7 Days Eat, Swim, Repeat
Stop rushing everywhere. Hit the local food shacks, touch grass at the beach, and carry cash. Skipping the organized tour buses is the ultimate move.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
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Luis Munoz Marin International Airport
Roovio — I bypassed the aggressive airport cab lines completely free and walked straight to the garage Uber zone. The ride to Old San Juan took 20 minutes and ran me $18.50.
I was genuinely surprised by how pleasant and well-organized the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport was! From the moment we arrived, everything went incredibly smoothly. Absolutely all the staff we interacted with were extremely friendly, helpful and polite. The airport is very well organized, and you can tell that everyone knows exactly what they are doing. When we arrived, our checked luggage came out surprisingly quickly, which was a huge plus after a long flight. On departure, we waited no more than about 10 minutes to check in and drop off our luggage, and the security control was just as fast and efficient. For such a busy international airport, I was honestly impressed by how little time we spent waiting. I also really liked the area after security, especially the Duty Free section. There are many shops selling traditional Puerto Rican souvenirs and local products, which gives the airport a much more authentic and welcoming feeling. It was actually nice to have some time to browse and pick up a few last souvenirs before leaving. Overall, this was one of the most pleasant airport experiences we have had. Friendly staff, excellent organization, quick baggage handling and a nice selection of traditional shops — everything made the journey much easier and more enjoyable. I would happily travel through this airport again! ✈️🇵🇷🌴
One of my least favorite airports. The restaurants are a mix of American fast food: dominoes, popeyes; international fare: ramen, Spanish; and gas station food. And it's so expensive. Yes airports are expensive, but it's expensive and unsatisfying. Then the duty free is a waste of time. You can get the same items on the island and just pack it in your bag and save a bunch of money. And the security is super relaxed. I have a subdermal device that always get me pat down. I went through, they asked if I had a necklace, I said yes, and they cleared me. The airport isn't bad, it's just not good and spending time there isn't fun.
I was flying out of Terminal A at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, and honestly the experience getting in was rough. With everything going on around the government shutdown, TSA was extremely slow—long lines and pretty chaotic just to get through the initial checkpoint. Definitely give yourself extra time. The airport itself feels older and a bit worn down. It could really use a refresh. That said, once you’re inside, there are actually a lot of solid food options for breakfast and lunch, plus some good shopping and local snacks. On the bright side, flights seem to run pretty smoothly and leave on time, which helps make up for the hassle getting in. Not my favorite airport, but it gets the job done for the area.
Arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport was a good experience. The airport was clean, organized, and easy to get around. Signs for baggage claim and transportation were clear. My luggage came out quickly, and the whole process was smooth from landing to exit. A nice first impression of Puerto Rico!!
Got to the airport around midnight. Ready to navigate clean airport. Bathroom were clean. Uber pick up was from B 19-20 area. Since landed in PR, its been a great experience.
Cafetería Mallorca
Roovio — I dropped my bags and hit this retro diner immediately. Sitting at the counter for a $4.50 sweet, powdered-sugar ham and cheese Mallorca with a $2.75 café con leche killed my flight lag.
Cafeteria mallorca has a vibe from another era. The food was good. I got the ham and cheese mallorca which had a nice dusting of powdered sugar. The coffee was lackluster and the amount given is sad. It would have been much better too if the food and coffee were served with actual plate and cups instead of styrofoam. The service was okay. Our server checked up on us once but the food took 20min to show up despite everyone’s orders being very simple and small. The atmosphere was probably the best part with the old diner feel. However it was a little dingy so a little more upkeep would have made it feel a little more clean
Stopped in for breakfast on our first day here in PR and mad did it NOT disappoint. Service was a bit on the slow side, but nothing terrible. Place felt authentic. Not a fancy place at all, but we prefer local spots. Mallorca sandwich with egg, cheese, half and bacon 5/5. Fresh squeezed OJ 5/5 Freshly made to order papaya shake 5/5 Fresh lemonade 5/5. All in all, highly recommend!
I stopped by Mallorca for breakfast and had a pleasant experience. I ordered the ham, egg, and cheese sandwich, which was good and satisfying, though not particularly memorable. The real star of the visit was the coffee. It was outstanding. I enjoyed it so much that I had two cups while I was there and even ordered another one to go. It was easily some of the best coffee I had during my trip. The service could be improved, as it felt a bit slow and less attentive than some of the other places I visited. However, the quality of the coffee alone makes Mallorca worth a stop, especially if you’re a coffee lover. Overall, it was a good breakfast experience and a place I would visit again for the coffee.
TLDR: got lectured for asking to order, saw them microwaving coffee for customers We sat down at the counter and waited for 15 minutes without anyone helping us. We looked at the menu online and were ready to order. We were ignored when trying to wave someone down to order and finally someone came over… only to lecture us saying they were short staffed and we needed to wait. He spent more time saying all that than it would have taken to just take our order. Then he proceeded to take the order of the people Next to us instead though we arrived first. We finally ordered and we waited for another 15-20 mins. While we waited, I literally saw them take “hot coffee” and put it into the microwave. Seriously? The food finally came and it was really just ok. Already not happy with what had happened, I just took two bites and asked for the check
Overall nice place with affordable pricing. The Mallorca egg,ham and cheese was AWESOME! The chicken and rice was ok as the rice seemed a few days old, not fresh. The red beans were on point!
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Roovio — When we stepped inside this massive fort, the $10 entry fee felt like a steal. Look, I am not the history person but standing on these 400-year-old stone walls facing the massive ocean was mind-blowing.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to learn about the history of Puerto Rico, make sure you check out this location. For just $10 a person, access is granted to explore the grounds of this castle and during the time I went, your ticket was good for two days. When visiting, I would highly suggest wearing sneakers, and bringing water when touring. They do have a small gift shop on location that you can also purchase small items. Due to the beauty of this castle, it is also a great opportunity to grab some photos. The views are breathtaking and worth the visit. I would highly recommend.
El Morro is a sight to see. I went around 10:15 with two kids, age 4 and 6. The wait was just a few minutes. We stayed about 2 hours. We did a lot of walking. The kids had a shorter attention span, just wanted to see the things and explore, up and down the stairs. Beautiful views. I would advise to bring your own cold water (they do sell around 4 bucks a bottle) and umbrella or hand fan if you have. The video they showed in the casemates area was very informative and eye opening, as well as a needed break after up and down stairs. Also, there's a spot before you go downstairs with bars to look out, amazing breeze for a cool down. The day we went was slightly cloudy. The sun was hot when it came out. The few clouds were appreciated when it covered the sun. When we left around noon, the line was long. Thank goodness we came when we did. When you leave treat yourself to helado (icee) or piragua/snowcone when you get off the property. Muy deliciouso.
Price $10 and you can use the ticket at the other fort. The walk is about 30 minutes to get to the other fort. The cemetery is free to walk down to. The closest parking lot Ballaja was the 1st choice at FV9J+485, Calle Morovis, San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico for $10.but is was full on a Wednesday at 1030 am we ee parked at the Esquire Garage which was $37. The walk from there was about 20 minutes. We went in July and we sweat so so much. They had water amd Gatorade in the park we got one of each fpr $8.
Great visit to Castillo San Felipe del Morro on a Sunday morning. Arrived when they opened up at 9am and there was no wait to get in. Spectacular views of the castle itself as well the surrounding areas. Lots of history about the castle displayed through some great exhibits. Lots of walking, hills and some stairs throughout...so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Great gift shop. Friendly and helpful staff throughout. Admission fee is $10, but grants access to Castillo San Felipe del Morro as well as the nearby Castillo San Cristobal up until the following day...so be sure to take advantage and visit both within that period. There is a reasonably-priced nearby parking garage (Ballaja Parking Garage) just a short walk to the entrance. There is also free street parking along Bulevar del Valle in the early morning hours.
Such an amazing experience visiting this place. All the history behind it was phenomenal to learn. It makes you think about all the injustices the puerto rican people have been going through with such resilience. I do recommend going as they open or later in the afternoon before they close because walking there with no shade is no joke. Lol. Make sure to wear a hat and shades. The entrance fee was resonable for all the things you get to see. It should be around 2-3 hours depending on if you read all the signs with the history or just walk through. 100% would recommend! I love it! Great spot for pics too. @unamelviajera my instagram if you wanna see my travel pictures.
El Jibarito
Roovio — After walking for miles, sitting down here for a local feast was heaven. Eating their signature $14.95 chicken mofongo bowl paired with a freezing cold $3.00 Medalla Light beer hits the spot perfectly.
This was worth the wait. We waited around 20 minutes. The host and servers were very friendly and hospitable. The vibe in the restaurant was very festive. We were seated upstairs and had a great view of the first floor. The pina coladas were delish and the food was so yummy. We had the snapper, steak, pork. We had sides of yellow rice and sweet plantains. So good! You name it, it was delish. We had the coconut flan and the tres leches for dessert and I must say the flan was the best one I’ve ever tasted. I understand the hype of visiting this long-established restaurant!
Quite the amazing food experience. We went during Sanse, and were lucky enough to be seated right away, for 7 of us. The bill with appetizers, 7 meals and one pitcher of Sangria with Tip was $300.00. What a wonderful surprise that was. The waitress was friendly, the food service was fast, and the atmosphere was fun and decor was authentic. Every time someone made it in to be seated, they received a cheer with applause from the entire restaurant. They celebrated birthdays with an amazing ensemble of singers and instruments, MY birthday included. Everyone ate every last bite off their plates, we had fish, mofongo, shrimp, and steak, and we all enjoyed it. Some from my group were locals, others born there but are frequent flyers and others are Puerto Ricans from New York. We know good food, and this place knows how to make it. Thank you for putting flavor in our trip! Hands down, the best food we had while eating out in the area.
In San Juan for the day and randomly stopped here for lunch. The food was delicious. Very authentic. I loved the rice & beans. We all enjoyed our food. Our server was helpful and friendly. Glad we stopped here and when we are in SJ again, we will def be back.
We love the whole fried snapper here and came twice for the same dish within our one week visit. The fish is coated with savory garlicky flavors! It had an addicting crunch on the outside with fresh flaky tender meat on the inside. We also love the yellow rice and rice with beans! There doesn’t seem to be much of a difference between the medium vs large fish, and service can be slow depending on the time. The tamales was okay, but we definitely recommend the whole fried snapper!
Great for local food tasting! The Mofongo was great! And the “chillo frito” delicious, we didn’t have to wait that much for a table given that we were a group of 7. Staff friendly and helpful to guide you through the menu options. Definitely will recommend everyone this place!
Casa Blanca
Roovio — We stumbled into this hidden gem entirely for free while hunting for shade. Resting under heavy trees by the quiet stone fountains completely saved us from the massive tour crowds.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Lucky to have a chance to visit just the gardens, at least! Very thankful! Beautiful!
For those of you who are students of history, this is a great museum, especially considering it’s history, however it’s in need of some time and money to help renovate and make it presented in a better way for public viewing. It’s only $5.00 to enter and worth the visit but expect a little rustic presentation. There are some interesting gardens around the house but again, in need of some TLC.
Museo Casa Blanca is one of the most magical wedding venues in Old San Juan. After years of recommending it to my couples, I finally had the chance to photograph a wedding here, and it exceeded every dream I had!! With its historic architecture, sweeping ocean views, and lush gardens, Casa Blanca is a rare gem. We had a beautiful First Look in the garden near the fountain, followed by a ceremony in the lower patio with a panoramic view of the San Juan Bay. The setting was quiet, intimate, and unlike anywhere else in the city. As a wedding photographer, I especially love that you don’t need to leave the venue grounds to get a variety of stunning portrait locations: it offers the full Old San Juan aesthetic, all in one place. Sharing a few of my favorite photos to show just how breathtaking this venue can be for an intimate wedding or elopement.
Former home of Juan Ponce de Leon built in 1521. We visited on a weekday. Casa Blanca was an interesting walk through history. The old house features antique furniture and portraits. There was no tour guide so it was a self-guided open house experience. Admission was inexpensive. There are several cat residents to meet and a beautiful tropical garden with grand trees. Spent about 30 minutes looking around and snapped some pictures. Loved the old furniture and history. This was my second visit to Casa Blanca, last year I tried to visit on a Saturday and it was closed for an event so I recommend having a backup plan nearby if it's closed.
A bit underwhelming. We paid $5 a person to get in, but we could have just walked around the gardens for free and seen almost as much. The gardens are beautiful and lush. Definitely worth walking through
Puerta de San Juan
Roovio — I caught the perfect evening breeze walking through the massive red gate onto the boardwalk. Grabbing a fresh $3.00 coconut piragua from a street cart made the ocean stroll feel like pure bliss.
Great place, good history. Awesome architecture. Perfect place for pictures from different angles and vantage points. La Fortaleza and Casa Rosa are nearby as well. Good place for an adventurous uphill walk.
Being Puerto Rican and my first time here was a magical experience to walk through the same gates our ancestors walked through. A definite recommend if you are in Old San Juan. Great scenery and picture options!
Sunset here is absolutely gorgeous 🌅✨ There’s a trail and a small beach nearby — perfect for a leisurely stroll 👣🏖️ And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a cruise ship gliding by slowly 🛳️💛
Very fun experience. We walked around on our own and it was very easy and lots of options for shopping and food. Definitely recommend going to the capital building they have a free tour and teach a lot with free maps and books about the community
I wanted to share my experience visiting the Christmas lights at the Paseo Lineal de la Princesa in Old San Juan. It was a magnificent experience and one of the most impressive displays I have seen in a long time. We also stopped by La Puerta de San Juan on the way up, which was well worth it. The lights were fantastic, the atmosphere was lively, and the crowds were happy. There were many kiosks selling souvenirs, local homemade goods, and traditional fritters and turnovers. Although we didn't try the food, several people mentioned the items were delicious and reasonably priced. Parking, which is usually problematic in Old San Juan, was excellently coordinated and handled the large influx of people very smoothly. We also managed to stop by La Factoría and La Cubanita for a couple of drinks; both spots were packed and had a great ambiance. Overall, it was a great experience. I highly recommend it to both tourists and locals looking for a unique Puerto Rican Christmas celebration.
La Factoría
Roovio — Once it got dark, we grabbed quick $16.00 fish tacos at La Vergüenza, then snuck into this signless speakeasy. Sipping a $14.00 lavender cocktail in the hidden back rooms while salsa vinyl played was unreal.
Had to make a stop by this bar after recommendations by locals and seeing it in the US best 50 bars. Cocktails are definitely delicious, with a great Carribean profile, I had the Guanabana punch and the Peligroso. My bartender was really the best. Another good thing is that it opens early even though there is no food before 5pm (at least the Thursday I was there).
Very intriguing place. We went for dinner and drinks around 6:00 pm and just walked in and had a great meal and amazing cocktails. First off I want to say that, when we left there was long line waiting to get in!! - boy we were lucky to walk in when we did. The reason it’s an intriguing place is because there are 8 interconnected bars within one place!! Every bar has its own unique ambience- so you can do bar hopping within one place!! The bartenders are willing to be challenged- so feel free to! Go early and enjoy!
La Factoria in Old San Juan is a fantastic bar with a super cool vintage vibe and a lot of character. The space is beautifully decorated with eclectic details, and unlike many busy bars, it actually has comfortable seating, which makes a big difference. The corner location gives it a great atmosphere, perfect for people-watching during the day and lively bar hopping at night. The bartenders and mixologists are fast, skilled, and clearly know what they’re doing. The cocktail menu is creative, but they’re also happy to make classic cocktails even if they’re not listed on the menu. Service is efficient, the drinks are consistently excellent, and they accept cards, which is convenient. A must-visit spot in San Juan for both casual drinks and serious cocktail lovers
La Factoria is a place you go to if you want to enjoy a carefully curated cocktail. They only had 2 rooms open at the time we went. Our server was very nice and helped us choose some great drinks. It is on the pricer end but that’s to be expected for its location. We didn’t try the food but there were some good quick bites in the menu.
Fantastic cocktail bar in old San Juan which has been on top bar lists. We were there during day hours when only the front room was open, it had a casual and chill atmosphere. Bartenders were friendly. Drinks were all very good!
Torre Mount Britton Trailhead
Roovio — We decided to go to the misty mountains at dawn to beat the big tour buses. The jungle hike is entirely free, and climbing the damp, cloud-covered stone observation tower felt magical.
Go early for easier parking. One quarter of the trail was through paved jungle. The rest was road walking to Yunque Peak. We did Britton tower about 1/3 of the way up. Past the towers were some massive communication towers giving of some Jurassic Park vibes. No view due to low lying mist. Overall not a long or difficult trek, maybe 2-3 hours leisurely stroll.
This is a great trail. Come early and bring water be patient with the parking. View from the top is wonderful and g go to the tower lookout as well. Bring sunscreen you are in Puerto Rico. Good share on the button part. Saw wild orchid asking the road.
Quite a unique trail in terms of walking on concrete with embedded Stones. But it really helps and even even though it's rained recently, I didn't find it to be slippery. It's a bit narrow so you need to hop off when other people are coming. The sign at the bottom says it takes 45 minutes to get up there, which isn't wrong. If you go at a more common Pace but you could probably do it in about 20 if you hustle as fast as you can. You're the top it gets a little bit easier as it connects with the road and then has a more standard Stone path
Amazing views! I recommend to go early in the day to get a good parking spot and do the hike, we went up to the tower (it took around 40 minutes) and then did a bit more of the hike next to it. It can be a bit slippery, so it’s good to have good sandals or shoes. I took my Teva with me and it worked great!
Such a beautiful trail. Parking is limited so plan ahead. It’s usually pretty crowded so arrive early if you prefer to see less people around. Definitely wear comfortable walking shoes as you will walk a ton. Be careful not to touch too many plants as some cause people to breakout in rashes. Overall if you love nature this is an awesome trail.
Las Pailas
Roovio — When we reached this hidden river spot. Sliding down the slick, moss-covered volcanic rocks into the crisp mountain water was wild.
Overall great experience. We did not tour with a guide, you seriously don’t need one. It’s less than a 5 minute walk from the street but it is a very steep and rocky trail, you’ll need both hands, if you have any sort of physical limitations you may have a lot of difficulty. I would NOT even try it after a heavy rain! Yes, the young men out front will charge you $10 and tell you it’s private property. Obviously, the river is not private property….but the house and lot where you are offered parking with the quickest access to river is private. They are allowing you to park there for a fee and will watch your vehicle. Honestly, not much choice because it’s a very winding narrow street with minimal parking available. So pay the $10 and be on your way…it’s worth it and they are making honest money. The river itself and waterslides are beautiful, not very deep. Several rocks to jump from at about 6’ deep. Unless you really really don’t know how to swim, you won’t need a life vest. Yes, there are fish but they don’t bite or bother. People come and go, including larger tour groups. No bathrooms or concessions nearby that we saw, but just down the road there’s a little convenience store / bar called El negocio Las Pailas. He sometimes also has food, just ask if you don’t see any food out. And right next door is a very cute house rental called the Riverside Cottage ☺️ where we had the best comfortable stay with our own River access.
A family favorite. Parking has increased to $10 and they charge $1 per person. The walk down is a paved (half way) then a very short hike to the slide and wading area. The walk back up can be steep, but my elderly grandmother was able to do it. Although it looks crowded based on the parking, the larger groups aren't there for long and it's actually fun watching ppl go down the slide- comradarie between the patrons. Tip... Lean forward and let your hands slide down the rock!
Nice place Good atmosphere Family friendly Will stop again Note: There’s no off street parking or parking on the side road So neighbors offer spots at their houses for $10 so your vehicle is at no risk at all
$10 to park $1 per person Water shoes help with the slippery rocks highly recommended. Very muddy wear something you dont care about. If you have kids I would recommend getting a tour guide but you do not need one to participate. Other than that the pictures speak for themselves. ❤️
This slice of heaven in the back yard of the citizens of Puerto Rico is kept clean and pristine. Its slide at yoir own risk, but the risks are minimum. Its so much fun to slide in mountain waters into a pool of fresh cool refreshing waters that are grounding and cleansing. There's a 30 foot slide & a 100ft slide. I didn't dare go down the 100 ft slide but it was fun watching thr locals slide down on their feet!
Kiosko #48
Roovio — Munching on a $3.50 beef alcapurria, a $4.00 crispy codfish fritter, and a $4.50 crab empanadilla by the waves is honestly unmatched.
The food there is not great...if you like food with spices and moist, this is not the place or town... the rice was hard... I was not impressed. They were really nice. To be fair in my culture we season our food and it is never dry...
I give them more like a 4 1/2 star rating. We only ordered a few fried fritters to go. What I did like about this location was some of the fritters are cooked at that moment. That does mean waiting for some time to pass. What I didn't l enjoy about this kiosko was, the wait time can feel longer then what it really is.
If you wants some delicious alcapurias, bacalaitos and ice cold beers...and let's not forget the amazing piña colada!! Plus outback you have the beach and a guy with a horse that you give a tip to and you can ride the horse.
WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE! Lots of food options and it’s right behind the beach. Perfect for swimming and very safe for kids.
We ordered combo pincho/ kabobs -chicken, pork and shrimp to share. Order took forever to arrive and pricey. All the food was dry, like it had sat out overnight , no flavor to arroz con gandules, tostones were dry , shrimp were not cleaned properly, no one came to table to offer any assistance or service. No ventilation at all- very unpleasant in heat. Don’t waste your time or money here. Go to La Parrilla - kiosks #2, fabulous food and service!!!!
Balneario La Monserrate Luquillo Beach
Roovio — I walked right behind the food stalls to this free, calm crescent bay. Spreading my towel under the palm trees for a two-hour beach nap was the absolute best way to digest.
We loved this beach and spent 6 hours here and didn’t want to leave. Clean, spacious, shade. Can rent chairs and umbrellas. A lot of food available to purchase. Water calm and clear. Huge parking lot for $4. Able to drive mobility scooter right to sand/palm tree area without difficulty.
This is a great beach to visit. The water is clear. There are umbrella and chair rentals available as well as various kiosks for food and adult beverages. They will even bring you your food if you call to order. The cost to enter the beach is $4, credit card only. You will unfortunately see some trash in the sand and at times in the water but overall it is a great beach. We visited twice while in PR.
Absolutely love this place. Quiet waters, stores and atmosphere was great. You pay a small fee to go in but it is worth it. The beach is super clean and nice
This is a great balneareo. It has many food vendors. The beach was clean and all the other people were enjoying the beach aswell there were not obnoxious people around. The water is crystal clear. The price to go in was $4.00 there are ample of parking. They dont rent umbrella, nor chairs. The open from 8am to 6pm.
One of the best and most family-friendly beaches in Puerto Rico! The sand is soft, the water is calm and perfect for swimming, and the facilities are excellent. The bathrooms are super clean, and the area is well-maintained with lifeguards, showers, and shaded spots to relax. Parking is easy, and the beach is just steps away from the famous Luquillo Kiosks, where you can enjoy amazing local food. A must-visit beach! 🌴☀️🌊
Kasalta
Roovio — I walked into this legendary neighborhood bakery and stepped right up to the packed glass counter. My hot $9.50 medianoche pork sandwich and sweet $2.50 cream cheese quesito pastry set the perfect tone.
Yes. Just yes! Dined in for lunch. The flavors here! The sandwiches were freshly prepared, with thick cuts of whatever you choose. The beef soup, hearty and savory. The expresso, yummm 🤤 Service was polite and hospitable. It's helpful to either speak/understand the native language in this establishment, but not mandatory. We encountered a gentleman (staff) that was able to navigate us in English. Crowded at any time of the day; we didn't have to wait for seating though. Worth your time and tastebuds. Definitely will return.
I mean what is not to love when you can try all the local desserts in one well know and delicious bakery. You order at the counter either take out or sit in. We decided to sit in. The nice lady at the counter gave us pointers about what to order. In order from our favorite to least favorite (but still delicious): tres leche cake, coconut pudding, guava cheesecake, and their cheese pastry. The cake was moist and great subtle flavor. I loved the pudding too- smooth, light with a touch of cinnamon. I had never really had guava before and it came highly recommended so we tried and really enjoyed it as well. The cheese pastry was fine, a little drier for our liking but still glad we tried a local dessert. I think you definitely need to do a sampling from here. There were so many things that looked really good. I would even go back to try the main courses. Kind service, delicious desserts what more do you need?
Everything my friend and I tried was fresh and delicious. Close walk from Ocean Park Beach. I recommend to anyone in the area wanting a delicious breakfast, sandwich or fresh baked treats. Beautiful presentation of the pastries. They have quite a bit of seating here.
A solid four stars. This is a VERY popular spot in San Juan so we wanted to check it out. It’s super crowded so we had high hopes but breakfast was just… average. The bread is yummy, the coffee is okay but $11.95 plus tax and tip for eggs and toast is kinda wild.
A beloved local bakery + eatery 🥪 Packed almost every day, but service is lightning fast ⚡ Tiramisu is pricey, yet totally worth it 🍰 And the highlight — don’t miss the Cuban sandwich! 😋 Made with soft Mallorca bread and hearty meats, pure satisfaction 😍
Balneario El Escambrón
I skipped the rough, dangerous undercurrents of Condado and spent $0 swimming by the old ruins here. Within minutes of putting my mask on, I was literally floating alongside wild sea turtles grazing.
Roovio
I almost went to Condado, but I'm glad I came here instead. The water was calm, snorkeling was great, and I even spotted a couple of sea turtles.
This is a beach like no other located near the Old Town of San Juan. Once you cross from Condado, the next part is El Escambron. There are a lot of people (tourists) who are snorkeling the turquoise waters. The you see a no man island right of the beach that provides some protection from the big waves. On one side of the beach there is an abandoned series of buildings and it’s taken over by stay cats and chickens or even iguanas. It’s almost like a small glimpse of paradise. Many claim that this is the best overall beach in San Juan and overall that’s true because of the coral reef. There is a protective layer of coral reef that keeps the turquoise waters calm and safe for swimming, snorkeling and typically there are sea turtles and many other marine life like tropical fish, crabs and you name it. There are public facilities like restrooms and showers. Math street vendors or vendors of the beach. All this action minutes from Old San Juan.
El Escambrón has been my preferred beach for over 30 years. Regardless of all the changes it's been through its clean, with a natural barrier that makes it feel like a pool. Palm trees for shade and basic facilities to rinse salt water off and to change clothes. It just added an area that sells drinks and refreshments.
Love the flag planted on the little island across the beach. Beautiful views of the el capitolio de puerto rico building, del morro, castillo san cristobal. All very nice =]
Stunning beaches. They have multiple bathrooms and lifeguards on duty There are some small food vendors. But no major restaurants. Parking is under $7 for 24 hours. There are restaurants within walking distance Beautiful, calm beach. With a reef barrier to protect all from rip Current. Definitely safe for small children still, it’s water. Parents need to be alert.
Beautiful, busy and yet clean and enjoyable. I liked the water, the atmosphere and everything about this little beach.
Calle Cerra
Roovio — Google — I took a $9.00 UberX to this creative arts district to see the massive international street murals. Afterward, I grabbed a table at Musa for an incredible $18.00 modern pork belly mofongo bowl.
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
Roovio — Walking into this converted historic hospital building cost just $7.00 for entry. Exploring the quiet galleries and the hidden, multi-tier botanical garden out back offered the perfect peaceful escape from the midday sun.
The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is a beautiful museum and a must-visit if you appreciate Puerto Rican art and culture. The staff were incredibly kind, welcoming, and always willing to answer questions. I enjoy taking my time with each piece of art, so I spent nearly five hours exploring all four floors, the three special exhibits, and the beautiful botanical garden. If you prefer to move through at a quicker pace, you could probably see everything in about two hours. I highly recommend visiting this museum. It's a wonderful way to experience the beauty, history, and creativity of Puerto Rico through its incredible collection of artwork.
I wish I had more time and paid to see the limited exhibits! What a beautiful place! Because I am military, it was only $11 for my daughter and I to enter. Gift shop is also amazing. I will find my way back!
I'll give you a heads up , the 4th floor is dark in theme. Very somber very dark. Here's a tip you can walk around back to the garden for free. That's worth the money.
This is a truly impressive location distinguished by its unique and captivating artwork. I particularly admired the garden's beauty and the dedication of the staff.
The collection is wonderful. The organization is terrible. On their website I found a guided tour of the permanent exhibition on Saturday at 11 a.m. The day before, I asked about it and nobody knew anything. Eventually the event was confirmed for me. On Saturday, not only did I wait a long time after 11am, but it turned out the tour was with a group of small children. I was assured on site that it was for everyone. However, the guide focused on the kids and asked them many questions at a children’s level. It was not for adults! The staff were very nice, but the communication between them seemed nonexistent. Apparently there is a free guided tour every Sunday at 2 p.m. included in the ticket price. Note: on Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. admission is free! (No one at the reception will tell you this.) It’s worth visiting the lower floor with the drawings. It’s a pity there is no interactive panel—like a musical add-on to the mural La Plena by Tufiño to listen to the traditional songs.
La Placita de Santurce
Roovio — I took an $8.00 UberX over to the historic market square just as the metal garage doors rolled up. The entire neighborhood transforms into a massive, high-energy open-air festival full of music.
I visited La Placita de Santurce and honestly, it was one of the most authentic and complete experiences I’ve had in Puerto Rico. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere pulls you in. During the day it feels like a traditional local market, but at night it completely transforms into a vibrant hotspot full of music, lights, and energy. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or an amazing nightlife experience. The food was excellent. There’s a wide variety of options: traditional Puerto Rican dishes, fresh seafood, meats, fried favorites, and even more modern choices. Everything I tried was flavorful, well-prepared, and generous in portion. Service overall was very good. Even though it gets busy, especially at night, the staff was attentive and efficient. People are friendly and the environment feels welcoming. What truly makes this place special is the atmosphere. Live music, DJs, people dancing in the streets, tourists and locals all together—it’s a perfect mix of culture, fun, and authenticity. You really feel the true essence of Puerto Rico. Prices are reasonable for the experience, and you can enjoy yourself without overspending, especially if you go with a group. Overall, La Placita de Santurce is a must-visit if you’re in San Juan. Perfect for food, fun, and a true local vibe. I would definitely come back.
Very walkable, everything is close by. Good vibes. Very nice people. Yes you can get vegetarian food. More of a 4pm to midnight area
We went here on a Friday night. The scene is chill. Lots of different music from each bar. By 11:30 is was getting packed. People just having a good time. Loved it!!
La Placita de Santurce is always alive. There’s so much energy in this place,music everywhere, amazing food, and people genuinely enjoying themselves. Everyone looks happy, and the vibe is just contagious. I absolutely love it. It’s so much fun every single time. What makes it even better is that there’s something for every type of crowd. Whether you’re looking for chill drinks, great food, dancing, or a full party atmosphere, you’ll find your spot here. It’s one of those places where no matter what day of the week you go, it’s still a good time. Ubers are affordable, which makes getting there and back super easy. And if you grab something to eat or drink, you can usually use the restroom at the restaurants, some places don’t even make a big deal about it, which is really nice. Overall, this place is amazing. I always find myself coming back. If you’re in Puerto Rico, La Placita is a must 💃🏻🪩🕺🏻🎶🍹
Placita is great! Felt super safe especially since majority of the people here are tourist. Drinks are expensive and noticed they don’t ID you into bars.
Santaella
Roovio — Sat down right in the thick of the square for a traditional $22.00 dinner. The savory, slow-roasted lechón asado pork melted in my mouth and gave me all the energy to keep going.
Hidden among the energy of La Placita's bars and clubs, Santaella is a true hidden gem. Don't judge it by its exterior, once you step inside, you're transported to a beautiful oasis that's perfect for a date night or a group dinner before an evening of fun. While the menu is thoughtfully curated so limited, there's something for every palate. Be sure to try the goat cheese quesadilla, empanadas, and escargot, they're all worth ordering. After dinner, you're already in the heart of the action, making it the perfect start to an unforgettable night out. #fallynsfoodieexcursions #laplacitarestaurante #puertorico #livelaughlove #greatfoodgreatcompany
I was visiting San Juan and taking a stroll in La Placita, Santurce. Stopped by Santaella for lunch at the bar. The Morcilla was superb! I love how they mixed the rice in the sausage. The Pulpo was cooked perfectly. I also had a martini and their Albariño wine. Met a local couple, who seemed like regulars at this place, and we had a great conversation. They were very kind and hospitable...treated me with a glass of wine! Service was A+++.
The ambiance in this place is amazing - hip, beautiful, trendy - exactly what we wanted. Like the reviews say, bottled water is indeed $8. Ask for tap if you don't want to pay for it. Every dish we had was interesting and excellent. The ceviche was amazing, even though it said sweet potato and had corn nuts - we didn't mind as they were such a unique addition and so tasty. Don't skip the snapper! We picked the bones clean, it was so good! The sauce in the chicken was incredible. And the icing on the cake was the Nutella sandwich. Who knew?? Definitely try this super simple dessert. Absolutely ridiculous how good it was! Excellent visit.
What an absolute incredible experience. Cannot begin to say enough about this gem. Service was outstanding. Thank you Eduardo. One of the best food experiences in my life. We actually went twice in the same week. High point was meeting Chef Jose Santaella who is one of the most friendly and humble chefs I have ever met. Thank you all!
I landed at this little spot near Placita Santurce on recommendation from my Lyft driver and I'm so glad I did! I was solo dining, sat at the bar, and was taken care of so well by Ronnie. He offered great recommendations, chatted with me, made me a delicious spicy Paloma, and even arranged for a smaller portion of the croquetas so I could try them along with my main dish (pulpo a la parilla) without wasting food or feeling I had over-ordered. The ambiance was charming as well. This was the perfect upscale meal night for me! Gracias, Ronnie!!
La Placita de Santurce
Roovio — Once the rhythm took over, I bought a fresh-lime $7.00 mojito from a tiny window kiosk. I spent the rest of the night dancing reggaeton directly in the streets with the locals.
I visited La Placita de Santurce and honestly, it was one of the most authentic and complete experiences I’ve had in Puerto Rico. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere pulls you in. During the day it feels like a traditional local market, but at night it completely transforms into a vibrant hotspot full of music, lights, and energy. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal or an amazing nightlife experience. The food was excellent. There’s a wide variety of options: traditional Puerto Rican dishes, fresh seafood, meats, fried favorites, and even more modern choices. Everything I tried was flavorful, well-prepared, and generous in portion. Service overall was very good. Even though it gets busy, especially at night, the staff was attentive and efficient. People are friendly and the environment feels welcoming. What truly makes this place special is the atmosphere. Live music, DJs, people dancing in the streets, tourists and locals all together—it’s a perfect mix of culture, fun, and authenticity. You really feel the true essence of Puerto Rico. Prices are reasonable for the experience, and you can enjoy yourself without overspending, especially if you go with a group. Overall, La Placita de Santurce is a must-visit if you’re in San Juan. Perfect for food, fun, and a true local vibe. I would definitely come back.
Very walkable, everything is close by. Good vibes. Very nice people. Yes you can get vegetarian food. More of a 4pm to midnight area
We went here on a Friday night. The scene is chill. Lots of different music from each bar. By 11:30 is was getting packed. People just having a good time. Loved it!!
La Placita de Santurce is always alive. There’s so much energy in this place,music everywhere, amazing food, and people genuinely enjoying themselves. Everyone looks happy, and the vibe is just contagious. I absolutely love it. It’s so much fun every single time. What makes it even better is that there’s something for every type of crowd. Whether you’re looking for chill drinks, great food, dancing, or a full party atmosphere, you’ll find your spot here. It’s one of those places where no matter what day of the week you go, it’s still a good time. Ubers are affordable, which makes getting there and back super easy. And if you grab something to eat or drink, you can usually use the restroom at the restaurants, some places don’t even make a big deal about it, which is really nice. Overall, this place is amazing. I always find myself coming back. If you’re in Puerto Rico, La Placita is a must 💃🏻🪩🕺🏻🎶🍹
Placita is great! Felt super safe especially since majority of the people here are tourist. Drinks are expensive and noticed they don’t ID you into bars.
Route 22
Roovio — Google — I booked a taxi at dawn to watch the city highways dissolve into dramatic mountain peaks. Waking up early made the 2.5-hour cross-island travel feel like a scenic movie.
Salinas de Cabo Rojo
Roovio — When we reached the southwestern tip, seeing the bright pink evaporation ponds was surreal. It costs nothing to walk the paths, and the contrast against the blue sky felt like another planet.
Same on the government for letting this beautiful reserve to die! This should be a national park. They abandoned it and it is dead RN. It is heartbreaking to see how they distroyed the beautiful reservoir that years ago was here with the pink salt, playa sucia, the light house, birds and all diversity you could imagine! Safe Cabo Rojo while still is possible!
It's a cool enough area, but it didn't really wow me for the distance you have to drive to get out there. There wasn't any pink color when I came, possibly because of recent tide or rain. The bridge over to Playa Salinas has been washed out. It looks like they're doing a lot of construction, so hopefully conditions improve.
I was very disappointed. The pink hue was barely visible, and there was a lot of trash lying around. It felt like an abandoned place, though it once was a gem of Puerto Rico. Also, the road was closed and we had to walk through the marshlands. There were soo many mosquitos and we didn’t have any repellent, so at some point we gave up and came back to the car. So if there’s a heavy downpour, expect the road to be closed.
This place stinks so bad and it looks more like a landfill more than a natural preserve. I would skip this trip next time. It’s one of those places you see once and that is it. I wish I bought a mask the stench here is horrendous. It’s definitely not a place to bring the little ones. I don’t think it’s a good idea to be breathing in that stench. Every establishment here is abandoned and the few homes next to the salt flats are abandoned as well. So buy your stuff before making it here. Also there are no restrooms here. Or just give this trip a hard pass you won’t be missing much. Believe me it ain’t worth the drive.
The lakes are gorgeous pink, but you cannot touch them and the area around them is not well cared for. We saw lots of garbage around, and the pathways to walk around the lakes are very narrow. It is worth it to see the gorgeous and unique water, but don't expect to do anything more than walk around for a few minutes admiring the water. There is no parking lot or bathrooms or any other kind of infrastructure either, you just have to park on the road and find the little path to walk in. Also note that there are multiple little retaining pond areas, and some are pinker than others! It's worth it to walk around a little and see several from different angles, because from some angles they just look brown.
Cabo Rojo Lighthouse
Roovio — Google — I navigated the rugged dirt roads to these massive limestone cliffs for a free hike. Standing by the historic 1882 lighthouse watching steep red clay cliffs drop into turquoise ocean was completely breathtaking.
Joyuda
Roovio — Google — Went 30 minutes north to the local fishing strip and grabbed a waterfront deck table at El Cayo. Eating a massive $24.00 whole fried red snapper with a $3.00 Medalla was unmatched.
Domes Beach
Roovio — I parked near Domes Beach to watch surfers catch waves under an old inactive nuclear dome. Afterward, sitting on The Beach House terrace with a $10.00 passionfruit cocktail for sunset was unforgettable.
Plenty of free and easy parking. The spot is pretty, and the trail seems nice and very long! My hubby and I went to sight see and didn’t swim in the water (but this definitely looked more like a surfing beach anyway).
Went to Domes beach in a Sunday just to check it out. Smaller beach that seems to be a surfer favorite, there were many out. Interesting to see and be so close to the old nuclear plant, wish they still toured. Got photos of the light house and walk through some vendors. Nice beach, a little too rocky for us to swim.
Great beach and not overly populated. More secluded and as we took a walking path we found an area where we were the only people on the beach. Felt like we were on our own private island.
One of the best places to surf in Rincon. Reef bottom.. no swimming. Board rentals and surf lessons right on the beach. Ready to park for free. Horse back riding on the beach.
Beautiful beach for surfing and hanging out. No swimming for kids as it is Rocky and big waves. Unless you get lucky and get a calm day. Right next to light house a nice place to walk and relax. There is a restaurant by the lighthouse.
Campamento Piñones
Roovio — Google — I took a quick $12.00 UberX past Isla Verde to the state forest hub. I stopped at a local wooden shack and grabbed a beach cruiser bike for $15.00 for the morning.
Paseo Piñones
Roovio — I hit the elevated wooden trails winding directly through the dense, quiet mangrove forests. Walking right parallel to wild, undeveloped Atlantic beaches with that heavy ocean breeze was an absolute dream.
Agree that there is an unnecessary amount of trash laying around, the beaches walnut swim bowl are certainly OK to go wading in… it’s super close to the airport and a great place to start our end a trip if you need to get to the airport quickly. Probably 20 or so little local bars and restaurants within a short walking distance… 100% safe for tourists… We loved it here.
The place needs some renovation and has a lot of potential. Better trash cleanup is needed. Aside from that, it is a very nice spot for walking and eating.
This location is not a beach access. It's a bar hop access. The shacks lined the two way road. When we could get to the water it was blocked by rocks to the ocean. I wish we had someone to ask for directions.
Loved it! Every year for the past 3 we've been coming to this wonderful spot. Crowded of locals, great places to eat and enjoy amazing sunsets. The only complaint is the tidiness and care of this beautiful place. The Puerto Rican Gvmnt should decore funding to keep this place in better shape. Best local spot I've been around for a while 🤘
Nice views. There were some trash but that's somethn I had expected. Went on a tiny trail off the main trail that went to the beach and no one else was there. Close to restaurants. No traffic when we went there on a saturday from San Juan around 10am but then upon leaving, we saw some traffic. Not sure if that was normal.
Kiosko El Boricua
Roovio — I walked straight into the smoky roadside stalls. I spent $4.00 on a beef pionono, $4.50 on a crab alcapurria, and $4.00 for a fresh machete-cut coconut.
A totally unassuming place. If you stop in you are not impressed, it literally is a shack with a fogón. The frituras are excellent. They are packed with meat and taste so good. They have outdoor tables and generally they turnover quick.
Omg the Alcapurria’s here are the best! I’ve tried them from other spots & none compares to here! Everything is made fresh. I’m so sad the day I left Pr we stopped here & they were closed, I wanted to take some with me. It was a Monday and I guess they’re closed. This place is a must try!
If you’re looking for authentic Puerto Rican food and island vibes, Kiosko Boricua in Loíza is absolutely worth the stop. The food was fresh, flavorful, and packed with local Caribbean seasoning. From the fried foods to the seafood and drinks, everything tasted homemade and authentic. The atmosphere was one of the best parts—music playing, ocean breeze, friendly people, and that true Loíza culture you hope to experience when visiting Puerto Rico. Service was warm and welcoming, and the portions were generous for the price. This is the kind of place that gives you the real Puerto Rico experience, not just a tourist version of it. Definitely a spot I’d come back to again.
The absolute best alcapuria I’ve ever had in my life or in Puerto Rico hands down also absolute best pastallios in the worlds over all best food I’ve had in piones or Puerto Rico everything here is amazing and fresh made to order service is great 10/10 highly recommend!!! Amazing service the drinks are made fresh and very delicious the pincos are out of this world
Delicious fritters!!! The crab ( jueyes) and shrimp ( camarones) empanadillas are the best. They are made on the spot so the food taste good! They don’t sell alcoholic drinks so get you a piña colada
Playa Aviones
Roovio — I walked 10 minutes down the coastal road to catch one last dip in the raw ocean. Finding a quiet patch of sand away from the crowds to hear the crashing waves was perfect.
best place to surf for kids
Stunning
Luis Munoz Marin International Airport
Roovio — I called a final, quick $10.00 UberX directly from the coastal strip to the departure gate. The airport is only 15 minutes away, making the transition from the beach to the plane seamless.
I was genuinely surprised by how pleasant and well-organized the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport was! From the moment we arrived, everything went incredibly smoothly. Absolutely all the staff we interacted with were extremely friendly, helpful and polite. The airport is very well organized, and you can tell that everyone knows exactly what they are doing. When we arrived, our checked luggage came out surprisingly quickly, which was a huge plus after a long flight. On departure, we waited no more than about 10 minutes to check in and drop off our luggage, and the security control was just as fast and efficient. For such a busy international airport, I was honestly impressed by how little time we spent waiting. I also really liked the area after security, especially the Duty Free section. There are many shops selling traditional Puerto Rican souvenirs and local products, which gives the airport a much more authentic and welcoming feeling. It was actually nice to have some time to browse and pick up a few last souvenirs before leaving. Overall, this was one of the most pleasant airport experiences we have had. Friendly staff, excellent organization, quick baggage handling and a nice selection of traditional shops — everything made the journey much easier and more enjoyable. I would happily travel through this airport again! ✈️🇵🇷🌴
One of my least favorite airports. The restaurants are a mix of American fast food: dominoes, popeyes; international fare: ramen, Spanish; and gas station food. And it's so expensive. Yes airports are expensive, but it's expensive and unsatisfying. Then the duty free is a waste of time. You can get the same items on the island and just pack it in your bag and save a bunch of money. And the security is super relaxed. I have a subdermal device that always get me pat down. I went through, they asked if I had a necklace, I said yes, and they cleared me. The airport isn't bad, it's just not good and spending time there isn't fun.
I was flying out of Terminal A at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, and honestly the experience getting in was rough. With everything going on around the government shutdown, TSA was extremely slow—long lines and pretty chaotic just to get through the initial checkpoint. Definitely give yourself extra time. The airport itself feels older and a bit worn down. It could really use a refresh. That said, once you’re inside, there are actually a lot of solid food options for breakfast and lunch, plus some good shopping and local snacks. On the bright side, flights seem to run pretty smoothly and leave on time, which helps make up for the hassle getting in. Not my favorite airport, but it gets the job done for the area.
Arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport was a good experience. The airport was clean, organized, and easy to get around. Signs for baggage claim and transportation were clear. My luggage came out quickly, and the whole process was smooth from landing to exit. A nice first impression of Puerto Rico!!
Got to the airport around midnight. Ready to navigate clean airport. Bathroom were clean. Uber pick up was from B 19-20 area. Since landed in PR, its been a great experience.
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