18 Ideas For The Perfect Puerto Rico Weekend Getaway
Let us help you plan the perfect weekend getaway to our beautiful island of Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico is a great alternative for a sunny weekend getaway that’s close and convenient.
If you’re American, you don’t need a passport or visa.
Travelers from other countries should follow the same passport and visa requirements as they would when visiting the United States.
This small but vibrant island is packed with stunning beaches, great food, and endless activities.
If you’re looking for pure relaxation, your ideal weekend getaway might include breakfast in bed, a good book by the pool, and a soothing spa treatment.
Puerto Rico has plenty of luxurious hotels and resorts where you can unwind.
But if you’re craving adventure, there’s plenty to do beyond the pool!
Below are some ideas to help you plan the perfect weekend getaway.
Thanks to its compact size, anywhere on the island is within a day’s reach—giving you countless options for an unforgettable trip.
Here are our top recommendations for experiencing La Isla del Encanto (The Enchanted Island).
Experience More than 500 Years of History:
1. The classic: Old San Juan
One of the best things about Old San Juan is how close it is to the airport and many of the hotels in the San Juan area.
With over 500 years of history Old San Juan is the perfect place to spend a day.
We love Old San Juan and often spend many of our weekends visiting.
In the mornings, we like to go for a run along Paseo La Princesa and at the base of El Morro.
We find it an inspiring way to start a Sunday morning.
Explore the old streets, visit El Morro, and try the local snacks.
For more ideas check out our post on Top Things to Do in Old San Juan.
2. A day trip to Ponce Puerto Rico
If you’ve been to Puerto Rico before and want to explore beyond Old San Juan, or if forts aren’t your thing but you love colonial towns, a day trip to Ponce is a great choice.
Start your day at Centro Ceremonial Indígena Tibes, the oldest ceremonial site in Puerto Rico, where you can learn about Taino culture.
We found the park well-kept, well-organized, and fascinating to explore.
Next, visit Castillo Serrallés, a stunning 1930s mansion once home to the Serrallés family, makers of Puerto Rico’s famous Don Q rum.
Take a tour of the house and gardens, and enjoy a fantastic view of Ponce from the parking area.
By now, you’re probably ready for lunch. Head to the town center, where you’ll find restaurants for every budget.
After your meal, take a stroll through the plaza to see Parque de Bombas, a striking red-and-black firehouse, as well as the beautiful church and colonial homes nearby.
In the afternoon, visit La Guancha—a lively boardwalk by the water. (More details on La Guancha in the beaches section below.)
3. Half-day off the beaten path: Bayamon Puerto Rico
If Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets and hills or the long trip to Ponce aren’t what you’re looking for, Bayamón is a closer alternative.
Just 20 to 30 minutes from Condado, Bayamón’s town center blends colonial, mid-century, and modern architecture—typical of many smaller towns in Puerto Rico.
Visit the main plaza, the church, Celso Barbosa’s home, and the Francisco Oller Art Museum for a glimpse into a different side of Puerto Rico’s history.
For more ideas check out our post on 15 Things To Do In Bayamón Puerto Rico That Are Worth Exploring.
Don’t Miss the Art During your Visit to Puerto Rico
Museums are a great way to spend a rainy afternoon or escape the sun for a few hours—we know you don’t want to spend all day inside!
4. Old San Juan: Museo de las Americas
This museum, on the second floor of Cuartel de Ballajá in Old San Juan, is just steps from El Morro.
The building itself is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture, but inside, you’ll find a diverse collection of folk art, including Santos de Palo—Puerto Rico’s traditional wooden saints—along with other artworks from the Americas.
We’ve visited several times and always bring friends when they’re in town.
5. In Santurce: Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
We love this museum and visit it at least once a year.
It features Puerto Rican art from the 18th century to today and has a beautiful sculpture garden.
Currently, it also hosts a rotating exhibit of artwork from Museo de Arte de Ponce, which is gradually reopening for special events after the 2020 earthquakes.
You’ll also find temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
You can learn more details on the Puerto Rico Art Museum here.
An Island Full of Adventure
For an active weekend, these are some of our favorite activities and some we haven’t tried.
6. The Classic: El Yunque and Luquillo beach
When researching things to do in Puerto Rico, El Yunque will likely top the list.
As the largest tropical rainforest in the U.S., it offers scenic hikes and stunning views of nearby towns and the coast.
Start at El Portal del Yunque to learn about the area’s rich biodiversity, then drive up to the trailheads.
Don’t miss La Mina Falls or the observation tower. Check trail signs, as some paths remain closed after Hurricane María.
For your safety, stay on marked trails—getting lost here is just as dangerous as in any other forest. Take the same precautions you would when hiking at home.
7. For the Risk Takers: Toro Verde Zipline
A trip to the mountains of Puerto Rico and the town of Orocovis will take you to Toro Verde, home to some of the longest ziplines in the Americas.
It’s perfect for adrenaline junkies, but there are other high-energy activities like wall climbing as well.
Located in the heart of the island, Orocovis offers stunning views, especially from Toro Negro Forest.
8. For a Taste of the south of the Island: Hike Guanica Dry Forest
One of our favorite areas of the island, Guanica is perfect for a day trip from San Juan.
Drive to Guanica Dry Forest and take one or more of approximately 12 well-maintained hiking trails each with its unique charm.
A good starting point is the trail to Fuerte Capron which if taken until the end finishes at the beach.
You can find more on hiking the Guanica Dry Forest here.
9. Night Kayaking
Yep, it’s a thing.
You have two options for nighttime kayaking.
For a rare and unforgettable experience, paddle through the Bioluminescent Lagoon in Fajardo.
If you prefer something closer to your hotel and want to skip the long drive back, try a nighttime kayak tour at Laguna del Condado.
While there’s no bioluminescence, you’ll enjoy views of Condado and Miramar and the unique experience of kayaking in the dark.
10.Catamaran Day Trip from Fajardo
This one requires waking up early and a forty-five-minute trip to Fajardo.
But it is so worth it!
This is one of our favorite things to do when we have friends over.
Several outfitters offer similar catamaran tours, which include lunch, snorkeling gear, and a fun day on the water.
You’ll make two or three snorkeling stops throughout the trip, giving you plenty of time to explore.
If the sun is shining and the sea is calm, you’re in for an amazing day!
Soak in the Sun at Puerto Rico’s Beaches
Puerto Rico has countless incredible beaches, too many to mention, and all are perfect for your weekend getaway.
But I’ve listed a few near the activities mentioned so you can enjoy some beach time while exploring beyond San Juan.
11. Condado or Isla Verde beaches in San Juan
If you’re staying in Condado or Isla Verde you can step outside, take a short walk, and you’re there—gorgeous sunrises, stunning sunsets, and often a sea full of surfers.
Northern beaches are beautiful but can be dangerous at certain times of the year due to strong undercurrents.
It’s safe to relax on the sand, but if you want to swim, stick to the pool.
12. Luquillo if you visit El Yunque
The beaches located on Puerto Rico’s northern coast, feature a long stretch of golden sand and stunning blue waters on clear days.
It’s the perfect spot to cool off after hiking in El Yunque Rainforest.
There are several areas to enjoy, including the public beach (Balneario), which offers picnic tables, restrooms, and parking.
13. La Guancha on your Day Trip to Ponce
Unlike other southern towns, Ponce’s beaches are beautiful but quite deep in some areas.
At La Guancha, you’ll find a spot for swimming and sunbathing, plus a lively boardwalk where sábalo fish (shad) gather by the dozens, attracting brown pelicans looking for a meal.
The area is lined with kiosks serving local food, drinks, and snacks. There’s plenty of parking, but it gets busy in the summer with locals.
It’s a great place to hang out, and we always make a stop when visiting Ponce!
14. Guanica beaches
Ah, the South!
The south and west coast beaches are local favorites—and ours too!
If you’re hiking Guánica Dry Forest, cool off at Ballenas, Gilligan’s Island, Playa Jaboncillo, or Caña Gorda.
These beaches are usually calmer, crystal clear, and shallow, making them perfect for relaxing in the water.
Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and plenty of reef-safe sunscreen!
Enjoying the Island After Dark
Whether you’re looking to spend your weekend getaway indulging in some great meals, live classical music, bar hopping, or a night of dancing, San Juan has it all!
15. Old San Juan
Enjoy fine dining at Marmalade in Calle La Fortaleza or at Princesa Cocina Cultural underneath a Banyan tree in Paseo La Princesa.
Go where the locals go at Pirilo’s Pizza or visit Chocobar Cortes for a chocolate-themed brunch throughout the day.
For more places to visit in Old San Juan see number 5 in this post.
16. Condado
Condado offers a wide range of dining options along Ashford Avenue, from fine dining to budget-friendly spots.
Whether you’re craving Puerto Rican, Cuban, Mexican, or other cuisines, you’ll find it here.
For dancing or a nightcap, the Lounges at most of the major hotels are a good alternative.
17. Santurce
For a lively experience, dine at one of the many restaurants around La Placita de Santurce, where you’ll find a variety of foods and a party vibe.
For a different scene, check out the food trucks at Lote 23, an outdoor space full of energy and food options.
Don’t miss a concert at Centro de Bellas Artes de Santurce for a cultural experience
18. The Convention Center Area
Just across the water from Old San Juan is the Convention Center area, offering great dining spots like Patria and La Central by Mario Pagán.
The Coca-Cola Music Hall is also nearby, making it a fun spot to catch a concert.
Check Ticketera for concert listings.
Your Puerto Rico Weekend
Puerto Rico has something for every kind of traveler.
But with so many things to do, it’s difficult to fit them all into a long weekend.
Spend your days exploring historic sites, hiking through lush rainforests, sunbathing at one of our many stunning beaches, or simply relaxing by the pool with a tropical drink in hand.
For a relaxing getaway to an action-packed weekend, Puerto Rico has it all.
So pack your bag, grab those shades, and come have the perfect getaway weekend in La Isla del Encanto.
