San Juan - Puerto Rico Destination Information
Puerto Rico is a unique destination, combining the history and culture of Europe; the ecotourism of Costa Rica and Central America; the beaches and resorts of the Caribbean; and the nightlife, restaurants, and glamour of Miami Beach. With so much to choose from, a week is hardly enough time to explore this amazing island. The heart of Puerto Rico is the city of San Juan. San Juan's historic center, called Old San Juan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with blocks of 16th- and 17th-century buildings, superb shops, and wonderful restaurants. Other San Juan sites to explore are the dramatic El Morro Fortress and the Bacardi rum distillery.
East of Old San Juan are 3 great resort areas-—Condado Beach and Isla Verde are within 5 miles of Old San Juan, and Fajardo is about 30 miles to the east. You can easily shop or dine in Old San Juan and then enjoy the beaches, casinos, and nightlife of Condado later. Isla Verde, 15 minutes east of Old San Juan, offers the best beaches in the area—stay in Isla Verde if you want to enjoy the beach but also want to explore the island beyond its historic center. Fajardo is near some of Puerto Rico's most unique natural wonders, including the El Faro nature preserve, with its varied tropical habitats and one of the island's 3 bioluminescent bays. Inland from Fajardo is the must-see El Yunque, a tropical rainforest full of waterfalls, orchids, and hiking trails.
West of Old San Juan is the Dorado area, the perfect place for those who want to hang out at their hotel, relax, and golf at the numerous courses in the area. Farther west, about 1-1/2 hour from San Juan, is the region called Porta del Sol, the "gateway to the sun," which stretches along the entire western coast of Puerto Rico. Outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in a less urban side of Puerto Rico are drawn to Porta del Sol's world- class surfing—especially in Rincón—remote beaches, and outstanding natural areas. Hikers, bird-watchers, and other nature lovers will especially want to explore the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge and Guánica Dry Forest, which is a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve.
On the southern coast of the island lies the Porta Caribe region, where you can enjoy Caribbean beaches, fantastic scuba diving, and go birding or hiking in the area's many forest preserves. You can also visit a world-class art museum and savor fine dining and more in the historic city of Ponce.
Hotels and Resorts in San Juan - Puerto Rico
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Fun Fact: The Bermuda Triangle is an area roughly bounded by Miami, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico Vacation Tip: NO passport will be required for US citizens flying to Puerto Rico.