Puerto Rico Vacation Guide 2023: Tips and Resources - misfit nomads (2024)

On our first Puerto Rico vacation we immediately fell in love with the island. Our AirBNB host was incredibly welcoming and gave us lots of great advice on places to eat, shop, and visit. Her hospitality was just the beginning as we went on to discover that most of the people we interacted with were very kind.

In addition to the people, Puerto Rico has activities for everyone. You can go from the beach to the rainforest with just a short drive creating endless possibilities. We enjoyed morning hikes in the rainforest and relaxing on the beach later that same day. Water enthusiasts can partake in numerous activities including swimming, surfing, fishing, scuba diving, and more.

Our default choice for a quick winter getaway is to visit Puerto Rico if we want an affordable vacation in a sunny destination. Below I’ve put together some Puerto Rico frequently asked questions and links to our Puerto Rico itineraries and guides.

Last Updated: December 30, 2022

Puerto Rico Frequently Asked Questions

Is Puerto Rico worth visiting?

Absolutely! The food, history, beaches, and weather make it a great destination with endless activities. It’s a quick, and usually affordable, flight from the eastern US with world class beaches and food.

It’s an easy trip to plan but provides much more than just a normal beach vacation. You’ll have the chance to learn about an amazing culture and meet fantastic people. Whether you travel around the island, or remain in San Juan the whole time, you’ll find plenty to do.

See our San Juan Puerto Rico Full Travel Guide

What should I do on a 7 day Puerto Rico vacation?

The ideal itinerary will depend on your travel preferences. Some people prefer to spend the entire trip lounging on the beach, and that’s perfectly fine. Puerto Rico has pristine beaches that will give you the warmth and relaxation you’re looking for.

If you’re like me though, and prefer to see a lot, while still balancing in some relaxation, see our 7 day Puerto Rico itinerary linked below for daily recommendations on activities. It should serve as a good starting point that you can modify to create your perfect itinerary.

7 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary

Do I need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?

One of the biggest perks for US citizens is that you can travel to Puerto Rico without your passport. Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, the flight is considered domestic. This means you can just bring your Driver’s License or other standard ID you use for other domestic flights and you won’t have to go through customs.

Non-US citizens will want to check Puerto Rico entry requirements for residents of their country of origin since they will vary.

When should I visit Puerto Rico?

To avoid hurricane season, it’s usually best to go between December and April. This is also ideal since many visitors are traveling to Puerto Rico for the sun, since it’s cold in most of the United States during those months.

Top things to do in Puerto Rico

What currency does Puerto Rico use?

As a US territory, the US Dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico. This means travelers from the US do not need to worry about exchanging currency, making it an even easier travel destination.

Is Puerto Rico safe?

We felt safe when traveling to Puerto Rico. Like everywhere, crime exists, so it’s important to be smart and pay attention to your surroundings. Make sure you stay in well traveled areas and are respectful of others. If you ever feel unsafe, trust your instincts and return to an area where you were comfortable.

See our article for tips on staying safe in Puerto Rico here.

What are the Puerto Rico Covid restrictions?

Covid restrictions are constantly changing, so it’s best to frequently check them if you have an upcoming trip. The Discover Puerto Rico site provides updates on regulations for visitors here.

Additionally, check with your airline on any regulations they may also be enforcing. Remember it is your responsibility to make sure you know and are following any applicable regulations when traveling to a destination. Also, be prepared for cancellations or delays due to outbreaks.

Puerto Rico Vacation Guide 2023: Tips and Resources - misfit nomads (1)

Wrap-up

We hope our guides help you begin to plan your next Puerto Rico vacation. Puerto Rico has been one of our favorite destinations, and we think others will enjoy it too!

Mexico or Puerto Rico: Choose your next vacation with this guide

Puerto Rico Vacation Guide 2023: Tips and Resources - misfit nomads (2024)

FAQs

What is cheaper, Mexico or Puerto Rico? ›

In the debate of whether it's cheaper to go to Puerto Rico or Mexico, the answer ultimately depends on your individual preferences and priorities. While Puerto Rico may have slightly higher accommodation costs, it can offer more accessible flights for travelers from the United States.

What's the best month to go to Puerto Rico? ›

December through March, considered winter, or dry season, in Puerto Rico, are the most pleasant months.

How many days are enough for Puerto Rico? ›

At just 110 miles long and 35 miles wide, a 6 or 3 day Puerto Rico road trip is an awesome way to see the island! Three day Puerto Rico road trip is just enough to see some of the major highlights the island has to offer. It's such an incredible and beautiful place that I hope you'll get to visit too!

What do I need to know before I travel to Puerto Rico? ›

What To Know Before Going to Puerto Rico
  1. Researching the language of Puerto Rico. ...
  2. Don't expect everyone to speak English. ...
  3. Don't wear flashy jewelry. ...
  4. No Passport is needed to travel to Puerto Rico. ...
  5. You must take the COVID test within 72 hours of arrival. ...
  6. Learn the customs. ...
  7. Research safety.

Is Hawaii or Puerto Rico cheaper? ›

Consider the travel time and cost to get to either destination, not to mention what you can expect to pay on the ground — Puerto Rico is cheaper in this regard. Both places offer typical island activities like snorkeling and sunbathing, but Hawaii's higher mountains and national park scene set it apart.

Is Cancun or Puerto Rico more expensive? ›

Cancun is probably the cheaper option between it and Puerto Rico. Within Cancun's hotel zone, you'll find hundreds of hotels to choose from, that offer accommodation from budget to luxury in the same place.

What month is rainy in Puerto Rico? ›

In a simplified nutshell, Puerto Rico weather can be divided into three seasons, with some overlapping months: Rainy Season – April through November. Dry Season – December through March. Hurricane Season – June to November.

What month is hurricane season in Puerto Rico? ›

Like the majority of tropical Caribbean destinations, Puerto Rico enjoys warm weather year-round, but it's also subject to an intense hurricane season. Hurricanes are a risk from June to November, with the season peaking in August and September.

What is the cheapest month to go to Puerto Rico? ›

Average price of flights to Puerto Rico by month

Currently, September is the cheapest month in which you can book a flight to Puerto Rico (average of $253).

How much money should I bring for 5 days in Puerto Rico? ›

The average daily budget for a trip to Puerto Rico can vary widely depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a reasonable estimate is around $100 to $150 per day, which includes accommodations, food, transportation, and activities.

What to do for the first time in Puerto Rico? ›

7 Days of Puerto Rico for First Time Visitors
  • Foodies can delight themselves with Puerto Rican fritters at Piñones and at Los Kioskos de Luquillo. ...
  • Old San Juan is a mandatory stop for all visitors. ...
  • Explore the caverns at Río Camuy Cave Park. ...
  • Stand-up paddleboarding on clear, calm waters in Rincón.

How long does it take to drive from one end of Puerto Rico to the other? ›

Puerto Rico is approximately 110 miles long and 35.5 miles wide, which means you can get across the Island in a few hours and, therefore, plan multiple road trips for your getaway!

What are the do's and don'ts in Puerto Rico? ›

Here are our top safety tips for traveling to Puerto Rico:
  • Be careful of your belongings. ...
  • Try to blend in. ...
  • Learn some Spanish. ...
  • Understand local laws. ...
  • Be careful at night, especially in San Juan, and stay away from housing projects. ...
  • Watch for changes in weather and weather warnings.
  • Be careful in the rainforest.
Feb 6, 2024

Can I use my cell phone in Puerto Rico? ›

U.S. phone plans work in Puerto Rico. You'll also find Wi-Fi available at most hotels around the island.

Can I drink tap water in Puerto Rico? ›

Is the water safe to drink? The food and drink standards in Puerto Rico are comparable to those of mainland United States. The tap water is safe to drink as it is filtered and treated at the source.

Should I go to Puerto Rico or Mexico? ›

Both destinations offer excellent beaches, activities for the whole family, historical places, vibrant nightlife, and superb cuisine. But, Puerto Rico has more activities, is safer, and is more diverse than Cancun. For more fun activities, check out our 45 Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico article.

Is it cheaper to go to Mexico or the Caribbean? ›

If you consider Mexico, consider it more economical, eliminating your chances of visiting an archipelago, enjoying seafood, doing activities like scuba-diving or snorkeling, and more. Depending on how much you are willing to shell out, the trip to the Caribbean is equally cost-effective and possible.

Is Puerto Rico a cheap vacation? ›

The average daily budget for a trip to Puerto Rico can vary widely depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a reasonable estimate is around $100 to $150 per day, which includes accommodations, food, transportation, and activities. Of course, this can be higher or lower depending on your choices.

What is cheaper in Mexico than the US? ›

Generally, the cost of living in Mexico is considerably cheaper than in the U.S. in terms of rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and more. For example, rent can be as much as 71.2% cheaper in Mexico, while overall prices are 50% to 100% less.

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