Puerto Rico is a vacationer's paradise, filled with gorgeous scenery, modern cities, fascinating historical sights, mountains, tropical rain forests, and a rich melting pot of four distinct cultures. You'll find things to do and see on the island that are specifically unique to the commonwealth. And since Puerto Rico is only 100 miles long and 35 miles wide, no attraction will be over a couple of hours away, no matter which section of the island you make your temporary home.
OLD SAN JUAN - This is the #1 place you have to experience. It's seven square blocks of narrow cobblestone lanes of history, with ancient forts and churches, old-world architecture, quaint little parks and plazas, museums, and galleries. One of the most interesting streets is Calle del Cristo, with its world-class restaurants and shops. Teens will delight in the trendy styles found in the boutiques. Be sure to take the waterfront promenade for some scenic views.
EL MORRO - Situated high on a hill, El Morro fortress was started in 1539. It's six levels of winding halls, dungeons, tall lookout towers, and prison cells. Kids will love exploring the labyrinth-like tunnels. The fort's 18"-thick walls have never been penetrated.
EL YUNQUE FOREST - Also known as the Caribbean National Forest, El Yunque is a 28,000-acre tropical rain forest, located an hour from San Juan. Visitors will enjoy the lush vegetation, the brilliant birds and flowers, and the towering canopy of trees. Take the easy Big Tree Trail to a gorgeous waterfall, or make the challenging climb up to the 3,496-ft. summit for some unforgettable views.
RIO CAMUY CAVE PARK - Near Arecibo, Rio Camuy boasts the third largest underground river in the world. tour the 170-ft tall caverns, with giant stalactites and stalagmites. Or travel by tram down the sink hole, where an abundance of flowering vines cling to the edges. Mornings are the best time to visit since afternoon rain showers are frequent.
DR. JUAN A. RIVERA ZOO - Puerto Rico's only national zoo, Rivera is located in the city of Mayaguez. All ages will be thrilled by a wide variety of animals, including zebras, tigers, rhinos, hippos, and camels.
VIEQUES - An unspoiled island just six miles off the coast from Humacao, Vieques is a wonderful example of the "old Caribbean." Wild horses and farm animals are allowed to roam freely, and there is very little traffic to disturb them. The spectacular beaches here are covered with glistening white sands and surrounded by clear turquoise water. You won't see resorts and condos lining the shore here; instead, you'll find only tall palms shading the beach. The best area on the tiny island for snorkeling is Blue Beach, and the best beach for kids is the shallow water of Media Luna. While on Vieques, you have to see Bio Bay, the largest bioluminescent bay in the world. After dark, you'll see millions of neon blue lights beneath the water's surface, created by tiny microorganisms.
LUIS A. FERRE SCIENCE PARK - Located in Bayamon, the park is an inexpensive way to entertain and educate the whole family. It's 42 acres of science exhibits, museums, playgrounds, and a small zoo with an observation deck.
SALINAS SALT FLATS - Near Cabo Rojo, the salt flats are an integral part of Puerto Rico's ecosystem, and it's a paradise for bird watchers. Over 40,000 birds a year visit the area.
LA FORTALEZA - This mansion was constructed in the 1530s as a stronghold against marauding pirates and is now the governor's mansion. It's the oldest executive mansion in the Western Hemisphere, and daily tours are available.
SAN JUAN CATHEDRAL - One of the few examples of medieval architecture in the New World, the cathedral was begun in 1540. Visitors will marvel at the vaulted Gothic arches and the lofty winding staircase. The remains of Ponce de Leon, the island's founder, is entombed here. Tours are available, or attend one of the regular church services.
CAPARRA RUINS - See the remains of one of Puerto Rico's oldest cities, Caparra. The ruins of the 1508 colony and the home of Ponce de Leon are sure to fascinate history buffs.
TIBAS INDIAN CEREMONIAL CENTER - Another site rich in history is located in Ponce. The Tibas Center features a mostly-intact Taino village from over 1,500 years ago, as well as a 1,300-year-old skeleton.
LA DULCE VIDA MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR - For the physically fit, La Dolce Vide provides a guided bike tour through the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge, formerly used by the U.S. Navy. You'll cycle along rugged winding roads, view numerous colonies of bats in the old ammo bunkers, and stop along beautiful deserted beaches for a refreshing dip in the ocean.
ICACOS CAY SNORKEL TOUR - Catch the boat at Fajardo and take a one-hour ride out to the stunning coral reefs. You'll see elkhorn, brain, staghorn, and other corals, along with schools of tropical fish in a wide spectrum of vivid hues. You'll enjoy a leisurely lunch on a secluded beach, also included in the tour. Kids love this excursion!
YAGUEZ THEATER - The best place to catch a concert or play is this turn-of-the-century Art Deco theater in Mayaguez. Fashioned after the playhouses of Paris, the building's architecture is as entertaining as the performances.
If you find time to do all these activities, rest assured there's plenty more: golfing, horseback riding, surfing, skating, jet skiing, rock climbing, shopping, and some awesome saltwater angling. Your problem won't be finding something to do, but you'll agonize over what you might have to leave out. Or...you could always extend your vacation!
This comprehensive guide to Puerto Rico was brought to you by Holle Abee.
We are torn between exercising on our Puerto Rico vacation and lounging on the beach imbibing fruity umbrella drinks. (Who are we kidding?!) The only exercising we want to do on holiday is with our wallets. Luckily, though, staying in a beautiful condo or beach house will help us save money for the markets and boutiques--so we can live and shop in luxury!