Puerto Rico, a US territory, is situated between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean. A Puerto Rico honeymoon means waking up to the lovely sound of waves, getting the best ocean views, and experiencing the most beautiful beaches.
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Is Puerto Rico a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Puerto Rico is the perfect spot for you if you want to go to a Caribbean destination without the hassle of preparing travel documents.
Apart from the relaxing atmosphere surrounding the azure waters, Puerto Rico has charming cobblestone streets, unique cafes, and a wealth of scenic tourist attractions that will send you and your new spouse’s hearts aflutter.
Moreover, if you wish to have great nightlife while on your romantic vacation, the vibrant night scene on this island seals the deal.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Puerto Rico?
- Explore the El Yunque National Forest. El Yunque is the US’ only tropical rainforest. It’s a well-endowed space home to flora, fauna, and breathtaking waterfalls. Here, you can hike, swim and meet unique animal species, including the coqui frog.
- Experience Old San Juan. In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be greeted by vibrant streets, historic forts, and art galleries and museums that are a feast for the eyes.
- Hit the best beaches. From Condado to Dorado Beach, the island boasts splendid beaches where you can try various water sports, such as snorkeling and kayaking.
- Be dazzled by Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bays. Speaking of kayaking, you can also hop on a boat and paddle through the waters of Puerto Rico at night. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is considered the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
- Go on a horseback riding adventure. Luquillo and Rincon offer the best trails for horseback riding on the island. A romantic sunset ride with scenic views will surely be a moment to remember.
- Visit the nearby Culebra Island. Crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, seagrass beds, lush mangrove forests, and sandy coastlines. These things await when you visit this secluded island off the east coast of Puerto Rico.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Puerto Rico?
The weather is one of the most important things to consider when visiting Puerto Rico. Note that the hurricane season is from June to November. Hurricane Maria, the strongest to hit the island, landed in September 2017.
If you want to avoid heavy rains, it’s best to visit Puerto Rico from April to June — before the hurricane months arrive and after the peak travel season ends (which is from December to mid-April).
Is a Honeymoon in Puerto Rico Expensive?
On average, a weeklong honeymoon in Puerto Rico costs couples $2,400 to $3,000. Of course, your chosen accommodations, food, and excursions can quickly increase this number.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Puerto Rico
- Visit the island during the off-season (but beware that it may be hurricane season).
- Ride public minibusses to get around the main cities on the island. If you’ve got far-flung destinations on your itinerary, renting a car is more cost-effective than relying on taxis.
- If you want to stay in all-inclusive lodging, look for deals and honeymoon packages. If not, opt for cheaper accommodations.
- If you stay in a hotel, the hotel restaurant is likely expensive. Eat where the locals eat.
- Ditch big-brand coffee chains for your caffeine fix. Check out local cafes and taste authentic Puerto Rican coffee.
- From walking Old San Juan to sunbathing at beaches and visiting historical plazas, focus your itinerary on free or inexpensive activities.
7 Best Cities to Stay In Puerto Rico
San Juan
The capital of Puerto Rico is a vibrant destination steeped in history — this is where you can find the historic Old San Juan neighborhood. Its cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture are perfect for romantic walks and holiday snaps.
If you want to eat out or explore shops, you won’t have a shortage of experiences. You can also head to Castillo San Felipe del Morro (or simply El Morro), a citadel built from the 16th to 18th centuries.
Where to stay: Old San Juan or Ocean Park
Ponce
Ponce is Puerto Rico’s second-largest city. As the birthplace of salsa, this area is the best place to dance in vibrant clubs or take salsa classes.
While the city has its colonial architecture and Instagram-worthy plazas, you can make the most of your time at its beaches or exploring the nearby Caja de Muertos Nature Reserve.
Where to stay: Barrio Playa
Rio Grande
This city lies in the eastern region of Puerto Rico, and it’s best known as the home to the El Yunque Rainforest. This rainforest is home to many endemic species and has terrific waterfalls, trails, flora, and fauna.
If you stay here, your itinerary will most likely be packed with various adventures. You can hike, meet wildlife, and lounge at its fair share of beaches.
Where to stay: Near El Yunque
Rincon
Rincon is a western town that attracts tourists and locals who surf. Thanks to its laid-back, bohemian vibe, you and your loved one can enjoy tranquil days here.
Because of its sublime twilight views, it’s also among the best spots for sunset strolls or horseback riding adventures.
Where to stay: Puntas
Fajardo
If you’re into sailing, Fajardo in Puerto Rico’s northeast is a must-visit. Several yachts and boats dock there since it has Marina Puerto del Rey.
The waters surrounding Fajardo are ideal not just for boating but for snorkeling as well. Play with Puerto Rican marine life and enjoy some of the best underwater adventures you’ll ever have with your loved one.
Where to stay: Fajardo Gardens
Vieques
This small and postcard-ready island off the east coast of the mainland is home to the best bioluminescent bay on the planet: Mosquito Bay. The island has a relaxed atmosphere with fantastic ocean views.
By day, you can soak up the sun on its pristine beaches; by night, you can marvel at microorganisms as they light up the water. Alternatively, there’s a bumping nightlife scene where locals and tourists mingle.
Where to stay: Isabel II
Isla Verde
A short drive from the airport, this resort town has an upscale atmosphere. It has white sandy beaches and warm waters ideal for various activities, such as scuba diving.
If your dream getaway includes staying at a world-class resort and playing at casinos, this is the place to be. To get in touch with nature, visit Isla Verde Nature Reserve, just outside the city.
Where to stay: Near Isla Verde Beach
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has an international hub in the capital city of San Juan: the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. A direct flight from Miami, Florida, usually takes about 2.5 hours.
To arrive at your accommodation from the airport, you can hire a shuttle/taxi, rent a car, or use a ride-sharing app.
Traveling Within Puerto Rico
After setting foot on the island, you’ll have plenty of options to get around Puerto Rico. You can rent a car, grab a taxi, or opt for the humble (and cheaper) public transportation. You can count on ferries and boats if you want to visit a nearby island.
If you opt to self-drive, note that the traffic signs are in Spanish.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Puerto Rico?
Several types of honeymoon accommodation options are available.
For an opulent experience, there are many luxury resorts, most of which are beachfront. This means you can access white sand beaches (or even have your own private beach) on top of amenities such as an infinity pool, a golf course, and a slew of fine dining restaurants.
Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar, and the historic Hotel El Convento are some of the key players in Puerto Rico’s hospitality industry.
If you’re looking for adults-only honeymoon resorts and honeymoon hotels, your best options are Condado Ocean Club, Olive Boutique Hotel, and Blue Horizon Boutique Resort.
You can also rent a cabin, cottage, or holiday home for a more secluded experience. Another unique stay is a houseboat. If you’re staying near El Yunque, treehouses are also an option.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Puerto Rico?
- Mofongo. This mash, which features fried plantains, crispy pork, skin, and garlic, can serve as a main or a side dish.
- Arroz con gandules. It’s a rice dish with pigeon peas, pork, and a seasoning blend containing garlic, peppers, onions, and herbs.
- Empanadillas. These refer to moon-shaped turnovers with a filling of ground beef and potatoes.
- Pasteles. Steamed while wrapped in banana leaves, this vegetable dough — made with green bananas, green plantains, potato (or pumpkin), and malanga — has a savory meat filling.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Puerto Rico Honeymoon?
Including cultural experiences in your to-do list is a great way to make your honeymoon more meaningful and memorable.
To learn more about Puerto Rican culture, there are several important festivals you can attend: San Sebastián Street Festiva in January, Ponce Carnival in February, and Puerto Rico Heineken Jazzfest in February.
While cooking classes are part of many honeymoon trips, if you’re in Puerto Rico, you might also want to try attending salsa and cha-cha dancing classes.
Moreover, you can learn more about the island’s cultural origins by taking a tour on the Taina Route. This tour takes you to caves, ceremonial plazas, and petroglyphs or rock carvings.
Meanwhile, if you want to know more about the Puerto Rican coffee industry, embark on a coffee plantation tour and tasting.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Puerto Rico
A romantic getaway to a tropical destination like Puerto Rico calls for lightweight, breathable clothes. If you’re exploring Old San Juan and hiking El Yunque, you must not forget comfortable hiking shoes.
Since the island boasts gorgeous beaches, bringing a swimsuit and sunscreen is necessary. Bring insect repellent to keep yourselves protected from mosquitoes.
Is Puerto Rico Safe to Visit?
The island has a lower crime rate than many states in the US, making Puerto Rico a safe place to visit. However, you must be vigilant on any vacation. Here are some precautions to take to ensure an enjoyable honeymoon:
- Be aware of your surroundings. Be vigilant of pickpockets, snatchers, and thieves, especially in crowded locations.
- Secure your valuables in a safe in your hotel room.
- Keep in mind some dangerous places to avoid, such as Bayamon, Vega Paja, and certain San Juan areas (e.g., La Perla, Puerta de Tierra, Santurce).
- Monitor weather conditions and avoid any areas affected by hurricanes or earthquakes.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Puerto Rico?
Dreaming of spending relaxing days in a tropical honeymoon destination that doesn’t require a visa? Since Puerto Rico is a territory of the US, it’s easily one of the best choices out there. You won’t need your passports, but make sure you have valid IDs.
Bonus Puerto Rico Honeymoon Travel Tips
- Puerto Rico’s tap water is potable.
- Tipping (about 10 to 15% of the bill) is expected on the island.
- When shopping or visiting any outdoor attraction, consider their business hours. Shops usually operate from 9 AM to 6 PM.
- The US dollar is the currency used in Puerto Rico. They also have ATMs, locally called ATHs (meaning “A Toda Hora”), where you can withdraw cash.
- The official languages of Puerto Rico are English and Spanish.