10 Unforgettable Experiences To Have In Puerto Rico

If you are looking for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation destination, look no further than Puerto Rico. This beautiful island has something to offer everyone. City lovers will quickly become enchanted by the colorful and historic San Juan. Nature girls and boys are sure to love the incredible and lush El Yunque rainforest. Those looking to relax will easily find the perfect beach to catch some rays on. Adventure seekers can try zip lining, repelling, and a host of other adrenaline-inducing activities.

With so many amazing things to do and see in Puerto Rico, it can be hard to narrow everything down! During my recent 6 day adventure in Puerto Rico with The Manini Experience, I was able to experience many of the island’s highlights (you can check out our itinerary here). To help you plan your trip, I’ve compiled a list of 10 adventures you won’t want to miss on your visit to Puerto Rico!

Note: Many of the photos in this post were taken by Erica, and are included in The Manini Experience. I had an amazing time traveling with The Manini Experience, and am thrilled to be partnering with them to bring you this post! 

1. Explore the colorful streets of Old San Juan

Old San Juan is not only incredibly historic, but it is also remarkably beautiful. The buildings are painted in a rainbow of vibrant colors, making the city the perfect place to wander around, explore, and window shop. The city is also home to not one, but TWO fortresses, the oldest of which was built in the 16th century! While many cruise ships visit the city for just one day, there is so much to do in Old San Juan that it is impossible to cover in just 24 hours. I wrote a list of my favorite things to do, see, and eat in San Juan that you can check out here.

 

2. Chase Waterfalls in El Yunque

El Yunque is Puerto Rico’s protected rainforest. There are many things to do in the rainforest itself from experiencing a treetop canopy walk or zip line adventure to hiking, or, my personal favorite, searching for waterfalls within the rainforest. Though we only visited El Yunque for a few hours, the spot that Sam + Erica (the boss babes and fearless leaders behind The Manini Experience) took our group to was truly remarkable. There was hardly another person in sight, and we were able to experience the magic of the falls all on our own. Talk about an unforgettable adventure!

 

3. Kayak a Bioluminescent Bay

One of the coolest things I did in Puerto Rico was kayak the moonlit bioluminescent bay in Fajardo. When I visited my first ever bioluminescent bay in Jamaica, I must admit I was a little disappointed (read why here). However, I am happy to report I had a completely different experience in Puerto Rico! Though the water didn’t exactly glow (it was more like sparkles), kayaking to the bay itself through the mangroves was an amazing adventure! It was so awesome listening to the sound of wildlife around us as we kayaked, and I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone visiting Puerto Rico! I also highly recommend checking out the mangroves during the day. We visited the ones pictured above later in the trip and had a fantastic time swimming through them!

 

4. Escape to a nearby island

While there are plenty of beautiful beaches and sights to see on the mainland of Puerto Rico, the nearby islands are not to be missed! We took a catamaran day trip to Icacos island for some snorkeling and relaxation, but there are flights available for trips to stunning islands like Vieques and Culebra. I didn’t have the time or funds to stay and visit, but I will definitely make visiting one of these two islands a priority on any future trip to Puerto Rico!

 

5. Visit the Instagram famous pink salt flats of Cabo Rojo

The Cabo Rojo salt flats are unique, as the water within appears pink! Not only is this a pretty cool sight, but it is definitely a must-instagram moment of your trip. Be warned-you won’t want to swim in this salty water! While the salt flats are definitely worth stopping by, be sure to make plans for the rest of the day, as this is more of a quick stop than a long activity. Which brings me to #6…

 

6. Hit the beach (or two…or three)

If you went to Puerto Rico and didn’t hit the beach at some point, did you even go at all? Make sure to leave plenty of time on your Puerto Rico itinerary for relaxing on the world class beaches. Right next to the Cabo Rojo salt flats you’ll find the Playa Sucia, or “dirty beach”, which is actually anything BUT dirty. Rather, this spot is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Puerto Rico, and is the perfect place to go for a swim or explore the nearby lighthouse and cliffs.

 

7. Try a repelling and cave excursion

One of my other favorite adventurous activities of the trip was repelling in the forest before tubing through a cave on the underground Tanamá River with Tanamá River Adventures. If you are into exploring nature, then this activity is an absolute must! I had a blast heading through the dark cave (equipped with a headlamp) and seeing the beauty of the forest around me. Our guide was amazing and so passionate, so I highly recommend booking with this company if you are looking for adventure not far outside of San Juan.

 

8. Visit the Cueva Ventana

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVI1zRkAW1-/?taken-at=216083829

I didn’t end up venturing to the Cueva Ventana during my visit to Puerto Rico, but it looks totally amazing! This cave has an amazing viewpoint of the valley below from its opening and makes for s picture-perfect stop. You can take a tour of the cave and enjoy a hike along the way as well.

 

9. Explore the cliffs and caves of the Cueva del Indio

For just $5, visitors can access the Cueva del Indio, an area known for its prehistoric rock art and stunning caves and cliffs. You’ll want to wear sturdy shoes to explore the rugged terrain. The views of the waves crashing along the cliffs are in credible, and the Cueva del Indio makes for an awesome stop on any road trip around Puerto Rico.

 

10. Do as the locals do!

One of the best things about Puerto Rico is the rich culture of the island. From amazing food (you have to try mofongo) to salsa dancing to lively music, there is so much culture available to experience. Save time in your itinerary to go where the wind takes you! Stop along the road for street food, try something new, head to a local spot popular for dancing. Sometimes the best adventures you have are the ones you don’t plan at all!

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Which of these experiences will make it on your Puerto Rico itinerary? let me know in the comments!

 

 

You might also enjoy these Puerto Rico posts!

• 6 Amazing Days In Puerto Rico With The Manini Experience
• 10 Things You Won’t Want To Miss In San Juan, Puerto Rico
• 6 Amazing Days In Puerto Rico With The Manini Experience: Part 2
• The Suite Life Old San Juan: Stunning Views & Beautiful Rooms at Hotel Casablanca
• Getting Philanthropic in Puerto Rico: Volunteering At Save A Sato With The Manini Experience

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