Puerto Rico

Natural Marvels

From a coastline of nearly 300 sandy beaches to maze-like caves to bioluminescent pools, there’s much to explore here. Puerto Rico is home to three of the five bioluminescent bays in the world (Laguna Grande in Fajardo, Mosquito Bay on Vieques and La Parguera in Lajas). These bays are an awe-inspiring sight at night, packed with millions of single-celled organisms that light up the water like glowing stars. The island is also home to several caves, including the famous Cañón de Tanamá in Utuado, where visitors can explore a network of caverns, canyons and tunnels amid limestone cliffs.

Adventures by Land and Sea

From land to sea, there’s plenty to keep visitors busy in Puerto Rico. Tour the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, El Yunque, to witness a wide variety of plant and animal species – some only found here. Located in northeastern Puerto Rico, the forest has several trails for hiking and is also home to ancient petroglyphs. Architecture lovers will want to explore some of the centuries-old buildings here, including historically significant forts and museums. Cool off in the water by swimming, surfing, rafting, tubing or kayaking in both ocean and river waters.

Dining Gems

All of that adventure-seeking will work up an appetite, so save room for local favorites. Puerto Rico is a delight for foodies – incredible culinary experiences await at more than 4,000 restaurants representing every type of cuisine. Regional specialties include fried plantains called tostones, beef-stuffed fried pastries known as pastelillos and mashed green plantains called mofongo. Fresh, locally caught seafood can be found everywhere. Quench your thirst with a creamy and tropical piña colada cocktail; Medalla, a local favorite lager; or any number of rum-based cocktails made with locally produced Bacardí, Don Q and other rums. From high-end dining to street food, there are dining options on the island for every mood and occasion.

The Basics

Puerto Rico is a collection of islands in the Caribbean, a former Spanish colony that’s now a commonwealth of the USA. The archipelago’s Spanish heritage remains prominent today in many forms, from architecture to food, music and language. English is also widely spoken, and the U.S. dollar is used throughout the island. Visiting Puerto Rico is like visiting any U.S. state. A bonus: Year-round temperatures range between 21 and 27 degrees Celsius.

The People

Puerto Ricans proudly call themselves Boricua, a name derived from the island's Indigenous Taíno name, Borinquen. Locals use Boricua to honor their heritage and describe their passionate way of life. They share their culture – a mix of Spanish, African and Taíno influences – through music, movement, cuisine and art, and greet visitors with enthusiasm. In Puerto Rico, everyone is welcome to embrace the history, scenery and spirit of island life.