Puerto Rico Vacation Packages

If you think Christmas ends on December 25th, you’re missing 12 days of Christmas season fun. Three Kings Day on January 6 marks the twelfth day of Christmas, and in Puerto Rico, they end the season with a party!

Christmas celebrators in Latin American countries used to exchange gifts on Three Kings Day to commemorate the three magi in the Bible who visited Jesus, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. More people give gifts on December 25th now, but the tradition and the story of the magi is still observed with smaller gift exchanges.

The Three Kings Day festival in Old San Juan draws big crowds with live music, food and drink. Hosted in the Luis Munoz Marin Park, small gifts are given to kids and revelers can see arts and crafts based on the Three Kings, which are a major source of inspiration for folk art. The highlight of the festival is the entrance of three men who walk from a town near the southern coast, dressed as the three magi.

Puerto Rico’s got a rich, colorful history. In the north, Old San Juan’s past is as obvious as the huge forts that overlook the sea. Make sure to also check out the smaller historical gems like the statues in the town squares.

In southern Puerto Rico, the old fire station, Parque de Bombas, in Ponce has antique fire trucks on display along with a tale of the station’s history. Don’t miss the Centro Ceremonial Indigena de Tibes, a series of fields and astronomical chart structures discovered by archaeologists in the 1970s. If you happen to be on the south side of the country, San German features Capilla de Porta Coeli. This chapel is one of the oldest religious buildings in the Americas and is now a museum of religious art. There’s history all over Puerto Rico—you don’t have to go very far to find it.

Puerto Rico is a natural haven for many species of plants and animals. The country protects its numerous and beautiful habitats, so we can continue to enjoy them. In fact, the Yunque Rainforest is the only rainforest in the US National Forest System. Here you can find several ways to interact with nature. Everything from well-maintained hiking trails to zip line tours. The caves at Camuy offer a tram that takes visitors along a scenic route into a huge network of caverns that are home to bats, crabs, tarantulas and more. A nature-lover’s dream!

Ready to get your rum on? Good. The world’s largest rum distillery, Bacardi, is near San Juan. Casa Bacardi, as the tourist center is known, showcases Bacardi's history. This includes a film about the company's founding and the first distillery the family business used. You'll get two tickets for free drinks, and bartenders will show you how to mix rum cocktails in the lounge. Best part? The tour is free. 

In southern Puerto Rico, the mansion of the family who started Don Q Rum, Castillo Serralles, is one of the many museums in Ponce. It has an exhibit that explains the impact of the sugar and rum industries on the country. It also features an extensive and well-manicured garden with a reflection pool where you can relax after touring the grounds. 

After you discover Puerto Rico's long and fascinating history with this spirit, you'll have a new appreciation when you order your next mojito.

South, central, west and east Puerto Rico all offer unique, exciting opportunities that can be overshadowed by the country’s high-octane, glimmering capital city, San Juan. Here’s a taste of what you can find outside of the city. 

Slow down and hang ten on the west coast in Rincon, where surfers convene for annual competitions. Rincon means “corner” in Spanish, and it’s a beautiful place to tuck away in this piece of paradise. If you don’t feel like rounding the corner out west, turn south. Experience beautiful beaches and culture in the city of Ponce, the second largest in Puerto Rico.

In the center of the island, explore natural wonders of the terrestrial at El Yunque National Forest or the extra-terrestrial at Arecibo Observatory. If you prefer to go subterranean, descend into the fascinating ecosystems in the underground caves at Camuy.

For the classic beach experience, the out islands of Vieques and Culebra offer some of the prettiest stretches of sand and surf in the Caribbean. Playa Flamenco on Culebra is widely considered one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. San Juan is great and all, but let’s keep our minds open to the possibilities in Puerto Rico.

Take a day trip to Culebra, and you don't only get world-class beaches, you get awesome food too!

Zaco’s Tacos is a small shack on Culebra that sells inexpensive tacos in a warm, no-frills building. With bright colors inside and a terrace outdoors, you’ll feel right at home in this cozy environment as you chow down on lip-smacking tacos. You can have your choice of seared tuna, beer-battered fish, beef and more.

Another popular dining spot is Juanita Bananas. Your meal here will be less of an entrée and more of a smorgasbord of delicious appetizers and its famous sushi. The restaurant serves the freshest produce and seafood. The menu changes daily, so check the chalkboard for the day's offerings. Order at the bar, and tuck in to your tasty meal on the patio.

Vieques blends cultivated luxury and island seclusion for a vacation that's equal parts VIP and Robinson Crusoe.

With destinations like the W Retreat & Spa, Vieques offers a mix of relaxed island time and upscale pampering. The W is a beacon of elegance and sophisticated vacationing with tourist-friendly activities like snorkeling at Gringo Beach nearby. Yet in Vieques, that luxury is tempered with an easy-going attitude.

It’s not that the people of Vieques are indifferent. They just know how to enjoy life. Just check out Conuco, an upscale yet laidback restaurant that offers delectable entrees, sangria and wine.

If the out islands of Vieques and Culebra interest you, you're probably looking for that special beach experience. Well don't go all that way and start guessing at beaches. Check out these two for a relaxing good time.

Playa Flamenco is Culebra’s famous gem of a beach. Its sugar-white sand and bright blue water draw crowds of people during the weekends. Our advice? Head over on a weekday to savor a more secluded experience on this amazing stretch of coast.

Another great choice is Playa Caracas, located on the east side of Vieques in Bahia Corcho. The waves here are minimal, so it’s a great place to relax. This little beach with strikingly clear water is a great getaway if you'd rather stay closer to home on Vieques.

Rent a jeep and set out on Caribbean safari through the Vieques National Wildlife refuge. You can see tons of habitats on this reserve, and the bird watching is excellent. Vieques National Wildlife Refuge was once a US Navy base, but the Navy left in 2003, creating a tremendous vacuum of space on Vieques. Rather than resorts, restaurants or the like, the land was instead made into a nature preserve. That's lucky for us because this refuge offers another unique advantage.

While you explore and marvel at the gorgeous wildlife on the island, keep your eyes peeled for a secluded beachfront. You just might find yourself on an empty stretch of white, sandy beach. A couple of hours with your very own beach is a highlight every Vieques visitor should experience.Whether for the birds or the beaches, explore the wildlife refuge to discover the natural beauty of Vieques.

Mall mavens: Look no further than Plaza Las Americas, the largest mall in the Caribbean with more than 300 stores. Here you’ll find leading U.S brands, from Ann Taylor to Zara, all within a 15-minute cab ride from your San Juan hotel.

If you’re looking for something unique to the destination (we love to shop local – and often!), head for Old San Juan’s Fortaleza Street and the small boutique, Ole. That’s where milliner Guillermo Jeffs will custom-fit one of his genuine Panama hats to your head and embellish it with the colored ribbon of your choice for a truly unique souvenir. A few doors down, drop into Concalma, where the inexpensive and brightly patterned fabric tote bags will take you from the city to the sand and back again in San Juan style.

If you’re ready to splurge, stroll the boutiques along Condado’s Ashford Avenue, where designer baubles and clothing await.

History buff or not, you’ll enjoy touring Old San Juan’s signature historic forts, El Morro and San Cristobal, centuries-old relics of the days when the walled city was the jewel of the Spanish colonial empire. Afterward, take to the famous blue cobblestone streets of Old San Juan for shopping, lunch and people-watching. Just beyond the historic ramparts, the sugary beaches at Condado, El Escambron, Ocean Park and Isla Verde beckon, so be sure to pack your swimsuit and sunscreen.

Across the bay in Catano, the Bacardi Rum distillery runs a 45-minute tour that tells the story of the famous brand and gives visitors a chance to see how the legendary liquor is made. Best of all, the tour is free and includes complimentary cocktails; score!

If you have the time, consider a day trip to El Yunque, the Caribbean rainforest. But make sure to reserve some energy for the evening because once the sun goes down, the city really heats up. You’ll have your pick of bars, restaurants and clubs in Old San Juan and Condado, but OSJ’s Nuyorican Café is a must for live jazz, rock and salsa.

Las Vegas, Atlantic City…and San Juan. Puerto Rico is the casino destination for beach lovers. The island’s capital, San Juan, hosts several awesome resorts that pair casino fun with golden beaches and metropolitan excitement.

Sashay to the timeless Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel & Casino. With a classy appearance and an enviable location, a day at the Sheraton Old San Juan includes lounging at the roof-top pool, easy access to boutique shopping, world class restaurants and – of course – courting Lady Luck at the casino.

If you’d prefer a little more nature in between hands of Texas Hold ‘em, Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa is located about an hour and a half east of San Juan, near El Yunque rainforest and on a gorgeous stretch of golden beach. This more remote resort removes you from the metropolitan rush that others prefer and gives you access to Puerto Rico’s natural splendor. So when you want to go all in, forget the mainland. Puerto Rico is the place to be.

Better pack those elastic-waist pants too because San Juan is a foodie’s paradise.

Start your gastronomic odyssey by trying the fare of the city’s star chefs, Wilo Benet and Roberto Trevino. We adore the cuisine at Trevino’s Condado eatery, Budatai, where Asian and Puerto Rican flavors meet, and Chef Benet’s fusion cuisine at nearby Pikayo (in the Conrad Condado Plaza) makes us instantly forget our diets.

It’s a much more casual affair on the beach at Pinones, where you can sample from the string of snack shacks that serve up pinchos (skewers of meat, fish and seafood) and all manner of deep-fried deliciousness.

In Old San Juan, we can’t think of a more romantic place for a drink than the bar at El Convento. The intimate candlelit spot overlooks the convent-turned-hotel’s courtyard dining room, where a sprawling tree strung with fairy lights casts a magical glow. 

San Juan’s nightlife is often compared to Miami’s, and rightfully so. Club and bar options abound in Puerto Rico's capital. The Nuyorican Café pulses with heart-thumping salsa music and dancing. Nestled into Old San Juan, locals and visitors shake and spin late into the night, while professional dancers and great musicians keep the beat hot. Nuyorican also offers more eclectic features such as plays, poetry readings and talent shows. This hip establishment attracts a diverse, energetic and creative crowd.

The local hotels host some of San Juan's favorite clubs. For a posh bar scene, head to the roof of San Juan Water & Beach Club Hotel, where Mist offers excellent ocean views, leather couches and a DJ on the weekends. If you seek a hotspot to dance, boogie down to Club Brava at El San Juan Resort & Casino. This two-story dancing mecca bumps Top 40 hits and house music all night and attracts locals and tourists alike. The club enforces an upscale dress code, so everyone is dressed to impress. If you're not staying at El San Juan Resort, you'll pay a cover, but for a guaranteed night of throw-off-your-shoes dancing, Brava's got you covered.

Language: Spanish and English (Spanish is primary)

Currency: USD

Electricity: 110 Volt plugs with standard 2 or 3 prongs

Passport/Immigration: There is no passport requirement for U.S. citizens for direct travel to and from Puerto Rico. If you return to the mainland U.S. from Puerto Rico through another country (Mexico or Bermuda, for example), you will need a passport.

Drinking Water: Puerto Rico's water supply is monitored by agencies of the US government, and the tap water is safe to drink.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC/GMT -4 hours)

Peak Season: Mid-December – Mid-April

On Luquillo Beach (near El Yunque), there’s a very cool strip on the beach complete with shops, restaurants and bars. You could seriously spend all day here. There are plenty of amenities, including restrooms, showers and lifeguards. There's even guarded parking available. This makes Luquillo very popular with families who are searching for a swimming beach that feels secure. Mar Sin Barreras, a facility at Luquillo, offers those in wheelchairs an opportunity to splash in the surf with a ramp that gently slopes into the water.

The west coast of Culebra surrounds Luis Pena Marine Reserve, where you can get in some great snorkeling and scuba diving. Colorful reefs and a variety of sea creatures make for a memorable underwater exploration. The reserve can be accessed at a few points along Culebra's coast. If you're already at the famous Flamenco Beach, grab your snorkel gear and take a walk on a trail that starts at the parking lot. The first beach you'll hit is Tamarindo Grande. If you continue on to the northwest, you'll hit Carlos Rosario Beach. Both places feature some truly incredible snorkeling. Melones Beach is easier to access with a parking lot right next to the beach. You'll just hop out of the car and into the water. You'll find reefs and wildlife near the rocky outcroppings in the water. Thanks to the reserve, all of these locations teem with fish and coral for a memorable aquatic experience.

Tour the majestic Camuy Caves to see exotic creatures and earthen formations. The tours begin with a short video that introduces you to the cave system. Then, you're off on tram rides to different parts of the cave. You'll see tremendous stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling and stalagmites stretching up from the floor. You may be thinking of a cold, dark place, but Camuy Caves are actually warm and dark. The tropical environment makes these caves different from many in the US. There are tons of fascinating wildlife in the cave that the adventurous and curious will love to see. Everything from blue-eyed river crabs to bats to tarantulas inhabit the diverse habitat. Tours also include tram rides to see sinkholes, where you can peer down and see the world's third-longest underground river. This is Puerto Rico at its eco-coolest.

Located in Isabel Segunda, this old fort - also known as Fuerte de Vieques (Strength of Vieques) - has been restored and opened for tours. Built in 1845, the fort is now the Vieques Museum of Art and History. The museum displays some of the most fascinating archeological finds from Vieques. Conde de Mirasol was restored in 1991, and the building and the surrounding grounds have been kept in impeccable condition. In a place that mostly gets praised for natural beauty, a little time to appreciate the history of the island can be very rewarding. Of course, Vieques' natural beauty is still an advantage here. Your admission ticket lets you see not only the exhibits, but the amazing vistas from Fort Conde de Mirasol's walls as well. This is a great day trip when you want a break from the sand and surf, and the view will probably inspire you to head straight back to the beach.

This special gem of a beach is tucked away on the southern coast of the island. Getting there can be tricky, as the directions there are sometimes unclear. There are unofficial signs that say Playa Negra, but you’ll need to do your research and ask for local assistance. As the beach generates more conversation, there are more people talking about how to get there. The paths to Playa Negra usually involve rougher terrain, so be prepared to bring water shoes or sandals that have a good grip. Once you're there, you'll love the different kind of beauty this beach offers. The black sand is volcanic and a stark contrast to the usually white and gold sand on other Vieques beaches. The amount of black sand on the beach varies, depending on the tide, but whatever the amount, the blend of black and gold is a rare sight. Set out in search for this gem of a beach. It’s a treasure hunt worth going on!

Barbara Rosas is a cozy establishment just south of the airport on Calle Escudero in Culebra. Barbara is the cook and hostess, and patrons eat in the living room or on the patio. It closes earlier than most restaurants, and she’s occasionally unable to make menu items due to ingredient shortages. Still, don't let that deter you. If you want some comfort food, Barabara Rosa's is the place for some culinary reassurance. She can always whip up some tasty treats for when you’re feeling a little homesick.

Head to the center of the island to Lago Dos Bocas, where you can get picked up by a boat and ferried to one of the restaurants dotting the lake’s shores. The route to the lake is marked by road signs, and there is parking next to the pier. Representatives from the restaurants stand in the parking lot, handing out fliers and menus for the lakeside restaurants.

There are several restaurants on the lake, and you really can't go wrong. Restaurante Rancho Marina and El Fogon de Abuela are two of the popular restaurants. Both feature local cuisine and gorgeous views. The restaurants are located at different heights. Some are right on the water, and others are perched higher on the hillsides, offering excellent views of surrounding scenery. Go on a slow afternoon when you can relax and enjoy the boat ride. You’ll get some tasty cuisine and a chance to see more of the beautiful landscape.

Puerto Rico's largest airport is Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), located three miles southeast of San Juan. The airport offers direct flights to many US cities and connections to most other airports in Puerto Rico, including Antonio Riviera Rodriguez Airport on Vieques.

When you fly into San Juan, it’s like flying in the US, only proof of citizenship is required. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate or government issued photo ID. Because US citizens don’t need a passport or visa to enter Puerto Rico, they are not required to pass through immigration or customs. Your bag will be searched by the US Department of Agriculture to check for prohibited items.

CheapCaribbean.com has partnered with Dragonfly Adventures as our premier transportation companies in Puerto Rico. They’ll provide you with safe, comfortable and professional transportation from the airport to your hotel and back. They’ll also provide transportation to any excursions booked through our site that you’d like to take while you’re in your destination.

It’s easy to find your Dragonfly Adventures team when you arrive at the airport. They’ll be standing in the waiting area, holding a CheapCaribbean.com welcome sign. All drivers are fluent in English, friendly and knowledgeable about the culture, history and things to do while you’re there. By the end of your ride, you’ll have made a new friend. Their vehicles are all clean, modern and reliable.

Once you arrive at San Juan, you can catch a cab or a hotel shuttle. San Juan offers several types of public transportation, including the Tren Urbano (Urban Train) that runs from 5:30AM-11:30PM. The Metropolitan Bus Authority, or AMA, can also get you around the San Juan area. Antique-looking trolleys operate free of charge in Old San Juan. Two ferry stations operate in Puerto Rico. Aqua Espresso in Old San Juan sends ferries to Catano, where the Bacardi Distillery is located. The Fajardo Station on Puerto Rico's east coast provides ferries to the out-islands of Culebra and Vieques.