One week in Puerto Rico is a week of effortless indulgence—where golden beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine intertwine seamlessly. From the old-world charm of San Juan to the untamed beauty of Culebra and Vieques, this itinerary is your gateway to la isla del encanto.
Planning a trip to Puerto Rico can feel overwhelming with so many must-visit beaches and spots. But don’t worry—this 7-day itinerary will take you through the island’s top destinations, blending fun, relaxation, insider tips and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this guide ensures you make the most of your week in Puerto Rico.
Save this 1 week Puerto Rico guide for your upcoming trip:
1. Arrival to San Juan (Day 1)
Arrive in San Juan Airport, you can rent a car at the airport or take an uber to your hotel or vacation rental. We will leave you a curated list of stays at the best price guaranteed in San Juan in this link. The best areas to stay in San Juan are Condado, Oceanpark, Isla Verde and Old San Juan.
Then, head to Old San Juan, where colorful colonial buildings, Spanish forts and cobblestone streets transport you back in time. San Juan, Puerto Rico, is one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, with a history dating back more than 500 years.
- Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal for breathtaking ocean views, sunset here looks amazing.
- Stroll through the vibrant streets, stopping at Café Cuatro Sombras for a Puerto Rican coffee
- Get a Piña Colada at Barrachina, which claims to be the birthplace of the Piña Colada.
- Explore local boutiques, the Paseo de la Princesa, and snap a photo at La Puerta de San Juan.
- Visit La Fortaleza, the current governor’s house, and take photos on Calle de la Fortaleza.
- Try chocolate-infused dishes at Chocobar Cortes
- Have a cocktail at La Factoria, one of the world’s best bars.
2. Relax at El Escambrón & Condado (Day 2)
For breakfast, stop by Pannes for delicious stuffed omelets, Puerto Rican pastries, and fresh coffee. It’s a local’s favorite. Here you can find a list of the best cafe’s in San Juan.
Start your morning at El Escambrón Beach, one of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in San Juan. With crystal-clear waters, soft golden sand, and calm waves, it’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This beach also offers stunning views of Old San Juan and nearby forts.
If you’re up for some fun, rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater reefs and marine life. You can also take a walk through Parque del Tercer Milenio, a scenic oceanfront park with lush greenery and great photo spots.
Then, head to Condado, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in San Juan. Known for its vibrant energy, upscale hotels, and beachfront lounges, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Ola Oceanfront Bistro or keep it casual with Puerto Rican street food at Cayo Caribe.
Walk along Ashford Avenue, stopping by stylish boutiques and local artisan shops. If you’re in the mood for relaxation, simply lay back on the beach with a piña colada in hand or enjoy a good puerto rican coffee at Aroma Cafe.
For sunset, grab a cocktail or laid-back dinner at Serafina, an Italian favorite with a stunning oceanfront terrace. Or end the night with a fine dining experience at 1919 Restaurant, one of the top-rated restaurants in Puerto Rico.
3. Experience Isla Verde & Oceanpark (Day 3)
Wake up to a beautiful morning and head to Isla Verde, one of the most famous beaches in Puerto Rico, known for its golden sand and turquoise waters. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or try exciting water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, this beach has it all. This beach is almost in San Juan, so you can easily take an uber there.
Relax under a palm tree or take a long beach walk along the coastline. Isla Verde Beach is lined with luxury resorts, so you can also enjoy beachfront service with cocktails in hand.
Then, make your way to Oceanpark, a quieter and more laid-back beach loved by locals. This beach is perfect for kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or just soaking in the sun.
Have oceanfront lunch and a grab a piña colada at Numero Uno Beach House, a beachfront lounge with stunning ocean views in Oceanpark. Or have laid-back lunch at Kasalta, a famous bakery and deli where even President Obama once dined. Try their signature Cubano sandwich or fresh seafood dishes.
After lunch, explore the stylish streets of Ocean Park, known for its boutique shops and vibrant murals. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a kitesurfing lesson or rent a bike to explore the area.
End your day with dinner at Cocina Abierta or Santaella, a top-rated restaurant offering a creative twist on Puerto Rican and international cuisine. If you’re in the mood for a casual dinner, you could simply grab a pizza at Biga or an Alcapurria at Alcapurria Quemá in the heart of La Placita de Santurce, where you can end up your night having some party and drinks.
4. Trip to El Yunque & Kayak in a Bioluminescent Bay (Day 4)
Wake up early and set off for El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. A lush oasis of cascading waterfalls, scenic trails, and vibrant wildlife, this is Puerto Rico at its wildest.
🚗 Getting There: The drive from San Juan takes about 40-60 minutes, so plan accordingly. If you’re visiting outside of peak season or on a weekday, you can usually arrive at any time. But if possible, aim to get there before 10 a.m.—parking is limited, and entry gates may temporarily close once capacity is reached. You can also book a tour for a laid-back experience, we recommend Fare Harbor Tours to El Yunque, you get a 5% OFF booking through this link.
If you prefer to explore at a slower pace, consider staying in Fajardo for Days 4, 5, and 6 of this itinerary. From Fajardo, it’s only a 20-minute drive to El Yunque (Day 4), the ferry to Culebra (Day 5) and Vieques (Day 6). Where to Stay in Fajardo? Luxury—Las Casitas at El Conquistador Golf Resort. . Budget and near the ferry to Culebra —Eco-friendly retreat near the ferry to Culebra.
Once you arrive to El Yunque National Forest you can’t miss:
- La Coca Falls – A stunning roadside waterfall, perfect for a quick photo stop
- Yokahu Tower – A no-hike-required climb for sweeping rainforest views
- Juan Diego Creek – Take a refreshing dip in these secluded waterfalls
- Baño Grande & Baño de Oro – Once public pools, now scenic spots for a quick rest
After your rainforest adventure, refuel at La Estación in Fajardo, a legendary spot for seafood and BBQ. The mahi-mahi tacos and grilled octopus are top picks.
Then, head to Seven Seas Beach, a tranquil stretch of soft sand and shallow waters, ideal for unwinding. If you’re feeling active, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline. Otherwise, take a rest and recharge at your stay for the night to come.
As the sun sets, make your way to Las Croabas for one of Puerto Rico’s most surreal experiences: kayaking through the bioluminescent waters of Laguna Grande. Paddle through mangrove tunnels and watch the water shimmer beneath you—an absolute must-do.
Wrap up your day with a laid-back seafood feast at El Pescador, where the lobster, ceviche, and mofongo come with dreamy waterfront views.
5. Sail to Culebra Island (Day 5)
Wake up early and get ready for an unforgettable day sailing to Culebra, one of Puerto Rico’s most stunning islands. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, Culebra is a paradise for beach lovers and snorkelers.
🚤 Getting There: You can take a ferry from Ceiba (about an hour’s drive from San Juan and 20 minute drive from Fajardo) or book a catamaran tour that includes food, drinks, and snorkeling gear. For the most seamless experience, opt for a private boat charter or a tour—this way, you can sit back and enjoy the ride. You can get 5% OFF in a tour to Culebra booking through this link.
Upon arrival, head straight to Flamenco Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. With its soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax under a palm tree. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic rusted tanks, a relic from the island’s military past.
For snorkeling, walk to the far-left side of the beach, where you’ll find coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.
After soaking up the sun at Flamenco, head to Tamarindo Beach, a snorkeling paradise known for its calm waters and sea turtle sightings. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot colorful fish, stingrays, and even nurse sharks.
For lunch, grab a fresh seafood meal at Dinghy Dock in Dewey, Culebra’s main town. The waterfront views and laid-back vibe make it the perfect place to refuel before more island exploring.
If you have time, check out:
- Zoni Beach – A secluded, quiet beach with breathtaking views of Culebrita and St. Thomas
- Melones Beach – Another great snorkeling spot with colorful reefs and crystal-clear waters
- Culebrita Island – A tiny, uninhabited island off the coast of Culebra with untouched beaches and a historic lighthouse
After a full day in paradise, sail or ferry back to the mainland. If you’re staying in Fajardo, end your day with a sunset cocktail and fresh seafood dinner at El Pescador. If you’re heading back to San Juan, grab a casual late-night bite at Pio Pio or Pirilo Pizza in Old San Juan.
Rest up—because your Puerto Rico adventure isn’t over yet!
6. Discover Cayo Icacos (Day 6)
Wake up to a beautiful morning and get ready for a day trip to Cayo Icacos, a breathtaking uninhabited island off the coast of Fajardo. Known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, Icacos is a must-visit for beach lovers and snorkelers.
🌊 Getting There: The best way to reach Icacos is by booking a catamaran tour or water taxi from Fajardo’s Marina. Many tours include drinks, lunch, and snorkeling gear for a full day of fun in the sun. Get 5% OFF in a tour to Cayo Icacos booking through this link.
Board your catamaran or private boat and enjoy a scenic sail across the Caribbean waters. As you approach Icacos, you’ll be greeted by pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters and snorkel among colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles. If you’re not into snorkeling, simply relax on the soft white sand, take a refreshing swim, or explore the island’s hidden trails.
After snorkeling, enjoy a picnic-style lunch on the beach. Most catamaran tours provide a selection of fresh fruit, sandwiches, and rum punch, so you can sip on a cocktail while soaking in the island’s tranquil vibes.
Spend the rest of your afternoon floating in the calm waters, sunbathing on the shore, or taking a leisurely beach walk. If you brought a paddleboard or inflatable float, now’s the perfect time to drift along the waves and fully unwind.
For a more upscale dining experience, book a table at Pasión por el Fogón, where you can savor lobster, fresh ceviche, and Puerto Rican fusion cuisine paired with a glass of wine.
If you’re heading back to San Juan, grab dinner at El Comedor or Zencha Chinese/Puerto Rican Cousine (the have one of the best tostones in town), for a farewell night go for a drink at Calle Cerra (one of our favorite spots in town) and do some bar hopping at El Machete, Botánico, La Disquera or Ambar. End end up the night at Esquina El Watusi.
7. San Juan & Depart Back Home (Day 7)
Wake up to your final morning in Puerto Rico. If you are in Fajardo, do your check-out and head to San Juan. Whether you have a few hours or half a day before your flight, make the most of it with a relaxing morning, a bit of sightseeing, and a delicious farewell meal.
Take a final walk through Old San Juan, admiring the cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and historic sites. If you haven’t yet, make sure to visit. Before heading to the airport, pick up some local souvenirs at:
- El Galpón – Handmade Puerto Rican cigars and artisan crafts.
- Coqui el Original – Beautiful hand-crafted jewelry with the famous coquí frog motif.
- Don Collins – A boutique shop for locally made cigars and coffee.
After an incredible trip, it’s time to say “hasta luego” to Puerto Rico. Arrange your transport to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), allowing extra time for security and any last-minute duty-free shopping.
As your plane takes off, you’ll be leaving with unforgettable memories, sun-kissed skin, and the desire to return for another adventure.
How to Get Around in Puerto Rico?
Renting a car is the best way to explore Puerto Rico at your own pace. Uber is officially available in San Juan and Ponce but if you want to explore more of the island it’ll be harder to arrange. If you’d rather not drive, hauffeured transport because there aren’t as many rideshare services outside the metro areas or book a guided tour—they’ll handle the transport and take you to the best spots hassle-free. We used a mix of Uber within San Juan, and tour companies / private transportation for exploring beyond.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico?
Whether you’re looking for a cozy beachfront apartment, a luxury villa, or a stylish boutique hotel, we’ve curated the best stays across the island at stayotium.com. Book 2 months in advance and save 20% with code SAVEMORE at checkout.
Or, if you want to stay just steps away from Ocean Park Beach in San Juan, check in at The Weekender by Otium, where laid-back luxury meets tropical vibes, in an adults-only boutique hotel environment. 🌴 Your perfect Puerto Rican escape starts here—book now and make unforgettable memories!