![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/PJ-1024x576.jpeg\")
Outdoor adventures<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nBeaches<\/em><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Pin\u0303ones--1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Chinchorros at Pi\u00f1ones \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Aviones Beach<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located in Pi\u00f1ones (in the northern [Metro] region of the island), Aviones Beach<\/a> is a popular beach for surfing. It\u2019s also an ideal spot for experiencing the island\u2019s iconic chinchorros<\/em>, food kiosks and casual restaurants serving Puerto Rican dishes like fritters, pork, rice, fried plantains, alcapurrias<\/em> and bacalaitos<\/em><\/a>. Just head towards Bella Vista Bar & Grill<\/a>\u2014where the road of chinchorros <\/em>begins\u2014and walk around. There are plenty of options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Condado-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Ocean Park, Condado, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Condado Beach<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
For a Miami Beach vibe, head to Condado Beach<\/a>. It\u2019s just about 15 minutes west of Aviones Beach (almost 9 miles\/14.48km). Backed by high-rise hotels, this stretch of sand provides the perfect setting for people watching, alfresco dining, enjoying live music and ample outdoor activities. Hit the water for a day of jet skiing, surfing, paddle boarding and snorkeling. Or, stay on the beach and jump into a game of beach tennis with Caribe Beach Tennis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Vieques-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Vieques, Puerto Rico \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Vieques<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
This 21-mile-wide island municipality is situated 99km (62 miles) offshore from San Juan. Vieques<\/a> is known for its picture-postcard beaches, dreamy azure waters and laid-back atmosphere. Its waters are home to a wealth of marine life and semi-wild horses roam freely on land. You\u2019ll also find Mosquito Bay, one of Puerto Rico\u2019s three bioluminescent bays\u2014there are only five bio bays in the world. Get there by plane from San Juan or take the ferry from Ceiba (a 90-minute drive from San Juan).<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Culebra-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Culebra, Puerto Rico \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Culebra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
In the video, PJ shares that he visits Culebra every summer. Visit once and you\u2019ll see why. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Situated about 27km (17 miles) east of Puerto Rico\u2019s mainland, this archipelago comprises the main island and 23 smaller ones that lie off its coast. Beach lovers will be in heaven. Culebra has several unspoiled coasts from which to choose. Idyllic Flamenco Beach<\/a> consistently ranks on \u201cworld\u2019s best beaches\u201d lists. It boasts gin-clear turquoise waters that lap onto powder white sand. Zoni, Tamarindo, Carlos Resario and Melones beaches are others worth visiting. To get to Culebra<\/a>, fly out of San Juan\u2019s Luis Mu\u00f1oz Mar\u00edn International Airport or the Jos\u00e9 Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba. Ferry service runs out of Ceiba as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\nHikes and waterfalls<\/em><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/El-Yunque-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: El Yunque National Forest \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- El Yunque<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located within the Sierra de Luquillo on Puerto Rico\u2019s Northeast Coast, El Yunque<\/a> is a 45-minute drive from San Juan. Aptly named the \u2018Home of the Gods\u2019 by the indigenous Ta\u00edno people, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest on U.S. soil. It preserves an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including the Puerto Rican boa and endangered Puerto Rican green parrot. A dozen well-marked trails provide adventure for all fitness levels. Keep your ears perked for a serenade from Puerto Rico\u2019s unofficial mascot\u2014the sonorous coqu\u00ed, a small tree frog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/El-Ataud-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Charco el Ata\u00fad \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Charco el Ata\u00fad<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Head to Garzas Street in Puerto Rico\u2019s south-central town of Adjuntas for some serious waterfall fun. Charco el Ata\u00fad <\/a>is a secluded, multi-level waterfall with natural pools for swimming. The Ata\u00fad is a small section of the Garzas River, one of Puerto Rico\u2019s most popular rivers for swimming and waterfall jumping. The first level is easy to reach and the water is fairly shallow. The second level requires a descent over rocks. The hike isn\u2019t too difficult, but you should be in good physical condition to attempt. Parking is available on the side of the road. From there, it\u2019s about a 2-minute walk along a narrow path before it opens up to the river.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMust-see history<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Old-San-Juan-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: El Morro at Old San Juan \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nSpend some time in Old San Juan<\/a> for a look at Puerto Rico\u2019s fascinating past. Explore historic fortifications Fort Castillo San Crist\u00f3bal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro, part of the San Juan National Historic Site. A historic walking tour <\/a>should also include La Fortaleza, Arms Square, Catedral de San Juan Bautista and Museo de las Am\u00e9ricas.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFoodie favorites<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/El-Rastro-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: El Rastro, Ponce \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located just an hour south of San Juan, Ponce is not only a historic treasure but an excellent destination for foodies. We recommend a visit to Papa Rupe Brewing Co<\/a>. Housed within a historic 127-year-old house, this microbrewery<\/a> offers 20 beers on tap and varied beer-based eats (we strongly suggest the wings). Enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner at El Rastro<\/a>. The menu features Puerto Rican cuisine with an international twist. Their risotto de gandules<\/em>\u2014creamy risotto with pork and pigeon peas\u2014is legendary, and the signature cocktails are not to be missed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/CasitaBlanca-1024x576.jpeg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Tucked within the neighborhood Santurce\u2019s residential enclave, Casita Blanca<\/a> is a must. It\u2019s been a favorite of local families for 30 years. Savor traditional Puerto Rican food in casual, homey environs. Platea<\/a> picks include the Empanada de Pollo, Fricas\u00e9 de Pollo, Tres Leches and Flan de Guayaba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/LechoneraLosAmigos-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Lechonera Los Amigos, Cidra, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Cidra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Sampling local pork dishes\u2014lech\u00f3n<\/em>, specifically\u2014is imperative for an authentic Puerto Rican culinary experience<\/a>. Lech\u00f3n<\/em> is the method of roasting the pig whole over an open fire for at least four hours. Just about a 40-minute drive from San Juan, the southeast region of Cidra is a good place to begin your pork odyssey. Lechonera los Amigos <\/a>touts \u201cthe best suckling pig in Puerto Rico.\u201d Round out your roast pork with sides like pickled bananas, rice and yucca mojito. If one restaurant isn\u2019t enough, follow the Ruta de Lech\u00f3n<\/em><\/a>. The \u201cPork Highway\u201d is a stretch of restaurants dedicated to the island\u2019s iconic dish. Expect heaps of food served on communal tables, cold beer, live music and loads of fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\nNightlife<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/LaPlacita-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: La Placita, Santurce \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s always a party<\/a> somewhere in Puerto Rico\u2019s capital city and we can help you find it. Known for creative cocktails, a global fan base and unique multi-theme bars-in-one-bar concept, La Factor\u00eda<\/strong> has been packing in the crowds since it opened in 2013. Parts of the video for the hit song \u201cDespacito\u201d were filmed here. <\/p>\n\n\n\nBy day, it\u2019s a bustling farmers market. At night, La Placita de Santurce<\/strong> transforms into one of the city\u2019s liveliest party spots. Restaurants welcome families and friends catching up over a meal, then at 10pm the celebration spills out into the streets and outside bars. Live music and salsa dancing often continues to sunrise.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFor a low-key night with friends, head to Esquina el Watusi, <\/strong>a corner bar in the Santurce neighborhood. Grab a bite, enjoy local beer and dance when the music moves you. Snap a selfie for the \u2018gram in front of the building\u2019s vibrant murals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/ElNie-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: El Nie, Santurce \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAlso in Santurce, El Nie <\/strong>was the backdrop for PJ Sin Suela\u2019s video of his hit song Bailame<\/a>. It\u2019s a popular hub for live music, dancing and tasty craft cocktails made with fresh fruit juice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.plateapr.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/01\/Asturias-1024x576.jpeg\")
Source: Ana Salazar at Asturias Lounge Bar, Ponce, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Asturias Lounge Bar <\/a>offers a cozy speakeasy atmosphere that draws in island residents of all ages. Pop in and you might share a drink with 81-year-old Ana Salazar, a local regular.<\/p>\n\n\n\nReady to plan your Puerto Rico vacation? We’ve created a comprehensive travel guide<\/a> with tips on how to get here, where to stay and even more things to do on the island. <\/p>\n\n\n\nUse this map to locate PJ’s favorite spots in Puerto Rico. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- Aviones Beach<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located in Pi\u00f1ones (in the northern [Metro] region of the island), Aviones Beach<\/a> is a popular beach for surfing. It\u2019s also an ideal spot for experiencing the island\u2019s iconic chinchorros<\/em>, food kiosks and casual restaurants serving Puerto Rican dishes like fritters, pork, rice, fried plantains, alcapurrias<\/em> and bacalaitos<\/em><\/a>. Just head towards Bella Vista Bar & Grill<\/a>\u2014where the road of chinchorros <\/em>begins\u2014and walk around. There are plenty of options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Ocean Park, Condado, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Condado Beach<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
For a Miami Beach vibe, head to Condado Beach<\/a>. It\u2019s just about 15 minutes west of Aviones Beach (almost 9 miles\/14.48km). Backed by high-rise hotels, this stretch of sand provides the perfect setting for people watching, alfresco dining, enjoying live music and ample outdoor activities. Hit the water for a day of jet skiing, surfing, paddle boarding and snorkeling. Or, stay on the beach and jump into a game of beach tennis with Caribe Beach Tennis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Vieques, Puerto Rico \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Vieques<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
This 21-mile-wide island municipality is situated 99km (62 miles) offshore from San Juan. Vieques<\/a> is known for its picture-postcard beaches, dreamy azure waters and laid-back atmosphere. Its waters are home to a wealth of marine life and semi-wild horses roam freely on land. You\u2019ll also find Mosquito Bay, one of Puerto Rico\u2019s three bioluminescent bays\u2014there are only five bio bays in the world. Get there by plane from San Juan or take the ferry from Ceiba (a 90-minute drive from San Juan).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Culebra, Puerto Rico \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Culebra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
In the video, PJ shares that he visits Culebra every summer. Visit once and you\u2019ll see why. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Situated about 27km (17 miles) east of Puerto Rico\u2019s mainland, this archipelago comprises the main island and 23 smaller ones that lie off its coast. Beach lovers will be in heaven. Culebra has several unspoiled coasts from which to choose. Idyllic Flamenco Beach<\/a> consistently ranks on \u201cworld\u2019s best beaches\u201d lists. It boasts gin-clear turquoise waters that lap onto powder white sand. Zoni, Tamarindo, Carlos Resario and Melones beaches are others worth visiting. To get to Culebra<\/a>, fly out of San Juan\u2019s Luis Mu\u00f1oz Mar\u00edn International Airport or the Jos\u00e9 Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba. Ferry service runs out of Ceiba as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hikes and waterfalls<\/em><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Source: El Yunque National Forest \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - El Yunque<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located within the Sierra de Luquillo on Puerto Rico\u2019s Northeast Coast, El Yunque<\/a> is a 45-minute drive from San Juan. Aptly named the \u2018Home of the Gods\u2019 by the indigenous Ta\u00edno people, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest on U.S. soil. It preserves an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including the Puerto Rican boa and endangered Puerto Rican green parrot. A dozen well-marked trails provide adventure for all fitness levels. Keep your ears perked for a serenade from Puerto Rico\u2019s unofficial mascot\u2014the sonorous coqu\u00ed, a small tree frog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Charco el Ata\u00fad \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Charco el Ata\u00fad<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Head to Garzas Street in Puerto Rico\u2019s south-central town of Adjuntas for some serious waterfall fun. Charco el Ata\u00fad <\/a>is a secluded, multi-level waterfall with natural pools for swimming. The Ata\u00fad is a small section of the Garzas River, one of Puerto Rico\u2019s most popular rivers for swimming and waterfall jumping. The first level is easy to reach and the water is fairly shallow. The second level requires a descent over rocks. The hike isn\u2019t too difficult, but you should be in good physical condition to attempt. Parking is available on the side of the road. From there, it\u2019s about a 2-minute walk along a narrow path before it opens up to the river.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Must-see history<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Source: El Morro at Old San Juan \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n Spend some time in Old San Juan<\/a> for a look at Puerto Rico\u2019s fascinating past. Explore historic fortifications Fort Castillo San Crist\u00f3bal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro, part of the San Juan National Historic Site. A historic walking tour <\/a>should also include La Fortaleza, Arms Square, Catedral de San Juan Bautista and Museo de las Am\u00e9ricas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Foodie favorites<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Source: El Rastro, Ponce \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Located just an hour south of San Juan, Ponce is not only a historic treasure but an excellent destination for foodies. We recommend a visit to Papa Rupe Brewing Co<\/a>. Housed within a historic 127-year-old house, this microbrewery<\/a> offers 20 beers on tap and varied beer-based eats (we strongly suggest the wings). Enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner at El Rastro<\/a>. The menu features Puerto Rican cuisine with an international twist. Their risotto de gandules<\/em>\u2014creamy risotto with pork and pigeon peas\u2014is legendary, and the signature cocktails are not to be missed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n- San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Tucked within the neighborhood Santurce\u2019s residential enclave, Casita Blanca<\/a> is a must. It\u2019s been a favorite of local families for 30 years. Savor traditional Puerto Rican food in casual, homey environs. Platea<\/a> picks include the Empanada de Pollo, Fricas\u00e9 de Pollo, Tres Leches and Flan de Guayaba.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Lechonera Los Amigos, Cidra, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Cidra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Sampling local pork dishes\u2014lech\u00f3n<\/em>, specifically\u2014is imperative for an authentic Puerto Rican culinary experience<\/a>. Lech\u00f3n<\/em> is the method of roasting the pig whole over an open fire for at least four hours. Just about a 40-minute drive from San Juan, the southeast region of Cidra is a good place to begin your pork odyssey. Lechonera los Amigos <\/a>touts \u201cthe best suckling pig in Puerto Rico.\u201d Round out your roast pork with sides like pickled bananas, rice and yucca mojito. If one restaurant isn\u2019t enough, follow the Ruta de Lech\u00f3n<\/em><\/a>. The \u201cPork Highway\u201d is a stretch of restaurants dedicated to the island\u2019s iconic dish. Expect heaps of food served on communal tables, cold beer, live music and loads of fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nightlife<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Source: La Placita, Santurce \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s always a party<\/a> somewhere in Puerto Rico\u2019s capital city and we can help you find it. Known for creative cocktails, a global fan base and unique multi-theme bars-in-one-bar concept, La Factor\u00eda<\/strong> has been packing in the crowds since it opened in 2013. Parts of the video for the hit song \u201cDespacito\u201d were filmed here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
By day, it\u2019s a bustling farmers market. At night, La Placita de Santurce<\/strong> transforms into one of the city\u2019s liveliest party spots. Restaurants welcome families and friends catching up over a meal, then at 10pm the celebration spills out into the streets and outside bars. Live music and salsa dancing often continues to sunrise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a low-key night with friends, head to Esquina el Watusi, <\/strong>a corner bar in the Santurce neighborhood. Grab a bite, enjoy local beer and dance when the music moves you. Snap a selfie for the \u2018gram in front of the building\u2019s vibrant murals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: El Nie, Santurce \/ Lonely Planet <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n Also in Santurce, El Nie <\/strong>was the backdrop for PJ Sin Suela\u2019s video of his hit song Bailame<\/a>. It\u2019s a popular hub for live music, dancing and tasty craft cocktails made with fresh fruit juice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Ana Salazar at Asturias Lounge Bar, Ponce, PR \/ Lonely Planet<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n - Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Asturias Lounge Bar <\/a>offers a cozy speakeasy atmosphere that draws in island residents of all ages. Pop in and you might share a drink with 81-year-old Ana Salazar, a local regular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ready to plan your Puerto Rico vacation? We’ve created a comprehensive travel guide<\/a> with tips on how to get here, where to stay and even more things to do on the island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use this map to locate PJ’s favorite spots in Puerto Rico. <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Cidra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- San Juan<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Ponce<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Charco el Ata\u00fad<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- El Yunque<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Culebra<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Vieques<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Condado Beach<\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n