What is Puerto Rico Known For?
Best Things to Do on the Island
Best Things to Do on the Island
Sun-drenched beaches and centuries-old forts — Puerto Rico is known as the Island of Enchantment for a reason. Its blend of culture, history and natural beauty captivates visitors, which you’ll experience through vibrant music, food and incredible landscapes. And there’s no better way to explore it all than aboard a Princess cruise, where we help you immerse yourself in the land while enjoying the comfort of a world-class voyage.
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Puerto Rico’s cultural identity
Puerto Rico’s culture is as dynamic as the island itself, shaped by centuries of history and a blend of Indigenous, European and African influences. Art, dance and storytelling are woven into daily life here, and you can witness it first-hand when cruising with Princess.
A vibrant mix of influences
Puerto Rico’s identity is rooted in a fusion of traditions. The Taíno people, the island’s original inhabitants, left behind a legacy of petroglyphs, language and agricultural practices that still echo today. Spanish colonization brought European architecture, Catholic traditions and a deep literary history, while enslaved Africans introduced drumming, call-and-response singing and dances that evolved into some of Puerto Rico’s most quintessential musical styles.
These musical influences are at the heart of the island’s cultural expression. Bomba y plena, with their call-and-response rhythms and improvisational dance, remain a cornerstone of Puerto Rican heritage. Salsa, popularized by Puerto Rican musicians in New York, fills dance floors across the island, while reggaeton — a genre that emerged from San Juan’s underground music scene — has taken the world by storm, influencing artists far beyond the Caribbean.
Celebrations that captivate
Festivals in Puerto Rico are immersive, energetic and also deeply rooted in history. One of the most anticipated is Las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, a four-day street party in Old San Juan where live music, parades and costumed revelers fill the historic district from day to night. The festival marks the unofficial end of the island’s extended holiday season — one of the longest in the world — making it a must-experience event.
For those drawn to the arts, the Casals Festival showcases world-class classical music performances, a tradition started by legendary cellist Pablo Casals in the 1950s. Throughout the year, other celebrations — like Día de los Reyes (Three Kings’ Day) in January and the Festival Nacional Indígena in Jayuya — highlight different aspects of Puerto Rican heritage, from religious customs to Indigenous traditions.
Iconic landmarks and historic sites
Every street, fort and plaza is etched with stories of exploration, conquest and resilience. From the colonial charm of Old San Juan to the strategic fortresses that once defended the island, every corner reveals a glimpse into the past.
Old San Juan – A Unesco World Heritage Site
Walking through Old San Juan feels like stepping into a living museum. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is a vibrant mix of pastel-colored buildings, flower-draped balconies and blue-hued cobblestone streets that date back to the 16th century. At its heart lies El Morro, a massive stone fortress that has guarded the entrance to San Juan Bay for over 400 years. With its thick walls, hidden tunnels and panoramic ocean views, El Morro is a must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike.
Old San Juan’s streets are lined with historic gems, including La Fortaleza, the oldest governor’s mansion still in use in the Western Hemisphere, and the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, where the tomb of explorer Juan Ponce de León rests.
Fort San Cristóbal
While El Morro may be the most famous, Fort San Cristóbal is equally impressive. Built to defend San Juan from land attacks, this sprawling stronghold features deep dungeons, more hidden tunnels and massive stone walls designed to withstand cannon fire. Visitors can walk through the Garita del Diablo, a secluded sentry box surrounded by local legend — said to be haunted by soldiers who mysteriously vanished while on watch.
Beyond San Juan, Puerto Rico is home to other remarkable fortifications, including the Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo, a picturesque lighthouse perched on limestone cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Another hidden treasure is the Guánica State Forest, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve that once housed the island’s first Spanish settlement.
Natural wonders of Puerto Rico
Beyond its historic streets and cultural landmarks, Puerto Rico is a paradise for nature lovers. You can hike through lush jungle trails or paddle through waters that light up at night, all while reveling in the incredible land around you.
El Yunque National Rainforest
Towering waterfalls, mist-covered peaks and the calls of coquí frogs fill the El Yunque National Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Covering nearly 29,000 acres, this ecological treasure is home to over 240 plant species, many found nowhere else in the world.
Adventurous travelers can hike trails like La Mina, leading to a refreshing waterfall perfect for a midday swim, or El Yunque Trail, which rewards climbers with panoramic views from the peak of El Yunque Mountain. Along the way, expect to see vibrant orchids, giant ferns and perhaps even the endangered Puerto Rican parrot — one of the rarest birds in the world.
Bioluminescent bays
Puerto Rico is home to three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays, where microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates create a mesmerizing blue-green glow when disturbed. The brightest of them all, Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques, holds the Guinness World Record for the brightest bioluminescence on Earth.
Closer to San Juan, Laguna Grande in Fajardo offers an easily accessible way to experience this natural wonder, with guided nighttime kayaking tours that allow you to watch the water light up with every paddle stroke. Meanwhile, La Parguera in the southwest is the only bioluminescent bay in Puerto Rico where visitors can swim in the glowing water.
Stunning beaches
Puerto Rico boasts nearly 300 miles of coastline, offering everything from powdery white-sand shores to rugged, black-sand beaches. One of the most celebrated is Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, often ranked among the world’s best for its crystal-clear waters and soft, golden sand. The bay is home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. For something more unique, Playa Negra on Vieques features dramatic black volcanic sand, a striking contrast to the island’s typically golden beaches.
Culinary delights and rum heritage
Puerto Rico’s flavors are as bold and diverse as its culture. The island’s cuisine is a delicious fusion of Spanish, African and Taíno influences, with ingredients like plantains, pork and fresh seafood taking center stage. Just like the rest of your Puerto Rican experiences, every bit of the cuisine tells a story of tradition and creativity.
Flavors of Puerto Rico
Few dishes define Puerto Rican cuisine quite like mofongo — a hearty mash of fried green plantains, garlic and crispy pork cracklings often served with shrimp or savory stew. Another island favorite is lechón, slow-roasted pork that’s crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender inside. For the best lechón, head to Guavate, a mountain town known as the “Pork Highway” where roadside lechoneras serve this beloved dish alongside rice, beans and tostones.
Love seafood? You will want to explore the Ruta de la Longaniza, a food trail dedicated to Puerto Rico’s famous spiced sausage or indulge in a bowl of asopao de Camarones, a flavorful shrimp and rice stew. And no visit to Puerto Rico is complete without trying arroz con gandules, the island’s national dish featuring rice, pigeon peas and a blend of spices that give it its signature taste.
The island of rum
Puerto Rico isn’t just known for its food — it’s also the rum capital of the world. The island has been producing rum for over 450 years and today its distilleries craft some of the finest blends available. A visit to Casa Bacardí, the world’s largest premium rum distillery, offers a fascinating look at the history and craftsmanship behind this distinctive spirit complete with tastings of aged and spiced varieties.
For a more artisanal experience, Hacienda Santa Ana, home to Ron del Barrilito, has small-batch rums that have been made using the same methods since 1880. Whether you’re sipping a classic piña colada — the national drink of Puerto Rico — or sampling a smooth añejo rum straight from the barrel, every glass is an exquisite taste of the island.
Outdoor adventures and unique experiences
Puerto Rico’s diverse landscapes make it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Coral reefs, caves or wild forests — Puerto Rico’s natural beauty is waiting to be discovered.
Diverse ecosystems
If you want to see some truly astounding ecological diversity, look no further than Puerto Rico. In the southwest, the Guánica Dry Forest is a stark contrast to El Yunque’s lush greenery. This UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve is home to rare birds, towering cacti and coastal trails that lead to hidden beaches.
For those drawn to underground wonders, Camuy River Cave Park showcases one of the world’s largest cave networks. Carved by the third-largest underground river on the planet, these caverns reveal dramatic stalactites, underground waterfalls and massive sinkholes. Another must-visit is Cueva Ventana, or “Window Cave,” where a short hike leads to a natural rock-framed opening with breathtaking views of the valley below.
Water activities and wildlife
Puerto Rico’s coastline is teeming with marine life, offering incredible opportunities for snorkeling, diving and eco-tours. The Mona Island Nature Reserve, often called the “Galápagos of the Caribbean,” is home to untouched reefs, sea turtles and even endangered Mona iguanas.
Closer to the main island, the calm waters of La Parguera make it a perfect spot for snorkeling among colorful coral gardens. For those who prefer to stay above water, boat tours and sunset catamaran cruises offer a relaxing way to take in Puerto Rico’s stunning seascapes.
Explore Puerto Rico with Princess Cruises
With Princess Cruises, discovering Puerto Rico is effortless. Every shore excursion is carefully curated to offer an unforgettable adventure, whether you’re looking for history, nature or relaxation. Explore San Juan excursions designed for every type of traveler, including points of interest like:
- Old San Juan
- Fort San Cristobal
- El Morro de San Felipe
- Casa Bacardi
- El Yunque National Rainforest
- Condado Beach
- Cultural & Botanical Gardens of Caguas
Every Princess Southern Caribbean cruise is filled with island discoveries and experiences just like this. With Princess Cruises, you’ll experience it all with ease, comfort and a touch of luxury. In addition to the endless fun and adventure of our excursions, you can come home to a world-class dining experience, a rejuvenating trip to the Lotus Spa or a relaxing retreat on deck. Discover what Puerto Rico is known for and cruise with Princess for an unforgettable journey!