Puerto Rico is a picture perfect destination that truly has it all.

I picked Puerto Rico for my winter getaway last year because the flights were cheap, and it was hot and sunny. Coming from a Canadian winter, those are the only criteria that I was trying to meet.

Turns out, there’s more to Puerto Rico than crystal blue waters and sandy beaches. I spent 5 days exploring Old San Juan, hiking in the rainforest, and swimming with fish.

If you love long walks on the beach, fascinating history, colourful old towns, and waterfalls, then Puerto Rico is the place for you! It’s got all of the above, and so much more.

Need more inspiration? Here are some of my favourite photos from Puerto Rico! 

Castillo de San Cristobal

The best views of San Juan are on the many levels of Castillo de San Cristobal, a 1600’s fortress that was once used to defend treasure from pirates. It surrounds the part of the city that is now known as Old San Juan.

I spend about 3 hours here on my first morning, and still didn’t see the whole place! 

The fortress is 3 levels, and a few underground tunnels. The view just gets better and better as you make your way up from one level to another. The different towers look out over the ocean, Old San Juan, and the newer parts of the city.

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Old San Juan

Once upon a time, San Juan was a small city surrounded by a fortress. Today, that section is known as Old San Juan, and it’s one small part of a much larger city.

Old San Juan is famous for it’s fun, colourful buildings. I went on a walk tour through Old San Juan, and never would have known what many of the buildings were otherwise. Everything is painted in bright, pastel colours, from the small cafés to the government office buildings.

El Yunque Rainforest

One of the highlights of my time in Puerto Rico was hiking in the El Yunque Rainforest.

It’s incredible that a 40 minute Uber drive can take you from a busy city to no-service zone with exotic birds and bugs, and leaves as tall as you. I even saw a couple of hummingbirds in the rainforest! Move slowly and quietly, and you’ll see lots of wildlife on your way to the waterfall.

Puerto Rico was the perfect destination for me because it offered everything that I love. Sunshine, sports, photo opportunities, and history. I love travelling to places that have a lot of variety, because I love having new experiences.

I loved going on a different adventure every day, and then spending the afternoons splashing in the waves and lying on the beach. 

Want more Puerto Rico?

Next up: Complete Trip Itinerary for Puerto Rico

Exploring Old San Juan

Hiking in El Yunque Rainforest