Discover Puerto Rico: Bioluminescent Waters and Stunning Uninhabited Islands, Just a Quick Flight from NYC

Puerto Rico has a little something for everyone. Beach vacationers will find clean, white-sand beaches lined with palm trees, while history buffs will love Old San Juan, with its cobblestone streets and brightly painted colonial buildings sandwiched between centuries-old fortresses. Those looking for adventure won’t have to go far. There’s surfing, snorkeling off uninhabited islands, and glowing bioluminescent waters. Moreover, in El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the national forest system, travelers can access 24 miles of hiking trails leading to waterfalls, swimming holes, and mountain peaks.

Furthermore, traveling to Puerto Rico is notably easier and breezier than most other Caribbean islands. Because it’s a U.S. territory, you don’t need a passport or have to worry about exchanging money (they use the U.S. dollar). English is widely spoken, and there are direct flights from several U.S. cities, including New York, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Buffalo, and St. Louis (in addition to most major cities in Florida).

Best Time to Go to Puerto Rico

Most travelers head to Puerto Rico in the winter when the rainy hurricane season has passed, and a tropical escape is top of mind. Although mid-winter beach escapes sound delightful, it coincides with the island’s busy season. Therefore, consider visiting Puerto Rico between mid-April and June to avoid sky-high rates and crowded beaches. This blissful window lets you dodge the winter crowds and the hurricane season.

Rain does tend to be more common starting in April; however, it is usually paired with milder weather in the mid-80s and plenty of sunny, bluebird days. Just pack a raincoat and have a plan for when the clouds roll in.

Things to Do in Puerto Rico

Clear-kayak Tour on a Bioluminescent Bay
Address: Jak Water Sports, Vieques, 00765
Phone: (787) 644-7112
Website

No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without a visit to the island of Vieques (30 minutes by ferry from the mainland). While you’re there, experience the otherworldly, glow-in-the-dark blue of Bioluminescent Bay (a.k.a. Mosquito Bay) after dark. As you glide your clear-bottomed kayak into the bay, the underwater world beneath you is illuminated by the ocean’s equivalent of fireflies—an absolutely magical experience.

Surf Lesson in Rincón
Address: Surf Lessons Puerto Rico, Rincón, 00602
Phone: (787) 617-4731
Website

On the far western and northwestern side of the island is a series of surf breaks that have given this part of Puerto Rico nicknames like the “Hawaii of the Caribbean” and the “Mecca of Surfing.” Thanks to a year-round break and bathtub-warm waters, everyone from true beginners to experienced surfers will find waves to enjoy. For lessons or a local guide who will take you to the best spots, check out Surf Lessons Puerto Rico, an established outfit with over 20 years of operation.

Catamaran Tour to Cayo Icacos
Address: East Island Excursions, Marina Puerto Del Rey, Fajardo, 00738
Phone: (787) 617-4731
Website

Just off mainland Puerto Rico is Cayo Icacos, a tiny, uninhabited island with a private, deserted-beach vibe, especially during the quiet season. A day spent on the island is rated as the No. 4 activity in Puerto Rico, according to Tripadvisor travelers, who suggest the best way to experience the clear waters and white sandy beaches is by catamaran. The 5.5-hour snorkeling tour with East Island Excursions features underwater windows perfect for viewing sea life and an onboard waterslide.

El Yunque National Forest
Address: El Yunque National Forest, Río Grande, 00745
Phone: (787) 888-1880
Website

El Yunque National Forest is the sole tropical rainforest within the national forest system, boasting nearly 29,000 acres of dense rainforest inhabited by geckos, mongoose, bats, and 97 bird species. Moreover, the park features more hiking trails than roads, making it a hiker’s paradise with 24 miles of trails leading to clear mountain rivers, waterfalls, and even a high-altitude elfin forest.

Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

St. Regis Bahia Resort
Address: State Road 187 Kilometer 4.2, Río Grande, 00745
Phone: (787) 809-8000
Website

The St. Regis Bahia Resort is anything but dull. Set on a former coconut plantation, it is positioned between the lush El Yunque National Forest and the Atlantic Ocean. The property features two miles of secluded beach, a pool with private cabanas, and a golf course. Each room includes a private terrace and marble bathrooms with giant soaking tubs, ensuring a luxurious stay.

Malecón House
Address: 105 Calle Flamboyan, Vieques, 00765
Phone: (939) 239-7113
Website

Situated on the island of Vieques, this charming boutique hotel offers 13 carefully appointed rooms, some featuring ocean views and private terraces. The property overlooks the ocean and is within easy walking distance to beach bars, boutiques, and some of the island’s best restaurants. After enjoying a daily complimentary breakfast, guests can snorkel from the pier or relax by the pool surrounded by lush gardens.

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Address: 1055 Ashford Ave, San Juan, 00907
Phone: (787) 721-5500
Website

This luxury five-star property located on the coast of San Juan offers 24-hour butler service and a selection of restaurants managed by acclaimed chef Juan Jose Cuevas. The hotel’s history, built in 1919 as an example of Spanish Revival architecture, infuses the property with heritage while providing all the modern amenities expected by discerning travelers.

Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Address: 100 Dorado Beach Drive, Dorado, 00646
Phone: (787) 626-1100
Website

Located just west of San Juan, the sprawling Dorado Beach resort sits on 1,400 acres and houses two pools, three golf courses, a water park, and a spa and fitness center. There is no shortage of things to experience, but you may find it hard to leave your luxurious room, especially if it features indoor-outdoor showers, terraces, and private pools. The Ritz-Carlton’s exemplary butler service adds to the opulence of your stay.

Lazy Parrot Inn
Address: km 4.1, PR-413, Rincón, 00677
Phone: (787) 823-5654
Website

If you want to experience the real Puerto Rico, start with a night or two at the Lazy Parrot Inn, a family-run boutique hotel in the surf town of Rincón. From your hilltop position above the town, you can enjoy views of the bay and surf break, just a breezy 20-minute walk or a quick three-minute drive from the hotel. Each of the Lazy Parrot’s 21 rooms is modern and eco-friendly, featuring organic touches. On-property amenities include a saltwater pool, a hot tub, and delicious farm-to-table fare.

Hurricane Season in Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, hurricane season typically runs from early June to late November; however, historically, many larger storms occur in September. This season aligns with the island’s rainy season, which starts in April and lasts through November, leading to a decrease in tourism during the summer and fall months.