Puerto Rico delivers Caribbean experiences without passport hassles for US travelers. Old San Juan's colorful streets and 500-year-old forts feel like stepping into Spain. El Yunque's rainforest offers easy hikes to waterfalls. Bioluminescent bays glow with microscopic organisms. And the food scene, from mofongo to lechon, is distinctly Puerto Rican. The island packs enormous variety into its compact size. Beach resorts line the eastern coast; surf breaks roll along the northwest. San Juan combines history, nightlife, and excellent restaurants. Flight deals to San Juan appear constantly from US cities, often cheaper than international Caribbean destinations.
Best Time to Fly to Puerto Rico
Peak Season
December through April is dry season with perfect weather and peak prices. Christmas through New Year is extremely busy. February-March sees spring breakers.
Off Season (Best Deals)
May through November is rainy season with lower prices. Hurricane risk peaks August-October. Afternoon showers are common; mornings are usually clear.
Dry season (December to April) brings pleasant weather at 75-85°F. Wet season (May to November) is warmer at 80-90°F with afternoon showers. Hurricane risk exists June-November. Trade winds moderate the heat year-round.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for peak season. As a US territory, Puerto Rico has excellent flight availability. Shoulder seasons offer good value.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Puerto Rico
Cheapest Months
September, October, May
Most Expensive
Christmas/New Year, Presidents Day weekend, Spring break
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Must-Try Foods in Puerto Rico
Mofongo
Puerto Rico's signature dish: mashed fried plantains with garlic, pork cracklings, and often topped with shrimp, chicken, or beef in sauce. It's filling, flavorful, and everywhere. La Casita Blanca and Raices are San Juan institutions for authentic mofongo.
$15-30
Lechon (Roast Pig)
Whole pigs slow-roasted over open pits, served with rice, beans, and sides. The Lechoneras of Guavate (Route 184) are legendary: drive through the mountains, pick a roadside stand, and feast. Weekends are busiest and best.
$10-20
Modern Puerto Rican Cuisine
San Juan's dining scene has exploded with creative chefs reinterpreting local ingredients. Santaella, Marmalade, and 1919 offer elevated Puerto Rican cuisine. The quality rivals any US food city. Reservations are essential for popular spots.
$40-80
Top Attractions in Puerto Rico
Old San Juan
The 500-year-old walled city has cobblestone streets, pastel colonial buildings, two massive forts (El Morro and San Cristobal), and excellent restaurants and bars. Walking reveals layers of history; the forts offer stunning views. It's one of the Caribbean's most beautiful towns.
El Yunque National Forest
The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. Easy trails lead to waterfalls; more challenging hikes reach peaks. La Mina Falls is the most popular destination. Go early to avoid afternoon rain and crowds. It's 45 minutes from San Juan.
Bioluminescent Bay (Vieques or Fajardo)
Microscopic organisms light up the water when disturbed, creating magical nighttime experiences. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest in the world. Fajardo's Laguna Grande is easier to access from San Juan. Kayak tours run on dark nights.
Daily Costs in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is moderate by Caribbean standards. San Juan hotels cost more than rural areas. Food offers excellent value at all levels. Renting a car is almost essential for exploration. US dollars; no currency exchange needed.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$80-130
Mid-Range
$150-280
Airbnb
$100-200
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$8-15
Restaurant
$25-50
Coffee
$3-5
Transport
Local Transport
$2-20/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$120-220
Getting Around Puerto Rico
From the Airport
San Juan Airport (SJU) is 10 minutes from Isla Verde, 20 minutes from Old San Juan. Uber/Lyft cost $15-25. Taxis use fixed rates ($19-25). Hotel shuttles are available.
Getting Around
A rental car is almost essential for exploring beyond San Juan. Public transit in San Juan is limited to buses and the free Old San Juan trolley. Uber works in San Juan. Taxis to airports and tourist areas are available but expensive.
Tips
- •Rent a car to explore the island. El Yunque, Guavate, and beaches require driving. Roads are good; GPS is essential.
- •Old San Juan is best explored on foot. Park outside the old city and walk; streets are cobblestone and hilly.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico
Old San Juan / Condado
Old San Juan has history, restaurants, and nightlife in a walkable area. Condado offers beach hotels and a more modern vibe. Together they cover most first-time visitor needs. Both are easy bases for day trips.
Santurce / Condado
Santurce has transformed into San Juan's hipster heart with art, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife. La Placita market becomes a street party Thursday-Saturday. Condado has hotel bars and clubs. Together they offer San Juan's best evenings.
Old San Juan
The historic district is Puerto Rico's cultural heart. Forts, museums, galleries, and colonial architecture fill walkable streets. The Museo de las Americas and Casa Blanca offer history. Every corner reveals something beautiful.
Smart Travel Tips for Puerto Rico
FAQs About Flights to Puerto Rico
US citizens don't need a passport; Puerto Rico is a US territory. International visitors need whatever documents they'd need for mainland US entry. US dollars are used; cell phones work on US plans.
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