Puerto Rico Travel Guide for Adventurous Families
Puerto Rico is the perfect destination for families looking to combine beach time, adventure, and culture — all without needing a passport! It’s a budget friendly option for a tropical vacation. We didn’t get to everything on our list (there’s just so much to do), so we’re already planning a return trip. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, flying kites, or snorkeling in turquoise waters, this guide has you covered.
Check out our trip recap video here.
Things to know before you go:
It is a beautiful island with so much to see & do! Don’t expect to see the whole island in one trip.
Be ready for hot weather — pack sun protection, swimsuits, and lots of water.
Places such as restaurants, shops, activities, & even beaches are closed on random days and often do not have accurate “open hours” online. Made planning hard.
Weather was also unpredictable and the forecasts were pretty much always inaccurate. When planning activities we’d check multiple forecasts to compare, and always had our rain jackets with us so the weather didn’t stop us.
Using a GPS was also sometimes inaccurate and would take us to roads that were closed or blocked off and we’d have to take long detours around.
Beware of flash floods when visiting the river swimming holes. It can be raining in a complete other part of the jungle and the river will change quickly.
You should have no trouble communicating but I always think it is a good idea to learn basic greetings, pleasantries, and phrases in the common local language-it can go a long way!
Beaches & Water Fun
Balneario La Monserrate (Luquillo)
A beautiful, calm beach that’s perfect for little kids — with soft sand and gentle waves. Bonus: amazing local food kiosks nearby where you can grab authentic eats right on the beach!
Playita del Condado
An easy-access snorkeling spot right in San Juan — great for spotting fish and enjoying a relaxed beach day.
Flamenco Beach (Culebra) or Vieques
If you’re up for a day trip or overnight adventure, these are world-famous beaches with white sand and clear blue water. Flamenco is known for its iconic tank on the beach — a hit with kids! Tickets for the ferry sell out, so get them in advance. It is about a mile + walk to the beach (you can’t take cars) so make sure you have a stroller or wagon for younger kids.
Ocean Park
A more laid-back beach near San Juan — great for swimming and people-watching.
Bioluminescent Bay (Fajardo or Vieques)
A must-do magical experience — kayak at night and watch the water light up with glowing organisms. This is unforgettable for kids and adults alike! Check with your guide for age restrictions. (Children under 3yrs weren’t allowed on any).
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
El Yunque National Forest
Take a family-friendly hike to:
Mount Britton Tower — a short (but steep) hike with panoramic views of the rainforest.
El Yunque Peak — for a longer adventure with rewarding vistas!
Hacienda Tinajas (Muddy Hike & Waterfalls)
If your family loves getting muddy and exploring natural pools, this one's for you! Bring water shoes and prepare for some slippery fun. Have cash to pay for parking at the trailhead.
Charco El Hippie (Naguabo)
A beautiful natural swimming hole surrounded by rocks and lush greenery. Great for a cooling dip after a hot day! Have cash to pay for parking at the trailhead.
Las Tinajas Falls
Waterfalls, natural slides, and cliff jumps — perfect for adventurous families with older kids.
Food & Local Flavor
Plaza del Mercado de Fajardo
Stop by for the yummiest fruit smoothies and to pick up some local snacks!
La Estación (Fajardo)
This BBQ joint in a converted gas station serves up some of the best meals on the island — perfect for a family dinner after a day of adventure. We went here twice it was so good.
Piraguas & Street Treats
Don’t miss trying piraguas (Puerto Rican shaved ice) — sold from colorful carts in Old San Juan and around.
Culture & Fun in Old San Juan
Explore Old San Juan
Wander the colorful streets, see historic forts, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It is a very charming city.
Fly kites at El Morro
Bring (or buy) a kite and join the locals flying them on the massive grassy lawn outside Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
