San Juan in 7 Days for Working Moms

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.

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.

We had a great experience at this restaurant in Old San Juan! The atmosphere was beautiful and had that perfect historic charm that makes the area so special. The staff was welcoming and attentive, and our food came out fresh and well-presented. The standout of the meal was definitely the chicken and beef empanadas, they were crispy, packed with flavor, and easily the best thing we ordered. The rest of the food was enjoyable, and the portions were satisfying. The only reason I'm giving 4 instead of 5 stars is that a couple of the other dishes could have been seasoned a bit more to really stand out. Overall, it's a great spot to grab a meal while exploring Old San Juan. I'd definitely recommend trying the chicken and beef empanadas, they're a must-order!

Great little spot in Old San Juan. Simple family-style atmosphere, nothing fancy or touristy. Food was excellent, authentic Puerto Rican seafood. The ceviche was fresh, and the fried cheese cubes with guava sauce were a nice touch. I had the grouper in coconut sauce and it was really good. We also shared an avocado salad, and my wife had the skirt steak. Waitstaff was friendly and attentive the whole time. Would definitely go back.

Amazing food, not some tourist trap! We were here a few weeks ago and my husband still talks about the food we had here! I would highly recommend this to anyone wanting some good Puerto Rican food in Old San Juan! It has a good atmosphere and even a place to take cute photos!

My husband and I got the recommendation to try Cayo Caribe… and it definitely DID NOT disappoint!!!! I believe our servers name was Josue. Knowledgable of the menu, friendly and welcoming. The arepas de bacalao were soo tasty— I’ve never had anything like it before!!! And of course, we had to try the mofongo. Husband got mofongo with churrasco, I got the Shrimp with creole sauce.. now THAT was delicious!!! 🤤 perfection in every bite. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable. This place is a MUST when you’re in old San Juan!

This place is a gem. 5 min walk from the cruise ship. Clean and quaint which is what I was hoping for. And there food and service was wonderful. Naomi, our lovely server was warm and engaging. All the workers we had encountered were all personable which made our experience perfect. It was my first time in P.R. but being from NYC/BRONX I felt at home here! Thank you! The meal itself was tasty... exactly what I wanted! Chicharon in the version of a fried pork chop with crispy pork rind. This was called can-can pork chop which is a tomahawk pork chop. It was 2lbs..I didn't take that serious until it came to the table... its humongous and can honestly feed 2 to 3 people! It was juicy and rind crunchy.. the chicken chicharon was delightful and their fresh made green sauce paired el with their tostones. I do recommend, credit and cash and great service with affordable tasty food.

Anita Gelato was so worth the stop! It was super busy when we went, but the line moved surprisingly fast, so don’t let that scare you away. They have an incredible selection of flavors—three full freezers of gelato with so many unique options to choose from. Whether you like classic flavors or want to try something more adventurous, there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re walking around Old San Juan and craving something sweet, this is the perfect place to stop. Definitely one of the best treats we had on the trip!

Anita Gelato was the perfect refreshing stop in the heart of Old San Juan on a hot Puerto Rico day. Every scoop was rich, creamy, flavorful, and absolutely worth the visit as we continued sampling Puerto Rican delights across the island. The atmosphere was vibrant, welcoming, and full of that charming Old San Juan energy that makes every experience feel memorable. What truly stood out was the service. The team went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed, patiently helping with flavors and making the entire experience feel warm and personal. You can tell they genuinely care about the people walking through their doors. If you’re exploring Old San Juan and need a sweet escape from the heat, Anita Gelato is a must-stop destination. Easy 5 stars across the board. #AnitaGelato #OldSanJuan #PuertoRico #GelatoLovers #IceCreamTime #SanJuanPR #PuertoRicoEats #FamilyTravel #FoodieFinds #AnKSeeTheWorld

We came to Anita twice, back to back days during our visit to Old San Juan and both days the gelato was magnificent. There is only one real issue to report with the store. Seating. While it does have a small seating area it is primarily a grab and go storefront. I made the mistake thinking it would be a beautiful idea the first night to take it in on the benches in front of the Convent Hotel and people watch. I guess it is doable if you go one scoop, but two in a cone or cup was a recipe for disaster hahahaha. Anita as it should be is always full of customers and the August heat will immediately liquidify your gelato. So if in a group maybe occupy a space and send another to order. Especially with small kids. So the next visit we found seats and dined in. The Anita is a classic gelato parlor with the gorgeous brass and mouthwatering selections available to be sampled and chosen in three cup and cone sizes as well as shakes. We wanted the Greenberry, but so many options, how could we not have gelato? Personally the chocolate pretzel and dark chocolate and peanut butter was my go to after having the straticello the first night paired with the chocolate and peanutbutter. My wife enjoyed the creme brulee and pistachio both visits in a cone. The staff while quickly moving was also very helpful and willing to allow samples of the different options available. If in Old San Juan take a second and stop for some ice cream, you won't regret it. I hope to be back sooner this go.

Anita Gelato is a must-try if you're visiting Puerto Rico! The gelato is absolutely delicious, with plenty of flavors to choose from, and the prices are very affordable. The employees were friendly, attentive, and provided excellent service. The shop was very clean, including the bathrooms, which we appreciated. We really enjoyed stopping here for a sweet treat. It's the perfect snack after walking around Old San Juan. I highly recommend it! 🍨😊

There is absolutely NO such thing as too much gelato! I cannot visit OSJ without getting my fix! My parents ask to go every time they’re here and love the fruity flavors! My favorite — their vegan caramel cookies n’ cream and vegan chocolate cookies n’ cream…you would have NOOOO IDEA it’s vegan - beyond mouth-watering deliciousness!!! Amazing staff that are quick but will also let you taste any flavor!!! Such a treat while exploring Old San Juan! Everyone who visits 🇵🇷 …I send directly to Anita Gelato!!!!!

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!

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

A place where you can feed pigeons, get a beautiful view of part of the bay of San Juan and also get a coffee break. In the main entrance there is a kiosk where you can buy pigeon food for $3.00 and hang around feeding the pigeons while they walk or fly all around you. 😆 If you keep walking straight to the end, you will find a coffee shop with other alternatives things to drink and snack. And at the very end of it all there is a baby/kids playground. There are seating areas around the park to enjoy the moment.

Parque de las Palomas in Old San Juan offers an unforgettable, quirky, and highly interactive experience. Nestled against the historic 18th-century defensive city walls, this oceanfront plaza is famous for its hundreds of incredibly tame pigeons that will happily swarm your hands, arms, and head the moment you offer them food. For just a couple of dollars, you can purchase a small bag of seeds from the local on-site vendors. If you extend your arms and stand still, you will quickly find yourself completely covered in birds, making it a fantastic photo opportunity for brave adults and a magical tradition for children visiting the area. Beyond the bird feeding, the park boasts some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the capital. The observation deck overlooks the sparkling Bahía de San Juan, the lush surrounding mountains, and the historic La Princesa jail. It is the perfect place to catch a refreshing ocean breeze and watch the harbor traffic, including massive cruise ships, glide by. At the far end of the property, you can visit the cozy Café del Niño, the only ocean-view cafe in Old San Juan, offering cold drinks, snacks, and a small shaded play area. While the close encounters with birds might not be for the squeamish or those with bird phobias, and you will definitely want to wash your hands afterward, it remains a beloved and highly entertaining stop. Conveniently located right next to the historic Capilla del Cristo at the end of Cristo Street, it is an easy and fun diversion to add to your walking itinerary.

This park was built in the 18 century as a canon placement. The park is also home to numerous amount of pigeons. Not for the faint of heart they do not bite just want your time and food. Parque de las Palomas unique views San Juan Bay making it a must see spot while visiting this 500 year old city.

As advertised: a rustically charming park full of what else — PIGEONS! If you are afraid of getting dirty: pigeons landing on your arms, shoulders or head, and maybe even getting pooped on please stay away as you will be disappointed. These pigeons are probably the best fed pigeons I have ever seen. For $2 USD you can buy a bag of seed and experience what it feels like to be the pigeon-lady from Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.

Party of 8 and we loved it! 💯 The location, establishment, cleanliness, staff and food were all very good. It was refreshing to find a spot like this after being in PR for a few days. The Pina Coladas were 🔥 - our entire table got them and we all agreed they were the best we had while visiting. I have attached images of some of the food from out table. It was all very very good! Thank you to staff, management and ownership for providing us with such a great place with great service and great food. 👍

This is the birthplace of the Pina Colada. They were a delicious treat on a hot evening $10 each. Non alcohol versions available. The charming decor of old San Juan makes this place great for photo ops. Dinner was good. Ordered 2 different appetizer samplers. It was good to be able to try a variety of item, everything on both samplers was deep fried.

We ordered the calamari, Puerto Rican delights, sancocho for soup of the day and mofongo. Everything was perfect and of course we didn’t leave without trying their Pina Colada which is what they’re know for. I don’t like Pina Coladas but I will never leave Puerto Rico again without having theirs. Our server, Isaiah, was on point with every recommendation he made. Highly recommend.

Barrachina — Old San Juan, Puerto Rico If you’re walking the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan and could use one essential stop, make it Barrachina. This legendary restaurant holds a special place in cocktail history as the birthplace of the Piña Colada — and sipping one here, right where it all began, is an experience that’s hard to beat. The Piña Colada lives up to its reputation: creamy, fresh, and perfectly balanced — genuinely the best you’ll find in Puerto Rico. Not a drinker? No problem. The Virgin Piña Colada is just as refreshing and every bit as satisfying, keeping the full tropical flavor without the alcohol. It’s a great option for families or anyone skipping the spirits. A practical tip that’ll save you time: if you’re just coming for drinks, skip the dining line and head straight to the bar. The wait for a sit-down table can be long, especially during peak tourist hours. But walk-up bar service is quick and gets you that iconic glass in hand without the wait. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail lover, or just someone who needs a cold drink after exploring Old San Juan in the heat, Barrachina is a must-stop. It’s not just a restaurant — it’s a landmark. Bottom line: The birthplace of the Piña Colada, and it still makes the best one on the island. Go for the drinks, skip the dining queue if you’re short on time, and raise a glass to a true Puerto Rican original.

My family and I had a wonderful time! The atmosphere was great, the music was enjoyable, and the service was fast and friendly. We only waited about 10 minutes, which was very reasonable. Most importantly, the food was absolutely delicious and full of flavor. Everything made for a great experience, and we would definitely come back again. Highly recommended!

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!

Such a beautiful spot. I spent a few hours hiking and honestly could've stayed even longer. Wear good shoes because some of the trails can get pretty slippery, and try to get there early before it gets too crowded.

My family and I had a great time here. We explored different trails and made it to the Britton tower. We didn't get to the big waterfall but we enjoyed the small one. We ate some good food and had some drinks. The vibe was nice. Definitely the place to check out while in Puerto Rico.

An amazing beautiful part of PR, a must view. The trails are tricky and uneven, so trail shoes are recommended. Bring water and sugary snacks, after an hour you run low on energy. There are little to no trail signs to advise where you are or how far to you have left, which is dissapointing. Otherwise its a spectacular visit.

Sooooo beautiful. It's a nice workout but worth the views and memories. They don't allow rideshare so unless you want to walk from the visitors center get a rental. I had cell signal the whole time. Come prepared because this is a real hike. Amazing experience.

Amazing! Beautiful rainforest. We'll maintained and accessible. Staff at the visitor center were friendly and the facility was clean, informative, and offered great information. Highly recommend visiting. There are frequent locations to pull off and see various sites. Was easy to navigate for first time visitors but roads are narrow, so use caution when driving.

What an absolutely beautiful place! We really enjoyed the visitors center and then the drive up through the rainforest! This is a must do, especially if you love nature, hiking, waterfalls,and seeing breathtaking views!

A really cool trail in El Yunque, and one of my favorites. To get to this trail, you will turn off the main road and keep driving for a little bit until reaching it. It's a very short walk down a path and some stairs, before you reach a clearing with some rocky outcroppings and a nice pool. There are some fish swimming in the water. A really nice place to sunbathe, cool off, and relax.

It was a bit busy at this location on the weekends also parking can be a bit crazy so be careful parking. Your not allowed to bring in coolers because people suck and don't know how to clean up after themselves so they ruined it for everyone else. Sorry rant over. It's so beautiful when you take the trail all the way down. The water is very cold and refreshing. I absolutely love this spot because you have shade so your not directly in the sun all the time. It's extremely rocky so be prepared to hike a bit and climb over a few big rocks to get to the water. Water shoes might be helpful at protecting your feet.

Our favorite spot in the El Yunque area. Short hike through the beautiful rainforest down to the swimming hole. The water is calm and beautiful. Wear a swimsuit, because you’ll want to jump in. Amazing place!

We were here first thing in the morning at 8:30, and came across only one other person. It’s a short and easy walk, and the water at the end was so clear. Since it was early, parking on the street was easy, but there’s not much space to park once it gets crowded.

This is a beautiful waterfall and I think it is one of the most popular ones in Puerto Rico. Unfortunately it has been shut down since the Hurricane. It is located at the end of the most popular trail in the El Yunque National Forest. The trail follows the course of the La Mina river, passing many tiny Cascades and tiny pools filled with cold and clear mountain water. The trail begins at the Palo Colorado Information center located at PR 191, 12.2 KM mark. You will need special permission from the authorities to get there since it's the trail is closed down due to the hurricane.

This waterfall is in the EL Yunque National Park, a tropical rain forest in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. El Yunque is a must see item in my view as part of any trip to Puerto Rico- its really a unique place. Many of the trails in El Yunque are still closed because of Hurricane Maria which occurred about two years ago. However I saw many people at or near the La Mina Falls. It is right off the side of the road. Many people climb the rocks near the falls. I wouldn't recommend it as the rocks are quite wet and you can easily break an arm or injure yourself. However many of the people on our tour were doing this and were having a great time. El Yunque and Cascada La Mina are amazingly beautiful places that everyone should get to at least once in their lifetimes.

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.

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!!!!

Lechonera El Rancho Original was one of the highlights of our trip to Puerto Rico! The venue is enormous, spanning both sides of the street, with live music playing in multiple areas. Each side had its own band and atmosphere, creating an incredible energy no matter where you sat/stood. The vibe was absolutely fantastic, lively, welcoming, and full of people enjoying themselves. We met visitors from all over the United States and even some international travelers, which made the experience feel like a true gathering place for everyone looking to enjoy great food and Puerto Rican culture. The food was delicious, with generous portions and authentic flavors that kept us going back for more. The drinks were surprisingly affordable, especially considering the size and popularity of the venue. If you’re looking for great food, live music, a fun crowd, and an authentic Puerto Rican experience, Lechonera El Rancho Original is a must visit. We had an amazing time and would absolutely return on my next trip to Puerto Rico!

El Nuevo Rancho is the kind of spot that just gets everything right. From the moment you walk in, the energy is on point—great music, lively atmosphere, and a vibe that makes you want to stay longer than planned. The food is just as impressive. Every dish comes out packed with flavor, fresh, and cooked perfectly. You can tell there’s real attention to quality, and it shows in every bite. Between the amazing food, the music setting the tone, and the overall welcoming vibe, this place easily earns a 5-star rating. Perfect for a night out when you want great eats and an even better time.

Great experience at this awesome place, social friendly environment that calls a lot of tourists to have a great time abs enjo great food, music, frozen Gasolina (😋) and the view of the little natural river and rocks. A great place to enjoy a pleasant lunch with family and friends, definitely a nice spa for photography. Come and have an awesome time, be ready to enjoy dancing too

If you want the "real deal" pork in puerto rico then this is the place to go! Awesome food with a very friendly staff that will help you thru all the selections. We bought 2 trays of food so we could sample all the different items on the menu.

If you find yourself in the area (Pernil Highway) you HAVE to stop here. This place is a pernil institution serving up the juiciest roasted pork and crispiest skin I have ever tried in my life! I wish I would’ve just got the 1lb of pernil and enjoyed as we drove around the rainforest. This is A1 pernil folks. You won’t find much better than anywhere in the world! The hot sauces are really hot and the bbq ribs were amazing too.

Lechonera El Rancho Original was one of the highlights of our trip to Puerto Rico! The venue is enormous, spanning both sides of the street, with live music playing in multiple areas. Each side had its own band and atmosphere, creating an incredible energy no matter where you sat/stood. The vibe was absolutely fantastic, lively, welcoming, and full of people enjoying themselves. We met visitors from all over the United States and even some international travelers, which made the experience feel like a true gathering place for everyone looking to enjoy great food and Puerto Rican culture. The food was delicious, with generous portions and authentic flavors that kept us going back for more. The drinks were surprisingly affordable, especially considering the size and popularity of the venue. If you’re looking for great food, live music, a fun crowd, and an authentic Puerto Rican experience, Lechonera El Rancho Original is a must visit. We had an amazing time and would absolutely return on my next trip to Puerto Rico!

El Nuevo Rancho is the kind of spot that just gets everything right. From the moment you walk in, the energy is on point—great music, lively atmosphere, and a vibe that makes you want to stay longer than planned. The food is just as impressive. Every dish comes out packed with flavor, fresh, and cooked perfectly. You can tell there’s real attention to quality, and it shows in every bite. Between the amazing food, the music setting the tone, and the overall welcoming vibe, this place easily earns a 5-star rating. Perfect for a night out when you want great eats and an even better time.

Great experience at this awesome place, social friendly environment that calls a lot of tourists to have a great time abs enjo great food, music, frozen Gasolina (😋) and the view of the little natural river and rocks. A great place to enjoy a pleasant lunch with family and friends, definitely a nice spa for photography. Come and have an awesome time, be ready to enjoy dancing too

If you want the "real deal" pork in puerto rico then this is the place to go! Awesome food with a very friendly staff that will help you thru all the selections. We bought 2 trays of food so we could sample all the different items on the menu.

If you find yourself in the area (Pernil Highway) you HAVE to stop here. This place is a pernil institution serving up the juiciest roasted pork and crispiest skin I have ever tried in my life! I wish I would’ve just got the 1lb of pernil and enjoyed as we drove around the rainforest. This is A1 pernil folks. You won’t find much better than anywhere in the world! The hot sauces are really hot and the bbq ribs were amazing too.

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 😍

This restaurant is absolutely outstanding. We ordered the cod fritters, a beet terrine, the whole fried catch of the day with herb and caper cream, the house rice, tostones, and local queen conch in basil and lemon cream, along with the yani cleca. I cannot fully describe how delicious, fresh, and spectacular every dish was. The menu is unique and full of creativity and intention. It is very difficult to find a restaurant like this in Puerto Rico. I completely fell in love with it. The service is on another level, and the space is beautiful and very welcoming. I would come back a thousand times. The Japanese tableware was stunning. Everything about this place impressed me. ✨🍽️

GO HERE! Best meal in recent memory. My husband and I were in PR for a wedding and were recommended this spot. The outdoor seating area was an oasis with cozy lights and great music. The food options were plenty and flavorful, drinks strong, and service unbeatable. We will most certainly be returning one day! Thank you!

The fried fish is very delicious and big portion. We couldn’t finish all. Mofongo with mussels are interesting combination - wouldn’t say it pairs well. Both dishes are definitely on the salty side. Lamb with yogurt dip is very delicious as well. Drink was ok - had to add some simple syrup separately. Backyard seating is very cute. Overall decent experience but pricey.

Beautiful place, very well put together. We had a table outside in the patio and it was chill and very pleasant. The menu was diverse but some of the apps and main were very similar. The drinks are extra crafty, and tasted like so. Overall nice, but tourist focus. Reservation is a must! Had the octopus and yuka ball, corn fritters with cod, and minced lamb with eggplant over yogurt for apps. We’re all good, but a bit salty.

The best dining experience we had in Puerto Rico, hands down. You could really feel the passion behind every dish, and honestly, we were licking the plates clean by the end. The lamb chops and tuna tartare were standouts for me, but the shrimp stew and eggplant were just as impressive. Everything was cooked perfectly, full of flavor, and thoughtfully put together. The pacing of the meal was also spot on, nothing felt rushed or delayed. We left completely satisfied and planned on coming back for our last night on our trip but booked for wednesday instead of Tuesday (when they are closed). We will be back. Highly recommend.

Less populated beach and very beautiful. Chairs and umbrellas are available and a little bar nearby. It was nice for me to get away from all the people. Even the same crabs will come out and play in the waves. It is a very small beach though.

Nice city beach, the water here can certainly be dangerous if you aren’t cautious and paying attention to lifeguards. Fun to play in the waves if you’re a confident swimmer. Beach chairs and umbrellas are $35/day. There are lots of hotels, restaurants and bars in the area. A great spot for simple relaxation in the sun.

Beautiful beach. Nice spots for photos. Chair and umbrella rentals available. Only about 15 minutes from the cruise port. Just note that there are no changing areas, lifeguard towers or public restrooms. Word on the street there are strong rip currents at times.

Condado Beach is in a very busy area a lot of restaurants and much congested. This beach caters more to a younger more vibing crowd. There is music being played which creates a vibe waves definitely a lot rougher on this side. There are bar stands that sell pineapple drinks on the beach with or without sorbet. Yet it's so freaking refreshing and delicious

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.

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 💃🏻🪩🕺🏻🎶🍹

Café Cuatro Sombras was one of the best breakfast spots we visited in Puerto Rico. The coffee was exceptional—rich, smooth, and full of flavor. You can tell they take pride in every cup they serve. They also roast their own beans!! The food was just as memorable. The oatmeal with guava was absolutely delicious, comforting, and unlike anything I've had before. The salmon avocado toast was fresh, beautifully presented, and packed with flavor. Everything we ordered tasted fresh and was prepared perfectly. The café has a beautiful atmosphere with a great mix of modern style and Old San Juan charm. The staff was welcoming, the service was excellent, and the entire experience was outstanding. If you're visiting Old San Juan, do yourself a favor and stop by Café Cuatro Sombras. Whether you're a coffee lover or just looking for an amazing breakfast, this place is definitely worth the visit. We can't wait to come back!

Cuatro Sombras didn’t disappoint! I turned to my fellow Yelp reviewers to find a local coffee shop with authentic Puerto Rican coffee and it was perfect! The coffee was smooth and the cortado worth trying. I had plain avocado toast and had them suggest another pastry to try - they suggested the guava croissant however I didn’t know it came with ham and cheese (I don’t do pork). They quickly and kindly refunded it and offered me a croissant with plain guava butter. It’s VERY sweet (but delicious) so next time I would get it on the side. There are two sides - one more bar like vibe and one more coffee shop vibe. It was a really great spot to stop on our visit!

Café Cuatro Sombras in Old San Juan was such a great spot! The food was fresh and delicious, and the iced latte was made just right smooth, refreshing, and full of flavor. The perfect place to stop for a good meal and coffee while exploring Old San Juan. Definitely worth a visit!

A peaceful gem in the heart of Old San Juan. This spot offers delicious coffee, a great variety of breakfast items, and a fantastic selection of sweet pastries. The quesito is a must-try! While it can get quite busy, the friendly staff and calm atmosphere make it an ideal retreat for friends, couples, or solo travelers. Slow service so please be prepared

We came to this café with pretty high expectations based on the reviews, but it didn’t quite live up to the hype. The location is great, but overall it felt a bit overrated and overpriced for what you get. The staff was okay, but not particularly welcoming, which didn’t help the experience. Here’s what we tried: • Hummus sandwich (3.5/5) • Cuatro Sombras sandwich (3.5/5) • Latte with caramel + vanilla (3.5/5) Everything was decent, but nothing really stood out. Overall, it’s an okay spot.

It opened about 15 minutes after 11am scheduled time. The Pernil was excellent. Order in small portions to taste first. Some items are better and some. The Arroz con gandules and Pernil was great. The sampler was nice too. Enjoy.

If you want authentic Puerto Rican food this is your place. We had the mixed platter as we didn't want to miss out on anything. This was a great choice and it gave us a variety of selections / flavours .. would highly recommend the platter if you're indecisive. Highlight was the rice, pulled pork, plantains .. there was other small fried nibbles that I don't know the names of but they were all nice / tasty. Please be mindful that the restaurant is relatively small therefore on busy days, expect to wait before being seated.

I had a day in Puerto Rico before a cruise and wanted some authentic Puerto Rican food. I definitely went to the right place. I wasn’t too hungry, so I kept it simple with chicken pasteles. Chefs kiss!!! I also had tostones on the side - delicious!

Reviews for this place are polarized. After eating here, I understand why. I can tell from the food that a good chef built the menu at one point. Currently the place is an operational disaster. Customers and staff all look miserable. Food arrived cold, although the flavors were still quite good. There’s a sauce that tastes like pineapple, avocado, and chili, and pairs really well with the pernil. The skirt steak was delicious and very flavorful. Everything takes forever. The line is long because emptied tables go 20 minutes before getting cleared and patrons wait 10 minutes for their check, etc. I would avoid this place until there’s some indication it’s functional again, and I bet when that happens you can have a really good experience here.

Must try for those wanting to taste authentic Puerto Rican food. We’ve tried a bunch of places and this place was by far our favorite. Definitely get the sampler platter which can range from 2-4 people so easy to share depending on the number of people you have in your party. When we went we only had one server managing the whole restaurant so the wait was long but worth it. We went 40 min after it opened. Waited about 35 min. Great food, menu changes daily.

I have been buying the Fuego hot sauce for years since my cousins brought me one back from their PR trip and finally made it to their store this year (June 2026)!!! It was everything like I dreamed, a cute tiny shop filled with good hot sauce and jams. The two workers inside were very nice and welcoming. I bought guava and banana jams, the passion fruit pepper sauce, the green heat, and honey sticks. Fuego is the best though, hands down. The pique is also phenomenal. Great store, delicious sauces, highly recommend. Will continue my yearly Fuego orders for many years to come. ✨

Recently ordered there 3 ounces of dark vanilla and received back a bottle that was 3 quarters filled. Highly disappointed with my customer satisfaction. Tried calling twice and no one answers or gets back to me. Will not order from this place again and won't recommend other bakers to order from this site either

Are you interested in tea leaves, spices, sauces, or jams? If you heart said yes to any of those, then you should come to the delightful little Spicy Caribbee! You get a sampling station right when you enter, where you are greeted by a good variety of bottles of sauces and jars of jams, their own recipes. You can help yourself to knifes and sticks to sample them, and they even provided crackers and tortilla chips for a more contextual test. Go straight for their Green Heat and you'll never go back. Their guava jam is also possibly one of my all-time favorite types of jam now. For the spices, you will find a selection of their own blends, including ones that will give you a local Puerto Rican flavor in your own culinary adventures. My personal favorite is the tea section, where you can spend a long time meticulously smelling the different teas they have, including some very interesting blends. Spicy Caribbee is a way of life, and the helpful staff at the store is always ready to assist you on your journey.

🤗 I love this place - I love their offerings and the service! I would have actually missed this place completely if it wasn’t for my friend who dragged our group in here! You can try their jams and sauces in the store. I tried guava and mango jams amongst others. I didn’t really love the guava or mango. But, ended up falling in love with the refreshing hot pepper jam!! Mind you, it is hot! I ended up buying the hot pepper and ginger jam. Their sauces are good too! My friends loved the mild mango sauce. I ended up buying the píque botafeugo(😋🥵) and a milder creole green! I requested for a shipping. The package was waiting for me at home when I arrived and had a little surprise - a post(thank you) card with a complimentary sachet of fragrant cinnamon pieces! I loved the little surprise! 😊 Add Spicy Caribbee to your list of places to stop by in old San Juan!

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.