21 Fascinating Puerto Rico Facts You Didn’t Know

Quick, think about America’s most popular tourist places. You probably think about Disneyworld in Florida or the Grand Canyon. However, Puerto Rico, located just off the Florida coast and bordered by the Caribbean Sea, attracted over six million tourists in 2023 (which sets a record), generating over nine billion dollars in revenue. Now, that is impressive, and these two statistics are just the tip of the iceberg.

We have visited Puerto Rico multiple times, and we find that you can have an even better vacation if you learn a little more about this island territory of the United States before your visit.

1. Puerto Rico Is Not a State

Puerto Rico’s politics are awkward, to say the least. Puerto Rico is not a state but a commonwealth within the United States. This means that American citizens can travel to the island without a passport. Furthermore, the federal government has jurisdiction over Puerto Rico, but Puerto Ricans do not have representatives in the Senate. They have a resident commissioner who represents them in the House of Representatives, but the commissioner cannot vote on bills.

Nevertheless, many international institutions treat Puerto Rico as its own country. Puerto Rico has a separate Olympic team and sends its own contestants to the Miss Universe pageant.

2. Yet Puerto Ricans Are Americans

However, all Puerto Rican residents receive birthright citizenship. They hold American passports and can travel to the American mainland freely. Unfortunately, Puerto Ricans do not have the same rights as other Americans; they cannot vote in presidential elections, though they can vote for party nominees. Oddly enough, you can receive a Certificate of Puerto Rican Citizenship and become a dual national of Puerto Rico and your home country if you meet specific criteria.

3. Don’t Confuse the Island With the Archipelago

When people read the term “Puerto Rico,” they usually think about one island. In reality, Puerto Rico is an archipelago of many islands. The main island is called Puerto Rico, and it contains the capital of San Juan. Vieques is seven miles off the main island’s east coast, housing over 8,000 residents and numerous beautiful beaches.

Culebra, located nine miles north of Vieques, is home to roughly 1,800 people, with most of the island remaining undeveloped. The remaining islands are uninhabited but serve as nature preserves that you may explore via boat.

4. Puerto Rico Is the World’s Oldest Colony

The history of Puerto Rico runs deep. The Taino people inhabited the main island for thousands of years prior to Christopher Columbus’s arrival in 1493. After only two days, Columbus claimed it as a Spanish colony. Subsequently, Spain controlled Puerto Rico for over 400 years until it was ceded to the United States after the Spanish-American War in 1898. It remains under American control, which some Puerto Ricans refer to as a “colony” since it isn’t a state.

5. World War II Is Everywhere

World War II impacted Puerto Rico significantly. The American military was concerned about the potential invasion of the island, leading the government to invest millions in fortifications. Modifications were made to historic forts, and new bases and bunkers were constructed throughout the archipelago, including on Culebra. After the war, military equipment was left behind, including military tanks on Flamenco Beach and abandoned bunkers on Vieques, which are now tourist attractions.

6. El Yunque Is the Forest Service’s Only Tropical Rainforest

Notably, El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest within America’s natural forest system, covering 29,000 acres, making it one of the smallest forests in the United States. The nearby Puerto Rico Trench, the deepest point in the North Atlantic Ocean, showcases the island’s geographical wonders. El Yunque is teeming with exotic wildlife, allowing visitors to climb mountains over 3,000 feet tall and observe unique species in their natural habitats.

7. You Can Walk Along 300 Miles of Beaches

Like any Caribbean paradise, Puerto Rico is famous for its stunning beaches. Luquillo Beach is a popular destination on the main island, where you can stroll along pristine sands and relax beneath coconut palms. For a quieter experience, consider Flamenco Beach on Culebra for appealing coral reefs ideal for snorkeling, or visit Sun Bay Beach in Vieques with its crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming.

8. You Can Also Visit Bioluminescent Bays

Sun Bay Beach has an additional charm; it hosts Mosquito Bay, renowned for its bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the waters at night. Visiting under the right conditions means you can witness the water glowing blue after sunset. Additionally, you can explore Fajardo Bioluminescent Bay on the mainland or La Parguera in Lajas, another outlying island, ensuring a unique and enchanting experience.

9. Puerto Rico Has America’s Largest Cave Network

The Cavernas del Río Camuy boasts over 200 caves that extend over 250 miles. Although only a small segment of the caves features mapped trails, visitors are permitted to explore freely. Always travel in groups while venturing off the designated paths for safety reasons.

10. The Birth of the New World Is America’s Tallest Statue

The statue titled “The Birth of the New World,” symbolizes Christopher Columbus and stands at a remarkable height of 360 feet, which is over 200 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty. Located in Arecibo, while visitors cannot approach the statue, there are plans to develop a park around it soon.

11. Plaza Las Américas Is the Caribbean’s Largest Shopping Center

Spanning 1.9 million square feet, Plaza Las Américas features more than 300 stores, including major retailers like JCPenney, Macy’s, and Best Buy. For authentic Puerto Rican souvenirs, shoppers will find antiques, art pieces, and crafted items throughout the mall.

12. La Fortaleza Is America’s Oldest Executive Mansion

In 1529, the Governor of Puerto Rico, Antonio de la Gama, wrote to the Spanish emperor expressing the need for improved fortifications in San Juan. The emperor funded the construction of La Fortaleza, which took place between 1540 and 1544. It has since served continuously as the governor’s residence and is open for public tours, allowing visitors to explore its beautiful grounds and gardens.

13. Old San Juan Is Different Than San Juan

While San Juan is the capital city, Old San Juan encompasses its oldest structures. Established in the 1520s, the area features historical sites like La Fortaleza, where visitors can spend whole days wandering through shops, visiting castles, and exploring the unique atmosphere of this historic district.

14. San Juan Isn’t the Only Cultural Hub in Puerto Rico

Though San Juan stands as the capital, it is just one of many vibrant urban centers in Puerto Rico. Cities like Ponce, home to around 140,000 residents, host a variety of cultural events throughout the year, such as the National Genip Festival in August. Caguas, with over 120,000 residents, also boasts parks and natural areas, contributing to the island’s rich culture.

15. Puerto Rican Food Is a Melting Pot

Many Puerto Ricans will proudly tell you that their national dish is “arroz con gandules,” a flavorful combination of rice, slow-cooked tomatoes, garlic, onion, and pork. Variations abound, with some chefs adding olives or plantain leaves, showcasing the diverse culinary influences on the island.

16. You Can Enjoy Delicious Rum

The rum industry plays a significant role in Puerto Rico’s economy, valued at approximately $51 million. Visitors can find local microdistilleries in major cities, and many restaurants offer extensive rum selections. Tours, mixology classes, and tastings are also available, making it easy to savor this local specialty.

17. But Don’t Miss Out on the Coffee

Penned as Puerto Rico’s underappreciated gem, the local coffee culture is vibrant and widespread, with plantations located across the main island. Locals often favor espresso, which can be bold and intense; however, to balance the flavor, one might try a cortadito, a blend of espresso and steamed milk for a smoother taste.

18. The Climate Is Incredible Year-Round

The weather in Puerto Rico remains pleasantly warm throughout the year, with average temperatures typically in the 80s. During the fall and winter, temperatures may occasionally dip. The island’s tropical climate features a wet season from May to November, during which you may experience tropical storms.

19. Christmas Isn’t Just for December 25

Visiting Puerto Rico during the fall and winter has its perks, particularly with Christmas festivities starting as early as late October. The celebrations extend from Thanksgiving through to the San Sebastián Street Festival in late January, featuring parades, church ceremonies, and vibrant music-filled celebrations.

20. Islanders Use the Imperial and Metric Systems

Among the common mistakes of first-time travelers is the confusion between the imperial and metric systems. Road signs display distances in kilometers, while speed is indicated in miles per hour. It’s beneficial to familiarize yourself with basic metric conversions before setting out on your adventure.

21. Islanders Speak Spanish and English

Puerto Rico recognizes both Spanish and English as official languages. Locals usually converse in Spanish but may switch to English for more in-depth discussions. It is advisable to learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions and experiences with the friendly residents.

Interesting facts about Puerto Rico

These facts about Puerto Rico might have surprised you. The archipelago is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty. With pristine beaches, bioluminescent bays, and a rich culinary scene, Puerto Rico remains a vibrant and inviting destination. If you plan to visit, consider the festive Christmas season to immerse yourself in local traditions. Knowing the metric system can be beneficial, but the most rewarding experience comes from engaging with the local culture and enjoying its numerous offerings.