Top 5 Excursions from San Juan, Puerto Rico

The highways of Puerto Rico are a captivating canvas.

The stars of the show are the rolling hills adorned with quaint country homes, the wild horses that roam the forests, and the fishing villages alongside beaches featuring cozy bars by the shore. Adventurous travelers uncover these charming sights when they explore beyond San Juan and delve into the heart of the island.

From Salinas and Ponce to Luquillo, discover Puerto Rico's unfiltered beauty and rich culture with these stunning day trip spots located less than two hours from the capital.

1. Luquillo's stunning beaches are just a short drive from San Juan.

Travel duration: 1 hour

Situated on the eastern coast of the island, enjoy a scenic and straightforward drive from the capital, and Luquillo will soon come into view, inviting you with its turquoise waters and towering palm trees lining the shore.

For tranquil views and soft sands, head to the easily reachable Balneario La Monserrate, commonly known as Luquillo Beach. If you're seeking a more rugged shoreline, continue a bit further to La Pared Beach, popular among surfers chasing thrilling waves.

After a day at the beach, follow the locals to the bustling beachside kiosks for delectable dishes and refreshing drinks. Indulge in fried favorites like alcapurrias (stuffed fritters) and hearty meals such as roasted pork with rice and beans.

Getting to Luquillo from San Juan: Take PR-66 towards Rio Grande, then switch to PR-3 South. The drive takes approximately one hour. Públicos (public minibuses) operate from the Río Piedras terminal in San Juan to Luquillo's central plaza from Monday to Saturday, with travel times ranging from 2½ to 3½ hours, depending on traffic conditions.

2. Immerse yourself in island life on Culebra and Vieques

Travel duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

In simple terms, the islands of Culebra and Vieques epitomize paradise, featuring stretches of pristine ivory sand kissed by tranquil blue waters and narrow dirt roads weaving through lush tropical forests.

No matter if you fly or drive to the ferry, you’ll soon be enchanted by the dazzling white sands of Culebra's Flamenco Beach or Vieques' Navio. However, it’s the warm and welcoming local vibe that will truly leave a mark on your visit—life here is undeniably sunnier, saltier, and more relaxed.

Getting to Culebra and Vieques from San Juan: Catch a quick 30-minute flight from San Juan, or embark on a road trip to Ceiba and experience the local way by taking a 90-minute ferry ride. Arrive early at the terminal to secure your tickets.

3. Discover the coast near the fishing village of Fajardo

Travel duration: 1 hour

Fajardo is the perfect destination for a tropical getaway. Just an hour from San Juan, this fishing town features a stunning beach known as Seven Seas Beach and some of the island's finest arepas rellenas (stuffed white corn bread).

Visit the village of Las Croabas for authentic local cuisine, refreshing drinks, and live music by the sea. If you’re in the mood for adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard at Seven Seas to explore the tranquil coastline. Alternatively, hike to Playa Escondida, a breathtaking hidden beach with views overlooking Luquillo. Fajardo is also home to El Conquistador Resort, arguably the largest and most renowned resort on the island, along with the pristine islands of Icacos and Palomino, accessible only by boat.

Getting to Fajardo from San Juan: Travel east out of San Juan; the drive takes about an hour.

4. Savor Puerto Rico's finest pork dishes in Guavate

Travel duration: 50 minutes

Guavate, nestled in the mountain town of Cayey, is renowned for its famous spit-roasted suckling pig, a true local delicacy. This is not just any dish you can find at any restaurant on the island; many locals believe it's essential to drive to Guavate and indulge along the suckling pig route. Officially known as La Ruta del Lechón 9 (or Carretera 184), this winding rural road in the Central Mountains gained even more fame thanks to visits from celebrity chefs Anthony Bourdain and Andrew Zimmern.

Along this route, food lovers will discover numerous lechoneras (restaurants), including favorites like El Nuevo Rancho, El Mojito, and Los Pinos. The famous roasted pork is typically served with rice, pigeon peas, and a delicious slice of cuerito (pork rind) on the side.

Getting to Guavate from San Juan: Take Expwy 52 to exit 31, situated between Caguas and Cayey. Turn east onto Hwy 184. The trip takes about 50 minutes.

5. Enjoy a scenic drive to Salinas and Ponce

Travel duration: 2 hours

The Luis A. Ferré highway offers a stunning drive that leads to the south of Puerto Rico, traversing ridge after ridge, with the road elevated enough to catch glimpses of the ocean through the mountaintops.

Your first stop will be Salinas, famous for its roadside food kiosks along Hwy 1 and oceanfront seafood restaurants on Camino de Playa (or PR-701). Another must-see is Aguirre, a charming 19th-century sugar mill village now partially in ruins, featuring historic cottages, the island’s oldest golf course, and a natural reserve.

Just 40 minutes away lies Puerto Rico's second-largest city: Ponce. Known as the “Pearl of the South,” Ponce offers a delightful mix of attractions, including coffee plantations like Buena Vista and Pomarrosa, idyllic beaches on nearby islands such as Caja de Muertos, and prestigious art museums.

The historic district of the city showcases numerous architectural wonders: the Ponce Creole style, a distinctive blend of neoclassical and Spanish Creole designs, can be admired in over 1,000 meticulously preserved homes throughout the area. Locals proudly declare that “Ponce is Ponce,” a sentiment visitors often echo.

Getting to Salinas and Ponce from San Juan: Salinas and Ponce are located about 40 minutes apart and under 90 minutes from San Juan. Start your journey on the tolled Hwy 52 from San Juan toward Salinas. Continue on Hwy 52, known as Autopista Luis A. Ferré, to reach Ponce. Note that driving in central Ponce is not advisable.