Puerto Rico is where unforgettable moments come naturally, from sun-soaked beach days to vibrant nights in San Juan. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or just the two of you, this Caribbean escape invites you to slow down, reconnect, and start your next story.
Get to Know Puerto Rico
Getting to Puerto Rico is easy with no passport required for U.S. travelers, and flights feel just like a domestic getaway. With both Spanish and English widely spoken and the U.S. dollar accepted1, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying your time together.
The island was originally home to the Taino people and was a major part of the Spanish empire. It has been part of the United States since the late 19th century. Because of this, U.S. citizens visiting the island will not need a passport to get there. Even better? Flights from the U.S. are considered domestic, so no need to go through customs when you arrive on the island. You also won’t need to present a visa or pay a departure tax when you leave2. Just bring your state-issued ID for the journey. However, non-U.S. citizens may need a visa depending on their country of origin1.
There’s no bad time to visit Puerto Rico, but between mid-April and June is ideal: This is after the busy winter season and just before the rainy summer. Winter can be crowded as people from colder climates seek out sunshine, but the weather is lovely. Good to know: Fall is the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, and August usually sees the most rainfall3.
What to Do in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has something for everyone, from families to couples to solo travelers, from beach fans to history buffs.
Beaches, of course, are a must when visiting Puerto Rico, and the island has 270 miles of shoreline for exploring, relaxing, and swimming. Want to try snorkeling? Visit Steps Beach in the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve. Want a guided tour for your snorkeling excursion? Book Rincón Diving and Snorkeling's Rincón Snorkeling Adventure, or try Taíno Divers to see dolphins, sharks, and even humpback whales along Desecheo Island4.
Families looking to spend their outdoor time on dry land should visit El Yunque National Forest in Rio Grande—and if they’d prefer to see the nature from up above, there are lots of ziplining options in the forest5.
Old San Juan, also known as San Juan Antigo, offers restaurants, shops, and historical sites that allow families, friends, and couples to become immersed in island culture and learn about the people who have called it home for centuries. Make time to visit popular landmarks, such as the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century citadel.
Foodies will want to visit Barrachina Restaurant in Old San Juan, which is reportedly the birthplace of the iconic Piña Colada cocktail. If the restaurant is crowded, you can order your drinks to go5. And java enthusiasts will want to tour any of the thousands of coffee farms in Cerro de Punta and sample the different varieties of their favorite morning beverage.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico
With Apple Vacations, finding the right place to stay is simple. From lively beachfront resorts to iconic stays rich in history, there’s a perfect fit for every kind of getaway. The San Juan Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino is home to seven restaurants, lounges, bars, and gaming options, making it ideal for couples and friends seeking a lively atmosphere.
For a combination of old-world charm and the most beautiful beach on the island, make the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel your home away from home. Explore Isla Verde beach by day and enjoy live music at one of the hotel’s 15 evening hot spots.
Get a taste of island history—literally—at the Caribe Hilton, the brand’s first international location. The hotel’s biggest claim to fame is that bartender Ramón Marrero invented the piña colada, the iconic cocktail that combines Puerto Rico’s signature tropical flavors6. The Caribe also has plenty of fun programming for kids, so it’s an ideal choice for family getaways.
Ready to start your Puerto Rico story? With Apple Vacations, planning your getaway is easy, so you can focus on what matters most: making memories together.
Sources
1. Puerto Rico Travel FAQs: What You Need to Know. Discover Puerto Rico. Retrieved March 15, 2026, from https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/info/frequently-asked-questions
2. García, A. (20 November 2025). 13 things to know before you head to Puerto Rico. Lonely Planet. Retrieved March 16, 2026, from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/things-to-know-before-traveling-to-puerto-rico
3. Puerto Rico Travel Guide. U.S. News & World Report. Retrieved March 16, 2026, from https://travel.usnews.com/Puerto_Rico
4. (12 June 2025). Best Places to Snorkel in Puerto Rico. Discover Puerto Rico. Retrieved March 17, 2026, from https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/article/snorkeling-puerto-rico
5. Abbot, A. (12 January 2024). Things to do in Puerto Rico – an Epic Guide for First Time Visitors. Adventures Passport. Retrieved March 16, 2026, from https://adventurespassport.com/things-to-do-in-puerto-rico-an-epic-guide-for-first-time-visitors
6. History of Caribe Hilton. Caribe Hilton. Retrieved March 25, 2026, from https://www.caribehilton.com/history/
