This blog post was updated on June 15, 2023.

Puerto Rico is a stunning travel destination to spend some quality vacation time. Between the sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and gorgeous weather, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

But what if you crave a little more excitement from your vacation? In between chilling out on the beach, there are plenty of thrilling activities to explore throughout “La Isla del Encanto.” Whether you’re looking for something off the beaten path or an excursion that will get your pulse racing, we’ve got you covered. We took a look at all the fun things to do in Puerto Rico and rounded up the ones you can’t afford to miss. The hardest part will be deciding which activity to try out first!

Night Kayaking

Kayaking during the day is a great way to see the sights and break a sweat, but for a truly unusual experience, you need to try night kayaking in the capital, San Juan. You’ll show up after the sun has set, and be provided with body paint to illuminate you against the dark backdrop. Then you and your fellow kayakers will be set up in boats with glass bottoms, outfitted with LED lights that will give you an unsurpassed view of the ocean waters. If you think the waters of San Juan are busy during the day, wait until you get a look at the nocturnal life that calls this place home. You’ll be blown away by the natural beauty of the undersea world, and see San Juan in a way you never before imagined.

Rainforest Excursions

San Juan is famous for its lush, mysterious jungle area. Your journey to El Yunque, the only rainforest in the United States National Forest System, will take you through local villages and give you a chance to see a different side of Puerto Rico. Once you arrive in the jungle, an informative and helpful guide will navigate you safely through the awe-inspiring wilderness. You’ll learn about the local plants and animals, as well as the fascinating history of San Juan itself. It’s a rare opportunity to explore one of the lesser-known wonders of Puerto Rico, and an adventure you’ll never forget.

Zip Lining Adventure

For those who crave a little excitement, you can’t go wrong with a zip lining experience.  You can zip line right through Yunque Rainforest, soaring through the sky while enjoying a truly bird’s-eye view of the area. Most tours provide you with a variety of scenic and exciting lines to choose from. You can even do some easy rappelling, so be sure to check out the variety of different tour options available. It’s a fun way to experience San Juan, and a sure way to get your pulse racing while on vacation.

The San Juan National Historic Site

Immerse yourself in the history of this Caribbean island with a trip to the San Juan National Historical Site. The fortress was built during the 17th and 18th centuries to protect the island from invaders. Today, the official UNESCO World Heritage Site sits as a reminder of the rich history of Puerto Rico. While visiting the site, you can take in the dramatic tower that soars 140 feet above the ocean, which features a number of dark dungeons, turrets, tunnels, and barracks that add an air of mystery of the fortress. The site encompasses the forts of San Felipe del Morro, San Cristobal, and San Juan de la Cruz.

In addition to exploring the individual forts, you will also be treated to stunning views of San Juan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Feel free to explore on your way or elevate the experience by signing up for a group tour.

You may also like: 5 Restaurants to Check Out When Visiting San Juan

Cave Exploration

When planning your Puerto Rican getaway, be sure to save some quality time at Rio Camuy Cave Park as part of your activities. Rio Camuy comes equipped 286-acres of natural caves the whole family will love exploring. Take a trolley ride through the vast caverns deep underground, as a tour guide provides you with fascinating facts and details about this natural landmark. You can stroll along picturesque walking trails while the kids enjoy some quality time at the playground. And don’t forget to grab some food at the picnic pavilion, which is the perfect spot to unwind after an adventurous day of serious spelunking.

Also, be sure to visit Cueva Ventana (“Window Cave”), which is about 55 miles from San Juan in Arecibo. This limestone cave features a view of a lush landscape that cannot be matched. While in the cave, you can hike through the picturesque surroundings and check out the stone engravings and ancient petroglyphs. Note that you will need to join a guided tour to be able to explore this famous cave. Most tours last about an hour and are led by trained biologists that will be able to answer all of your questions about the cave’s natural surroundings and the Taino Indians that used to call it home. Be sure to wear sturdy and closed shoes when embarking on your tour of these caves. The slippery footings can be a bit tricky to navigate.

Luquillo Beach

Escape the bustle of San Juan and its crowded resort beaches by heading to the more remote Luquillo Beach for a day of adventure. Located about 30 miles east of the capital, this beach is best known for its protected coastline that offers the opportunity to swim in a pristine location. The calm seas make Luquillo an ideal destination for a snorkeling outing. The powdery golden sand is perfect for sun-worshippers hoping to work on their tans. Meanwhile, the peaks of the Luquillo Mountain Range provide a stunning backdrop for all of your vacation photos.

The beach area also boasts a variety of food vendors offering local cuisine, including fresh locally caught seafood. The whole family will love a day spent exploring the fun at Luquillo Beach, but keep in mind that you’ll need to pay a nominal fee to visit the beach and use the restroom facilities.

Know of any other awesome things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico? Let us know in the comments!