Puerto Rico Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know

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My Travel Listicle Recommendations

Uber works, but only in the metropolitan area, like San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde.
Parking in Viejo San Juan is difficult, so Uber, taxi, or a hotel shuttle is best.
If you aren’t a confident driver, stick to the highways and main roads. The roads towards the interior of the island can be very dangerous for people not accustomed to tiny roads at high elevations.

The Caribbean heat is intense, and to avoid turning into a lobster, I suggest going to the beach early in the morning (7–10 a.m.) or late in the afternoon, from around 3 p.m. until sunset. It will still be hot, but the UV won’t be as strong.
The beaches in Puerto Rico are beautiful but dangerous. BEWARE of dangerous riptides and white-capped water (like the one in the image gallery). If the locals aren’t jumping in, you probably shouldn’t either.
Please respect the power of the ocean and subscribe to Swim Safe Puerto Rico for the latest on the strength of the rip currents and their advisories for swimming.
Recommendations for swimming year-round are:
- Playa Escambrón in San Juan
- Luquillo Beach
- Piñones Beach
For a full list of my favorite beaches, see my Puerto Rico Beaches guide.

Don’t let mosquitos ruin your trip. Make sure to pack bug spray for any adventures!
FUN TIP: The little frog pictured in the gallery below is called a Coquí, Puerto Rico’s national animal. These tree frogs are unique to Puerto Rico and earn their name from the noise they make. They can mainly be heard at night, very loudly, like crickets. They are very hard to spot, but if you do, it’s good luck!