Puerto Rico Road Trip
I traveled to Puerto Rico for road trip in 2016, and was captivated by the vibrant culture. One week was only long enough to scratch the surface, and I can’t wait to get back to this truly enchanting isle. I did, however, fit about as much driving, hiking, eating, drinking, and exploring into a week as might be possible. The local cuisine is next level (though I could have happily survived off of fresh fruit, pan de agua, and Medalla alone). Below is a synopsis of that fast and furious trip, along with a couple of sights that I hope to get to next time (including the Southern region surrounding Ponce).
San Juan
Chances are if you’re visiting Puerto Rico you will have to travel through the capital city, San Juan. It’s well worth the visit. Colorful buildings, cobblestone streets overflowing with music (and cats), tropical foliage, bright beaches, a mountainous backdrop, old historic sites with a Spanish flare, good food, and even better people - it’s hard not to fall for the fun atmosphere.
Some Sights:
Stroll through Old San Juan
Walk San Juan Bay beginning at Paseo de la Princesa
Listen to music in one of the many plazas
San Juan National Historic Site
Get drinks at La Factoria
Tour a rum distillery
Relax at the beaches
Vieques
Vieques is a small island about an hour ferry ride off the east coast of Puerto Rico, leaving from Fajardo. Our road trip came to a bit of a halt when the rental car was not actually allowed onto said ferry, so we rented a moped on the island. This turned out to be the best, and most fun, way to get around. We stayed at a hostel in Esperanza, and while it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it was a great way to meet people and get inside tips on where to go.
Some Sights:
Kayak in the bioluminescent Mosquito Bay
Snorkel at Mosquito Pier
Playa Negra (black sand beach)
Observe the wild Paso Finos
Relax at the many beaches
Jump off the Old Sugar Cane Pier
Eastern Region
Just inland from the eastern coast is El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the US national forest system. The lush park and surrounding area is filled with hikes, views, waterfalls, swimming holes, and activity. Spend some time getting lost in this lush park.
Some Sights:
El Yunque National Forest
ATV in Carabalí Park
Other: Zip Lining, Horseback Riding, Camping, etc.
Central Mountains
Just driving through the Central Mountain region is worth your while for the sheer beauty. With no particular plan in mind, we were able to ask around for local tips on what to do in the region - and it certainly did not disappoint. We spent several hours hiking up a river to a rushing waterfall and swimming hole, and did not run into a single soul the entire day. Part of the magic of Puerto Rico is it’s duality. A short drive from a bustling city center drops you into a serene and seemingly uninhabited rainforest. If you want to connect with nature, this is the place to do it.
Some Sights (in and adjacent to the Central Mountains):
Drive down 124 to Maricao
Ask around and explore local hikes
Explore caves and subterranean rivers
Tanamá River
Cueva Ventana
Pig Roast in Guavate, Cayey
West Coast
The West Coast of Puerto Rico is dotted with laid back beach towns, crystal clear water, hikes, and historical sites. There seemed to be no limit to beach side exploration in this region of the island.
Some Sights:
Visit one of the endless beaches
Eat all the fresh seafood
Go surfing in Rincón
Explore colorful Aguadilla
Hike in San Sebastián or Guánica
La Parguera bioluminescent bay
Kayak to Gilligan’s Island
Walk the puente de piedra
Cabo Rojo salt flats
