The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice (2024)

Table of Contents
First, a few great tips for staying in Puerto Rico Off-season travel may be the best time to visit Renting a car is ideal Venture outside the touristy spots in San Juan The 18 best areas to stay in Puerto Rico: cities, neighborhoods & hotels 1. San Juan: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for your first visit San Juan vs. Old San Juan The best hotels in San Juan & Old San Juan Hotel El Convento O:LV Fifty Five Casablanca El Colonial Caribe Hilton Palacio Provincial ALOFT San Juan La Botánica 2. Rio Grande: one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico for exploring the outdoors The best hotels in Rio Grande: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort & Wyndham Grand Rio Mar 3. Santurce: a San Juan neighborhood with the best nightlife in Puerto Rico 4. Condado: casinos and shopping galore Is it better to stay in Old San Juan or Condado? The best hotels in Condado: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel & Condado Ocean Club 5. Luquillo: the best area to stay for laid-back & gorgeous beaches 6. Isla Verde: one of the coolest areas to stay in Puerto Rico Which is better, Isla Verde or Condado? The best hotel in Isla Verde: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel 7. Fajardo: coral reefs, hatching sea turtles & watersports The best hotel in Fajardo: El Conquistador Resort 8. Ponce: the ‘second’ best area to stay in Puerto Rico for cultural immersion The best hotel in Ponce: The Fox Resort 9. Isabela: gorgeous vistas and limited development The best hotel in Isabela: The Royal Isabela 10. Cabo Rojo: the best beaches in the Caribbean 11. Rincón: the surfing capital of Puerto Rico The best hotels in Rincón: Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel & Villas and Tres Sirenas 12. Culebra: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for hip beaches (and nature reserve access!) Bonus: Culebrita — a lovely nature preserve off the coast of Culebra 13. Vieques: one of Puerto Rico’s most unique places The best hotels in Vieques: El Blok, Puertas at El Quenepo & Finca Victoria 14. Dorado: the most luxurious area to stay in Puerto Rico The best hotel in Dorado, Puerto Rico: Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve 15. Mayagüez: the unofficial capital of Puerto Rico’s west coast 16. Arecibo: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for history lovers 17. Guánica: home to one of the most unique forests in the world 18. Humacao: a small city with a rich natural landscape 19. Aguadilla: a fun city with great beaches for surfing & snorkeling 20. Manatí: a quiet, charming city offering variety The best areas to stay in Puerto Rico: FAQs Is Puerto Rico a good spring break destination? (Hint: absolutely!) Is summer a good time to travel to Puerto Rico? Does Puerto Rico have any all-inclusive resorts? Which Puerto Rican coast has better beaches? Which is the most beautiful? When’s the best time to stay in Puerto Rico? Do you need a car in Puerto Rico? Is it safe to stay in Puerto Rico? Book with Fora and stay in the best areas in Puerto Rico FAQs

The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice (1)The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice (2)

With stunning beaches, great food and a rich history to explore, Puerto Rico is easily one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. But with its many enticing regions, choosing the best area to stay in Puerto Rico can be a challenge.

Want personalized travel recommendations and VIP hotel perks (at no extra cost)? Connect with Fora to customize and book your trip to Puerto Rico today. You’ll enjoy a tailored experience, while your Fora Advisor handles all the heavy lifting.

In the meantime, check out the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.

First, a few great tips for staying in Puerto Rico

Before we talk about the best places to stay in Puerto Rico, we should go over a few details.

Off-season travel may be the best time to visit

The beauty of Puerto Rico can be savored year round. If you’re trying to get the most out of your trip, you may want to consider visiting between June and October (i.e., the off-season), as there are fewer tourists during these months.

Remember: your Fora Advisor can steer you toward the best times to visit Puerto Rico and ensure you’ll get top-tier hotel service as well.

Renting a car is ideal

Puerto Rico is quite small, but it’s still worth renting your own car to get around. Public transportation is available, but you may find it difficult to get to some locations without throwing off your schedule. Plus, some Puerto Rico neighborhoods, especially in larger metro areas like San Juan, can be difficult to access via public transportation.

Plan your trip to Puerto Rico with Fora, and an advisor can hook you up with transportation tips (including chauffeur services).

Venture outside the touristy spots in San Juan

Part of visiting a new place is exploring its unique culture and experiences, right? Puerto Rico offers so many places to stay beyond the resort beaches and shopping centers (not that there’s anything wrong with those). Our Caribbean vacation guide suggests a few areas in Puerto Rico that are more off the beaten path.

The 18 best areas to stay in Puerto Rico: cities, neighborhoods & hotels

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From exploring the historic architecture of Old San Juan to the beautiful beaches of Isla Verde and Dorado, here are the best places to stay in Puerto Rico.

1. San Juan: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for your first visit

If you only have time to visit one place in Puerto Rico, choose San Juan. Puerto Rico’s capital offers everything you could want in a Caribbean metropolis, plus amazing beaches and an incredibly rich architectural scene.

Here, you’ll also find some of the best places to eat in Puerto Rico (check out our San Juan food culture guide for great recommendations like Café Berlin), as well as a thriving nightlife. And if you have the time to see more, outside of San Juan, check out the 10 best places to visit in Puerto Rico.

San Juan vs. Old San Juan

The history of San Juan runs deep. It was founded in the late 15th century, and things to do in Old San Juan include exploring the fortifications surrounding colorful colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It's a culture-rich destination perfect for family travel, too (see our family-friendly guide to Old San Juan).

As Puerto Rico’s largest city, modern San Juan offers an equally rich history and incredible nightlife. The two parts of the city beautifully harmonize, and you’ll find massive events and festivals all year long.

Interested in a particular event? Plan your travel with Fora and an advisor can hook you up with VIP perks at nearby hotels.

The best hotels in San Juan & Old San Juan

Together, San Juan and Old San Juan are home to the widest variety of hotels in Puerto Rico. From A+ boutique hotels to ritzy beach resorts, you’ll have no trouble finding accommodations that fit your style (and we can help, of course).

Hotel El Convento

Established in the 1640s, Hotel el Convento is a prime example of Old-World Spanish architecture and interior design. The lavish hotel provides access to Old San Juan’s many attractions and is consistently voted one of the top places to stay in Puerto Rico.

Fora Perks at Hotel El Convento:

  • $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

O:LV Fifty Five

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Image courtesy of O:LV Fifty Five

O:LV Fifty Five is a luxury boutique hotel perfect for a romantic getaway in Puerto Rico. If lavishly furnished rooms, elite spa experiences and intimate packages aren’t enough to draw you, perhaps the floating champagne deck will.

Fora Perks at O:LV Fifty Five:

  • $90 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.

Casablanca

The Casablanca puts you right in the middle of the action in Old San Juan. This boutique-style hotel is furnished with early 20th-century pieces, giving it a homey feel, and offers a suite of amenities, including a popular in-house café, spas and more.

El Colonial

The El Colonial in Old San Juan is an adults-only boutique hotel that blends modern decor with Neoclassical architecture. Guests also get access to the exclusive El Colonial Bar, which features Puerto Rican rums as well as traditional staples.

Caribe Hilton

There’s something for every type of traveler at the sprawling Caribe Hilton resort. Aside from beach access at the mouth of the Condado Lagoon, there’s an oceanfront pool, 10 dining options and much more.

Palacio Provincial

The Palacio Provincial is another adults-only boutique hotel located right in the center of historic Old San Juan. When you’re not exploring the city, you can relax at the rooftop pool or grab a drink from the Consular Restaurant & Bar.

ALOFT San Juan

Conveniently located in San Juan’s hip new T-Mobile district, ALOFT San Juan may appeal to a more energetic crowd. The hotel features its own swanky bar as well as quick access to the area’s top nightlife attractions.

La Botánica

If you want a relaxing and unique experience, La Botánica is “an urban Shangri-la” accented by Puerto Rican culture. Each room features a greenery-filled terrace and outdoor shower, while the hotel’s Ayurvedic wellness center helps mend body and mind.

On Friday nights, La Botánica hosts a multitude of local chefs and artists for a taste of health-centric Puerto Rican culture.

2. Rio Grande: one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico for exploring the outdoors

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Rio Grande runs along the river of the same name, offering easy access to El Yunque National Forest. You’ll also find Puerto Rico’s best golfing and beach resorts here.

El Yunque, one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico (and also a fun day trip from San Juan), is among the United States’ only subtropical rainforest parks. Stunning vistas of waterfalls and small streams are accessible from the park’s many trails — just don’t forget to bring an umbrella, as it rains nearly every day in El Yunque.

Ready to take in the sights? Connect with Fora and start your vacation planning today.

The best hotels in Rio Grande: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort & Wyndham Grand Rio Mar

If you want something more opulent, The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort in Rio Grande isn’t just one of the top hotels in Puerto Rico; it’s one of the best in the Caribbean.

Nature lovers will be especially impressed, as The St. Regis is found within a 500-acre wildlife reserve sandwiched between the El Yunque National Forest and the Espíritu Santo River State Preserve.

This five-star hotel emphasizes Puerto Rican culture, which is best exemplified by its suite of high-class dining and bar choices.

Fora Perks at The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico:

  • $100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Another choice is Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort, a massive resort that caters to travelers looking for a more laid-back trip. It’s a bit removed from Puerto Rico’s other top attractions, but that’s also its appeal.

Here you can pick a spot anywhere along the resort’s two miles of private beach to call your own. There are also two golf courses, a casino and a huge variety of local dining options.

3. Santurce: a San Juan neighborhood with the best nightlife in Puerto Rico

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The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice (14)

Curated by

Jackie Garraffa

Santurce is technically part of San Juan, but it deserves its own spotlight thanks to its street art, museums and (perhaps best of all) stellar nightlife.Top clubs, awesome venues and more offer a mix of live and authentic Puerto Rican rap, rock and heavy-metal music.

(Psst: your Puerto Rico trip planner —a.k.a. Fora Advisor —can give you the lowdown on the best local spots.)

4. Condado: casinos and shopping galore

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Like Santurce, Condado is another gorgeous neighborhood of San Juan, though Condado caters to those who appreciate the finer things (we see you!). San Juan’s most luxurious district is complete with high-class shopping, casinos and upscale clubs and bars.

Condado Beach also offers family-friendly watersports, sailing and charters if you’re looking for waterbound adventures.

Is it better to stay in Old San Juan or Condado?

It really depends on your taste. Even though Condado offers a more lavish experience, the high demand for hotels in San Juan makes Condado fairly competitive in terms of pricing and availability.

Beyond that, both neighborhoods offer tons of beautiful sights and things to do. Fora’s guide to exploring San Juan provides a little more context, but if you’re really interested in figuring out which neighborhood to explore, we recommend connecting with Fora (remember: planning your trip with an advisor will unlock the best exclusive perks).

The best hotels in Condado: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel & Condado Ocean Club

The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel was built in 1919 to cater to America and Europe’s wealthy elites (it was built by a Vanderbilt, after all). Naturally, expect nothing short of a luxurious stay, with optional butler service, ocean views and more.

The Vanderbilt Hotel’s 1919 Restaurant is also one of the island’s best, featuring the culinary skill of a Michelin-Starred executive chef. It's really one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico if you want a little bit of everything.

Fora Perks at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel:

  • $100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

On the other hand, Condado Ocean Club offers the best of two worlds: exemplary, beachfront relaxation and a vibrant, urban nightlife. This hotel boasts contemporary furnishings and amenities, but the prime beach real estate might be its biggest draw.

5. Luquillo: the best area to stay for laid-back & gorgeous beaches

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Only about 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of San Juan, Luquillo offers prime beaches for relaxation and additional access to El Yunque Park (making it an easy ). The other big draw: Los Kioskos de Luquillo, which feature authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, dancing and live music — especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

6. Isla Verde: one of the coolest areas to stay in Puerto Rico

Once again, we’re back to San Juan. Isla Verde Beach is super close to Puerto Rico’s main airport and has built a reputation as one of the island’s top destinations. If, however, you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico that cater to a more low-key crowd, the nearby Carolina Beach has become a local and hipster haven.

Which is better, Isla Verde or Condado?

Isla Verde doesn’t have the same reputation as Condado in terms of luxury offerings, but it still has an exciting nightlife, albeit with more beachy vibes.

A Fora Advisor can help you decide which neighborhood fits your preferences (plus, you’ll unlock best-of-the-best hotel perks).

The best hotel in Isla Verde: Fairmont El San Juan Hotel

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel capitalizes on its Isle Verde location. Casinos, award-winning beaches, the best shopping in Puerto Rico and much more are all within minutes of the Fairmont’s grand doors.

The Fairmont also features a wide assortment of room options, from poolside suites to oceanfront villas. You can wake up, slap on a bathing suit and soak in the rays and waves from dusk ‘til dawn (and then some).

Fora Perks Fairmont El San Juan Hotel:

  • $100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

7. Fajardo: coral reefs, hatching sea turtles & watersports

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On the main island, the only place that might offer a better natural experience than Rio Grande is Fajardo. The small city is home to beaches and cays, including the world-famous Seven Seas Beach. Moreover, you can snorkel around the Cordillera Nature Reserve’s coral reefs, with hundreds (if not thousands) of tropical species to discover. If you time your visit just right (Fora has your back), you can even see sea turtles hatching along the shoreline.

(P.S. See our guide to a long weekend in northern Puerto Rico for itinerary ideas.)

The best hotel in Fajardo: El Conquistador Resort

The Conquistador Resort offers near-unparalleled amenities and comfort along the crystal-blue shores of Fajardo. The resort is relatively secluded, yet provides an array of things to do. You can explore the nearby Bioluminescent Bay, check out the Coqui Water Park or even charter a private trip to Palomino Island.

Fora Perks at El Conquistador Resort:

  • Complimentary air & concierge services.

8. Ponce: the ‘second’ best area to stay in Puerto Rico for cultural immersion

We’ve established that San Juan is the cultural (and literal) capital of Puerto Rico, but it’s not the only place of cultural significance on the island. Ponce, a.k.a. the “Museum City,” is home to tons of museums and points of interest relevant to Puerto Rican culture.

As for architectural appeal, there may be no better example than the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which blends Caribbean and Spanish designs, and has been standing for over 300 years. Also enjoy the area’s rich natural beauty while horseback riding on the beach (an ideal activity for a romantic Puerto Rico getaway).

Architecture and history aren’t Ponce’s only draws, though; the city also has an excellent gastronomic presence, blending authentic Puerto Rican flavors with international influences. You'll have a hard time finding better meals in Puerto Rico than in Ponce.

The best hotel in Ponce: The Fox Resort

The Fox Hotel is a major departure from Puerto Rico’s traditional hotel scene. A blend of vintage pop art honors 20th-century icons like Frida Kahlo and Marilyn Monroe, while “burgers, shakes, sweets and the best coffee in town” provide a fun throwback to the 1950s.

9. Isabela: gorgeous vistas and limited development

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If you’re looking for super-chill vibes, Isabela is easily one of Puerto Rico’s best areas to stay in. The town is relatively small compared to San Juan and Ponce, meaning the surrounding environment is largely untouched and ripe for exploration (especially in the form of snorkeling and hiking). Isabela also provides access to the Guajataca State Forest, which offers trails, fishing spots and peaceful watersports.

The best hotel in Isabela: The Royal Isabela

The Royal Isabela is a family-friendly golf resort with beachfront amenities and an emphasis on preserving the surrounding flora and fauna. Leatherback sea turtles often lay their eggs on the nearby beaches, and from January to April, you can spot humpback whales breaching from shore.

10. Cabo Rojo: the best beaches in the Caribbean

Count Cabo Rojo among the hidden gems of Puerto Rico. Beaches like La Playuela are among the best places to stay in Puerto Rico if you’re trying to avoid tourist crowds. Like Isabel, Cabo Rojo emphasizes nature, and the views are breathtaking. Unlike Isabel, however, Cabo Rojo doesn’t offer much in the way of hotels.

Start planning your trip with Fora to learn about the best ways to explore Cabo Rojo while enjoying elite hotel and travel perks nearby.

11. Rincón: the surfing capital of Puerto Rico

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The “town of beautiful sunsets” also happens to be home to some of the best surfing beaches in the Caribbean. But don’t worry, surfers of all experience levels are welcome.If surfing isn’t your thing, Rincón is absolutely still worth visiting: the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve is a great snorkeling destination.

The best hotels in Rincón: Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean Hotel & Villas and Tres Sirenas

The Rincón of the Seas Grand Caribbean features classic beach-town vibes and a laid-back attitude. If you’re not into Rincón’s surf-friendly beaches (which are maybe 100 feet from its doors), you can relax in the oceanfront pool and enjoy drinks at the swim-up bar.

If you prefer something more intimate, the Tres Sirenas boutique hotel is a top choice. There are only five suites available, but the amenities are amazing. In-room massages, private chef services and deep-sea fishing excursions are just a few of Tres Sirenas’ offerings. Tres Sirenas is truly one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico, if not the Caribbean.

12. Culebra: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for hip beaches (and nature reserve access!)

Culebra is one of the larger islands along the Puerto Rican archipelago, about 20 miles offshore from the main island. World-famous Flamenco Beach calls Culebra home and offers a gorgeous contrast between hilly shores and white-sand beaches.

The Culebra National Wildlife Refuge is another top destination and is composed of several smaller islands (we recommend island-hopping via Culebrita water taxis).

Sidenote: Culebra is also one of the top LGBTQ travel spots in Puerto Rico (chat with a Fora Advisor to learn more).

Bonus: Culebrita — a lovely nature preserve off the coast of Culebra

Culebrita is a tiny island off the coast of larger Culebra known for its namesake lighthouse and wildlife refuge. While you can’t actually stay on the island, visiting by boat charter or water taxi makes for a fun day trip from Culebra.

13. Vieques: one of Puerto Rico’s most unique places

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At night, the beaches of the island of Vieques shimmer. We’re not exaggerating: bioluminescent algae literally make the water glow. At a minimum, these glowing beaches are magical to witness; at best, visiting Vieques is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There are few places in the world where you can witness this phenomenon, so Vieques is an absolute must-see (Fora’s guide to exploring Vieques offers more info).

Vieques’ dining options are enthralling, with exceptionally fresh seafood and a mix of traditional Puerto Rican and Mexican cuisine as well.

The only downside to Vieques is that you have to arrive by air or ferry, meaning you have to time your travel well if you’re visiting from afar.

The best hotels in Vieques: El Blok, Puertas at El Quenepo & Finca Victoria

The El Blok hotel is a Vieques landmark in its own right. The unusual façade hides a contemporary decor style. You also don’t have to go far to try some of Vieques’ best restaurants. Placita, which is renowned for its contemporary Puerto Rican menu, is just one of several top restaurants located within the hotel.

Then you’ll find Puertas at El Quenepo in the island village of Esperanza. The rooms feature a quiet, classical decor, and the hotel itself emphasizes exploring Vieques Island, including the nearby bioluminescent bay.

Lastly, Finca Victoria is a (tiny) boutique hotel situated toward the interior of Vieques. Whereas the other hotels emphasize beachy adventures, Finca Victoria aims to serve as a therapeutic getaway. Private gardens supply the property’s vegan kitchen and botanical stores, while local art, clothing and other trinkets can be found for sale throughout the estate.

(Looking for more one-of-a-kind vacation spots? Check out the most unique places to visit in Greece and unique places to stay in Maui.)

14. Dorado: the most luxurious area to stay in Puerto Rico

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Image courtesy of Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

If you’re hunting for an upscale vacation, Dorado is an ideal choice: it literally means “golden.” Many of Puerto Rico’s most famous restaurants, like El Ladrillo, can be found in Dorado, but that’s far from all you’ll find here.

Dorado also offers a wealth of surfing and other beach allures, while the inland areas feature Puerto Rico’s best upscale golf courses. Best of all, it’s only about 30 minutes away from San Juan by car.

The best hotel in Dorado, Puerto Rico: Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

Living up to Dorado’s high-class atmosphere, the Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton is arguably Puerto Rico’s most luxurious hotel. Between the five-star, gourmet dining options and curated experiences, the hotel and resort spares no expense to ensure its guests are pleased.

Book and plan your trip with Fora to level up your stay at Dorado Beach.

Fora Perks at Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve:

  • $100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

15. Mayagüez: the unofficial capital of Puerto Rico’s west coast

One of the best areas to stay on Puerto Rico’s otherwise rural western coast, Mayagüez is a great spot for cultural exploration. The city’s architecture has decidedly Spanish influences with a later emphasis on Art Deco styles; some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Rico for design enthusiasts can be found here.

The surrounding terrain is both beautiful and diverse, with plenty of adventure to be found across marshlands, plains, hills and rivers. Additionally, scuba diving off the coast is one of the city’s biggest draws.

16. Arecibo: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for history lovers

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Arecibo is a unique place to visit for educational enthusiasts. Until 2020, it was the site of the now-decommissioned Arecibo Observatory, which aided the United States’ Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence program for over half a century.

The area also features a number of cultural and historical sites, such as the Arecibo Lighthouse, replica villages of the native Taíno people and more.

17. Guánica: home to one of the most unique forests in the world

Guánica is most famous for the Bosque Estatal de Guánica (or State Forest of Guánica), a United Nations Biosphere Reserve and one of the largest dry forests — forests that receive minimal amounts of rain (like a desert) — in the world. Beyond hosting over 600 different plant and animal species, many of which are endangered, the forest features a variety of stunning hiking trails for all skill levels.Birdwatching, climbing and biking are all popular activities here.

18. Humacao: a small city with a rich natural landscape

Like Guánica, Humacao is best known for its natural wonder — most notably, the Humacao Nature Reserve. The small city is also home to Puerto Rico’s largest resort area, Palmas del Mar, which features a number of relaxing attractions amidst the area’s scenic southern coast.

19. Aguadilla: a fun city with great beaches for surfing & snorkeling

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Aguadilla is a smaller city on Puerto Rico’s northwestern coast. Trading a cosmopolitan setting for a low-key atmosphere, the city is one of the better areas to stay in Puerto Rico for travelers seeking a beachbound vacation sans crowds.

Agaudilla’s beaches — particularly Crash Boat Beach — are renowned for their snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in winter and summer. Alternatively, fall and spring bring consistent swells great for surfing, with options great for all experience levels.

Looking for fun beyond the waves? Aguadilla Ice Skating Arena is one of the only ice-skating rinks in the Caribbean, and there’s also an 18-hole golf course here to enjoy.

20. Manatí: a quiet, charming city offering variety

If you’re looking for authenticity, the tiny city of Manatí is a good place to stay in Puerto Rico. There’s a historic downtown area exhibiting 19th-century architecture, a variety of nature and wildlife attractions and more.

The nearby beach of Mar Chiquita is an underrated destination, too, with a lagoon-like cove offering calm waters for snorkeling and swimming.

The best areas to stay in Puerto Rico: FAQs

Read on for a few answers to common questions about the best areas to stay in Puerto Rico.

Is Puerto Rico a good spring break destination? (Hint: absolutely!)

Excellent weather, lively cities and pristine beaches that attract youthful travelers from all over the world make Puerto Rico the ideal Caribbean destination for spring breakers.

San Juan and its surrounding beaches — like Culebra — is the preeminent spring break choice. But places like Dorado and Rincón offer ritzy and nature-filled excitement, respectively, just to name a couple more options.

Eager to plan a spring break getaway to Puerto Rico? Connect with Fora to plan and book your trip.

Is summer a good time to travel to Puerto Rico?

Ultimately, it depends on your heat tolerance. Puerto Rico does get fairly hot and humid in summer. That may be a perk for beach vacations where a quick dive in the turquoise waters offers immediate relief — and the bioluminescent bays are at their most magical in the summer. But it can make exploring the island’s picturesque parks and vibrant urban hubs taxing.

On the other hand, accommodations are notably less expensive in summer, and there are far fewer crowds.

Does Puerto Rico have any all-inclusive resorts?

Technically, Puerto Rico doesn’t have any all-inclusive resorts. However, there are a few resorts spread across the island that offer a similar experience, with a wide selection of restaurants and attractions set within the same location.

(Interested in staying at a true all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean? Check out our guides to all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica and St. Lucia all-inclusive resorts.)

Which Puerto Rican coast has better beaches? Which is the most beautiful?

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You’ll have a hard time finding a “bad beach” in Puerto Rico. That said, how you want to spend your time on the island’s stellar beaches — snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, laying out in the sun — will affect which beaches make the most sense for you to visit.

As always, a Fora Advisor can help you decide which beaches are best. All you have to do is connect with Fora.

When’s the best time to stay in Puerto Rico?

Mid-April to June is best overall time to stay in Puerto Rico. You’ll miss the influx of travelers escaping cold winter weather while also avoiding summer's persistent rainstorms. Moreover, it rarely gets excessively hot during this time.

On another note, you can totally enjoy a great trip to Puerto Rico just about any time of year if you don’t mind crowds or rain during alternative seasons.

Do you need a car in Puerto Rico?

It depends. Public transportation on the island is limited and somewhat unreliable. Uber is available in San Juan and a few other areas. But ultimately, renting a car is your best option if you want to explore, especially outside of the major cities.

Is it safe to stay in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is actually one of the safer islands in the Caribbean, which already has a reputation for being traveler friendly. Petty crime is somewhat common in some neighborhoods of major cities. However, avoiding these areas and exercising normal caution should be more than enough to ensure you have a wonderful experience.

Book with Fora and stay in the best areas in Puerto Rico

Ready to visit the best places to stay in Puerto Rico? Plan your trip with Fora and you’ll enjoy a wealth of VIP travel perks, such as room upgrades, complimentary meals and more, all while paying the same price (or better) than what you’d find directly. Plus, Fora Advisors can get you all sorts of perks and upgrades, plus expert recommendations — no matter where you're going or what type of vacation you're taking

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The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice (2024)

FAQs

The 20 Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Rico: Expert 2024 Advice? ›

The hotels in San Juan and the east coast are the most popular among off-Island visitors to Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, the south and west regions of the Island are more often frequented by locals and tend to be busier during summer months, which is the high season for Puerto Ricans traveling around the Island.

What side of Puerto Rico is best to stay on? ›

The hotels in San Juan and the east coast are the most popular among off-Island visitors to Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, the south and west regions of the Island are more often frequented by locals and tend to be busier during summer months, which is the high season for Puerto Ricans traveling around the Island.

Where is the safest place to stay in Puerto Rico? ›

Culebra and Vieques

These smaller islands off the coast of Puerto Rico are known for their pristine beaches and tranquil environments. Both Culebra and Vieques have lower crime rates compared to mainland areas.

Where do most Americans go in Puerto Rico? ›

Relocating to Puerto Rico

Most expats settle in Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan, or in the south in Ponce, its second-largest city.

What areas to stay away from in Puerto Rico? ›

Dangerous places in Puerto Rico include parts of cities like Carolina, Bayamon, Vega Baja, and some San Juan areas like Santurce, La Perla, Parque de la Palomas, and Puerta de Tierra. These places are usually safe to visit during daylight hours.

What is the nicest part of Puerto Rico to visit? ›

1. San Juan: the best area to stay in Puerto Rico for your first visit. If you only have time to visit one place in Puerto Rico, choose San Juan. Puerto Rico's capital offers everything you could want in a Caribbean metropolis, plus amazing beaches and an incredibly rich architectural scene.

What is the prettiest side of Puerto Rico? ›

Home to some of the best beaches on the Island, the west region is the undisputed surfing capital of Puerto Rico – and the Caribbean – and features the best sunsets on the Island. The feel on the west side is different from the hustle and bustle of the San Juan metropolitan area.

Where do rich Americans live in Puerto Rico? ›

Condado (apartment living) Condado is San Juan's most luxurious district, sitting oceanfront to hotels, a busy nightlife, beachside restaurants, and world-renowned, upscale brand boutiques. You can find everything within walking distance and much to do.

What is the most affordable part of Puerto Rico? ›

  • Ponce. City in Puerto Rico. · Rating 4.21 out of 5 34 reviews. Current Resident: I live in paradise. ...
  • Carolina. City in Puerto Rico. · Rating 4.1 out of 5 40 reviews. ...
  • San Juan. City in Puerto Rico. · Rating 3.79 out of 5 234 reviews. ...
  • Add to List. Sponsored Private School. Cupeyville School. Private School·

What is the most walkable town in Puerto Rico? ›

San Juan, the biggest city in Puerto Rico, is also the most walkable. The Perla is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods on the island.

What is the best way to travel within Puerto Rico? ›

The best way to get around Puerto Rico is by car if you want to see more than the city in which you're staying, you'll need your own vehicle as intercity train service doesn't exist and intercity bus service is time-consuming and uncomfortable.

Can you drink tap water in Puerto Rico? ›

"Unfortunately Puerto Rico has the worst record in the U.S. for drinking water safety," says Erik Olson, a senior health policy advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council. And it's not just bacteria and viruses.

Which side of Puerto Rico has the clearest water? ›

The clarity of the water in Cayo Icacos is like no other on the east coast of Puerto Rico. The long strips of reefs beside the abandoned pier are home to many schools of fish and other marine creatures that you'll get to observe while you snorkel.

What side of Puerto Rico has the best weather? ›

Puerto Rico has one of the most unvarying climates in the world. Temperatures year-round range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C–29°C). The island is wettest and hottest in August, averaging 81°F (27°C) and 7 inches (18cm) of rain. San Juan and the northern coast seem to be cooler and wetter than Ponce and the southern coast.

Which side of Puerto Rico has calm beaches? ›

Outside San Juan, the best beaches for swimming are probably Guánica's Playa Santa and Caña Gorda beaches in southwest Puerto Rico. The water is extremely warm and absolutely calm year round, and both spots boast wide, white-sand beaches with vistas of nothing but Caribbean Sea and hilly coastline.

What is the tourist side of Puerto Rico? ›

San Juan is the largest city in Puerto Rico, and it is home to some of the most visited tourist attractions in the island such as Old San Juan and the San Juan National Historic Site.

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