If you’re thinking of traveling to Puerto Rico, do it. But before you go, there are a few things you need to know.
1. Do you need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?
If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico. You only need to show a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license (or a passport).
2. Is Puerto Rico a country?
No, Puerto Rico is not a country. It’s an unincorporated territory of the United States, meaning it is self-governing but not a “state” of the United States.
3. What time is it in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time. However, Puerto Rico does not observe daylight saving time, so during the summer, it is in the same time zone as Eastern Daylight Time.
4. Why are there so many stray dogs in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s stray dog crisis results from many years of infrequent spaying/neutering. There is also a lack of access to affordable veterinary care and no money for shelters. And finally, natural disasters like Hurricane Maria (2017) displaced not just pets but many of the territory’s residents.
5. What should I do when I visit Puerto Rico?
Regardless of age and interests, you will enjoy Puerto Rico if you like the sunshine and warmth. Go snorkeling, explore rainforests, and wander historic sites and cobblestone streets. Or just relax on the beach with a bucket of Medella beers. Explore what we did on our visit and make some memories of your own.
6. Is Puerto Rico safe?
Puerto Rico’s crime rate is nearly triple that of the United States. That said, on our visit in 2023, we felt very safe, except for one overnight stay in Condado, which is just outside of San Juan. We traveled to some rural areas off the tourist path and found nothing but inviting people.
7. Should I take my kids to Puerto Rico?
Absolutely. We took our kids—13 and 10—in 2023, and there was plenty to see and experience. We did not visit San Juan or drag them to any historical sites. We did, though, go hiking in the rainforest, stay at El Conquistador resort with a water park, and snorkel.
8. What airlines fly to Puerto Rico?
Many airlines fly to Puerto Rico, including Southwest, jetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, American, Qatar Airways, WestJet, and Azul Airlines. We flew direct from Dallas on American, and it took 4-6 hours, depending on the direction.
9. What are the best local foods to try in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino flavors. We ate as much seafood as we could stomach, and the empanadas at Rancho de Papi in Patillas are insanely good. Get the conch empanadas if you go. Mofongo (fried green plantains) is a classic Puerto Rican dish that you can order prepared in various ways. Don’t expect to see many fresh vegetables.
10. What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico?
The best time to visit Puerto Rico is from mid-April to June or from September to mid-November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. We went in mid-March, and it was ideal. Keep in mind, hurricane season runs from June to November.
11. What are the best beaches in Puerto Rico?
This is entirely subjective, and we had a hell of a time finding good beaches with gentle waves and white sand. If you like to surf, go to Rincon. We tried many beaches along the east coast of Puerto Rico, but they were rough and rocky. Condado looked nice, but the seaweed was thick. The best beach we found belonged to El Conquistador Resort, called Palomino Island. If you have a boat, you can enjoy it even if you’re not staying at the resort.
12. Are locals friendly in Puerto Rico?
Yes! The Puerto Ricans we met were warm, welcoming, and friendly. You will likely encounter locals happy to share their culture with you. And if you don’t speak Spanish (but at least try), you will typically be able to get by just fine—except for directions. Don’t ask for directions in Spanish if you don’t speak the language. Use Google Maps.
13. Do people speak English in Puerto Rico?
Yes! English is widely spoken in Puerto Rico, especially in tourist areas. However, Spanish is the official language, and the further you get off the beaten path, the less likely English is spoken. But honestly, that’s half the fun.
14. Where should my family stay in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has plenty of resorts, VROBOs, and chain hotels. We stayed in all three. We saved few bucks on an AirBnB in Patillas for around $250/night. Highly reccomend. Stayed in a gross AC Marriott in Condado for $550 for one night. Avoid. And we stayed at El Conquistador Resort for around $400/night and had a blast.
15. Is there cell phone service in Puerto Rico?
For the most part, yes. I downloaded a Google Map of our itinerary beforehand, and I never had a problem with GPS on my phone.
16. What are bioluminescent bays?
Bioluminescent bays are bodies of water that contain microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates, which emit a blue-green light when agitated. Puerto Rico has three bioluminescent bays: Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and La Parguera in Lajas. We took a tour of Laguna Grande, and it was not like the brochure. The little dinoflagellates do not light up like the Milky Way when you dip your hand in the water. But…our local guides were unbeatable, and we were not used to paddling through the mangroves in pitch black darkness.
17. What is driving in Puerto Rico like?
Driving in Puerto Rico can be wild once you get off the toll roads, which are cheap and a great way to get around quickly. Once off the toll road, be prepared for narrow, windy, pot-holed race tracks. Some roads and driveways are absolutely straight up. And instead of shoulders along the edge of the road, there are tire-sucking drainage ditches. Consider yourself warned. Honestly, pay attention and you’ll be fine.
18. Should I rent a car in Puerto Rico?
Absolutely, but it’s expensive. We rented a car from Enterprise from the airport for around $100/day. I was so glad that we did. It was a small little four-door with little clearance. A coconut nearly took off our front bumper. I will get a medium-sized SUV, like a RAV4, when we return.
19. How badly did Hurricane Maria damage Puerto Rico?
In short, it was bad. Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico in September 2017, the worst natural disaster to hit the island in nearly a century. It left the island without power for months, and some parts have not recovered. For instance, at El Conquistador Resort was only at one-third capacity because they were still repairing rooms.
20. Why should I visit Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a unique destination that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a range of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring historic sites to enjoying outdoor adventures, to indulging in delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone on this beautiful island.
