11 Free Things to Do in Puerto Rico
Blessed with white, sandy beaches, colorful architecture, world-class surfing, a rich musical history, and an enviable arts, culture, and culinary scene, Puerto Rico is a perfect escape for the intrepid and adventurous.
It’s a place to catch a wave on a beautiful beach, wander through centuries-old cities, and dive into the layered, multicultural history that makes this one of the most exciting corners of the Caribbean.
The island has become an expensive destination in recent years due to gentrification and its growing popularity with travelers from the lower 48. However, there are still plenty of top experiences that won’t cost a dime. Here are our favorite free things to do in Puerto Rico.
1. Find History in Old San Juan
The walled islet of San Juan turned 500 years old this year, providing an excellent opportunity to celebrate by walking through its tree-lined, cobblestone streets and marveling at the centuries-old homes that once served as the center of life during the colonial era. In celebration of this significant anniversary, the government of San Juan is offering free guided walking tours throughout the city with prior reservations.
If you prefer touring independently, start by visiting the monumental Catedral de San Juan, the second oldest church in the Americas, founded in 1521. This cathedral was central to life in the city during Spanish times, and it remains one of the most captivating places in San Juan, complete with centuries-old mausoleums and paintings.
Following that, stroll to the stunning Convento Los Dominicos, established by the Dominican order in 1523. Currently functioning as a hotel, you can enter for free and admire the intricate creole tiles and the serene courtyard garden.
La Fortaleza, the official residence of the governor, deserves a visit as well. Built in 1532, free 30-minute guided tours are available from Monday to Friday between 8:15 am and 3:30 pm. It is recommended to call ahead as tours can be canceled unexpectedly.
Other noteworthy free sights include Casa Blanca, San Juan’s first fort and the former residence of conquistador Juan Ponce de León, and Plazuela de la Rogativa, which offers beautiful views of San Juan Bay.
2. Stroll Along Paseo de la Princesa
During Spanish colonial rule, the Puerta de San Juan served as the main commercial and military entrance to the walled city. Nowadays, it stands as one of the gateways to Paseo de la Princesa, a scenic oceanside promenade frequented by families and couples enjoying the fresh breeze.
To the west, explore a 3-mile (4.8km) path bordering the Castillo San Felipe del Morro. While this area is a more recent addition to the military castle, you can touch the ancient walls that historically defended the city from pirates and rival powers.
Walking to the east leads to the heart of Paseo la Princesa, where local artisans showcase their crafts on weekends, the old La Princesa Prison now houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, and you can sample delicious Puerto Rican rum-based drinks at Princesa Cocina Cultura.
3. Marvel at Santurce’s Street Art
The neighborhood of Santurce in San Juan holds a special place in the hearts of Puerto Ricans. The district’s history shows its transformation from a military bastion during Spanish colonial times to an industrial community in the 1930s and 1940s, and later to a vibrant theater and shopping district in the 1960s and 70s, before experiencing modern revival.
Now, Santurce embodies resilience, community, and reinvention, renowned as the home of the baseball team, Cangrejeros de Santurce, also known as the Crabbers.
As you walk through Santurce’s steep streets, observe the contrasting architectural styles, from Spanish colonial relics to classic Art Deco. Many buildings showcase stunning murals created by both local and international street artists.
Begin at the crossing of Avenida Fernández Juncos and Calle Cerra, known for the annual street art festival Santurce es Ley. Here, you’ll come across works by talented muralists, including Alexis Bousquet, Vero Rivera, Celso, La Pandilla, Pun18, Defy, Rey X, and Javier Cintrón.
Don’t miss Bik Ismo’s hyper-realistic chrome rabbit, a local landmark. Explore beyond Calle Cerra and Calle Progreso, as the street art continues towards Calle Loíza, allowing you to enjoy the sea breeze.
4. Dive Into Puerto Rican Culture at Ocean Park
One of the remarkable aspects of Puerto Rico is that all beaches are public. Therefore, you can visit for free and relax as long as you’d like. Ocean Park, a long stretch of beachfront that begins in Condado and extends to the Dos Hermanos bridge in San Juan, is one of the largest beaches in the metropolitan area.
With its soft white sand and crystal blue waters, Ocean Park is a favorite spot for San Juan residents and a superb location for witnessing Puerto Rican beach culture.
Visit during the weekend when you can taste traditional ice cream from passing vendors, sip an ice-cold Medalla beer under the sun, and dance to the lively rhythms of reggaeton and salsa echoing from nearby beach parties.
For water enthusiasts, Ocean Park is popular with surfers, bodyboarders, and kiteboarders. Ensure to apply ample sunblock and bring an umbrella since shade is limited and the midday sun can be intense.
5. Find Living History in Ponce
Known as the “Pearl of the Caribbean,” Ponce is located in the southern part of the island and was founded in the 16th century, named after conquistador Juan Ponce de León. The old center is characterized by Spanish neoclassical buildings and houses painted in vibrant yellow, blue, green, and orange hues.
The standout feature of the town is the Plaza de las Delicias, an open-air plaza adorned with bright red sculptures of Ponce’s basketball team mascot – The Lion. It’s an ideal location to relax and enjoy some traditional ice cream in the shade.
The plaza is also home to the iconic red and black firehouse and a handsome cathedral, both significant to Ponce’s history. The historic town center is entirely walkable and filled with inspiring murals perfect for photography.
6. Immerse in Creole Culture in Caguas
Caguas, situated just off Highway 52, is a must-visit for those eager to delve into Puerto Rico’s folk traditions amid winding country roads and brightly painted Spanish-era buildings.
The town center vibrates with Puerto Rican creole culture. Visit the Museo del Tabaco Hermínio Torres Grillo during the day to learn about Puerto Rico’s tobacco history and explore handmade cigars.
Housed in a vibrant blue, neoclassical Spanish colonial building that once served as Caguas’s City Hall, the Museo de Historia de Caguas unveils local history, spanning from the Taíno civilization to revolutionary uprisings by the criollo people of Caguas.
To explore the beginnings of one of Puerto Rico’s most significant literary figures, visit Casita Verde Abelardo Díaz Alfaro, where the writer spent his formative years. All museums in Caguas are free and do not require prior reservations.
Caguas transforms at night with lively clubs, charming chinchorros (snack kiosks), and a vibrant art scene at El Paseo de las Artes. This new arts promenade features two monthly events: Festival Paseo de los Artistas, showcasing local artisans at an open-air market, and Al Fresco, where restaurants present their famous dishes. Food and drink prices are budget-friendly, with local beers starting at approximately USD$2.50.
7. Drive Across the Interior of Puerto Rico
To enjoy the full variety of Puerto Rico, venture beyond San Juan. Although renting a car comes at a cost, the reward is breathtaking views of rolling green hills, towering peaks, and untouched tropical jungles that make up the Cordillera Central.
Highway 52 offers stunning interior views while crossing the mountain range from San Juan to the south coast. On sunny days, expect to see vivid, changing shades of green and yellow, culminating in magnificent views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea as you ascend towards the hill town of Cayey.
Cayey is known for serving one of Puerto Rico’s most sought-after culinary delights: lechón a la varita (roast pork). The hunt for perfect lechón is a cherished local ritual, especially in the barrio of Guavate, where you can find affordable traditional dishes such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pasteles (a type of tamale), and guineos en escabeche (pickled green bananas).
8. Glide Down the Las Pailas River
Deep within El Yunque National Forest – Puerto Rico’s largest tropical rainforest – are winding paths that lead to an impressive network of rivers and creeks, perfect for a refreshing dip in pure mountain water.
The Las Pailas river, speckled with natural swimming holes, is a hidden gem known primarily to locals from the Luquillo municipality. Concealed behind local houses, the deepest pool features a natural waterslide formed over centuries. This slippery rock formation extends approximately 30ft (9m), hurling you into a fish-filled natural pool. Directions can be obtained by asking locals.
Ensure to wear reliable shoes or hiking boots for the hike to the river. Note, however, that the entrance to the swimming hole is on private property, requiring a small fee (approximately USD$5) to park on the owner’s land.
9. Discover Rugged Nature at Faro Los Morillos
Located in Cabo Rojo, Faro Los Morillos is a national wildlife refuge surrounding a historic lighthouse situated at the southernmost tip of the municipality. Traverse rocky, unpaved roads that lead you through dry subtropical forests, hypersaline lagoons, coral reefs, and mangroves.
The nature reserve is reminiscent of a living painting, with brine shrimp coloring the salt flats in deep shades of purple and pink. Put on your hiking boots and trek up the steep, rocky hill to the lighthouse, built in 1882, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea from the clifftop. Exercise caution around the cliff’s edge; the area is known for strong winds and loose rocks that have posed risks to visitors in the past.
After descending, you will find one of Puerto Rico’s most pristine beaches, colloquially called Playa Sucia. With its white sands and clear turquoise waters, it’s an inviting spot to swim and snorkel while discovering local marine life. Note that shade is limited, so prepare with an umbrella and ample sunblock. Because this area is a natural reserve, there are no kiosks or food services available, so bringing a cooler filled with refreshments for the day is advisable.
10. Swing at La Curva del Árbol Renace
Enjoying the Puerto Rican countryside from one of several public swings atop the island’s beautiful mountains is an unmissable activity. The most famous swing is located in Salinas at La Curva del Árbol Renace. Here, you’ll experience breathtaking bird’s-eye views of the Caribbean coastline along with the scenic peaks and valleys of Cayey, making it a popular spot for Instagram-worthy photos.
There are additional swings scattered throughout the island, including the precarious swing at Columpio de los Suspiros, located near the town of Naguabo adjacent to El Yunque forest. Participation in a guided tour is necessary to locate this swing, which hangs more than 1,000ft (305m) above sea level.
11. Party at El Poblado de Boquerón
If you’re searching for festivities any weekend, El Poblado de Boquerón in Cabo Rojo is the place to be. During the day, visitors flock to Balneario Boquerón to revel in the clear Caribbean waters. Although it can get busy, arriving early allows you to secure a pleasant spot.
Parking incurs a small fee (approximately $5), but it’s worthwhile as you’ll park closer to the shore, making the transport of refreshments easier. Aim to spend the entire day unwinding on the white and yellow sands.
Puerto Rico is featured on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations, click here.
Note: Safety recommendations and guidelines regarding the pandemic may change suddenly. Travelers are advised to consult local authorities for up-to-date guidance before their trip.
