Puerto Rico is one of the most spectacular islands in the world, filled with centuries of rich heritage and natural beauty. U.S. citizens need only their current driver's license - no need for a passport, visa, or the hassle of customs. (And the major San Juan terminal, LMM International Airport, is actually located
in Isla Verde, so you'll be only a couple of minutes away!) The locals extend a warm welcome to visitors of all nations and do their best to ensure your vacation is a wonderful experience.
San Juan, the capital city, might be the island's heart, but the lovely Isla Verde is surely its soul. Located in the San Juan area, Isla Verde is a community within Carolina, one of San Juan's districts. Isla Verde is one of the favorite destinations for visitors to Puerto Rico.
OVERALL APPEAL
Isla Verde is a wonderful place to stay. It's away from the fast pace and noise of the city, yet close enough for convenience. The community has a 24-hour grocery store, a pharmacy, shops, restaurants, casinos, and plenty of nightlife. Also, it's only 10 minutes from Puerto Rico's fascinating Old San Juan. Another appealing facet of Isal Verde is their excellent police force-making this island paradise safe for tourists is their #1 goal.
LANDSCAPES
Isla Verde means "green island," and the town certainly lives up to its name. You'll find lush tropical foliage, brightly-colored flowers, and an abundance of towering coconut palms lining the beaches. Isla Verde is also home to two rivers and near tropical rain forests.
MAJOR TOWNS
Isla Verde is minutes away from bustling San Juan and the history and charm of Old San Juan. Also nearby is Condado, which offers wonderful shopping opportunities.
BEACHES
Just off Isla Verde Avenue, you'll find Balnearo de Isla Verde's powdery white sands. The clear turquoise waters are great for swimming, snorkeling, jet skiing, banana boating, and para sailing. Lifeguards are on duty, and the beach is seldom crowded on weekdays. Another Isla Verde beach, Aviones, is a favorite hangout for local and visiting surfers. A lively beach, Aviones has plenty of native vendors plying island delicacies and drinks. You might even spot a manatee lounging in the warm crystal waters.
NIGHTLIFE
Most of the major resorts have their own nightclubs and lounges. For a night on the town, dress up and head to Babylon for an evening of dancing and gaming. Semi-formal attire is required at this posh establishment. Area 51 is a great discotheque for dancing to a variety of hot rhythms. If you prefer live music and entertainment, Picante will fill the bill. And after you've tried these three, start club hopping and make your own list of favorites!
AFFORDABILITY
Isla Verde is very affordable, and you'll find several lodging options. For the best deals, rent a condo, villa, or studio. You will have all of the luxuries a beach vacation requires, plus extra amenities that you are used to from home (like a kitchen and washer/dryer). Plus the privacy of staying in your ""own" place. Isla Verde has tons of different lodging options to fit all different types of groups, from families to friends, to honeymooners, to something in between.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
In addition to all the beach and water activities, there are a host of things to keep you entertained and amazed. Watch the auto races at Caribbean Raceway Park, catch a movie at a local cinema, visit the Skate Park, or shop at the Isla Verde Mall. A must-experience is Isla Verde Avenue, with its fabulous casinos, luxurious resorts, fine restaurants, and sizzling nightclubs. View the twinkling stars in the night sky at Arecibo Observatory, or explore caves at Rio Camuy Cave Park. Puerto Rico's Museo de Arte is also close by. A short drive away is El Yunque Rainforest, with colorful birds and flowers, waterfalls, and tropical vegetation. Deep-sea fishing is also popular in the area.
Old San Juan is right next door to Isla Verde, and should be at the top of your "things to see" list. The ancient city has tons of museums, restuarants, incredible architecture, interesting shops, squares, plazas, parks, and historical sites lining its narrow cobbled streets. Take a walking tour to soak it all in.
So when you plan your Puerto Rico trip, If you don't feel the need to lodge in the noise and hectic pace of the city, find accommodations in Isla Verde. You'll love the relaxed atmosphere and the warmth of its residents, while still being able to take in all the excitement and history of Puerto Rico.
This tidbit of real travel advice was brought to you by Holle Abee.
Whether you are ready to party all night on the shimmery sand or hike a rain forest trail, you will not find a better place to vacation than Isla Verde! And you will not find a better place to lay your head than a vacation home right on the beach. Trust us--we're professionals.