The fortress that protects San Juan has defended the city since the 16th century against attacks by pirates, Spaniards and Americans, among others.
To the beach to relax
Puerto Rico is a promised island of beaches, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, warm, turquoise and attractive all year round. The beaches here are fine white sand where sun worshipers thrive. Virtually all beaches are public and there is no charge for using them other than a possible parking fee.
The beaches in the northwest of the island are especially popular with surfers – especially Rincón, considered one of the best surfing beaches in the world. For families, a good choice is Luquillo Beach, less than 50 miles from San Juan. The beach in the photographic lagoon is protected by a coral reef that calms the sea. Remember that corals are endangered and touching them is always forbidden.
Due to the clear water and abundant underwater life, many beaches are also well suited for snorkelers. In addition to the above, you should also try the nearby small islands of Vieques and Culebra.
Salsa, art and shopping in San Juan
The capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan, is the most significant population center and the main economic center of the island. In San Juan, everything is close by: the beach, amenities and entertainment. The city is the center of Puerto Rico’s nightlife and its large shopping malls and boutiques are also enjoyed by shopping.
The history of the capital of Puerto Rico goes back a long way. Europeans settled here in 1521 and San Juan is the second oldest city founded by Europeans in the Americas. San Juan’s historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering through the beautiful streets is a nice day or two, but there is plenty more to do in the capital. Take a tour of the galleries and museums and also remember to set aside plenty of time to explore the city’s handsome fortress, El Morro.
An art lover should take a walk in Santurce’s Avenida de las Artes , where there are not only interesting galleries, but also a block of shops for skilful street art.
Getting around in San Juan is best done on foot and by taxi. In the heart of the city, many places can be reached on foot, but during the day the heat can make hiking surprisingly heavy.
Experience magical bioluminescence
In Puerto Rico, it is possible to get to witness quite rare natural phenomena. Thousands of aquatic organisms produce light that makes the water glow.
Bioluminescence means biological light production, and experiencing this impressive natural phenomenon in Puerto Rico is one of the finest places in the world. The phenomenon can be admired on the island of Vieques in Bahia Mosquito or on the main island of Fajardon Bioluminescent Bay.
It is worth exploring this magical edge in the dark, when the light effect is at its most impressive. Guided tours of this natural wonder can be arranged in the best places for a few hours to explore this natural wonder.
Excursions should be booked well in advance as they are very popular. The ecosystem of the area is very sensitive and the tourist should respect the protected areas. Choose a licensed organizer for your trip so you can be sure of the responsibility of the activity.
Culebra and Vieques
Adjacent to the main island, the islands of Culebra and Vieques are popular places to visit for both locals and tourists alike. On both islands you can enjoy stunning beaches and a real tropical atmosphere. You can get there either by ferry or by plane.
The specialties of the island of Culebra include the abandoned World War II tanks abandoned on the beach, which over the years have been given a regularly changing variegated coat of paint. The iron that slowly rusts into the shore water perfectly symbolizes the power of nature.
If Culebra’s Flamenco Beach name sounds familiar, you may have come across it on one of the numerous listings of the best beaches in the world. This beach was not opened to the public until the 1970s, but it has already gained quite a reputation.
Puerto Rico is home to rum
Puerto Rican people are happy to take credit for inventing Piña colada. Rum has been made on the island since the 16th century.
Perhaps the world’s most famous rum, Bacardi, is now made in Puerto Rico, even though it didn’t originally come from here. Casa Bacardi, a visitor center in Cataño, showcases the history and history of rum.
Of the island’s own rums, the locals are most popular with Don Q branded rum, which is also a good gift tip for those vacationing in Puerto Rico.