puerto Rico to stay in?
The best areas to stay in Puerto Rico include Old San Juan for sightseeing, Rio Grande for adventure lovers, Rincon and Cabo Rojo to surf and find the best sunsets, Vieques to see the bioluminescent bay, and Culebra to relax on the beach.
Where should you not stay in Puerto Rico?
In Puerto Rico, visitors shouldn’t stay in any caserio or La Perla, as they aren’t areas for tourists. People who want to stay close to the beach or who don’t drive well on curvy roads shouldn’t stay in the mountainous region of Puerto Rico.
What side of the Island is best in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s west coast is best for beach bummers, surfers, and nature lovers. Puerto Rico’s north coast is best for people who like the buzz of the metro area but also natural escapes. The east side is best to find luxurious hotels and clear beaches.
What is the most beautiful part of Puerto Rico?
Which is better, Condado or Isla Verde?
Isla Verde is better for visitors who want to stay close to the airport, but still want to enjoy the beach and the local cuisine. Condado is better for people who want to stay away from the crowd of Isla Verde, but still want to be close to the landmarks of Old San Juan and the beach. Condado is also a more family-friendly destination.
Is it better to stay in Old San Juan or Condado?
Old San Juan is a better location for visitors who want to be close to Puerto Rico’s top landmarks within walking distance. Condado is better for families that want to enjoy the beach, but still want to be close enough to Old San Juan’s landmarks.
***
That’s the complete guide to the best neighborhoods and cities where to stay in Puerto Rico. I hope this helps you find the best place to stay for your Puerto Rico vacation. While you’re here, don’t miss my complete guide to the 71 best things to do in Puerto Rico.
Have fun exploring Puerto Rico!
The Island Of The Enchantment
What are your thoughts about staying near Mar Chiquita / Manati? I don’t see that discussed much in any guide. Would we be better to stay near Luqillo? It will be our first PR visit; two adults, one middle-schooler, all love water/outdoors. TIA!
Very helpful! Thank you, Vanessa!
First time visit with family and trying to decide between La Concha Renaissance or Wyndham Grand Rio Mar. I already cancelled one resort due to comments about airport noise.
wow thanks for doing this! What are your thought for staying for a month to work from there? Someplace relaxing, beautiful and lots of light – less noise
Hi Vanessa,
I’m a single woman in her early 60’s that would like to travel to my island.
The last time I was there was in 1999 when my parents were alive.
What is your recommendation for relaxation and fun?
Hi Vanessa,
Where is the best place to stay for two ladies going on a birthday trip looking to party at clubs at night and go to the beach bars in the day time.
My boyfriend and I have flights for February but debating what area to stay in…Fajardo, Arroyo or Rincon. Any thought or suggestions?
I wanted to know what you meant about beaches being dangerous in Isabella. Thank you.
I wondered the same thing myself. My wife and daughter stayed at Villa Montana in Isabela back in 2019 I think. Daughter and I went horseback riding and while riding on the beach we encountered a pack of dogs that were nipping at my horses legs. It was a beautiful place though.
According to posts elsewhere (see Trip Advisor), Isabella has extremely dangerous rip tides.
What are your thoughts on staying in Dorado, because we are going April 25-May 2nd and are very excited as this is our first visit to Puerto Rico and I am a little nervous that we picked the wrong place to stay. My wife and I are older, but traveling with my early 40’s cousin so we wanted a place by the beach but not too busy. If I need to change arrangements I should probably do so right away. Please let me know your thoughts.
Hi Thom, did you end up staying in Dorado? I’m booked at Hyatt Residence Club Dorado. Would love to know your thoughts on the West side? We are also renting a car, which I’m a little nervous about.
Hola! I am booking to 9 days in PR and I am wondering if to stay 4 nights in Aguadilla (visit Rincon and Cabo Rojo), and 4 nights in Condado. Will it be crazy to do just 2 nights in Condado and 2 nights by Luquillo? Thanks!
Hi Mary! 4 nights on the West Coast are great! Rincón, Cabo Rojo, and Aguadilla are definitely worth checking out. I would add Isabela to that if you have a chance. About your question, it’s not crazy at all! Two nights and three days are enough to explore San Juan’s main highlights. However, I would move them towards the end of your trip after the two nights in Luquillo. That way you’ll be closer to the airport on the last day of your trip. Hope this helps!
Can you shed some light on Mar Chiquita area? Traveling in February likely (2 adults plus our 9 year old child and would like to know if it’s a good region/choice? All like a blend of chill time near/in water (wading, snorkeling) blended with day trips to other adventures.
Hello Lisa! Mar Chiquita is located in Manatí, which offers lots of things to do and has top Puerto Rico beaches (including Mar Chiquita). Check out our guide with the best things to do in Manatí to learn more. However, I’d suggest Culebra or towns in Puerto Rico’s south coast (Lajas, Guánica) if you’re visiting during the winter season and are interested in snorkeling. Generally, from October to February, beaches on the north and west coasts have rip currents and strong tides. Culebra and Lajas are great snorkeling spots and are mostly guarded by reefs and sandbars, so they are safer.
Hello,
I love the way you detailed the places there. Thanks for that.
I am very adventurous and I thought about staying in the Rio Grande.
I am going by myself for the first time to Puerto Rico I would like to know where you recommend to stay to meet people there.
Hi Cris! I’m glad you found useful the post. The Luquillo Beach, La Pared Beach, and Luquillo food kiosks near the Rio Grande area are great places to get to know locals. Staying at paradores (locally owned hotels) is also a great way to connect with them. Visit Piñones, Pork Highway, La Placita de Santurce, and shopping malls too. Drive to the mountainous interior (Utuado, Lares, Cayey, Jayuya), and you’ll find both locals and adventures. Hope this helps!
Hi! Booked a last minute solo trip for this week! Young single female looking for beautiful beaches, sunsets and away from families… w a hint of young adventurous vibes. Thinking Rincon is too far for this short trip but could rent a car to explore a bit. Any tips?? Oct 13(land at midnight) -15th
Hello Amanda! Renting a car will expand your options. Rincon is almost three hours from SJU, but the sunsets on the west coast are the best! If you choose the West Coast, I’d recommend Cabo Rojo’s Wildlife Refuge and Punta Guaniquilla Nature Reserve for adventure and remote beaches. For something closer to San Juan, head out to Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve to enjoy beautiful beaches and you’ll be just in time for the new moon (October 14th), the best time to take a bio bay tour at Laguna Grande. Punta Yeguas in Yabucoa and Punta Tuna in Maunabo are worth checking out too. Welcome to PR!
Hi, thank you for all of this information. We are a group of 5 traveling after Christmas into January. We would like to be near San Juan to experience the sites and food (hoping to do the food tour) and then very interested in snorkeling and doing a bioluminescent kayak. Where would you suggest that we stay?
Currently, I am looking at homes/condos in Condado and then would love some suggestions on where to stay to be able to snorkle at this time of year.
Hi Heather! Condado is a great option to stay near Old San Juan. This neighborhood itself offers lots to do. Consider staying a few days in Fajardo to do a bioluminescent lagoon kayak tour and to have easy access to great snorkeling sites. It’s also easy to take boat trips to Vieques and Culebra, offshore islands with some of the best places to snorkel in PR. I’d even recommend staying there for 2-3 days if you’re all about snorkeling. Keep in mind there is a full moon during the last week of December, which affects greatly bioluminescence visibility.
Hi Vanessa we are going in Feb. I am debating where to rent a vacation home. I found some in Punta Santiago Humacao but trying to figure out the best town to stay in. We are visiting the rain forest and the bacardi plant and going to island of Culebra.We have a rental car where would be the best towns to satay in?
Hi Cassie! It all depends on your budget, priorities, and the group size. A vacation home is best if you’re traveling with a large group and would like to stay together and if you’d like to prepare your own meals. I’d suggest staying at least one or two nights in San Juan or neighboring cities to visit San Juan’s attractions and the Bacardi Factory in Cataño (you might also be in time for the San Sebastian Festival in San Juan). Later, you can stay in Luquillo, Fajardo, Ceiba, or Humacao to explore the east coast, El Yunque, and be near the ferry terminal to Culebra.
We are staying in Luquillo over Christmas so would really appreciate knowing which restaurants are open on Christmas eve and Christmas day in the area.
Hi Vanessa – thanks for all your amazing info! We’re planning a trip to PR with our adult kids (21 & 23yrs) for 6nts at the end of March ’24. Our wish list includes beautiful beaches for swimming, affordable bars/restaurants with a relaxed, fun vibe, and nice accommodation with a pool, within walking distance to the beach (mid-range price). Where would you suggest we go? My husband and I will stay on after the kids leave and want somewhere laid back to have a relaxing beach break. We don’t want to change hotels a lot but would be ok with 2-3 nights in one place then move to somewhere else.
Hi Theresa! Based on your description, I’d say, Cabo Rojo, Vieques or Culebra are your perfect destinations. These three towns are home to the best Puerto Rico beaches. The offers of hotel and apartment rentals are diverse, so you can totally find accommodation near the beach for a mid-range price. Cabo Rojo restaurants, however, are more affordable than those in Vieques and Culebra. In the last two, you kind of have to find the spots where the locals eat. But, Culebra and Vieques’ beaches are often ranked as the best on the island. Guánica, Arecibo, Luquillo, Humacao, and Fajardo are also good alternatives.
Looking to visit in May. Looking for a carribean vacation with a wonderful beach to relax at. Not to far from the culture of pr. Would love your advise.
Hi Dawn! I’d say Luquillo, Cabo Rojo, Arecibo, Lajas, Guayama, Hatillo, Humacao, Ponce, and Fajardo are great alternatives. They all have great beaches and hotspots where you can try local food and catch local festivals. Vieques, Culebra, and Rincón have great Caribbean vibes but aren’t necessarily the best spots to immerse in the local culture. Hope that helps!
Hi needing some help with planning a group trip to PR……..would love to stay on beach, group enjoys offshore fishing and would like to be able to walk to lunch/dinner I’m not even sure if this is safe or should stay at a resort, the group doesn’t care for them bc they are super touristy …… we do love hanging out in the water and enjoying beverages, is there a more locals area to stay and eat etc so it’s not so touristy in a hotel or a lodging place for fishing vacations….I have no clue where to start looking I’m not familiar at all with PR thanks
Hi Ashton! I can assure Puerto Rico is safe! As space here is limited, you can read my guide “Is Puerto Rico safe?” to learn about general safety tips. Staying at a resort is optional and up to your taste, but if it is for safety reasons, it isn’t necessary. If you’d like to be by the beach and do fishing charter tours, Fajardo, Dorado, Aguadilla, Culebra, Rincon, Carolina, and La Parguera are good town options to stay at. But, if you’d like something more local and a bit less touristy, I’d go with Cabo Rojo, Santa Isabel, Salinas, Vieques, or Isabela. PR Adventure Co. is a type of fishing resort that organizes your stay and fishing trips located in La Parguera. Culebra, Vieques, and Cabo Rojo indeed have top-notch beaches.
Hi! Thanks for the article! It has a lot of great information! I was wondering if Naranjito, PR is a good place to stay? There is an air bnb I was thinking about booking, but would like to know if this is a good area.
Hi Zarah! Naranjito is a mountainous town, so you’d have to be familiar with driving on smaller and curvy roads. Although it’s closer to the metro region and connected to Bayamon, Naranjito has more of a countryside vibe. The city has activities for outdoor enthusiasts (La Plata Lake) and for foodies (Naranjito’s Gastronomic Route, Hacienda Terruño JS), so it’s a great spot to stay if you want something near the metro region, but away from the rush. As long as you’re willing to drive in Puerto Rico’s mountains, I’d say it’s a great choice.
Hello!
Your article is amazing! Thank you for detailed information. I’m thinking about planning a solo birthday trip in December (woman traveling alone). Can you recommend areas, and places to stay where if I want to go to the beach I have that option. I also like walking and plan on doing “tourist” things lol. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Hi Nacole! If you want to go to the beach, do the “touristy” things, and feel at ease as a woman traveling alone, then Old San Juan and Condado in the capital city are great options. If you want more beaches nearby, Fajardo, Culebra, Cabo Rojo, and Vieques are worth considering!
Hi Vanessa, you have the best writeups on PR and we loved reading all the details. We would love to have your view on what is the best location for us to stay in for a 4 day vacation we are planning end of May.
We’d love to have close access to clear water, clean sand beaches (and some snorkeling where possible) but would also want to be in ok driveable distance to old San Juan/Ponce (if possible).
Based on all that you’ve described about PR… we were planning to cover El Yunque, Mosquito Bay, Old san Juan and maybe Ponce.. we wish we could do some of the west coast too but it seems too much for 4 days.
Hi Jack And Jill! So, I guess the question would be what do you consider an ok driveable distance? If an hour of driving is something doable for you, I recommend staying in Luquillo (45 min from San Juan) or Fajardo (55 min to 1:15 h from San Juan). These towns offer great beaches with clear water and also many snorkeling opportunities. They are also located on the east coast, where many of the attractions in your plan are located. From Fajardo you can take day trips to offshore islands like Vieques and Culebra, home to some of the best PR beaches. You do mention you’re planning on covering Mosquito Bay, but to do so, you will have to spend a night in Vieques if you’re taking the ferry. Since you only have 4 days, I recommend flying directly into Vieques and spending two days there (clear beaches, great snorkeling + bio bay). Arrive early morning on the third day into Ceiba (where the ferry back to mainland is). Cover El Yunque, and drive back to San Juan to spend the last night and day there before departing from SJU airport. You’ll be able to cover more, including Ponce, if instead of visiting Mosquito Bay, you visit Laguna Grande in Fajardo (mainland). Hope that helps!
We are 2 guys in our 70’s. Never been to Puerto Rico. Want a nice place on the beach, but within a few miles of old san juan. We do walk alot. Would Condado area be best? What hotel/resort can you reccomend?
Hi Michael! Condado is a great option! If you’re staying near Condado’s bridge, you can reach Old San Juan walking if you desire it and if you’re used to walking long distances (50min+ walk to El Morro). Hilton Garden Inn, Condado Plaza, and Condado Ocean Club, are closer to Old San Juan (the last one is adult-only!), but La Concha is one of the best resorts in the area. Keep in mind Condado Beach is often dangerous for swimming. Isla Verde is also a great area by the beach and close to the SJU airport and Piñones, famous for its food and beaches. But, from this one, you’d have to take some sort of transportation to Old San Juan (20 min ride to Old San Juan). San Juan Water and Beach Club Hotel, The Royal Sonesta, and Fairmonth ESJH are great resorts in the area. If you don’t want to worry about how to get to Old San Juan, stay in El Caribe Hilton or El San Geronimo hotels in Old San Juan which are right by Escambrón Beach. Safe travels!