Are you crafting your Puerto Rico itinerary for your first visit? One week in Puerto Rico is a seamless blend of golden beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. From the historic streets of Old San Juan to the breathtaking shores of Culebra, this itinerary ensures you experience la isla del encanto in all its glory. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this guide takes the guesswork out of planning and curates the best of Puerto Rico for your first visit..
Day 1: Arrival & Old San Juan’s Historic Charm
Welcome to Puerto Rico! Upon landing at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, you can either rent a car or take an Uber to your vacation rental or hotel. The best areas to stay in San Juan are Condado, Ocean Park, Isla Verde, and Old San Juan—each offering a unique slice of paradise.
Explore Old San Juan:
- Walk the cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings.
- Visit Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal for stunning ocean views.
- Sip Puerto Rican coffee at Café Cuatro Sombras.
- Try the original Piña Colada at Barrachina.
- Wander Paseo de la Princesa and snap a photo at La Puerta de San Juan.
- Have a cocktail at La Factoría, ranked among the world’s best bars.
Where to Dine: Enjoy chocolate-infused dishes at Raices or savor elevated Puerto Rican cuisine at 1919 Restaurant.
Day 2: Beach Bliss in Condado & El Escambrón
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Pannes, a local favorite for stuffed omelets and fresh pastries.
Relax at El Escambrón Beach:
- Swim in crystal-clear waters with gentle waves, perfect for snorkeling.
- Walk through Parque del Tercer Milenio, an oceanfront park with lush greenery.
Afternoon in Condado:
- Indulge in fresh seafood at Ola Oceanfront Bistro.
- Stroll along Ashford Avenue, stopping at chic boutiques and local artisan shops.
- Unwind at Condado Beach with a Piña Colada in hand.
Day 3: Isla Verde & Ocean Park’s Coastal Vibes
Wake up to turquoise waters and golden sand at Isla Verde Beach. Whether you want to jet ski, parasail, or simply sunbathe, this beach has it all.
Afternoon in Ocean Park:
- Have beachfront lunch at Numero Uno Beach House.
- Try the famous Cubano sandwich at Kasalta, a local bakery where President Obama once dined.
- End the day with sunset cocktails at Santaella or a laid-back evening at Alcapurria Quemá in La Placita.
Day 4: El Yunque Rainforest & Bioluminescent Bay Kayaking
Escape to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
Top El Yunque Spots:
- La Coca Falls – A stunning roadside waterfall.
- Yokahú Tower – A no-hike climb with sweeping rainforest views.
- Juan Diego Creek – A hidden gem with natural pools.
Where to Eat: After hiking, grab fresh seafood at La Estación in Fajardo.
Evening: Kayak in Laguna Grande
End the night paddling through glowing waters in Laguna Grande, one of Puerto Rico’s magical bioluminescent bays.
Day 5: Sailing to Culebra’s Flamenco Beach
Wake up early for a day trip to Culebra, home to Flamenco Beach—one of the world’s top-ranked beaches.
Getting to Culebra:
- Take a ferry from Ceiba (about an hour’s drive from San Juan) or book a catamaran tour with snorkeling included.
- Spend the day sunbathing, snorkeling, and exploring Flamenco Beach’s iconic rusted tanks.
Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local beach shack or grab fish tacos at Dinghy Dock.
Day 6: Vieques & Mosquito Bay’s Glowing Waters
Hop over to Vieques, a stunning island known for its wild horses, secluded beaches, and the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
Must-Do in Vieques:
- Relax at Playa Negra, the island’s black sand beach.
- Visit Sun Bay Beach, a postcard-perfect stretch of golden sand.
- Experience Mosquito Bay, where glowing waters light up with every movement—an unforgettable experience.
Where to Dine: El Quenepo is a must-visit for fresh seafood and craft cocktails.
Day 7: Piñones & Final Puerto Rican Indulgences
Spend your final day indulging in Puerto Rican flavors at Piñones, a coastal area famous for roadside food stalls serving local delights.
What to Eat in Piñones:
- Alcapurrias – Crispy fritters stuffed with meat or seafood.
- Bacalaítos – Savory codfish fritters.
- Mofongo – Mashed plantains with garlic and pork or shrimp.
If time allows, unwind at Carolina Beach before heading to the airport.
Day 8: Ponce & Puerto Rico’s Southern Charm
Step into Ponce, Puerto Rico’s “Pearl of the South,” where colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and art-filled streets make it a must-visit destination.
Must-Do in Ponce:
- Stroll through Plaza Las Delicias and snap a photo at the iconic Parque de Bombas firehouse.
- Visit the Museo de Arte de Ponce, home to world-class European and Puerto Rican masterpieces.
- Take a short drive to Jayuya for coffee farm tours and mountain views.
Where to Dine: El Negocio de Panchi offers elevated Puerto Rican flavors in an intimate setting.
Day 9: Vieques & Mosquito Bay’s Glowing Waters
Hop over to Vieques, a stunning island known for its wild horses, secluded beaches, and the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
Must-Do in Vieques:
- Relax at Playa Negra, the island’s black sand beach.
- Visit Sun Bay Beach, a postcard-perfect stretch of golden sand.
- Experience Mosquito Bay, where glowing waters light up with every movement—an unforgettable experience.
Where to Dine: El Quenepo is a must-visit for fresh seafood and craft cocktails.
Day 10: Rincón & Sunset Surf Town Vibes
Head west to Rincón, a laid-back beach town famous for its surf culture, stunning sunsets, and relaxed island vibes.
Must-Do in Rincón:
- Catch the waves (or watch the pros) at Domes Beach or Sandy Beach.
- Snorkel at Steps Beach, where clear waters reveal vibrant marine life.
- Watch a breathtaking sunset from Punta Higüero Lighthouse.
Where to Dine: La Cambija is a local favorite for fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico?
For a truly immersive experience, consider ditching traditional hotels and opting for a vacation rental.
Feel The Essence of Island-Living
Vacation homes, including beach house rentals and weekend house rentals, offer a comfortable home-away-from-home base. You’ll connect with the local culture, explore the island at your own pace, and enjoy the space and amenities often absent in hotels.
Book your Puerto Rico vacation rental today and start planning your unforgettable adventure! Explore our wide selection of vacation homes, including beach house rentals and weekend house rentals, perfectly suited for your needs and budget.