Things to Do in Puerto Rico in the Summer: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 02/04/24 •  14 min read

Table of Contents



If you’re looking for things to do in Puerto Rico in the summer, you’re in for a real treat! From adventurous pursuits to cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone.

Immerse yourself in nature with a hike through the paradise known as El Yunque National Forest.

Step back in time as you explore the historic gem of Old San Juan, complete with charming sidewalk cafes.

Bask in the sun and dive into underwater exploration with beach activities like sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

For thrill-seekers, engage in ATV tours, horseback riding and ziplining.

Dive deeper into local culture through architectural tours or by indulging in culinary delights.

Don’t forget additional highlights such as visiting iconic forts or embarking on day trips and catamaran adventures.


things to do in puerto rico in the summer
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1. El Yunque National Forest: A Paradise for Hiking and Nature Lovers

If you’re searching for Puerto Rico summer activities that reek of tranquil beauty, then look no further than the lush greenery of El Yunque National Forest. As you pass through the thick, verdant rainforest, enveloped by the sweet chorus of tropical birds, it’s hard not to feel at one with nature. I highly recommend it for every hiker or nature enthusiast who finds joy in exploring new terrains.

2. Old San Juan: A Historic Gem with Charming Sidewalk Cafes

Exploring Old San Juan, a historic gem, is like stepping back in time. The city is adorned with vibrant buildings from the Spanish colonial era and hosts historical sites like the iconic Castillo de San Cristobal. The charming sidewalk cafes offer a perfect break from sightseeing, letting you soak in the local atmosphere while enjoying a cup of Puerto Rican coffee.

3. Beach Activities: Sunbathing, Snorkeling, and Scuba Diving in Puerto Rico

The island boasts an impressive 300+ beaches making it an ideal spot for some fun under the sun! Whether you’re looking forward to relaxing on sandy shores or diving into oceanic adventures such as snorkeling or scuba diving in Puerto Rico’s clear waters,; no worries – there’s a beach just for you.

4. Adventurous Pursuits: ATV Tours, Horseback Riding, and Ziplining in Puerto Rico

If you’re seeking a heart-throbbing tropical adventure in Puerto Rico, consider taking a high-energy ATV tour at Carabalí Rainforest Park or enjoying horseback rides along mesmerizing coastlines. For an adrenaline rush from above, try ziplining through the jungle!

5. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture: Architectural Tours and Culinary Delights

Savoring the Puerto Rican culture is an absolute must-do during your summer vacation in Puerto Rico. Take an architectural tour of Old San Juan soaking up magnificent structures steeped in history, then visit El Cemi Museum to dive into local folklore tales. Don’t forget to relish authentic Puerto Rican cuisine; food tasting is a cultural immersion like no other.

6. Additional Highlights: Forts, Day Trips, and Catamaran Adventures

Rounding off this comprehensive list of things to do in Puerto Rico summer, we have forts exploration like Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico which offers fascinating insights into the island’s history. Or how about day trips to stunning locations like Culebra Island? And if you’re a fan of sailing, don’t miss the opportunity to sail from Fajardo to Laguna Grande on a Catamaran.

things to do in puerto rico in the summer


Exploring Puerto Rico in the summer is an unforgettable experience, with a plethora of activities to partake in. One of the best day trips you can go for is visiting the islands off the main coast. This page has some great suggestions that might pique your interest.

When you’re out exploring, be sure not to miss out on trying some of Puerto Rico’s world-renowned rum. Tour a distillery and learn about the process and history behind this iconic beverage. Find some of the best rum tours in Puerto Rico here.

Puerto Rico is known for its bioluminescent bays – bodies of water inhabited by microscopic organisms that emit a beautiful glow when disturbed. You might find this guide to the best bio bay tour in Vieques particularly useful, available here.

Another must-do activity is embarking on one or more cruise excursions around San Juan, which offers breathtaking views and experiences. You can get suggestions for some of the best cruise excursions in San Juan at this link.

Of course, it’s also important to know when it’s best to visit Puerto Rico depending on weather conditions and other factors. Get informed about the most favorable times at this post detailing the“Best time to visit Puerto Rico for weather”. Just click here.

Lastly, you can also explore Puerto Rico’s natural beauty through its ziplining tours that are bound to give you an adrenaline rush. You might find this guide on the best zipline tour in Puerto Rico helpful, which is available here.

My Personal Take about Things to do in Puerto Rico in the summer



Hey, it’s your buddy, Steve here! You know, being an expert in all things Puerto Rico allows me to jot down some insider tips and the absolute best things to do in Puerto Rico in the summer.

Now that I think about it, summertime is simply magical on the Island of Enchantment. Not only for its golden beaches and tropical climate but also for its unique mix of mountains, caves, and vibrant street parties!

In any case, just imagining sipping a cocktail while soaking up that Caribbean sun should already make you want to pack your bags. Take my words as a motivation: A summer spent in Puerto Rico is indeed a summer well spent! You see, every nook and cranny has its distinct charisma awaiting your discovery!


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Frequently Asked Questions about Things to do in Puerto Rico in the summer

Before you go…

Takeaway 1: Explore the natural beauty and adventure

Puerto Rico offers a plethora of exciting activities, especially during the summer. One must-visit place is El Yunque National Forest, a lush rainforest perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The experience of wandering through the vibrant greenery and marveling at breathtaking waterfalls is truly unforgettable. Additionally, if you’re someone who loves water sports, Puerto Rico’s 300+ beaches provide an ideal setting for sunbathing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Imagine diving into clear waters teeming with colorful marine life or embarking on a bioluminescent tour to witness the magical glow of sparkling bays at night. For thrill-seekers, adrenaline-pumping adventures like ATV tours at Carabalí Rainforest Park or ziplining through the jungle are activities not to be missed. So, whether you’re seeking tranquility or an adrenaline rush, Puerto Rico’s natural beauty has something for everyone.

Takeaway 2: Immerse yourself in history and local culture

For those fascinated by history and culture, Puerto Rico has plenty to offer in that department as well. A visit to Old San Juan is a must-do for history buffs as it boasts historic sites like Castillo de San Cristobal. Strolling through its picturesque streets lined with charming sidewalk cafes adds a touch of romance to your journey. To delve deeper into local culture, take an architectural tour of Old San Juan or visit El Cemi Museum to learn about Puerto Rican folklore and traditions firsthand. And let’s not forget about food! Trying out delicious Puerto Rican cuisine and indulging in local rum tastings are fantastic ways to immerse yourself further in the vibrant island culture.

Takeaway 3: Discover hidden gems and unforgettable experiences

While there are well-known attractions in Puerto Rico, don’t miss out on exploring lesser-known gems that offer unique experiences. Forts like Casa Bacardi Puerto Rico provide a glimpse into the island’s rich history and offer fascinating tours. If you’re up for an adventure, consider taking day trips to beautiful spots like Culebra Island or Laguna Grande from Fajardo by Catamaran. These hidden havens are perfect for those seeking solitude or an escape from the hustle and bustle of touristy areas. Wildlife enthusiasts can also visit Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge, Mosquito Bay, or Monkey Island to observe fascinating animals in their natural habitats.

In summary, Puerto Rico truly has something for everybody. Whether you’re yearning for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, historical exploration, or simply a relaxing beach getaway, this tropical paradise has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a memorable journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and unforgettable experiences!
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Steve Dez

Also known as Richport, is a Puerto Rican creator and writer. He grew up in the island and always had a passion for writing, he wrote his first play at the age of 12 and has been creating content ever since. He's now a well-known blogger and creative who writes posts, songs and poetry that showcase his love for his roots, blending traditional stories with modern themes always with some adobo and boricua flavors in the mix.

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