When traveling to Puerto Rico, perhaps the greatest selling point is how convenient an island getaway can be! In the northeastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico spans approximately 110 miles long and 35 miles wide, offering a variety of unique things to do, ranging from beautiful beaches to bioluminescent bays and historic forts. El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, also is located in Puerto Rico.
Best of all, as a Territory of the United States since 1898, Puerto Rico should be familiar in many respects to American travelers, and you can enter with your driver’s license, U.S. dollars and even your own phone plan. That said, there are some important things to know about Puerto Rico and its history and culture to have the best travel experience on the island.
1. You don’t need a passport in Puerto Rico — if you’re a U.S. citizen or resident.
A driver’s license or other government ID is all Americans need in Puerto Rico. Before you head to the airport, make sure it’s REAL ID-compliant, which allows domestic air travel. (Check for a star on your driver’s license.) Other travelers will need to bring a passport and/or check visa requirements for entry.
2. Puerto Rico is in the Caribbean and has its own distinct culture.
The island's location and overall friendliness make Puerto Rico a great place to go for many Americans, who not only want a convenient tropical destination but also a place rich in history and culture. Once known as Borikén by the Indigenous Taíno people before colonization, the country features Indigenous, African and Spanish cultural influences, and you’ll hear many Puerto Ricans proudly refer to themselves as Boricua.
The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, is accessible by direct flights in major aviation hubs like Miami or New York City, where flights can be just three to four hours. Capital San Juan and Ponce to the south also are popular cruise ports. Wherever you travel on the island, there are many excellent resorts in Puerto Rico to accommodate all ages.
3. Be aware of what languages are spoken in Puerto Rico.
Though you’ll find plenty of people who speak English, especially in more touristy places in Puerto Rico, Spanish is predominant. Consider learning a few words or phrases to communicate more efficiently, such as, “Hola, ¿cuánto cuesta?” (Hello, how much does it cost?) and “¿Dónde está el baño?" (Where is the bathroom?). And with all the lively local charm and things to do that make Puerto Rico incredible, you might find the expression, “Wepa!” — “Wow! or “Oh yeah!” — captures the island’s joyful spirit perfectly.
4. Visit Puerto Rico during the best time for good weather and fewer crowds.
Puerto Rico is a year-round destination, but some seasons are better than others on the island. Winter months, from December to March, are peak season with mild weather but higher prices and bustling streets, especially during big events in Puerto Rico like the San Sebastián Street Festival (Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián) in January and Holy Week (Semana Santa), where many smaller businesses will be closed in the lead up to Easter. If you're planning a trip to Puerto Rico for some R&R, consider visiting during its shoulder season from mid-April to June for warm weather, fewer crowds and lower prices. However, keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June through November. Travel insurance is a smart move to stay prepared for unpredictable weather or other unexpected situations, such as lost luggage. See a AAA Travel Agent for details, as they’ve “been there, done” that and can help you with everything from buying insurance to planning honeymoon stays in a good season.
5. Try Puerto Rican cuisine!
Taste essential Puerto Rican foods, which are part of the island's culinary heritage. Mofongo is mashed fried plantains with garlic and chicharron; tostones are twice-fried plantain slices; and arroz con gandules combines rice with pigeon peas. For a taste of island cuisine all in one place, try frituras (finger foods), morcilla (sausage) and arroz con gandules at AAA Three Diamond Santaella in San Juan, which offers Puerto Rican food in a refined setting. Another option is to take a food tour in Puerto Rico, although note in advance if you have any food preferences or restrictions. While traditional cuisine is often meat-heavy or cooked with lard, vegetarian options exist, primarily in metropolitan areas like San Juan; think vegan mofongo or pastelón (aka a casserole-type dish with plantains that resembles dishes like moussaka and lasagna).
Then there are the drinks and desserts to try! Don’t miss Puerto Rican coffee, grown in the central mountains, and make sure to indulge in locally produced chocolate from the island's western region. Puerto Rico also is known for its craft beer and rum distilleries. Puerto Rico also is home to the piña colada, a creamy drink of coconut, pineapple and rum, whose refreshing coolness belies the hot debate over where it started in San Juan. (The Barrachina Restaurant and AAA Three Diamond The Caribe Hilton are the best contenders.) If you indulge, remember to imbibe responsibly, and keep in mind the minimum drinking age is 18, unlike the mainland, although you may not be allowed to go into clubs or lounges until age 21.
6. Decide if you should rent a car to explore the island.
Sure, you can enjoy tours with pickup or private transportation services, but consider renting a car to head off the beaten path. Technically, you could drive the island in 6 to 8 hours, but spreading out your trip is ideal when visiting Puerto Rico.
Driving is similar to the U.S., as you can use your license and drive on the same side of the road as the mainland. Speed limits are in miles per hour in Puerto Rico, influenced by its current connection to the U.S., but road distances are measured in kilometers due to its colonial background and historic use of the metric system. Signs you might see on the road include “Pare” (stop) and “Salida” (exit).
Renting a car in Puerto Rico is easier if you’re 25 or older, though some companies allow rentals at 21 with an extra fee. Under 21, rentals can be more difficult. AAA members, however, can take advantage of perks like waived young driver fees from Hertz. For short trips or getting around San Juan, ride-hailing services might be a better option, especially as parking can be a challenge in some neighborhoods.
Once you have your car, inspect for any imperfections, ask the rental company about toll road options, and remember that using mobile phones while driving is prohibited.
7. Safely travel in Puerto Rico. Pack all your necessities.
Traveling safely means staying aware of your surroundings and being fully prepared when you go. Stick to well-lit areas, keep your belongings secure and stay alert to avoid pickpocketing or scams without letting it dampen your sense of adventure. And, although there are many beautiful or interesting sights to see, be respectful and avoid photographing people or places without asking, especially in residential or less-visited areas of Puerto Rico.
Speaking of being prepared, that includes knowing what to bring with you while sightseeing. Pack a poncho for rainforest hikes, sturdy shoes for uneven trails, water shoes for the beach and supplies like reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle to keep your adventure hassle-free.
8. Stay healthy by planning ahead.
Like previously noted, make sure you’ve packed the essentials. Using insect repellent not only helps ward off diseases like dengue and Zika but also keeps itchy bites at bay. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen generously to prevent harmful UV damage while enjoying outdoor activities.
Before you head to the beach or any other body of water, you'll want to research where to swim in Puerto Rico. Rivers, many of which have their source in the mountains, are very popular. You'll find visitors flocking to natural pools and waterfalls, but note that rainfall, even distant, can cause sudden water surges, even if the weather looks perfect where you are. When swimming at the beach, stick to designated areas, listen to lifeguards and follow safety flags on Puerto Rico’s beaches for a secure experience. Don't swim when flags are red, as there could be rough surf or currents. Some beaches also have rocks on the beach, so wearing water shoes might be a good idea.
Similarly, practice caution on the water, always wearing a life jacket and keeping alcohol off the itinerary if you’re boating. If you have any major concerns about staying healthy during a trip to Puerto Rico, consult a doctor; for those who want to stay current on recommended vaccines, consult a doctor at least a month before departure.
9. Don’t worry about the water in Puerto Rico.
When it comes to drinking water in Puerto Rico, it’s generally safe and meets U.S. standards for cleanliness. However, for added peace of mind or personal preference, bottled water is widely available across the island and can be a convenient alternative.
11. Plan Your Trip to Puerto Rico with AAA
Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your trip to Puerto Rico today. Your American Automobile Association (AAA) membership coverage is valid in Puerto Rico, so remember to bring your AAA membership card or use the AAA Mobile app to view your account details.
Design your Puerto Rico getaway with the Trip Canvas travel tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment.