The Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary: Old San Juan, El Yunque & Beach Days (5–7 Days)
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Puerto Rico captivates visitors with its perfect blend of rich colonial history, lush tropical rainforests, and pristine Caribbean beaches—all without requiring a passport for U.S. citizens. This enchanting island, known as “La Isla del Encanto” (The Island of Enchantment), offers an ideal escape that combines cultural exploration, outdoor adventure, and relaxing beach days.
Whether you’re drawn to the colorful cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, the misty trails of El Yunque National Forest, or the powdery white sands of its coastal beaches, Puerto Rico delivers an unforgettable experience. This carefully crafted 5-7 day Puerto Rico itinerary will guide you through the island’s highlights, allowing you to experience the perfect balance of history, nature, and relaxation during your visit.
The colorful historic district of Old San Juan with its stunning ocean views
Puerto Rico Itinerary Overview: 5-7 Days of Island Exploration
This flexible Puerto Rico itinerary is designed to showcase the island’s diverse attractions while allowing you to adjust the pace based on your preferences and available time. Here’s a quick overview of how you’ll spend your days:
- Days 1-2: Explore the historic charm of Old San Juan
- Day 3: Adventure in El Yunque National Forest
- Days 4-5: Beach days and coastal exploration (East Coast)
- Days 6-7 (Optional): West Coast exploration (Rincón or Cabo Rojo)
If you only have 5 days, you can focus on Old San Juan, El Yunque, and the eastern beaches. With 7 days, you can add an exploration of Puerto Rico’s stunning west coast. This itinerary assumes you’ll rent a car after your time in San Juan, which offers the most flexibility for exploring the island.
Flexibility Note: This Puerto Rico itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests. Love history? Spend more time in Old San Juan and Ponce. Prefer beaches? Extend your time on the coast. Outdoor enthusiast? Add more hiking days in El Yunque or explore the island’s cave systems.
Map of Puerto Rico highlighting the key destinations in this 5-7 day itinerary
Days 1-2: Exploring the Historic Charm of Old San Juan
Begin your Puerto Rico itinerary in the island’s historic and cultural heart—Old San Juan. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings, offers a perfect introduction to Puerto Rico’s rich history and vibrant culture.
The vibrant, colorful streets of Old San Juan invite exploration
Day 1: Historic Fortresses and Colonial Architecture
Morning: San Felipe del Morro Fortress
Start your first day at the impressive Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro), a 16th-century citadel that protected San Juan from sea attacks for centuries. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Spend 2-3 hours exploring the fortress’s six levels, gazing out at the Atlantic Ocean from the stone walls, and learning about Puerto Rico’s military history.
The impressive Castillo San Felipe del Morro fortress stands guard over San Juan Bay
Visitor Information: El Morro is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is $10 for adults and free for children under 15. Your ticket includes same-day entry to Castillo San Cristóbal as well. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there’s considerable walking involved.
Afternoon: Castillo San Cristóbal and Lunch
After El Morro, walk or take a free trolley to Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fort built in the New World. This fortress protected San Juan from land attacks and offers spectacular views of the city and coastline. Explore the tunnels, outposts, and dungeons before breaking for a late lunch.
For an authentic Puerto Rican lunch, head to Restaurante Raíces or El Jibarito to try traditional dishes like mofongo (mashed plantains with garlic and protein), tostones (fried plantains), or arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
Traditional mofongo, a must-try Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains
Evening: Sunset Stroll and Dinner
As the day cools, take a leisurely walk along Paseo de la Princesa, a beautiful promenade along the bay. Admire the Raíces Fountain, which symbolizes Puerto Rico’s diverse cultural roots, and continue to the San Juan Gate, the last remaining of the city’s original access points.
For dinner, experience Puerto Rico’s vibrant food scene at La Factoría, a multi-room bar and restaurant that was featured in the “Despacito” music video, or Marmalade for upscale farm-to-table cuisine.
Experience Old San Juan Like a Local
Discover hidden gems and fascinating history with a guided walking tour of Old San Juan. Local guides share stories and insights you won’t find in guidebooks!
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Flavors
Morning: Colorful Streets and Shopping
Start your second day with a morning coffee at Café Don Ruiz or Cuatro Sombras, both serving excellent locally-grown Puerto Rican coffee. Then, spend the morning wandering the colorful streets of Old San Juan. Don’t miss Calle Fortaleza (also known as Calle Tetuán) and Calle San Sebastián for their picturesque architecture and local shops.
Visit Plaza de Armas, the main square, and Plaza Colón, dominated by a statue of Christopher Columbus. Shop for unique souvenirs at The Butterfly People (framed butterfly art), Puerto Rican Arts & Crafts, or Olé for authentic Panama hats.
Plaza de Armas, the historic main square of Old San Juan
Afternoon: Museums and Cultural Sites
After lunch, explore some of Old San Juan’s excellent museums. Visit the Museo de las Américas for exhibits on indigenous cultures, colonial history, and folk art, or the Casa Blanca, one of the oldest structures in San Juan, built for Ponce de León’s family.
Don’t miss the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas and the final resting place of Ponce de León. For art lovers, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico in Santurce (a short Uber ride away) houses an impressive collection of Puerto Rican art from the 17th century to the present.
Evening: Sunset and Piña Coladas
As the day winds down, head to La Perla viewpoint for a spectacular sunset over the Atlantic. This once-avoided neighborhood has transformed into a vibrant community and offers some of the best views in San Juan.
End your day by sampling Puerto Rico’s national drink, the piña colada. Visit Barrachina or Caribe Hilton, both of which claim to be the birthplace of this tropical cocktail. For dinner, try Deaverdura for modern Puerto Rican cuisine or La Madre for excellent seafood.
The iconic piña colada, Puerto Rico’s refreshing national cocktail
Where to Stay in Old San Juan
For the authentic Old San Juan experience, stay within the historic district at one of these charming boutique hotels.
Hotel El Convento
A 17th-century convent transformed into a luxury hotel with Spanish colonial charm and modern amenities.
Palacio Provincial
A beautifully restored building with a rooftop pool offering panoramic views of San Juan Bay.
Day 3: Adventure in El Yunque National Forest
On the third day of your Puerto Rico itinerary, leave the historic city behind and venture into the lush wilderness of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Located about an hour’s drive east of San Juan, El Yunque offers a refreshing contrast to the urban experience with its misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
The lush tropical landscape of El Yunque National Forest
Morning: Rainforest Exploration
Start your day early to maximize your time in the forest and avoid afternoon crowds and rain showers, which are common in the rainforest. Your first stop should be the El Portal Visitor Center, where you can pick up maps, get trail recommendations from rangers, and learn about the forest’s ecosystem through interactive exhibits.
Important: While reservations are no longer required for general access to El Yunque, they are still needed for the Road PR 191 recreation area, which includes the most popular trails and waterfalls. Book your timed entry pass at Recreation.gov up to one month in advance.
From the visitor center, drive up the scenic Road PR 191 into the heart of the forest. Your first hiking stop should be the La Mina Trail, a moderately challenging 0.7-mile path that leads to the beautiful La Mina Falls. The trail follows the course of the La Mina River, crossing several small bridges with lush vegetation on all sides.
The refreshing La Mina Falls, a popular destination in El Yunque
If you’re up for more hiking, the Mount Britton Tower Trail (0.8 miles) rewards you with panoramic views from a stone observation tower. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Guided El Yunque Rainforest Tour
Skip the reservation hassle and gain deeper insights with a guided tour of El Yunque. Expert guides will enhance your experience with knowledge about the forest’s unique ecosystem and hidden spots.
Afternoon: Waterfalls and Luquillo Kiosks
Continue your exploration with a stop at Yokahú Tower, another observation tower offering spectacular views of the eastern coast. Nearby, you can visit La Coca Falls, an easily accessible 85-foot waterfall right beside the road—perfect for photos.
After working up an appetite in the rainforest, head to the famous Luquillo Kiosks (Los Kioskos de Luquillo) for a late lunch. This strip of nearly 60 food stalls offers everything from traditional Puerto Rican cuisine to seafood, barbecue, and international options.
The lively Luquillo Kiosks offer a variety of local and international cuisine
Some recommended kiosks include:
- La Parrilla (#2) for grilled seafood
- El Jefe (#12) for burgers and local beer
- Terruño (#20) for authentic Puerto Rican cuisine
- La Cambija (#38) for fresh ceviche
Evening: Beach Relaxation or Return to San Juan
After lunch, you have two options depending on your energy level and preferences:
Option 1: Luquillo Beach
Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing at Luquillo Beach (Balneario de Luquillo), a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with calm waters perfect for swimming. The beach has facilities including restrooms, showers, and chair rentals. Watch the sunset over the palm-lined shore before heading back to San Juan.
Option 2: Return to San Juan
If you prefer, return to San Juan for the evening and explore the vibrant Condado neighborhood with its upscale restaurants, casinos, and beachfront. Enjoy dinner at 1919 Restaurant for fine dining or Oceano for seafood with ocean views.
The beautiful Luquillo Beach is perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking
Packing Tip for El Yunque: Bring insect repellent, a rain jacket or poncho (afternoon showers are common), water shoes if you plan to swim in the waterfalls, and a waterproof bag for electronics. The forest can be significantly cooler than the coast, so a light layer is also recommended.
Days 4-5: Beach Days and Coastal Exploration (East Coast)
The eastern coast of Puerto Rico offers some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and exciting day trip opportunities. For days 4 and 5 of your Puerto Rico itinerary, you’ll explore this stunning coastline and possibly take a boat trip to nearby islands with world-class beaches.
The world-famous Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island is consistently rated among the best beaches in the world
Day 4: Island Paradise – Culebra or Vieques
For day 4, choose between two amazing island destinations off Puerto Rico’s east coast: Culebra or Vieques. Both offer stunning beaches and unique experiences, but they have different characteristics.
Option A: Culebra Island
Known for having one of the world’s most beautiful beaches (Flamenco Beach), Culebra is perfect for beach lovers and snorkelers. The island is smaller, less developed, and focused primarily on its natural beauty.
- Flamenco Beach: Crystal clear waters, white sand, and excellent snorkeling
- Tamarindo Beach: Great for spotting sea turtles while snorkeling
- Zoni Beach: More secluded beach with fewer crowds
Option B: Vieques Island
Slightly larger than Culebra, Vieques offers beautiful beaches, wild horses roaming freely, and the world-famous Mosquito Bay—the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
- Sun Bay Beach: Accessible beach with facilities and palm trees
- Caracas Beach: Also known as Red Beach, with powdery white sand
- Mosquito Bay: Spectacular bioluminescent bay (best visited on a new moon)
Getting to Culebra or Vieques
You have two main options for reaching these islands:
- Ferry: The most economical option. Ferries depart from Ceiba (formerly from Fajardo) and cost about $2-4 per person each way. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to Culebra and 30 minutes to Vieques. Important: Ferry tickets sell out quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Book in advance through the Puerto Rico Ferry website.
- Flight: Small planes operated by Vieques Air Link, Air Flamenco, or Cape Air depart from San Juan or Ceiba to both islands. Flights take about 30 minutes and offer spectacular views but are more expensive (approximately $60-100 each way).
Wild horses roam freely across Vieques Island, adding to its unique charm
Culebra Island Day Trip
Skip the ferry hassles with an all-inclusive day trip to Culebra Island. Includes transportation, beach time at Flamenco Beach, and snorkeling equipment.
Evening: Bioluminescent Bay (If Visiting Vieques)
If you choose Vieques, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Mosquito Bay at night to witness the magical bioluminescent phenomenon. The microorganisms in the water emit a blue glow when disturbed, creating a starry effect in the water. Book a kayak or electric boat tour for the best experience.
The magical blue glow of Mosquito Bay’s bioluminescent waters
Day 5: East Coast Beaches and Adventures
For your fifth day, explore the beautiful beaches and attractions along Puerto Rico’s eastern coastline.
Morning: Luquillo or Seven Seas Beach
Start your day with a relaxing morning at one of the east coast’s beautiful beaches:
- Luquillo Beach: If you didn’t visit on Day 3, this crescent-shaped beach with calm, clear waters is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Seven Seas Beach (Playa Seven Seas): Located in Fajardo, this Blue Flag beach offers pristine waters and excellent facilities.
The beautiful Seven Seas Beach in Fajardo offers calm waters perfect for swimming
Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure
For the afternoon, choose one of these exciting activities along the east coast:
Kayaking at Laguna Grande
If you didn’t visit the bioluminescent bay in Vieques, you can experience a similar phenomenon at Laguna Grande in Fajardo. Daytime kayaking through the mangrove channels is also a beautiful experience.
Snorkeling at Icacos Island
Take a catamaran or boat tour to Icacos Island for exceptional snorkeling among coral reefs and tropical fish. Most tours include lunch and drinks.
Las Cabezas de San Juan
Visit this nature reserve featuring diverse ecosystems including beaches, coral reefs, dry forest, and a bioluminescent lagoon. Tours include a visit to the historic lighthouse.
Evening: Dinner in Fajardo or Return to San Juan
End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at one of Fajardo’s excellent restaurants:
- La Estación: Housed in a converted gas station, this restaurant serves excellent Caribbean-fusion cuisine with an emphasis on wood-fired cooking.
- El Pescador: A local favorite for fresh seafood with beautiful marina views.
- Pasión por el Fogón: Upscale Puerto Rican cuisine with innovative presentations.
Alternatively, if you’re staying in San Juan, head back to the city for your final evening or to prepare for your west coast adventure if you’re extending to a 7-day itinerary.
Where to Stay on the East Coast
If you prefer to base yourself on the east coast for these days rather than returning to San Juan, consider these excellent accommodation options:
El Conquistador Resort (Fajardo)
A luxury clifftop resort with its own water park, private island, and multiple restaurants.
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar (Río Grande)
Beachfront resort with multiple pools, golf courses, and easy access to El Yunque.
Days 6-7 (Optional): West Coast Exploration
If you have a full week for your Puerto Rico itinerary, extend your trip with a visit to the island’s beautiful west coast. Known for its spectacular sunsets, world-class surfing, and more laid-back atmosphere, the west coast offers a different perspective on Puerto Rico’s charms.
The west coast of Puerto Rico is famous for its spectacular sunsets
Day 6: Rincón – The Surfing Paradise
Start early for the drive from San Juan to Rincón, which takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. Known as “The Town of Beautiful Sunsets” and Puerto Rico’s surfing capital, Rincón offers beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and a relaxed surfer vibe.
Morning: Journey to the West Coast
The drive to Rincón takes you across the island, offering views of Puerto Rico’s diverse landscapes from coastal plains to mountain ranges. Make a stop in Arecibo to see the Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park, which offers beautiful ocean views and exhibits on Puerto Rican history.
Afternoon: Rincón Beaches
Rincón is home to several beautiful beaches, each with its own character:
- Sandy Beach: A popular spot with golden sand and good swimming conditions when the surf is calm. Several beach bars make this a lively spot.
- Domes Beach: Named after the dome of the defunct nuclear plant nearby, this is a premier surfing beach with consistent waves.
- Steps Beach: Part of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, this beach offers excellent snorkeling among elkhorn coral and is home to a variety of marine life.
- Maria’s Beach: Another popular surfing spot with consistent waves and beautiful sunset views.
Surfers enjoying the waves at Domes Beach, one of Rincón’s premier surfing spots
Surfing in Rincón: If you’re interested in learning to surf, Rincón is the perfect place. Several surf schools offer lessons for beginners, including Rincón Surf School and Punta Uno Surf School. The best surfing season is from November to April when the Atlantic swells are strongest.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
Rincón is famous for its sunsets, so find a good spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The Rincón Lighthouse (El Faro de Rincón) offers panoramic views, or you can enjoy the sunset from one of the beachfront restaurants.
For dinner, try one of these local favorites:
- La Copa Llena at The Black Eagle: Seafood and international cuisine with ocean views
- The Beach House: Casual dining with great sunset views
- Tamboo Seaside Grill: Beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood and tropical drinks
El Faro Lighthouse in Rincón offers spectacular sunset views
Day 7: Cabo Rojo and Return to San Juan
On your final day, explore the southwestern corner of Puerto Rico in Cabo Rojo before making your way back to San Juan.
Morning: Cabo Rojo Lighthouse and Los Morrillos
Drive about an hour south from Rincón to Cabo Rojo to visit the Los Morrillos Lighthouse (Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo). Perched on dramatic limestone cliffs, this area offers some of Puerto Rico’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
Take the short hike to see the natural stone bridge and the striking contrast between the turquoise Caribbean waters and the white limestone cliffs. Below the cliffs, you’ll find Playa Sucia (also called La Playuela), a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with calm, clear waters.
The dramatic Los Morrillos Lighthouse stands on limestone cliffs above the Caribbean Sea
Afternoon: Salt Flats and Return Journey
Before heading back to San Juan, visit the nearby Cabo Rojo Salt Flats (Las Salinas de Cabo Rojo), where salt has been harvested since the 16th century. The pink-hued salt ponds make for unique photos, especially from the observation deck.
Begin your return journey to San Juan, which takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. If time permits, you can make a stop in Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, known for its colonial architecture and museums.
The unique pink-hued salt flats of Cabo Rojo have been harvested since the 16th century
Evening: Final Night in San Juan
For your final evening in Puerto Rico, enjoy a farewell dinner in San Juan. If you haven’t already, try José Enrique in Santurce for innovative Puerto Rican cuisine by one of the island’s most celebrated chefs, or Santaella for upscale local cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Where to Stay in Rincón
If you’re spending the night in Rincón rather than returning to San Juan the same day, consider these excellent accommodation options:
Tres Sirenas Beach Inn
Beachfront boutique hotel with stunning ocean views and a pool.
The Lazy Parrot Inn
Charming hillside inn with a pool and restaurant, a short drive from the beaches.
Practical Information for Your Puerto Rico Itinerary
Best Time to Visit
The peak tourist season in Puerto Rico runs from December to April when the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant (75-85°F). This is ideal weather for exploring but expect higher prices and more crowds.
The off-season (May to November) offers lower prices but coincides with hurricane season (June to November). September and October have the highest rainfall and hurricane risk.
For a good balance of weather and value, consider visiting in April-May or November-early December.
Getting Around
Rental Car: The best way to explore Puerto Rico outside of San Juan. Major rental companies operate at the airport. Driving is on the right side, and roads are generally good, though mountain roads can be winding.
Uber/Taxi: Readily available in San Juan and some tourist areas.
Public Transportation: Limited outside San Juan. The Tren Urbano (metro) serves parts of San Juan, and públicos (shared vans) connect some towns but run on irregular schedules.
Tours: Organized tours are a convenient option for visiting El Yunque, Culebra, or other attractions without renting a car.
Accommodation Tips
Old San Juan: Stay here for historic charm, walkability, and proximity to major attractions. Best for culture and history lovers.
Condado/Ocean Park: Beachfront areas with upscale hotels, restaurants, and easy beach access. Best for beach lovers who still want urban amenities.
Isla Verde: Near the airport with beautiful beaches and resort-style accommodations. Convenient for shorter stays.
East Coast (Fajardo/Luquillo): Good base for El Yunque, bio bays, and island trips. More relaxed than San Juan.
West Coast (Rincón/Aguadilla): Laid-back surfer vibe with beautiful beaches and sunsets. Best for longer stays and those seeking relaxation.
Essential Information
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Language: Spanish and English are both official languages. Spanish is predominant, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Electricity: Same as mainland US (120V, 60Hz)
- Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC-4. Puerto Rico does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
- Tipping: Similar to mainland US (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for bellhops, $1-2 per drink for bartenders)
- Drinking Age: 18 years
- Entry Requirements: US citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. International visitors need the same documentation required to enter the United States.
Packing Essentials
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and light cover-ups
- Beach Gear: Swimwear, beach towel, water shoes (for rocky beaches or El Yunque)
- Rain Gear: Light rain jacket or poncho, especially for El Yunque
- Comfortable Shoes: Walking shoes for Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets and hiking shoes for El Yunque
- Insect Repellent: Especially important for El Yunque and evening activities
- Casual Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics for the tropical climate
- One Nice Outfit: For upscale restaurants in San Juan
- Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is generally safe to drink in Puerto Rico
Ready to Explore Puerto Rico?
Start planning your perfect Puerto Rico getaway with these essential travel services:
Conclusion: Your Perfect Puerto Rico Itinerary
Puerto Rico truly lives up to its nickname as “The Island of Enchantment.” In just 5-7 days, this Puerto Rico itinerary allows you to experience the island’s remarkable diversity—from the colorful colonial streets of Old San Juan to the lush trails of El Yunque National Forest and the pristine beaches along both coasts.
What makes Puerto Rico special is not just its natural beauty and rich history, but the warmth of its people and the vibrant culture that infuses everything from its cuisine to its music. As you follow this itinerary, take time to savor the local flavors, listen to the rhythms of salsa and bomba, and engage with the island’s residents who are proud to share their heritage with visitors.
Whether you’re relaxing on a world-class beach, hiking to a hidden waterfall, or dancing the night away in San Juan, Puerto Rico offers unforgettable experiences that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even departed. This 5-7 day Puerto Rico itinerary provides just a taste of what this magnificent island has to offer—enough to fall in love with Puerto Rico, but certainly not enough to discover all its secrets.
Sunset over Puerto Rico’s beautiful landscape—a perfect end to your island adventure
Discover Puerto Rico’s Magic
Ready to experience everything this enchanting island has to offer? Start planning your Puerto Rico adventure today!
