21 Best Things to Do in San Juan 🇵🇷 Puerto Rico: Fun Beach Activities

Early Morning Rituals One of my favorite memories at Ocean Park Beach was joining the locals just after sunrise. The sand was cool, the breeze steady, and a few dedicated joggers and dog walkers greeted each other like old friends. I watched a group doing yoga near the water, their mats lined up in the soft sand. The instructor’s voice blended with the sound of the waves — no speaker needed. Afterward, I grabbed a strong Puerto Rico coffee from a kiosk on Avenida McLeary and sat under the palms, feeling like I’d unlocked a secret part of San Juan life.

Seasonal Events in San Juan Puerto Rico

1. Spring: San Sebastián Street Festival

Festival Energy. Sebastián Street Festival, or “Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián,” is the biggest party in Old San Juan and maybe all of Puerto Rico. For four days in January, the historic streets fill with music, parades, and dancing. I joined the crowds on Calle Sebastián and immediately felt the excitement — giant puppets (cabezudos), live salsa bands, and everyone wearing colorful costumes. The city’s colonial buildings become the backdrop for a true Puerto Rico celebration.

Food and Drinks. Food stalls line the plazas and streets, serving everything from alcapurrias and bacalaítos (cod fritters) to pinchos (grilled meat skewers). I tried a plate of mofongo for $8 (USD/EUR) and washed it down with a piña colada for $6. Local craft beers and rum cocktails are everywhere — my favorite was a passionfruit mojito from a stand on Calle del Cristo.

Art and Crafts. Artisans from all over Puerto Rico set up stalls selling handmade jewelry, masks, and crafts. I bought a vejigante mask for $15 as a souvenir. The art here is colorful and bold, reflecting the island’s Afro-Caribbean heritage. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and meet local artists.

2. Summer: Noche de San Juan (June)

Celebration and Traditions. Noche de San Juan is one of the most magical nights I’ve spent in Puerto Rico. Every June 23rd, locals and visitors flood the beaches — Ocean Park, Isla Verde, and Condado are favorites — to celebrate the summer solstice. The main tradition is jumping over seven waves at midnight, believed to bring good luck and wash away negativity. The scent of grilled street food, sea salt, and coconut rum fills the air. I could feel the excitement as families set up bonfires and friends gathered with coolers and music.

Beach Parties. By sunset, the sand turns into a giant open-air party. I joined a group of friends dancing barefoot to salsa and reggaeton, with live DJs and bands playing everything from plena to pop. Fireworks light up the sky, and tiki torches line the shore. Most beach parties are free, but some organized events with live music and open bars can cost $10–$20 (USD/EUR). Vendors sell everything from cold piña coladas to local craft beer, so you’re never far from a drink.

Noche de San Juan

Local Flavors and Food. Street food is everywhere during Noche de San Juan. I recommend trying alcapurrias and bacalaítos from the food trucks — crispy, salty, and perfect after a swim. Prices range from $3 to $6. Piña coladas and rum cocktails are popular, usually $5–$8. Many locals bring their own snacks and drinks to save money, but I enjoy sampling the different flavors from each vendor.

3. Fall: Coffee & Chocolate Expo (September)

Impressions. When I walked into the Puerto Rico Convention Center for the Coffee & Chocolate Expo, the first thing that hit me was the aroma — a mix of fresh coffee beans, melted chocolate, and warm pastries. The event was buzzing with over 20,000 people, from families with kids to serious foodies and local chefs. Stalls lined every aisle, each one offering something to taste, sip, or learn about.

Coffee & Chocolate Expo, San Juan

Crowd Favorites. Sampling was the highlight. I tried a shot of DNuevo Coffee Specialty’s espresso — so smooth, I went back for seconds. At the Chocolate Cortés booth, their dark chocolate with sea salt was a revelation. The public voted these two as their favorites, and it was easy to see why. I also discovered Gianmauro’s Desserts, which won “Best New Product”—their chocolate mousse was gone in minutes. Here’s what I paid for tastings:

Hidden Gems. With over 180 exhibitors, there was plenty to discover. I chatted with growers from Gustos Coffee Co. and sampled single-origin beans from Café Mi AEELA. For chocolate, Hacienda Chocolat’s spicy dark bar was a surprise hit. I also stumbled upon En la Madre, an online shop selling quirky culinary gadgets — perfect for gifts.

4. Winter: Christmas in Old San Juan (December)

Street Lights. The first time I saw Old San Juan in December, I was stunned by the transformation. Every balcony and plaza glowed with twinkling lights and garlands. Locals call it the Encendido de Navidad, and it’s not just a ceremony — it’s a city-wide celebration. Walking down Calle Fortaleza, I snapped photos of the famous umbrella street, now decked out in holiday colors. Even the San Juan Gate shone with festive lights, welcoming everyone to join the party.

Christmas in San Juan

Holiday Shopping. I love wandering the Gran Mercado Navideño at Luis Muñoz Rivera Park. Over 60 kiosks sell everything from handmade jewelry to traditional treats like tembleque and arroz con dulce. The market is free to enter. I always leave with a bag of local crafts and a belly full of lechón asado. Prices for snacks range from $2–$8, and you’ll find plenty of unique gifts for under $20.

Music and Dancing. One night, I joined a group of locals for a traditional parranda — Puerto Rican Christmas caroling. We wandered from plaza to plaza, singing aguinaldos and sharing coquito. In Plaza de Armas, a free outdoor concert filled the air with bomba and plena music. Kids danced, elders sang, and tourists were quickly pulled into the circle. The energy was contagious and felt like a true community celebration.

Festive Fun. La Feria: The Park at Hiram Bithorn Stadium is a must for families. My nephews loved the rides and shows, especially the mini-circus and Kiddieland. Entry starts at $16.50 (USD/EUR) for the all-inclusive gala, but premium rides cost extra. Navitown at Parque Del Tercer Milenio is another favorite, with light displays, children’s rides, and live performances. Both events run from early December into January.

Day Trips from San Juan, Puerto Rico

1. El Yunque National Forest

Adventures. National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system, and every visit feels like a real adventure. I remember stepping onto the Big Tree Trail, surrounded by giant ferns and the sound of coquí frogs. The air was thick and fresh, and every few steps I spotted bright orchids or giant snails. The hike to La Mina Falls used to be my favorite, but after Hurricane Maria, that trail’s still closed. Now, I love the El Yunque Trail for its steep climb and the reward of amazing views from Pico El Yunque. If you want a challenge, try the Mount Britton Trail—reaching the stone tower at the top, with clouds swirling around you, is unforgettable.

Wildlife Encounters. Birdwatching in El Yunque is a treat. One morning, I spotted a Puerto Rican Tody — tiny, green, and fast! If you’re lucky, you might hear the call of the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. There are nearly 100 bird species here, plus bats, frogs, and even giant tree snails. Bring binoculars and walk quietly — patience pays off. The forest is also home to unique plants and ancient Taíno petroglyphs, so keep your eyes open for carvings along the river rocks.

Waterfalls and Rivers. The first time I saw La Coca Falls, it was right off the main road — no hiking required. The water tumbles down a huge rock face, and you can hear it before you see it. For a swim, I always head to Juan Diego Falls, a short walk from the road, where cool pools hide under the trees. Some guided tours offer waterfall rappelling and river trekking — perfect for thrill-seekers who want to explore off the main paths.

Visitor Center and Facilities. The El Portal Visitor Center is newly renovated and worth a stop. There are interactive displays, ranger-led programs, and a café serving Puerto Rican food. Entry is $8 (USD/EUR) for adults, free for kids under 16, and $4 with a US National Parks Pass. The center is a great place to learn about the rainforest’s ecosystem and see the reintroduction program for the Puerto Rican Parrot.

⭐️ Best Activities

• El Yunque Rainforest Guided Day Tour from San Juan – Discover Puerto Rico’s lush El Yunque National Forest on a small-group guided tour. Enjoy panoramic views from Yokahu Tower, a short nature walk, and a refreshing river swim (weather permitting). Includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and bottled water for a hassle-free adventure. Perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a taste of the rainforest without a full-day commitment!

2. Cataño & Bacardi Rum Distillery

Arrival. Arriving at Casa BACARDÍ, I was greeted by the sight of the famous bat logo and a breezy open-air pavilion. The staff handed me a “welcome coin” to trade for my first cocktail — my pick was a classic Cuba Libre, but you can also try a Daiquiri or Bacardi Sunrise. Sipping my drink, I watched families and couples relax under palm trees, the sound of salsa music drifting from the bar.

Cataño & Bacardi Rum Distillery, Puerto Rico

Tour Choices and Prices. Casa BACARDÍ offers several experiences, each with a different focus and price point:

Tour Type	Price (USD)	Duration	Includes
Legacy Tour	$40	50 min	Welcome cocktail, history tour, tram ride
Rum Tasting Tour	$80	75 min	Tasting of premium rums, expert guide
Mixology Class	$80	75 min	Cocktail class, two drinks, welcome drink
Founder’s Experience	$125	120 min	Private tasting, warehouse access, rare rums

Rum Tasting. On my last visit, I joined the Rum Tasting Tour. Our guide, Edwin, turned a simple tasting into a real adventure. We sampled the two base spirits — aguardiente and redistilado — before moving on to aged rums. Edwin encouraged us to sniff, swirl, and even add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. The highlight was sipping rum straight from an oak barrel in the aging warehouse — warm, spicy, and unforgettable.

Mixology Fun. If you want a hands-on experience, the Mixology Class is a blast. Our instructor Anaís was a ball of energy, guiding us through muddling mint for mojitos and shaking up a Jungle Bird. She made sure everyone got involved, and I left with new cocktail skills (and a happy buzz). The whole group cheered each other on, and the class felt like a party with new friends.

Behind the Scenes. During the Founder’s Experience, my group was led by Will, who shared stories about the BACARDÍ family’s journey from Cuba to Puerto Rico. He described the challenges of moving the distillery and how the bat became their symbol of good luck. Will even gave us tips for the best places to eat in Viejo San Juan after the tour — a true local touch.

⭐️ Best Activities

• Mixology Class at Casa BACARDÍ in Puerto Rico – Shake up your day at Casa Bacardí! Enjoy a behind-the-scenes distillery tour, sip a complimentary cocktail, and master classic rum drinks with an expert mixologist. Highly rated for fun, history, and hands-on cocktail making.

3. Carolina Beaches

Neighborhoods. Carolina is more than just a stretch of sand — it’s a collection of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. I’ve spent mornings in Isla Verde, where families and tourists mix on the wide, golden beaches. The area is full of life: joggers along the shore, vendors selling piraguas (shaved ice), and kids building sandcastles. In Cangrejo Arriba, surfers chase waves while locals chat over coffee at beachside kiosks. It’s easy to see why Carolina is called “Tierra de Gigantes” — there’s a big, welcoming spirit everywhere you go.

Beach Adventures. Isla Verde Beach is the star. I tried parasailing for $109 (USD/EUR) and soared above the water, spotting the city skyline and the curve of the coast. Banana boat rides cost $30, and you’ll hear laughter as groups bounce across the waves. For something quieter, I rented a paddleboard for $25 an hour and explored the calm morning surf. On weekends, you’ll find volleyball games and families grilling under palm trees. The west end of the beach, near Balneario de Carolina, has a protected swimming area — perfect for kids or anyone wanting a break from the waves.

Activity	Price (USD/EUR)
Parasailing (Isla Verde)	$109
Banana Boat Ride	$30
Paddleboard Rental	$25/hour
Beach Chair Rental	$10/day
Umbrella Rental	$15–$20/day

Food and Flavors. Carolina’s beaches are lined with kiosks and restaurants. My go-to is El Nuevo Acuario in Piñones for lobster empanadas and ceviche — fresh, tangy, and just steps from the sand. For a casual lunch, I once grabbed a pepperoni pizza from a street-side Pizza Hut and ate it right on the beach, toes in the sand. Don’t miss the local chinchorros for mofongo, tostones, and cold Medalla beer. Prices range from $3 for a snack to $15 for a hearty seafood plate.

Stories from the Sand. One evening, I watched a local baseball team practice near the Roberto Clemente Sports City. Their laughter and shouts mixed with the sound of the waves. Another time, I joined a group of friends for a sunset walk along Balneario de Carolina. We found a spot where the sand was untouched and the only sounds were the breeze and distant music from a beach bar. On a windy day, I saw kiteboarders racing each other, their colorful sails bright against the blue sky.

4. Museo del Niño (Children’s Museum)

Hands-On Discovery. Museo del Niño in Carolina is a paradise for curious kids — and honestly, I had just as much fun as they did. The museum features over 100 interactive exhibits covering science, art, music, transportation, and even emotional intelligence. My favorite moment? Watching a group of kids build a bridge they could actually walk across, then race go-karts outside under the Caribbean sun.

Indoor & Outdoor Fun. You’ll find everything from a mini city where children can play “grown-up” (think: bank, supermarket, fire station), to a real American Airlines airplane you can board and explore. Outside, there’s a playground, a mini-zoo, and boat rides on Blasina Lake. The new Safari Tour is a hit — kids (and adults) can spot life-sized animal sculptures and even giant insects. The 5D Adventure Cinema is a wild ride, with moving seats, wind, water sprays, and bubbles. I left with my hair a little messy and a big grin.

Learning Through Play. One thing I love about Museo del Niño is how it turns learning into an adventure. I watched kids test out a hurricane simulator, giggling as their hair flew everywhere, and then move to the science lab to make slime. The museum staff encourage children to touch, try, and experiment — no “don’t touch” signs here! The bilingual displays (Spanish and English) make it easy for everyone to join in.

Unique Experiences. Where else can you climb aboard a real American Airlines airplane, buckle up, and pretend you’re the pilot? My favorite exhibit is the mini TV studio—kids can record their own news show and see themselves on screen. The fire truck is also a hit, especially when kids get to wear helmets and “drive” to an imaginary rescue.

FAQ

1. Is San Juan safe for tourists?

Yes, San Juan is generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde. Most issues are minor, like pickpocketing, so keep your bag close and don’t leave valuables unattended. At night, stick to busy streets and avoid wandering into unknown neighborhoods. Police presence is strong in tourist zones.

2. Do I need to speak Spanish?

You don’t need Spanish to get around San Juan. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and shops. If you go off the beaten path or use public transport, a few Spanish phrases can help, but most visitors do just fine with English. Locals appreciate any effort to speak Spanish, even if it’s just “hola” or “gracias.”

3. What’s the best way to get around?

Old San Juan is best explored on foot—everything is close together. For trips to beaches or other neighborhoods, Uber and taxis are fast and easy. Public buses are cheap (about $0.75), but routes can be confusing for visitors. If you want to visit places outside San Juan, like El Yunque or the bioluminescent bay, consider renting a car for a day.

4. When is the best time to visit?

The best time is December to April: sunny, warm, and full of festivals. This is also the busiest season, so book ahead. May to November is quieter and less expensive, but it’s hurricane season—expect some rain and check forecasts before you go.