The major port of entry for Puerto Rico whether by plane or cruise ship is San Juan. The city is rich in history, electric with culture, and an amazing place to start and end a Puerto Rican adventure. Spend a few nights here to explore the fortress, drink rum at distilleries, and dance the night away at salsa clubs.
There is a selection of locally distilled rums which you simply can’t ignore. On top of that, we’d be remiss if we failed to point out the Bacardi Rum factory located just a short drive out of the city. The tour feels like it is produced by a multi-billion-dollar company (because it is) but it’s still worth the sip.
Christopher Columbus arrived at the island in 1493 which began a long history of various countries including France, Netherlands, and Great Britain contending over “ownership” of the land. Spain was the ultimate victor until a revolt in 1868 when the people found some level of independence. In 1898 the U.S.A. acquired the archipelago via the Paris Treaty and has retained it to this day. The characterization of the islands has long been a hot topic with debates on both sides suggesting Puerto Rico should be its own country, or should be recognized as the 51st state. The history here is packed with discovery, travesty (it was a large port during the slave trade), and controversy.
The largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World is the Castillo San Cristóbal and is located at the northeast corner of Puerto Rico. No visit to San Juan is complete without walking through this historic and ancient site. Take your time while walking this attraction and make some quiet time for yourself to imagine what these walls have seen since being built way back in 1783.
San Juan's winter, from December to February, offers warm and pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. It's an ideal time to visit the capital city of Puerto Rico as it allows for enjoyable exploration of its historic sites and vibrant culture. Winter is perfect for strolling through the colorful streets of Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors can admire colonial architecture, visit historic forts like El Morro and San Cristobal, and shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Spring in San Juan, from March to May, brings slightly warmer temperatures with highs in the low to mid-80s Fahrenheit. The city's landscapes remain lush and green from the previous rainy season. Spring is ideal for relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Condado and Isla Verde, known for their soft sand and clear waters. Visitors can also enjoy water activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
San Juan's summer, from June to August, marks the beginning of the rainy season. While it can be hot and humid with temperatures in the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, it also provides a refreshing respite from the dry season. Summer offers opportunities for cultural experiences, as visitors can attend local festivals and events like the San Juan Bautista Day celebrations in June. Summer is also ideal for exploring the Bacardi Distillery, located just outside the city, where visitors can learn about the history of rum-making in Puerto Rico.
Fall in San Juan, from September to November, is the peak of the rainy season. The weather remains warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. Despite the rains, fall is an excellent time to experience the city's vibrant nightlife and dine at its diverse restaurants. Visitors can also take a day trip to El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and a chance to spot unique flora and fauna. Fall is also an ideal time to immerse in Puerto Rican culture by attending music and dance performances in the city's plazas and parks.