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Puerto Rico holidays: Discover adventurous getaways
Puerto Rico is the ultimate Caribbean escape, where thrill-seekers and beach lovers find their perfect balance. If you love adventure holidays, hike through the El Yunque Rainforest or kayak through a glowing bioluminescent bay. Do you prefer relaxation? Sink your toes into the white sands of Flamenco Beach, sip a pina colada and soak up the laid-back island atmosphere. In Old San Juan, wander along the colourful cobblestone streets and dance the night away to live salsa music. Are you a foodie? Puerto Rico's cuisine is delicious, featuring a mix of Spanish and Taino flavours.
Are you planning a holiday with wild adventures or ultimate relaxation? Browse our money-saving deals on hotels and flights to Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 12 hours 20 minutes
Main airport: Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU)
Population: 3.27 million
Language: Spanish and English
Currency: US dollar
Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)
Getting to Puerto Rico from the UK
You can easily find Puerto Rico flights from the UK. While there are no direct flights to Puerto Rico from the UK, you can connect via the US or Spain. The fastest route? Fly from London Heathrow (LHR) to San Juan (SJU), with a stop in cities like New York, Miami or Madrid. Major airlines like British Airways, Iberia and JetBlue operate regular flights, with travel times of around 12 to 15 hours, including layovers.
Once you land at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, you're just a short ride from beaches, historic streets and lush rainforests. San Juan's city centre is just seven miles away, and you can use a public bus or taxi.
The best time for Puerto Rico holidays
Puerto Rico is a year-round tropical paradise. It has two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. From December to April, Puerto Rico basks in warm, sunny weather, making it the peak season. It's perfect for exploring Old San Juan, hiking in the El Yunque Rainforest or lounging on Flamenco Beach. Plus, this is when you'll catch exciting festivals like the San Sebastian Street Festival, where the streets come alive with music, dancing and Puerto Rican flair.
Do you want fewer crowds and lower prices for Puerto Rico hotels? Visit between May and June. The weather is still warm, the beaches are quieter, and hotel deals are better. It's the ideal time for snorkelling, surfing and sipping pina coladas without the crowds.
Between July and November, Puerto Rico gets hotter. It's also the hurricane season, so expect occasional rain. However, don't worry, as the rain rarely affects travel plans. You'll also find amazing deals on flights and hotels this time of year.
Puerto Rico travel tips
Here are some tips for your adventure in Puerto Rico:
Puerto Rico uses the US dollar. Although credit cards are widely accepted, you should still carry some cash for small vendors and local markets.
Renting a car is the best way to explore beyond San Juan. If you're sticking to the city, Uber and taxis are easy to find, but public transport is limited.
Puerto Rico's beaches are gorgeous, but watch out for strong currents. Always swim in designated areas and check the conditions before diving.
Don't leave without tasting the local cuisine, especially mofongo (mashed plantain with garlic and meat) and lechon (slow-roasted pork).
Puerto Ricans are friendly, lively and always ready to celebrate. Embrace the culture and join salsa dancing and festivals.
Top experiences in Puerto Rico
Explore Old San Juan's colourful streets & historic forts
Step into a Caribbean fairytale as you wander through Old San Juan. With its cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings and centuries-old forts, this city is packed with history. Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a massive 16th-century fortress with ocean views, then stop by Castillo San Cristobal for even more history. When you need a break, sit by the bay and soak up the lively street music.
Kayak through Bioluminescent Bay
Imagine paddling through glowing, neon-blue water. That's what happens in Puerto Rico's bioluminescent bays. Head to Mosquito Bay (Vieques), Laguna Grande (Fajardo) or La Parguera (Lajas) to witness this natural wonder. Tiny plankton light up when disturbed, making it look like you're floating through a galaxy on water. The best time to go is on a moonless night, which is when the glow is brightest.
Hike the El Yunque Rainforest
Puerto Rico is home to El Yunque. Hike through lush green trails, spot colourful parrots and take a dip in the natural pools beneath La Mina Falls. You will love the soothing sounds of coqui frogs in the background.
Relax on the white sands of Flamenco Beach
Flamenco Beach is a beautiful beach located on Culebra Island, featuring powdery white sand, rolling green hills and crystal-clear waters. Swim, snorkel or just lay back with a coconut in hand. Getting to the beach is easy, as you can simply take a ferry from the mainland.
FAQs about Puerto Rico holidays
Q: What time of year is the cheapest to visit Puerto Rico?
A: The cheapest time to visit Puerto Rico is from September to mid-December. This is off-season, meaning lower flight and hotel prices, plus fewer crowds. Expect warm weather, but be aware that it's hurricane season (June to November), so check the forecasts before booking. Another budget-friendly window is late April to early June, when prices drop after peak season, and the weather is still sunny and beautiful.
Q: Which part of Puerto Rico is best to stay in?
A: San Juan is great for its history, nightlife and beach resorts. Stay in Condado or Isla Verde for luxury hotels and stunning beaches. Do you want a quieter escape? Rincon on the west coast is perfect for surfing and sunsets, while Vieques and the Culebra Islands offer pristine beaches. Nature lovers should head to Luquillo, near the El Yunque Rainforest.
Q: Is Puerto Rico worth visiting for a week?
A: A week in Puerto Rico gives you time to explore Old San Juan, relax on stunning beaches, hike in El Yunque and kayak in a bioluminescent bay. Spend some days in San Juan, then head to Culebra or Rincon for a beach escape.
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