# West Indies Travel

> Puerto Rico Travel Guide


## Posts

- [Medellín](https://westindiestravel.com/medellin/): Puerto Maldonado, Peru 21 July 2023 I didn’t know that visiting the Amazon was a childhood dream until I found myself walking down a forest trail. Day 1 Corto Maltés Amazonia Nature Walk We departed Cusco at 6:05 am from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. We arrived in Puerto Maldonado at 10:40 am. There was a driver at the airport waiting for us with a sign bearing our names. He took us to the hotel office, where we checked in and had boat transport arranged. The driver took us to a small private dock on the river. After a short […]
- [Puerto Maldonado](https://westindiestravel.com/puerto-maldonado/): Puerto Maldonado, Peru 21 July 2023 I didn’t know that visiting the Amazon was a childhood dream until I found myself walking down a forest trail. Day 1 Corto Maltés Amazonia Nature Walk We departed Cusco at 6:05 am from Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. We arrived in Puerto Maldonado at 10:40 am. There was a driver at the airport waiting for us with a sign bearing our names. He took us to the hotel office, where we checked in and had boat transport arranged. The driver took us to a small private dock on the river. After a short […]
- [Cusco](https://westindiestravel.com/cusco/): Cusco, Peru 16 July 2023 I don’t think I had seen any location on social media as much as I had seen Machu Picchu. It deserves the hype. I was less prepared for how cool Cusco and the surrounding area were. Day 1 – Cusco Twelve Angled Stone Plaza Mayor de Cuzco The previous evening, I boarded the PeruHop bus at 9:30 pm in Puno. We drove through the night to arrive in Cusco at 5:00 am. Indi had departed from Sacramento at 3:20 pm the previous day and arrived in Lima at 7:30 am. From there, she flew to […]
- [Puno](https://westindiestravel.com/puno/): Puno, Peru 15 July 2023 Lake Titicaca is probably most famous for its amazing name. It’s the reason I visited, but it turns out it is cool for other reasons as well. It’s a huge lake covering 3,200 square miles, sitting 12,500 feet above sea level on the border between southern Peru and western Bolivia. There are people who live on floating islands made from the abundant reeds growing in the shallows. Day 1 The previous evening, I boarded the PeruHop bus at 6:00 pm in Nazca. We drove through the night to Arequipa – a 10-hour bus ride. I […]
- [Nazca](https://westindiestravel.com/nazca/): Nazca, Peru 14 July 2023 Seeing the Nazca lines was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. I had learned about the Nazca lines from some documentary when I was a kid. I never imagined I would actually see them. Looking down on the Nazca lines from a small prop plane easily makes it into my top 10 coolest sights. Day 1 The Observation Tower The Nazca Lines I continued my trip through Peru by taking the Peru Hop bus from Huacachina to Nazca. As we drove, the landscape slowly changed. The sand dunes faded away and turned […]
- [Huacachina](https://westindiestravel.com/huacachina/): Huacachina, Peru 13 July 2023 Huacachina is a small oasis town built around a small lake that’s little bigger than a pond. Huacachina sits in the Ica Desert, part of Peru’s vast coastal desert system that stretches along the Pacific. It has a reputation as a party town, but that’s not my scene, so I didn’t go looking. Day 1 We left Paracas and the Pacific coast at around 1:00 p.m. and arrived in Huacachina just after 2:15 p.m. The drive quickly shifted from ocean views to wide, desert landscapes. In the distance, I could see a hazy mountain range […]
- [Paracas](https://westindiestravel.com/paracas/): Paracas, Peru 12 July 2023 Paracas is often called the poor man’s Galapagos. I guess because there are sea lions and sea birds here. I think that whoever coined this term did Paracas a huge favor because there isn’t a lot going on here. Indi and I decided on a Peru trip during one of her term breaks. I was able to leave 5 days before Indi. We set Cusco as our meeting place. I decided to take a bus and make stops along the way. Day 1 Paracas Ballestas Islands After landing in Lima, I was picked up by […]
- [Olympic National Park](https://westindiestravel.com/olympic-national-park/): Olympic National Park 25 May 2025 Olympic National Park was a surprise. It has flown under my radar of American National Parks. I enjoyed it much more than I had anticipated. The rainforest felt old and covered in ferns and moss – quintessential PNW.  Friday, May 24th, we drove from our home in Oregon to Puyallup, Washington, a trip of about two and a half hours. We stayed the night with my brother and his family before heading into Olympic National Park the next morning.   Day 1 Lake Quinault Rainforest Merriman Falls Kalaloch Beach Hoh Rainforest Lake Quinault Rainforest […]
- [Tokyo 2](https://westindiestravel.com/tokyo2/): Tokyo 2 2 December 2025 Tokyo is a special city. Neon lights surround you. There is foot traffic on most any road you walk. There is a store for everything you could want. The food is some of the best in the world. There are so many things to do. I enjoyed my time here even more on my second visit. Day 1 Uogashi Nihon-Ichi Shinjuku Golden Gei Our hostel in Fukuoka was only 15 minutes from the airport, and we had no issues taking the domestic flight to Narita Airport. We took Jetstar, which is a budget airline, so […]
- [Fukuoka](https://westindiestravel.com/fukuoka/): Fukuoka 1 December 2025 Okinawa has been one of my favorite travel destinations to date. Specifically, the Kerama Islands, which are off the coast of the island of Okinawa. The ocean is a beautiful blue, and below the surface, it is full of healthy coral and marine life. We visited one year and a week after our first visit, but this time we got unlucky with the weather. Day 1 Dazaifu Tenmagu Shrine We got off the ferry at 7:30 am. We took a bus toward our hostel, which ended up getting packed. Trying to get off the bus was […]
- [Busan](https://westindiestravel.com/busan/): Busan 30 November 2025 The first thing I noticed upon arriving in Seoul is that everyone is hot. Every single person you see on the street is dressed in smart business casual. It made me feel awful about myself. I realized that my ratty travel clothes were shameful and embarrassing. Halfway through the trip, my self-disgust led me first to a Uniqlo to purchase some passable clothing and then to a medspa to get some work done. Day 1 BIFF Square Gukje Market Daegaksa Temple Busan Tower New Camellia Ferry Indi and Kaitlin had to leave, but the boys weren’t […]
- [Seoul](https://westindiestravel.com/seoul/): Seoul 28 November 2025 The first thing I noticed upon arriving in Seoul is that everyone is hot. Every single person you see on the street is dressed in smart business casual. It made me feel awful about myself. I realized that my ratty travel clothes were shameful and embarrassing. Halfway through the trip, my self-disgust led me first to a Uniqlo to purchase some passable clothing and then to a medspa to get some work done. Day 1 In my last post, I explained that we flew from Okinawa directly to Seoul. We took the train from the airport […]
- [Okinawa 2](https://westindiestravel.com/okinawa2/): Okinawa 2 18 October 2025 Okinawa has been one of my favorite travel destinations to date. Specifically, the Kerama Islands, which are off the coast of the island of Okinawa. The ocean is a beautiful blue, and below the surface, it is full of healthy coral and marine life. We visited one year and a week after our first visit, but this time we got unlucky with the weather. Day 1 – Naha Heiwa Dori Kokusai Dori In the morning, we woke up with plenty of time to get ready and packed before walking 20 minutes to the express train. […]
- [Taipei 2](https://westindiestravel.com/taipei2/): Taipei 2 23 November 2025 We considered taking a cruise for Thanksgiving, but all the flights to Florida were egregiously expensive. I found direct flights from Seattle to Taipei that were cheaper. So, we decided to go to East Asia instead! I don’t have anything against cruises, but this was definitely the right choice. Our friends Kaitlin and Jonny begged to come along. We magnanimously allowed it, this time. This was my second trip to Taipei with Indi.  Day 1 Taipei Tianhou Temple Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Elephant Mountain Yongkang Shopping District Raohe Night Market We were supposed to depart […]
- [Crater Lake National Park](https://westindiestravel.com/crater-lake/): Crater Lake National Park 27 August 2025 Indi and I both have birthdays in August, and we like to go somewhere fun and be outdoors to celebrate. This year, we did an Oregon Coast trip for my birthday. For Indi’s, we did a road trip to California that included a stop at Crater Lake National Park. Day 1 Steel Bay Lookout We left home at 6:00 am and drove directly to the National Park. We had a boat tour scheduled at 3:45 pm and needed to hike down to the water. So, we left early to make sure we’d be […]
- [Oregon Coast](https://westindiestravel.com/oregon-coast/): Oregon Coast 7 August 2025 Even though Indi had only been there a time or two, and I had never been there, we decided to move to the Portland area. The winter was extremely rough, especially after living in Puerto Rico for two years. Blessedly, the sun returned in the spring and strengthened in the summer. We tried to be outside as much as possible. As part of our outdoor initiative, I planned a trip to the Oregon coast. We had a long weekend to see as much as we could. We drove about an hour west until we hit […]
- [Stockholm](https://westindiestravel.com/stockholm/): Stockholm 20 July 2025 Stockholm syndrome hits different. I went to Stockholm because it happened to be the cheapest flight out of Europe that week, so I had no expectations. Now that I have been, let me adjust your expectations appropriately: It’s a lot like Copenhagen. I hope that doesn’t trigger any Swedes or Danes. I know you don’t want to hear it, but it’s true. That being said, Stockholm is great! Day 1 The Royal Palace Stortorget Stockholm Canals Riddarholmen Church The Royal Palace The Royal Palace in Stockholm is the official residence of the Swedish monarch and one […]
- [Copenhagen](https://westindiestravel.com/copenhagen/): Copenhagen 19 July 2025 Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world, and I can see why! The city of Copenhagen is beautiful. In the summer, you can swim in the canals, and they have great hot dogs. I’m not sure what more you need, and it seems that the Danes agree because apparently they’re incredibly happy. Day 1 I flew into Copenhagen from Gdansk for less than $50.00 USD. Europeans (and most of the world) don’t know how good they have it. American airfare is out of control.  I got in at around 11:00 pm and went […]
- [Gdansk](https://westindiestravel.com/gdansk/): Gdansk 17 July 2025 Gdansk is so far my favorite city in Poland. I swam in the Baltic Sea, walked the Old Town, and visited the biggest castle in the world. Day 1 Old Port Crane The Long Market Neptune’s Fountain Town Hall St. Mary’s Church Mariacka Street Motława River Embankment Brzeźno Beach​ I got into Gdansk late at night because my train was delayed. So I only had time to walk from the train station to my hostel in the rain. It wasn’t as miserable as it sounds. There was almost no one in the streets, the buildings were […]
- [Krakow](https://westindiestravel.com/krakow/): Krakow 15 July 2025 Kraków is a city in Poland. That’s all I knew about it before going there. What do I know now that I have been there? Not a whole lot more, if I’m being honest, but I liked it.  Day 1 Rynek Główny Sukiennice Kraków Barbican I flew into Krakow from Prague and made a beeline to the closest pierogi joint which happened to be Przystanek Pierogarnia. I ordered a mix of 10 different pierogis for about $7.50 USD and liked most of them. I don’t drink alcohol; instead, I like trying local colas and other drinks. […]
- [Prague](https://westindiestravel.com/prague/): Prague 13 July 2025 Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic and one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Walking through the pastel-colored, tall, narrow buildings while old trams rattled their way over cobblestone streets reminded me of the movie The Grand Budapest Hotel, although I have not yet been to Austria or Hungary. The city feels old and slightly dilapidated, but infinitely charming. I’ll be coming back to Prague.  Day 1 National Museum Havelské Tržiště​ Prague Astronomical Clock​ Old Town Square​ St. Nicholas Church (Malá Strana) Charles Bridge Old Jewish Quarter – Josefov Prague Castle​ I started the morning […]
- [Edinburgh](https://westindiestravel.com/edinburgh/): Edinburgh & The Highlands 7 July 2025 Edinburgh is Scotland’s charming capital city. Although I haven’t seen too much of Europe, the city felt distinctive and special because of its dramatic architecture. Unlike the pastel-painted plaster facades common in what I have seen of Europe, Edinburgh sports unpretentious, unpainted sandstone on many of her buildings. The impression the architecture made on me landed somewhere between austere medieval and refined Renaissance. It’s easy to see why Edinburgh is such a popular travel destination. In our case, we came to Edinburgh to visit my parents, who have been living there for about […]
- [Kefalonia](https://westindiestravel.com/kefalonia/): Kefalonia 1 July 2025 Kefalonia was a dream. It exceeded my expectations in every way. The food was better, the water clearer, and the towns more charming than expected. The Mediterranean Sea was calm, warm, and had an aura of romance. On our trip we took a ferry to Ithaca. It was an amazing day trip where legends of the island and reality blended to produce one of my favorite travel days ever. Traveling with friends and family is always a blast. On this trip, we were joined by Elyse and Alex, their children Pip and Cyrus, and faithful Poobie, […]
- [Amsterdam](https://westindiestravel.com/amsterdam/): Amsterdam 29 June 2025 We arrived in Amsterdam on a sunny afternoon, the first stop of our Europe trip, and a chance to reunite with family. Elyse, Alex, and the kids—Pip and Cyrus—met us outside the station, and together we set off to explore. We wandered bustling streets, sampled a lemon tart before dropping it on the ground, and took to the canals in a small boat.  Day 1 We arrived in Amsterdam at 1:00 pm. We took a train into town, and the first thing we saw when we exited the station was some kind of protest with people […]
- [Tokyo](https://westindiestravel.com/tokyo/): Tokyo 28 October 2024 Tokyo was a fever dream. We wandered through Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara in a daze. I played retro games in an arcade, ate the best sushi of my life, and sat beside a stranger celebrating his birthday alone with a tonkatsu dinner. Day 1 HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard)​ From Kanazawa, we took the bullet train to Tokyo. It’s an unusual way to approach the famous city, but I enjoyed it. When we arrived, we checked into our hostel, where we left our things, then set out with our only goal being to see the city. HEY […]
- [Kamakura](https://westindiestravel.com/kamakura/): Kamakura 26 October 2024 Kamakura felt like a mix of seaside calm and old Japan. Once the political center of the country during the shogunate era, it’s now known for its temples, shrines, and laid-back coastal vibe. I came for the Great Buddha and the hiking trails through the hills, but the small streets and beach atmosphere made it just as memorable. Day 1 Kotoku-in Temple Hasedera Temple We checked out of our guesthouse at 10:00am. Didn’t see the hosts on the way out. We took the metro to Shibuya station then bought a JR pass to Kamakura. The ride […]
- [Kanazawa & Gokayama](https://westindiestravel.com/kanazawagokayama/): Kanazawa & Gokayama 19 October 2024 Kanazawa surprised me with its mix of samurai history, gardens, and a slower pace compared to Japan’s bigger cities. From there, I headed into the mountains to Gokayama, where steep thatched-roof houses sit quietly in the valleys. The contrast between the city and the remote villages made the trip feel like stepping through different layers of Japan’s past. Day 1 I didn’t wake up until almost 10:00 am. We checked out of the hotel at noon and walked to the bus station to take the bullet train to Kanazawa. The bullet train was more […]
- [Kyoto](https://westindiestravel.com/kyoto/): Kyoto 15 October 2024 Kyoto has a reputation for beautiful temples and atmospheric bamboo forests. It seems that many tourists have heard of the city’s reputation, and Kyoto’s streets are packed full of tourists. It’s a city rich in beauty and history, but you have to work a little to find the quiet moments. Day 1 Nijō Castle​ Kodaiji Park​ Kiyomizu-dera​ Gate We woke up at 6:30 am to get a decently early start to the day. I snoozed the alarm twice, and on the third ring, Indi turned it off. We weren’t out of the house until close to […]
- [Nara](https://westindiestravel.com/nara/): Nara 17 October 2024 Nara was a pleasant surprise. I had rather low expectations, but found that Nara had more to offer than I had thought. Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital. It boasts some truly impressive structures from that period. Foremost among them, Tōdai-ji Temple, which is considered one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Nara is best known for its friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park—considered messengers of the gods in Shinto tradition. They had messages of anger and destruction when we visited. Scattered throughout the nearby hills are centuries-old Shinto shrines like Kasuga Taisha, famous […]
- [Osaka](https://westindiestravel.com/osaka/): Osaka 12 October 2024 Osaka is Japan’s third-largest city and a major economic and cultural hub in the Kansai region. It’s known for its modern architecture, casual street food, and energetic neighborhoods. The city is home to several popular attractions including Osaka Castle, the lively Dotonbori area with its bright neon signs, and Universal Studios Japan. Public transportation is extensive and easy to use, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby cities like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. Osaka is also known for its food, especially local specialties like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). While it’s a large […]
- [Okinawa](https://westindiestravel.com/okinawa/): Okinawa 7 October 2024 Okinawa was our gateway to a slower, more laid-back side of Japan. While the main island has its share of history and city life, we spent most of our time on one of the Kerama Islands, where white sand beaches, clear blue water, and quiet coastal villages made for one of the most pleasant destinations of my life. Day 1 – Naha Naminoue Beach We flew from Taiwan to Nara, Okinawa on a short flight. We took the Skyrail from the airport to a stop relatively close to our hotel. My first impression of Okinawa was […]
- [Taipei](https://westindiestravel.com/taipei/): Taipei 4 October 2024 Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, has a history shaped by indigenous cultures, Chinese rule, and Japanese colonization. It became the island’s political and economic center under Qing and Japanese rule and later served as the seat of the Republic of China’s government after 1949. Today, its landscape reflects centuries of cultural and political change. It has a unique feeling and identity I found utterly charming. Day 1 Ximending Walking District We left Hong Kong at 2:50 PM and landed in Taipei at 4:45 PM. After picking up my checked backpack, we made our way to the […]
- [Hong Kong](https://westindiestravel.com/hong-kong/): Hong Kong 1 October 2024 Hong Kong is a place of extremes. It boasts more skyscrapers than any other city in the world, yet tucked between them are centuries-old temples filled with swirling incense. It’s a city where you can find Michelin-starred dim sum or a cheap bowl of noodles from a humble dai pai dong. It’s also a place where space is a luxury—we quickly learned this when we checked into the smallest hostel we’d ever seen. Towering skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, and a fusion of East and West make Hong Kong something special. Day 1 Cheung Hing Kee Shanghai […]
- [The Gili Islands](https://westindiestravel.com/gili-islands/): The Gili Islands 27 September 2024 The Gili Islands are a trio of small islands off the coast of Lombok. Each island has a reputation. Gili T is the party island, Gili Meno is the quiet honeymoon destination, and Gili Air is something in between. Each boasts white-sand beaches and clear blue water. We visited Gili Air and Gili Trawangan, spending most of our time on the beach or in the water. I took the opportunity to go scuba diving for the first time on our Asia trip. Day 1 – Gili Air When I woke up, I learned that […]
- [Lombok](https://westindiestravel.com/lombok/): Lombok 21 September 2024 Lombok is often overshadowed by its neighbor Bali, but it shouldn’t be! They say Lombok is what Bali used to be 20 years ago. I certainly liked it more than Bali. Beautiful beaches, excellent surfing, green mountains, and island hopping excursions. The laid-back atmosphere of Lombok makes it a refreshing alternative to the overrun tourist hot spot next door. Day 1 – Kuta Tanjung Aan Beach Sunset We flew from Koh Samui, Thailand to Bali, where we spent the night. The next afternoon we returned to the airport to fly to Lombok. You can also take […]
- [Koh Pha Ngan & Koh Tao](https://westindiestravel.com/koh-pha-ngan/): Koh Pha Ngan & Koh Tao 16 September 2024 Koh Pha Ngan is an island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its monthly Full Moon Party at Haad Rin Beach. Beyond its nightlife, the island features dense jungle, waterfalls, and quiet beaches on the north and east coasts. It is accessible by ferry from Koh Samui and the mainland. If you’re planning a visit to Koh Pha Ngan, you’re likely interested in the party. Day 1 Full Moon Party We had mostly rainy days in Thailand, but this day, we were lucky enough to have some decent weather. We […]
- [Koh Samui](https://westindiestravel.com/koh-samui/): Koh Samui 16 September 2024 Koh Samui is Thailand’s second-largest island, located in the Gulf of Thailand. The island has a mix of beaches, resorts, local markets, and cultural sites. Many visitors to the island move on to visit the nearby Ko Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. The most important part of our trip to Koh Samui was meeting up with our friends! We had reunited with Brandon in Krabi, but it was on Koh Samui that Ashley and Jocelyn flew out to meet us. Ashley had a very hectic start to her trip by missing her first flight, but […]
- [Koh Phi Phi](https://westindiestravel.com/koh-phi-phi/): Koh Phi Phi 13 September 2024 Koh Phi Phi is a small island group in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, known for its clear waters, limestone cliffs, and popular beaches. The main island, Phi Phi Don, has accommodations, restaurants, and boat access to nearby attractions. Phi Phi Leh, a smaller uninhabited island, is home to Maya Bay, made famous by the movie The Beach. The islands are accessible by ferry or speedboat from Phuket and Krabi. Day 1 A small bus picked us up from our hotel in the morning, arriving late. It took us to a ferry with incredibly cramped seats […]
- [Krabi](https://westindiestravel.com/krabi/): Krabi 11 September 2024 Krabi, a province in southern Thailand, is known for its limestone cliffs, clear waters, and access to destinations like Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach. There are all kinds of tours that depart from the Aonang area. This area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. Day 1 Railay Beach Ao Nang Beach From Phuket, we took the 3 hour bus ride to Krabi. We chose not to take a boat ride because boat travel can be unpredictable. The boat’s comfort and the ocean’s swell are impossible to predict before […]
- [Phuket](https://westindiestravel.com/phuket/): Phuket 9 September 2024 Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, located in the Andaman Sea. It is a major tourist destination known for its beaches, seafood, and nightlife. We spent our time on beaches, at markets, or walking Phuket Town. Day 1 Kata Noi Beach Kata Beach Night Market We took a Grab to the airport and checked our bags. We had previously packed personal items with all our heavy stuff because there is a 10kg checked bag limit and a 7kg carry-on limit. By an unlikely stroke of luck, each of our checked bags weighed 9kg. We hadn’t bought a […]
- [Georgetown](https://westindiestravel.com/georgetown/): Georgetown 8 September 2024 Georgetown is the capital of Penang, Malaysia, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was established in 1786 as a British trading post. The city is famous for its food scene. Georgetown’s streets are a multicultural mix of restaurants, markets, and temples. We only spent 24 hours exploring the city, but I have fond memories of this special place because we packed so much into the short amount of time we had. Day 1 Little India Fort Cornwallis Penang Hill Food Crawl As always, I booked our bus tickets on 12Go ahead of time. We departed […]
- [Cameron Highlands](https://westindiestravel.com/cameron-highlands/): Cameron Highlands 5 September 2024 Nestled in the Titiwangsa Mountains, Cameron Highlands is Malaysia’s beloved highland retreat, known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and strawberry farms. It became a key tea-growing region and was established as a British colonial hill station in the 1920s. This visit offered us a refreshing break from the tropical heat of most of the region. Besides the climate, we came to the Cameron Highlands for the scenic tea fields and the mossy cloud forests higher in the mountains. Day 1 Walking The City We departed Kuala Lumpur via bus to the Cameron Highlands at […]
- [Kuala Lumpur](https://westindiestravel.com/kuala-lumpur/): Kuala Lumpur 4 September 2024 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s dynamic capital, is a city of contrasts where modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial-era buildings and bustling street markets. Home to nearly 2 million people, it’s the country’s largest city and a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures. The iconic Petronas Towers define its skyline, while vibrant districts like Chinatown and Little India showcase its diversity. KL is also a foodie’s paradise, famous for nasi lemak, satay, and bustling hawker centers. With an efficient public transport system and countless attractions, from the Batu Caves to Merdeka Square, it’s a city that […]
- [Komodo](https://westindiestravel.com/komodo/): Komodo Island Boat Trip 29 August 2024 This Komodo Island 3-day cruise has been the best travel experience of my life to date. There are dozens, maybe hundreds of companies that will take you on this trip. I think any of them will be fine. The location is so spectacular that it’s hard to go wrong. We ended up booking a private charter because I was having a hard time deciding on a company. We had an amazing experience with Lingko Flores. But, like I said before, I don’t know that the company matters all that much. I would be […]
- [Nusa Penida](https://westindiestravel.com/nusa-penida/): Nusa Penida 23 August 2024 Nusa Penida is a rugged paradise a short boat ride from Bali, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen. From the iconic cliffs at Kelingking Beach to the surreal snorkeling at Crystal Bay, Nusa Penida was unforgettable. The roads were rough, the sun was relentless, and the hikes were no joke—but the jaw-dropping views made every challenge worth it.  Day 1 Crystal Bay Kelingking Beach Overlook We got picked up from our Airbnb by a young kid, and he ran into a wall backing out. Bradnon said he dented and scratched the […]
- [Bali](https://westindiestravel.com/bali/): Bali 17 August 2024 Bali, the Island of the Gods, is known for its lush rice terraces, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls in Ubud, surfing in Canggu, or exploring ancient temples, the allure of Bali pulls travelers into her orbit by the millions. Of all the places we visited in Asia, nowhere was half so disappointing as Bali. The rice fields are being paved over for the construction of luxury villas. The price of surf rentals is laughable. The waterfalls, temples, surf line up, beaches, clubs, and roads are packed full of tourists.  The fact […]
- [Malang](https://westindiestravel.com/malang/): Malang 14 August 2024 Located in East Java, Malang is the perfect base for exploring some of Indonesia’s most stunning natural wonders. Foremost among these are Tumpak Sewu Waterfall and Mount Bromo. This leg of our trip ended up being one of the most memorable for me. Malang is a top destination for nature lovers. Day 1 Tumpak Sewu Waterfall Goa Tetes We arrived in Malang at 7:30 am on an overnight train from Yogyakarta. We went directly to our hotel. Again, our Grab driver offered to take us around and gave us his number before dropping us off. We […]
- [Yogyakarta](https://westindiestravel.com/yogyakarta/): Yogyakarta 12 August 2024 Yogyakarta, often called “Jogja,” is a cultural and artistic hub in Central Java, Indonesia. It’s known for its traditional batik, among other cultural practices we didn’t encounter. Yogyakarta is also the gateway to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Borobudur and Prambanan temples.  Day 1 Batik Painting Course Malioboro Street Batik Painting Course On our first day in Yogyakarta, we did a Batik Paining workshop in the afternoon with Batik Painting & Course Batik Kelik. Batik is a traditional textile coloring method that craftsmen would use to make clothes for royalty. Over time, common […]
- [Jakarta](https://westindiestravel.com/jakarta/): Jakarta 11 August 2024 Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is the country’s largest city and economic hub. Taking a taxi through the city for the first time reminded me of the cityscape scene from Ghost in the Shell. The city seems to walk the line between progress and disrepair. It’s full of tall skyscrapers, some new and pristine, others seem to be much older and show signs of premature aging. It’s a surprisingly eclectic city I wish I had more time to explore. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WB-ik-Bpl0c Day 1 Istiqlal Mosque National Monument (Monas) The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Kota […]
- [Siem Reap](https://westindiestravel.com/siem-reap/): Siem Reap 5 August 2024 Siem Reap is home to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, one of the largest and most iconic religious monuments in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site, originally built in the 12th century, is a breathtaking example of classical Khmer architecture. Angkor Wat was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me that I would recommend to anyone. Day 1 Arrival in Siem Reap Pub Street Arrival in Siem Reap We woke up in Chiang Mai and needed to return our scooter before getting a taxi to the airport. We arrived in Bangkok for a connection and got food at […]
- [Chiang Rai](https://westindiestravel.com/chiang-rai/): Chiang Rai 4 August 2024 Chiang Rai, the northernmost city of Thailand, is a hidden treasure filled with culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Home to the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the striking Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), it offers a unique artistic and spiritual experience. Beyond its temples, visitors can explore the Golden Triangle, visit hill tribe villages, or relax by the Kok River. With its laid-back atmosphere, cooler climate, and rich Lanna heritage, Chiang Rai is a perfect destination for those seeking a quieter yet equally fascinating alternative to Chiang Mai. Day 1 Arrival in […]
- [Chiang Mai](https://westindiestravel.com/chiang-mai/): Chiang Mai 1 August 2024 Chiang Mai is often considered Thailand’s cultural and foodie capital. It was once the heart of the ancient Lanna Kingdom so you’ll find centuries-old temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and ancient walls surrounding the Old City. Visitors come for the food, the historic Old City, to take part in traditional festivals like Yi Peng (Lantern Festival), or venture into the surrounding hills for trekking, elephant sanctuaries, and scenic waterfalls. Chiang Mai is home to the famous khao soi dish. Khao Soi originated from the influence of Muslim-Chinese traders who traveled along the Yunnanese trade […]
- [Sukhothai](https://westindiestravel.com/sukhothai/): Sukhothai 30 July 2024 Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the well-preserved ruins of Sukhothai, Thailand’s first capital (13th–15th century). Located in north-central Thailand, it features ancient temples, Buddha statues, and city walls that reflect the golden age of Thai civilization.  Day 1 Arriving in Sukhothai Sukhothai Historical Park Night Market Arriving in Sukhothai From Bangkok, we took a bus north to Sukhothai. We departed from Mo Chit Station. We bought our tickets online from 12Go in advance for about $12 per ticket. The bus was fine and departed on time. We stopped halfway through the trip at a […]
- [Bangkok](https://westindiestravel.com/bangkok/): Bangkok 26 July 2024 Bangkok is where we started our 3 months of travel through Asia. We were so excited to begin the adventure here! Bangkok is the central travel hub of Southeast Asia. Many international flights in the area include a layover in Thailand’s capital. Most travelers spend some amount of time in this city, but many leave after only a day or two. Bangkok is a massive city. It’s the 3rd largest population in Southeast Asia with 9 million people. The traveler with a few days to spare can only begin to scratch the surface of what this […]

## Pages

- [Patillas Infinity Pool](https://westindiestravel.com/patillas-infinity-pool/): Patillas Infinity Pool  3.5/5 Location: Patillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour and 15 minutes south to Carite State Forest. The drive is beautiful and winding. There is a parking lot on the side of the road here for Charco Azul. You can also park on the left side of the road here to be closer to the trailhead. Hop over the metal guardrails and look for the trailhead here. There are no signs or useful landmarks other than it’s close to where the road curves. The hike is muddy and slippery. I attempted to stay out of […]
- [Travel Blog](https://westindiestravel.com/travel-blog/): Travel Blog The world is wider than the island of Puerto Rico. I love discovering some of her many wonders for myself. To be made small by her scale and splendor. I’ve seen much less than there is to see, but hope always to see more. Tokyo, Japan (2) December 2025 One of my favorite cities in the world. Go! Fukuoka, Japan December 2025 A slightly dramatized near-death experience and tonkatsu ramen. Go! Busan, South Korea November 2025 Great Korean food and the ferry ride of a lifetime. Go! Seoul, South Korea November 2025 I’m so happeh, I love K […]
- [Gozalandia Waterfall](https://westindiestravel.com/gozalandia-waterfall/): Gozalandia Waterfall  4/5 Location: San Sebastián Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes to the western interior of the island in San Sebastián. Getting to the waterfall is straightforward until you reach the parking lot. To get to the lot you have to go up an extremely steep but short section of road. I couldn’t make it up in my car with the road wet. We ended up parking at the bottom of the road and walked up it. It doesn’t add much of a walk and since we didn’t use the parking lot we got in […]
- [Scuba Diving](https://westindiestravel.com/scuba-diving/): Scuba Diving Puerto Rico may not be known as a world-class diving destination, but it does have a handful of dives worth your time. I have not dived at every location but I have had some great scuba experiences and have friends that have as well. In general, reefs in the Caribbean are in rough shape. Soft coral is more abundant than hard coral. You will tend to see the same cast of tropical fish in most locations, though some dive sites are better than others when it comes to marine life. There are more dive locations than I have […]
- [Blue Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/blue-beach/): Blue Beach  1/5 Location: Luquillo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes east to Luquillo. I am not totally sure where the best place to park is located. You can park at the nearby stores and walk from any parking spot you can find down the road to the water. There may be better spots available that I am unaware of. Things to do: Relax in the shallows – the water may be calm enough to hang out in the shallow in the calmer summer months. Body surf – In the transition months of the spring and fall you may be able to find […]
- [Colora Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/colora-beach/): Colora Beach  0.5/5 Location: Fajardo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour east. That’s right! You finally get to drive east for a change. Park on the street somewhere around here, or in the parking lot if the free street parking is full. Walk to the beach (Seven Seas Beach), then walk down it to a point where you’ll start on a trail through the forest here. Follow the signs but when it doubt, stay left. The hike from Seven Seas Beach to Colora takes around 15-20 min each way. Things to do: Sunbathe – Since there are often waves at this beach, it is […]
- [Punta Bandera Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/puntabanderabeach/): Punta Bandera Beach  2/5 Location: Luquillo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes east to Luquillo. There are two ways you can get to this beach: You can park at Luquillo beach and walk all the way down it until it ends at this beach or park near Blue Beach and walk from any parking spot you can find at the nearby stores. Things to do: Relax in the shallows – the water is totally calm and shallow. The sandy bottom turns into seagrass after a few feet so sitting in the shallow is your only option. Walk the beach […]
- [Barreal Waterfall](https://westindiestravel.com/barreal-waterfall/): Barreal Waterfall  3.5/5 Location: Peñuelas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 45 minutes south to the lesser-visited municipality of Peñuelas. Park on the road near this man’s house making sure not to obstruct his driveway. The hike takes a little over an hour to reach the waterfall. Make sure your phone is charged to navigate in the general direction of the falls. There will occasionally be other trails leading in different directions but generally, the trail is well marked. You will cross the river twice, so hiking sandals or water shoes are good to have.  Things to do: Bird […]
- [Packing List](https://westindiestravel.com/packing-list/): Packing List I often get the question: “When I visit, what should I bring?” The question is nearly existential because everyone travels differently, but I have done my best to assemble a robust packing list. The links I have included via Amazon are affiliate links. I’d appreciate your support of the website by using them to make purchases. Item List Suggestions Backpack What size backpack you’ll need depends on the length of your trip. I highly recommend traveling with a carry-on bag instead of a checked bag. That way you are more mobile and there is no chance of your […]
- [Los Picachos](https://westindiestravel.com/los-picachos/): Los Picachos  4/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. You’ll drive all the way to the end of the recreation corridor, taking a one-way road that will take you to the trailhead. […]
- [Juan Diego Falls](https://westindiestravel.com/juan-diego-falls/): Juan Diego Falls  4/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. Like all trails in the El Yunque recreation corridor, the trails are well-marked. You’ll see the trailhead on your right. You can […]
- [Roca El Yunque](https://westindiestravel.com/roca-el-yunque/): Roca El Yunque  5/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. You’ll drive all the way to the end of the recreation corridor, taking a one-way road that will lead you to the […]
- [El Yunque Peak](https://westindiestravel.com/el-yunque-peak/): El Yunque Peak  5/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. You’ll drive all the way to the end of the recreation corridor, taking a one-way road that will take you to the […]
- [Britton Tower](https://westindiestravel.com/britton-tower/): Britton Tower  5/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. You’ll drive all the way to the end of the recreation corridor, taking a one-way road that will take you to the trailhead. […]
- [Playita Barceloneta](https://westindiestravel.com/playita-barceloneta/): Playita Barceloneta  1.5/5 Location: Barceloneta Getting there: From San Juan, drive about an hour west to Barceloneta. You can park right on the sand or on the other side of the road. Things to do: Relax in the natural pool – The water is quite shallow so really the only thing to do at this beach is chill in the water and look out at the Atlantic ocean. There are two pools, the pool on the right (facing the ocean) has less rock in it.  Heads up: Conditions like strong surf or high/low tide may change these natural pools. Pros Protected […]
- [San Cristóbal Lookout](https://westindiestravel.com/san-cristobal-lookout/): San Cristóbal Canyon Lookout  3/5 Location: Barranquitas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 20 minutes southwest to the biggest canyon in all of the Caribbean. Start the approximately three-mile hike from this trailhead. Stay on the large main trail until it gets smaller and heads into the forest, the trail ends at a lookout point in front of the waterfall pictured above. There are many smaller trails forking off from the main trail along the way, I have no idea where most of these go. Things to do: Hike – If you take this trail, there’s not much to do besides […]
- [La Esperanza Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/la-esperanza-beach/): La Esperanza Beach  2/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes west to Manatí. Park here and walk about 15 minutes to get to the sand. The dirt road will lead you to the beach. Things to do: Relax in the natural pool – This natural pool is calm because of the rocks that line the shore. The water is very shallow and the bottom is mostly sandy. Snorkeling – It’s possible to swim out past the shallow section and see a decent variety of tropical fish swimming through the rocky seascape. No one is going to call it […]
- [FAQ](https://westindiestravel.com/faq/): FAQ When is the best time to visit Puerto Rico? There is not truly a “best time”. The summer has warmer, calmer water that is great for snorkeling or relaxing in the shallows. It can get really hot, though. The winter has bigger waves for surfing and the temperature is cooler, especially at night. Does Puerto Rico have a rainy season? Technically, yes. They say it’s May through November. August is historically the rainiest month. In my experience, it can and does rain sporadically any month and the weather changes fast. My advice would be not to plan around the […]
- [Rock Climbing](https://westindiestravel.com/rock-climbing/): Rock Climbing You may be surprised to hear that Puerto Rico has excellent rock climbing and enormous potential for future rock climbing development. The majority of the developed crags are limestone, but not all. There are bouldering locations, deep water solos, multi-pitch climbs, and hundreds of sport routes. Some of the locations have incredible views of the ocean or mountains. I am not an expert climber. Climbing is one of the many hobbies I enjoy, using mediocre skills at best. These days, I am most comfortable on the easiest climbs (5.7 – 5.9 sport lead), just enjoying the beauty of […]
- [Tamarindo Grande Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/tamarindo-grande-beach/): Tamarindo Grande Beach  3/5 Location: Culebra Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. When you arrive on Culebra, take a taxi to Flamenco Beach. There will be many vans at the ferry terminal all headed there with a fixed price of $5.00 each way. You’ll be dropped off at an entrance point which is private property and you’ll need to pay $2.00 to get in. From there you can walk 20 minutes down a dirt road in the parking lot to the beach. If you rent a vehicle, you can also park here and walk the rest of the way. Things […]
- [Media Luna Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/media-luna-beach/): Media Luna Beach  1.5/5 Location: Vieques Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. When you arrive on Vieques, you’ll need to rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive around 20 minutes to get there. Enter through the paid entrance to Sun Bay Beach ($4.00), and drive down the dirt road that runs along the mile-long beach until the road curves left into the forest. Then follow the road right at the fork to Media Luna Beach. The road to the left will take you to the bioluminescent bay. Things to do: Relax in the […]
- [Navio Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/navio-beach/): Navio Beach  4.5/5 Location: Vieques Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. When you arrive on Vieques, you’ll need to rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive around 25 minutes to get there. Getting there isn’t easy, a vehicle with some clearance is required as the unpaved road that leads to the beach is pretty rough. We drove there in a UTV without any problem. Enter through the paid entrance to Sun Bay Beach ($4.00), and drive down the dirt road that runs along the mile-long beach until the road curves left into the […]
- [Pine Grove Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/pine-grove-beach/): Pine Grove Beach  1.5/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: 10 minutes away from Condado is the Carolina coastline.  Park on this street if there is room. If not, (and there is a really good chance that there won’t be) you’ll need to park on the main road as close as you can get (cars start parking here). General Info: This is a good place to learn if there are any waves. The water is very shallow and the bottom is mostly sandy. The problem tends to be that the surf is flat or very low. Those that are learning to […]
- [Condado Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/condado-beach/): condado Beach  1/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: There are paid parking lots all over. I parked in this lot and walked there, though it’s certainly not the closest parking lot. This lot is much closer. Things to do: Lay out – There are umbrellas and chairs for rent (or possibly just for hotels guests?), and natural shade available depending on the time of day. Get in the water – You can get in the water, but shore break waves are common year-round. Heads up: I hate the parking lot I parked in, it’s given me trouble both times I have […]
- [The Last Trolley Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/the-last-trolley-beach/): The Last Trolley Beach  1/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: There is plenty of free parking next to the beach, the closest of which is here and here.  Things to do: The main thing to do is to lay out on the beach, or relax on the sand. You can get in the water, but it’s not often calm.  Heads up: This beach will have more to do when the park behind it reopens after construction is complete. Pros Located in the popular Ocean Park area. One of the best beach names on the island. It sounds poetic and wistful, I love it. Cons Very windy. […]
- [Playita del Condado](https://westindiestravel.com/playita-del-condado/): Playita del condado  2/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: There are paid parking lots all over. I parked in this lot and walked there. There may be one or two that are slightly closer. Things to do: Relax in the water – The water is totally calm but the bottom is pretty rocky. Lay out – There are umbrellas and chairs for rent (or possibly just for hotels guests?), and some natural shade available. Snorkel – There is an area marked by ropes and buoys where you can swim or snorkel. There is pretty much just sea grass. You may […]
- [Rompeolas Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/rompeolas-beach/): Rompeolas Beach  2.5/5 Location: Aguadilla Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes west to Aguadilla. There is a lare sand parking lot where you’ll see trailers and trucks parked from launching boats. You can park here, just ensure, you aren’t taking one of the big spots intended for boaters. Things to do: Relax – The water is totally calm at this beach, and the bottom is sandy (there are some rocks in the shallow, but not further out). Whale watch – Aguadilla is a good place in general to go whale watching from January – March, but I […]
- [Caracoles Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/caracoles-beach/): Caracoles Beach  3/5 Location: Arecibo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour west to Arecibo. There are homes or business covering much of the coastline, so finding the entrance to the beach is tricky. Luckily, there is an excellent milestone to look for: a massive statue. Once you are just about even with it, find a place to park. There is room right next to the entrance, in front of an abandoned white building. If you are facing the building, walk to your right until you see a path leading through a side yard. That trail will lead you […]
- [Carlos Rosario Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/carlos-rosario-beach/): Carlos Rosario Beach  3.5/5 Location: Culebra Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. When you arrive on Culebra, take a taxi to Flamenco Beach. There will be many vans at the ferry terminal all headed there with a fixed price of $5.00 each way. You’ll be dropped off at an entrance point which is private property and you’ll need to pay $2.00 to get in. From there you can walk 20 minutes down a dirt road in the parking lot to the beach. If you rent a UTV, you can drive there instead. Things to do: Snorkel – the main […]
- [Puerto Rico Art Museum](https://westindiestravel.com/puerto-rico-art-museum/): Puerto Rico Art Museum  3.5/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: This museum is located squarely in Santurce. I parked in a paid parking structure right next to the museum and walked to the main entrance. I believe the museum has parking on site somewhere, though I don’t know where it is. General Info: You’ll pay at a booth near the front door and then choose which hallway to walk down first. You can check out their website to see which temporary exhibit is running. Admission costs $12.00 ($9.00 for residents). I think the price of admission is well worth it, as […]
- [Museum of the Americas](https://westindiestravel.com/museum-of-the-americas/): Museum of the Americas  2.5/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: This museum is located close to El Morro. Park here in Old San Juan. When you leave the parking structure, walk to the road and then down it towards El Morro. You’ll walk along the building and cross through a plaza that faces El Morro. The building is the one pictured above to the left. The museum is on the second floor. General Info: You’ll pay at a small outdoor ticket stand and they’ll suggest which rooms to visit in which order. This must be the most frequently visited museum in Puerto […]
- [Puerto Rico Contemporary Art Museum](https://westindiestravel.com/puerto-rico-contemporary-art-museum/): Contemporary Art Museum  0.5/5 Location: San Juan Getting there: This art museum is located in Santurce. There is plenty of free parking in a dirt lot in front of the building. General Info: To see what the museum is exhibiting now, check out their website. Admission costs less for Puerto Rico residents. There is a gift shop where you pay the entrance fee. Heads up: I was not a fan of what was on exhibit when I visited, but perhaps I have a plebeian taste. It was hot in the courtyard and there were a lot of mosquitoes. I fast-walked […]
- [Parque de Bombas](https://westindiestravel.com/parque-de-bombas/): Parque de Bombas  2.5/5 Location: Ponce Getting there: Drive 1 hour 30 minutes south to the “gem of the south”, Ponce. The Parque de Bombas sits on the corner of Ponce’s main plaza. I found parking on one of the nearby side roads, but it wasn’t easy. General Info: This building was Puerto Rico’s first fire station. It has been converted into a small museum. It won’t take you long to see the building, or walk the museum if you decide to pay to walk around the open interior of the historic building. Heads up: The museum is rather small, so […]
- [Porta Coeli Convent](https://westindiestravel.com/porta-coeli-convent/): Porta Coeli Convent  2.5/5 Location: San Germán Getting there: Drive 2 hours 15 minutes south west to the small colonial town of San Germán. the convent and chapel are right next to the main plaza. There is very little parking around the plaza, so you’ll likely need to drive around the side roads to find a place to park. Walking between the colonial era structures is fun.  General Info: This is a spot most visitors likely do not reach. If you are on the west side, I think this small town is worth a visit for it’s charming plaza that […]
- [El Morro](https://westindiestravel.com/el-morro/): El Morro  4/5 Location: Old San Juan Getting there: Park here to start right next to El Morro. When you leave the parking structure and walk to the road, El Morro will be in sight. The walk there is totally unshaded and can be very hot in the heat of the day. Entrance costs $10 per adult and is free for National Park passholders. General Info: This must be the single most visited location in all of Puerto Rico, though El Yunque National Forest is likely a close second. Expect a lot of visitors there with you. The upside is that the fort […]
- [Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center](https://westindiestravel.com/caguana-ceremonial-indigenous-heritage-center/): CAGUANA CEREMONIAL INDIGENOUS HERITAGE CENTER  2.5/5 Location: Utuado Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 45 minutes to the center of the island, in Utuado. The site is not far from the town of Utuado. You’ll pull off the road into a parking lot where you’ll need to pay for entry. General Info: I have heard that this site is most commonly visited by school children visiting on field trips to learn about the Taíno. There isn’t too much to see here, but if you are in the area, I think it’s worth a stop. You’ll walk down from the […]
- [San Lorenzo Petroglyphs](https://westindiestravel.com/san-lorenzo-petroglyphs/): San Lorenzo Petroglyphs  3/5 Location: San Lorenzo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes south to the rural town of San Lorenzo. Park at this day use area and walk up river, or find a place to park on the 181 and walk between these two houses here and walk down river. Either way, you’ll be walking through shallow water, but you won’t need to swim. Look for a group of large boulders. in the middle of the river.  General Info: This site is not commonly visited. I was the only one there when I went and I think there’s a high chance you’ll find […]
- [Cueva del Indio](https://westindiestravel.com/cueva-del-indio/): Cueva del Indio  3.5/5 Location: Arecibo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour to the north coast municipality of Arecibo. You’ll get off the freeway and drive along the coast. To your left you’ll see a massive statue looming large over the tree line. Once you pass the statue of Christopher Colombus the dirt parking lot for the cave won’t be much further. The plot of land that surrounds the cave is privately owned, so to get to it, you’ll need to pay them $10 per person to walk there. I recently learned that there is a way to […]
- [Inches Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/inches-beach/): Inches Beach  3/5 Location: Patillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes south to Patillas on the south coast. Parking is scarce. You’ll park on the side of the road closest to the water right in front of the pebble beach. General Info: I love surfing here. The waves here are always small but clean. 2-3 feet is as big as I have seen it. The paddle back out is smooth and easy. There are usually two waves, one close to the coral and one a little further from it but nearby. The latter breaking less frequently. […]
- [Wilderness Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/wilderness-beach/): Wilderness Beach  3/5 Location: Aguadilla Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours 15 minutes west to a remote beach down a dirt road in what was formerly a U.S. Air Force base. The condition of the road varies with the amount of recent rainfall. In general, most cars can make it. Stop when you reach a kind of parking lot with a bench. There will likely be cars there. General Info: If you are looking for seriously big waves, come here in the winter. I’ve caught some good waves here but probably won’t come back after my last experience […]
- [María Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/maria-beach/): María Beach  3/5 Location: Rincón Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours west to the sleepy beach town of Rincón. You’ll park in a gravel lot not far from the lighthouse. A small wooden boardwalk leads to the sand. General Info: This is one of the best surf spots in Puerto Rico and absolutely worth visiting. There were great rights and lefts when I went. I came here after I found a large crowd at Domes and was met with less than a dozen people surfing. There are multiple breaks so it never felt too crowded. The paddle out […]
- [Vieques Sugar Mill Ruins](https://westindiestravel.com/vieques-sugar-mill-ruins/): Vieques Sugar Mill Ruins  1/5 Location: Vieques Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. When you arrive on Vieques, you’ll need to rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive 20 minutes to get there. The drive is quite nice. Once you turn inland, you won’t see many cars. Park right in front of the structure picture above. General Info: This is a relatively short trail around the ruins of a sugar mill. The only standing building is the one pictured. The rest are what is left of the different facilities. Inside the building we saw either […]
- [Segunda Laguna Maccutto Trail](https://westindiestravel.com/segunda-laguna-maccutto-trail/): Segunda Laguna Maccutto Trail  1/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive approximately 40 minutes west to Manatí. You can start the trail from either side, but to be closer to the spring and cave, use the pin listed above. General Info: This is a common mountain biking trail, so you might need to make way for riders. You can take a short, mellow hike to a spring, or continue further to a cave. There are sections with shade, but the further you get, the less shade you’ll find on the trail. You can also follow the first fork […]
- [Julio Enrique Monagas National Park](https://westindiestravel.com/julio-enrique-monagas-national-park/): JULIO ENRIQUE MONAGAS NATIONAL PARK​  1.5/5 Location: Bayamón Getting there: From San Juan, drive 12 minutes west to Bayamón. Just before you arrive at a women’s prison, turn left into a parking lot. There will be a security booth with a guard manning the station during business hours, usually. Sometime they charge and sometimes thy don’t, I don’t really get it. Skip the first lot and park in the second further down the road and to the right, if there is room. The trailhead starts there.  General Info: After you start on the trail, there are many different paths you […]
- [Los Morrillos Trail](https://westindiestravel.com/los-morrillos-trail/): Los Morrillos Trail  2/5 Location: Cabo Rojo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours 30 minutes to the south western tip of the island in Cabo Rojo. You can drive along the north or south coast to get there. The road to get to this trailhead passes through the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge and is not well maintained. A car with some clearance will come in handy. After very heavy rains the road may become so muddy as to be impassible. Park here, to the right of the gate is the trailhead for the full scenic loop.  General Info: The […]
- [Las Golondrinas Hiking](https://westindiestravel.com/las-golondrinas-hiking/): Las Golondrnas  2/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes west to Manatí. Park on the left side of the road about here. This road can get full on weekends, so arrive early. There is an old man who for years has guarded the cars on this road that is prone to break-ins. He works for tips. Walk towards the sand at the end of the road. The hike is short and fun, but not an entirely obvious route. Stay right and navigate towards here with Google Maps, it should take about 10 min each way. Or, walk behind the houses and follow […]
- [Guyanes Dry Forest](https://westindiestravel.com/guyanes-dry-forest/): Guyanes Dry Forest  2/5 Location: Humacao Getting there: Drive for approximately 45 minutes from San Juan to the east coast in Humacao.To get to the trails here you’ll need to enter the Palmas del Mar gated community, tell them you are going to the beach. Park here. There are many trails snaking through this forest and there may be other and better ways to enter but this is the one I know.  General Info: There are multiple hike you can do here. I enjoyed hiking to Punta Icacos (pictured) and swimming to the nearby Secret Beach. When the water is calm you […]
- [Angelito Trail](https://westindiestravel.com/angelito-trail/): Angelito Trail  2/5 Location: Luquillo Getting there: Drive for approximately 45 minutes from San Juan to the northern area of El Yunque National forest. You’ll cross the popular Puente Roto, where you can stop to get in the water. Not far down the road, you’ll park near the trailhead. General Info: This is an easy 0.8 mile out and back hike (0.4 each way) to the Mameyes River. The trail is mostly flat and rocky, but can get muddy. It is almost entirely shaded. The trail ends at the river, where you can get in the water. The river […]
- [Puerto Hermina Hiking](https://westindiestravel.com/puerto-hermina-hiking/): Puerto Hermina  2.5/5 Location: Quebradillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes west to Quebradillas. You’ll drive down a steep hill with a couple switchbacks which gives you a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. Drive along the beach and park on the right, to be closest to the beach, park at the end of the road. Follow the cement path to the sand. Follow the sand away from the water, into the forest. General info: Follow the main trail. I am not sure where the smaller trails that diverge from the main path lead. I have heard […]
- [Fuerte Caprón](https://westindiestravel.com/fuerte-capron/): Fuerte Caprón  2.5/5 Location: Guánica Getting there: Drive for approximately 2 hours from San Juan to the southern coast in Guánica. Park off the side of the road, right next to the trailhead. Make sure to use the trail pin. If you use the pin of the tower itself, it will take you to a different trailhead on the other side of the forest. That trail is 3 miles each way. Driving down the 333 you’ll see a sign for Jaboncillo Beach on the right and then a sign shortly after for Fuerte Caprón on the left. General Info: This […]
- [Cerro Punta](https://westindiestravel.com/cerro-punta/): Cerro Punta  3/5 Location: Jayuya Getting there: Drive for 2 hours from San Juan to get to the bottom of the poorly paved road that leads to the top of the mountain. The hike up the road isn’t too bad, but it is steep. It will take you 20-30min. You’ll reach radio antennas on the top. You can go a little higher. Look for the sign that says “Cerro Punta” on a wall. To the right are some stairs. They were overgrown with grass and difficult to see when I went. General Info: This is the tallest peak in Puerto Rico […]
- [Naguabo Infinity Pool](https://westindiestravel.com/naguabo-infinity-pool/): Naguabo Infinity Pool  3/5 Location: Naguabo, El Yunque National Forest Getting there: Drive for 45 minutes from San Juan to get to the trailhead on the south side of El Yunque National Forest. Start at the Sabana River Recreation Area. Look for a chain link fence surrounding a small structure I assume is infrastructure for the dam. To the left of it you’ll find a trail. You’ll walk on a metal walkway for a ways before you start on the dirt trail. General Info: This is a challenging 3.7 mile out and back hike with a 744 ft elevation gain. […]
- [El Toro Trail](https://westindiestravel.com/el-toro-trail/): El Toro Trail  3.5/5 Location: Canóvanas Getting there: Drive for 45 minutes from San Juan to get to the El Toro trailhead on the west side of El Yunque National Forest. Park next to a US Forest Service sign and cross the road. You’ll see an trailhead information sign at the start of the trail. You’ll climb steadily uphill until you get to the peak.  General Info: This is a challenging 4.9 mile out and back hike with a 1,325 ft elevation gain. Alltrails claims this hike takes less than 3 hours to complete, on average. I think that needs […]
- [Camuy River Caves National Park](https://westindiestravel.com/camuy-river-caves-national-park/): CAMUY RIVER CAVES NATIONAL PARK​  3.5/5 Location: Camuy, Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy Getting there: Drive for 1 hour 15 minutes from San Juan to get to the main entrance to the caves. There’s a large parking lot near the facilities. Buy your ticket at the booth and wait for your tour time to be called by a guide who will show you where to go. The hike down takes around 20 minutes and you’ll go as a group. On the way up, your on your own and it will take longer than 20 minutes. Bringing […]
- [Hiking in El Yunque](https://westindiestravel.com/el-yunque-hiking/): Hiking in El Yunque  5/5 Location: Río Grande Getting there: Drive a little under an hour from San Juan to get to the entrance of El Yunque National Forest. Having your own car is ideal, but you can also book a tour. Reservations used to be required to enter this area of the forest, but that is no longer the case. They only let in 200 cars at a time, so getting there early is a good idea. General Info: There are two main popular hikes in El Yunque, first hike you’ll encounter is Juan Diego Falls. It’s more of […]
- [La Parguera Bio Bay](https://westindiestravel.com/la-parguera-bio-bay/): La Parguera Bio Bay  2/5 Location: Lajas (The picture above was taken at the La Parguera Nature Reserve, near the bio bay.) Getting there: Drive just over two hours from San Juan to Lajas on the southwestern coast. Park in the free lot near the tour agency booths. There are a bunch of booths, some of which are tour agencies. We bought tickets at a stand alone booth with big signs, then walked over to a dock to depart. I haven’t been in some time but I believe the price was less than $20 per person. General Info: The boat that […]
- [Laguna Grande](https://westindiestravel.com/laguna-grande/): Laguna Grande  4/5 Location: Fajardo Getting there: Drive just over an hour from San Juan to Fajardo at the northeastern tip of the island. Park here. There are a bunch of booths full of tour agencies that will take you on a tour of the bio bay. It may also be possible to rent kayaks hourly. There is a boat tour available for those that don’t want to paddle. If you have your own water craft, this is still the best place to park. Walk to the water and enter a channel about here. You’ll have a rather long […]
- [Mosquito Bay](https://westindiestravel.com/mosquito-bay/): Mosquito Bay  5/5 Location: Vieques Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. To get there, rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive 25 minutes to get to the launch point. You’ll turn off the main road and drive down a rough dirt road for a ways. You really need a UTV or something like it to make it there. Park here. You’ll have to wade through some really gross mud to get to the water. General Info: The bay is quite large, but if you are up for it, I suggest crossing the bay. The […]
- [Ojo de Agua Spring](https://westindiestravel.com/ojo-de-agua-spring/): Ojo de Agua Spring  2.5/5 Location: Vega Baja Getting there: From San Juan, drive 40 minutes west to the municipality of Vega Baja. The pin will take you directly to the spring. Park somewhere in the surrounding neighborhood. Make sure you aren’t blocking anything, the parking is a little cramped. You may need to walk a ways from where you park to the spring. General Info: This spring is the largest of all the springs in Puerto Rico, by my estimation. It is also smack-dab in the middle of a random neighborhood. There is plenty of space to take a […]
- [Guayaney Spring](https://westindiestravel.com/guayaney-spring/): GuAyaney Spring  3/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes west to the municipality of Manatí. The parking is a little tricky, there is a city ordinance making it illegal to park in all the closest spots. We parked on a side road a short walk from the trailhead. I believe there are a couple different spots to get on the trail, one is here. Finding the spring isn’t as easy as I had thought it would be. We passed and walked around 15 minutes too far. Take a left at the first fork and walk for […]
- [Zanja Fría](https://westindiestravel.com/zanja-fria/): Zanja Fría  3/5 Location: Arecibo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour west to the municipality of Arecibo. The pin will take you to a manned gate, I am not sure why it is there or what they are guarding. Park outside of it, here. Walk down the road until you see the sign for the trailhead on your left. The trail is flat and takes about 10 minutes or less each way. General Info: This spring is relatively large with enough room for a few groups to share the spot. There is a large pipe underwater that you can […]
- [Tortugero Spring](https://westindiestravel.com/tortugero-spring/): Tortugero Spring  3/5 Location: Vega Baja Getting there: From San Juan, drive 40 minutes west to the municipality of Vega Baja. You’ll turn down a narrow dirt road that will take you to a small dirt parking lot in front of the spring. The road is very narrow and I was concerned the whole time about meeting with another car coming the opposite direction. When I was leaving I saw some people who decided to park at the main road and walk the dirt road to get there. General Info: The first thing you’ll notice is a really ugly play […]
- [Coamo Hot Springs](https://westindiestravel.com/coamo-hot-springs/): Coamo Hot Springs  4/5 Location: Coamo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 20 minutes south to the southern city of Coamo. You’ll drive through a nice residential neighborhood until the street dead ends at the hot spring facilities. Park your car on the road. General Info: The facility is open from 6:00am to 9:00pm. An employee will greet you and check you in at the entrance. They’ll direct you to the shop to pay the entrance fee – $5.00 per person ($3.50 for residents). They encourage guests to speak softly. It’s a genuinely relaxing experience. Heads up: You’ll overheat in either […]
- [Salinas Keys Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/salinas-keys-snorkeling/): Salinas Keys  1/5 Location: There are many keys, but we anchored at Cayo Palmas specifically (pictured above). Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour south until you hit the coast in the municipality of Guayama. We parked and launched the boat at this free boat ramp. The boat ride to Cayo Palmas was about 20 minutes each way. What to look for: I saw more lobsters here than anywhere else, and I tend to look around for them. I caught one lobster but returned him after a photo. There are fish around the mangroves and swimming around the channel. […]
- [Mar Chiquita Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/mar-chiquita-beach-snorkeling/): Mar Chiquita Beach  1/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes west to Manatí. Park in the sand lot but be wary of areas with deep sand, people get stuck. You’ll be able to tell where it is deeper.  Things to do: There’s not a whole lot to see, but you will see some fish. I saw a baby squid, and a large barracuda when I left the pool area through the channel on a calm day. Heads up: Be careful when entering the water in the rocky areas, there are sea urchins. Do not snorkel out of the […]
- [Cayo Icacos Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/cayo-icacos-snorkeling/): Cayo Icacos  1/5 Location: Icacos Key  Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour to Fajardo. From there, take a water taxi to the nearby key. The boat ride should take 20-30 minutes and cost $50 – $100 per person. You’ll have five hours on the key. Alternatively you can take a “mini-boat” tour where you captain your own dinghy to the island. I thought it was fun, but scarier than expected with the size of the swell in the small boats. Do this only if that kind of adventure sounds fun to you, the journey takes much longer […]
- [Los Tubos Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/los-tubos-beach-snorkeling/): Los Tubos Beach  1/5 Location: Manatí Getting there: From San Juan, drive 40 minutes west to Manatí. You can park along the road close to the ocean in many small turnouts. The area where most people go is near a boat ramp on the eastern side of the beach. There is a parking lot here. Much of the shoreline is rocky but if you look around you’ll see sandy spots. What to look for: Near the boat ramp there is fresh water flowing into the ocean which makes the top layer hazy where the fresh and salt waters mix. There are […]
- [Peña Blanca Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/pena-blanca-beach-snorkeling/): Peña Blanca Beach  1.5/5 Location: Aguadilla Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes west until you reach the west coast of the island. Drive through a neighborhood until you get to a dead end. The trail down to the beach is at that dead end. Just before the dead end is a dirt lot where you’ll have to pay $10.00 to park. Walk down the trail, there are steps down to the beach on the left hand side. What to look for:  There isn’t always a lot to see. I did see a young green sea turtle […]
- [Gilligan's Island](https://westindiestravel.com/gilligans-island/): Gilligan’s Island  1.5/5 Location: Cayo Aurora, Guánica Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours 15 minutes southwest to Guánica. The ferry that used to run here is permanently out of commission so you either need to find someone with a boat or rent a kayak. I got there on my inflatable SUP without too much trouble but I imagine it would be tough on a very windy day. I parked in the neighborhood close to the island and put in at some sketchy rock shelf behind someone’s house to leave from a point much closer to the island. Most people rent […]
- [Puerto Hermina Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/puerto-hermina-beach-snorkeling/): Puerto Hermina Beach  2/5 Location: Quebradillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes west to Quebradillas. You’ll drive down a steep hill with a couple switchbacks which gives you a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. Drive along the beach and park on the right, to be closest to the beach, park at the end of the road. Follow the cement path to the sand. What to look for: This is a popular spearfishing spot. There are a lot of good-size fish hiding in the cracks between rocks. There is no reef that I could find but you […]
- [Punta Galíndez Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/punta-galindez-snorkeling/): PUNTA GALÍNDEZ  3/5 Location: Vieques Island, Vieques National Wildlife Refuge Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. When you arrive on Vieques, you’ll need to rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive 20 minutes to get there. Enter the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge and drive down a dusty, unpaved road. You’ll turn right down another unpaved road before you reach La Chiva Beach. What to look for: Swim out straight from the beach for quite a ways. If you go too far to the left you’ll hit very shallow sections that are passable but not recommended if […]
- [Tamarindo Grande & Carlos Rosario Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/tamarindo-grande-and-carlos-rosario-beach-snorkeling/): Tamarindo Grande & Carlos Rosario  3.5/5 Location: Culebra Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. When you arrive on Culebra, take a taxi to Flamenco Beach. There will be many vans at the ferry terminal all headed there with a fixed price of $5.00 each way. You’ll be dropped off at an entrance point which is private property and you’ll need to pay $2.00 to get in. From there, follow the Google Maps pin, or ask around to find the trailhead that leads to the neighboring beaches. The hike should take around 20 minutes each way. What to look […]
- [Cayo Luis Peña Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/cayo-luis-pena-snorkeling/): Cayo Luis Peña  3/5 Location: Luis Peña Key, Culebra Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. From Culebra, you’ll need to hire a water taxi or organize a tour to get to Luis Peña Key. I went via this Airbnb Experience for $100 per person. It seems to be operated via Bright Paddle Tours. You can also kayak to this key from Tamarindo Beach if you rent a kayak in town. It’s about a mile-long paddle to get to the key. Only attempt this in mild weather and surf conditions. Things to do: There is excellent snorkeling on the left side of the […]
- [Flamenco Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/flamenco-beach-snorkeling/): Flamenco Beach  3/5 Location: Culebra Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. When you arrive on Culebra, take a taxi to Flamenco Beach. There will be many vans at the ferry terminal all headed there with a fixed price of $5.00 each way. You’ll be dropped off at an entrance point which is private property and you’ll need to pay $2.00 to get in. There will be several pathways on your right that lead to the beach. What to look for:  I always snorkel the reef on the left side of the beach which is visible from […]
- [Crash Boat Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/crash-boat-beach-snorkeling/): Crash Boat Beach  3.5/5 Location: Aguadilla Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes west until you reach the west coast of the island. Drive downhill along a road lined with crosses until you get to a parking lot on your left. There is an upper and larger lower lot. If all the spots are taken you will have to park on the street. Parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. What to look for: In between the pilings of the pier, you can always find a variety of fish. 20 or so meters out to sea, directly in […]
- [Culebrita Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/culebrita-snorkeling/): Culebrita  4.5/5 Location: Culebrita Island, Culebra Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Culebra Island. From Culebra, you’ll need to hire a water taxi or organize a tour to get to Culebrita Island. I highly recommend Gammy’s Water Tours. The boat ride takes about 25 minutes. You’ll have 5 hours on the island and it will cost $60.00 per person. The boat driver will explain how to get to the snorkeling spots. What to look for: It’s called Tortuga Beach for a reason, you’re likely to spot a sea turtle munching on seagrass in the bay. There is excellent snorkeling if you walk to the other […]
- [Shacks Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/shacks-beach-snorkeling/): Shacks Beach  4/5 Location: Isabela Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 45 minutes west. Park here and walk down the nearest road to the beach (2 min). The road will end in some stairs that lead to the sand. When you walk down to the beach, walk to the left to the small, sandy point (the google maps pin above). What to look for: The snorkeling is superb in good conditions. This spot might have the largest amount of living hard coral I have seen snorkeling in Puerto Rico. There are massive boulder corals, gorgonians (sea fans) swaying with the current, and […]
- [Steps Beach Snorkeling](https://westindiestravel.com/steps-beach-snorkeling/): Steps Beach  4/5 Location: Rincón Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours west to the sleepy beach town of Rincón. You’ll turn down a narrow road between pastures where you can park on the right side of the road. The parking here can fill up fast on the weekend. What to look for: The elkhorn coral formations are incredible and you’ll see a good variety of marine life. It’s this elkhorn forest that is the reason to come to this location. The reef is rather shallow, swim further out to sea to see the reef and wildlife change. I saw a […]
- [Mosquito Pier](https://westindiestravel.com/mosquito-pier/): Mosquito Pier  4.5/5 Location: Vieques Island Getting there: Take the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques Island. When you arrive on Vieques, you’ll need to rent a UTV or golf cart for $60.00 – $160.00 and drive 15 minutes along the north coast to get there. Park where the road ends to be close to the pier under which you’ll be snorkeling. To enter the water, find a good spot in the rocks that line the road to scramble down, and then swim towards the dock. Alternatively, you can hop off the dock (about a 10ft jump). There are apparently stairs to enter the water […]
- [Charco San Cristóbal](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-san-cristobal/): Charco San Cristóbal  1/5 Location: Barranquitas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 20 minutes southwest to the biggest canyon in all of the Caribbean. Start the approximately one hour hike from this trailhead. You will eventually arrive at a subtle fork in the road, take a steep turn to the right to hike down into the canyon, if you stay left it will take you to a lookout point. You’ll hike steadily downhill on a pretty steep trail. When you get to the bottom you’ll find this charco which is divided in two by some rocks. To the left has a lot […]
- [Charco El Cantil](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-el-cantil/): Charco El Cantil  2/5 Location: Caguas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes south to the Caguas countryside. Park in front of an abandoned, run-down home and walk down their stairs until you get to a very short trail that takes you to the river. There is a large rock section facing the area in the photo above where you can hang out put all of your stuff down. Things to do: Take it in – You can sit on the rocks and chill out next to the sound of running water and usually find the place to yourself Get […]
- [El Periquito](https://westindiestravel.com/el-periquito/): El Periquito  2/5 Location: San Lorenzo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour south to the country town of San Lorenzo. Park on the side of the road across from some houses shortly after you go over a bridge. Walk back towards the bridge and take the trail on the left to arrive at the waterfall after a short walk. Things to do: Take it in – There is shade over a rocky area, where you can take a seat on a boulder. Get in the water – The water is mostly shallow but has a deep area in the […]
- [Charco Azul](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-azul/): Charco Azul  2.5/5 Location: Patillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes south to Carite State Forest. The drive is beautiful and winding. There is a parking lot on the side of the road. Walk down a paved road into the forest to an abandoned bathroom facility and onto a partially paved trail. The trail is pretty washed out in some areas and takes about 10 – 15 minutes. Things to do: Get in the water – The charco is quite large and shallow around much of the shore. Spend the day – This is a good place […]
- [Siete Chorros](https://westindiestravel.com/siete-chorros/): Siete Chorros  2.5/5 Location: San Lorenzo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour south to the country town of San Lorenzo. There is a large parking lot you can use for $5.00, or park somewhere else for free. You’ll see a large sign that says “Río Siete Chorros”,  walk to the restaurant near this sign, this is the entrance to the waterfall. You’ll walk past another house selling popsicles (we got one and it wasn’t very good), and you’ll end up right next to the waterfall. Things to do: Take it in – There is a lot of shade over […]
- [Charco El Ataúd](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-el-ataud/): Charco El Ataúd  2.5/5 Location: Adjuntas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours west and south (or south then west, there are two routes that take about the same time) to the interior of the island. Park on the side of the road at the pin location, a trail will be visible from the road. Hike down a fairly steep downhill trail to get to the river. Getting down to the pools pictured requires stashing your things somewhere scrambling down rocks. Things to do: Get in the water – There are multiple pools that you can swim in, the largest […]
- [Charco El Survivor](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-el-survivor/): Charco El Survivor  3/5 Location: Patillas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes south through Caguas and then the Carite State Forest. This charco is not far from the south coast. Pull off the 184 at a sign that says “Los Tres Chorros”. After you go over the bridge, park on the left. If parking is full there you can find a couple other spots driving around. The roads get steep in this area, though. The trailhead is after the 2nd bridge on the right side, along the river. You won’t have to follow it for long […]
- [Las Delicias Waterfall](https://westindiestravel.com/las-delicias-waterfall/): Las Delicias Waterfall  3/5 Location: Ciales Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 45 minutes to the center of the island in the municipality of Ciales. Park on the side of the road near the pin. You’ll see a trail on the side of the road. There are two waterfalls on the Cialitos River very close to the road. Once you get to the second waterfall (pictured above), you can find a trail near it (though the trailhead is not obvious) that leads to another waterfall. I have not been to it yet, but I have heard that it […]
- [Salto Collazo](https://westindiestravel.com/salto-collazo/): Salto Collazo  3/5 Location: San Sebastián Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 30 minutes to the western interior of the island in San Sebastián.The waterfall is right off the side of the road. A bridge you drive over crosses the stream from the waterfall. Just after the bridge falls another, bigger waterfall. Accessing the pool beneath it is very difficult. To get to Salto Collazo, park on the side of the road after the bridge. On the one side of the bridge looking at the water fall is a trail to get to the falls. Things to do: […]
- [Chorro de Doña Juana](https://westindiestravel.com/chorro-de-dona-juana/): Chorro de Doña Juana  3/5 Location: Orocovis Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 45 minutes to the interior of the island in the Toro Negro State Forest. You’ll find this majestic waterfall right off the side of the road. The road turns into a bridge to go over the stream just out of view of the photo. Park on the road near a restaurant and gift shop. Sit on the bridge, or scramble down the rocks below the bridge to get to the pool at the foot of the waterfall. Things to do: Take it in – Most people that […]
- [Charco El Hippie](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-el-hippie/): Charco El Hippie  3.5/5 Location: Naguabo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour to the south side of El Yunque. You’ll drive down a small road through a country neighborhood until it ends at someone’s house. You’ll have to park in an extremely small lot on their property for $5.00 per car. Walk 3 – 5 minutes up the a gradual hill to get to the charco. You’ll be able to see it looking down from the road. You’ll have to scramble down a short walky trail to get to the water. Things to do: Get in the water – […]
- [Charco El Mangó](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-el-mango/): Charco El Mangó  3.5/5 Location: Adjuntas Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours west and south to the interior of the island. Turn off the Ruta Panorámica onto a dirt road. Follow it until you see an old satellite dish leaned against a tree with a mango painted on it. You’ll be able to look down from the road to see the pool below. Things to do: Get in the water – There is a rope swing hanging from the overhanging limb of a tree, but I was not able to reach it. This charco is a great place to […]
- [Las Paylas](https://westindiestravel.com/las-paylas/): Las Paylas  3.5/5 Location: Luquillo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour to the Luquillo countryside. This spot on the Pitahaya River can only be accessed via a local’s property. They charge $5.00 per car and $1.00 per person. You’ll walk down a paved sidewalk path through their yard until it leads to a forested area next to the river where the path ends. This section is often muddy and slippery. Walk straight out to the river, turn left and walk upstream to the waterslide, or follow a path in the forest to the left. To get to the […]
- [La Piedra Escrita](https://westindiestravel.com/la-piedra-escrita/): La Piedra Escrita  3.5/5 Location: Jayuya Getting there: From San Juan, drive 2 hours to the center of the island, in the municipality of Jayuya. Park in a large lot in front of the La Escrita restaurant for free. Walk away from the road to find a long wooden boardwalk suffering from the elements and termites. It’s in desperate need of repair and it’s condition doesn’t inspire confidence as you are walking over it. Walking down its switchbacks will take you to the river, right in front of the boulder. The walk takes 5 – 10 minutes. Things to do: Petroglyphs – The main […]
- [Sand Caves](https://westindiestravel.com/sand-caves/): Sand Caves  4/5 Location: Vega Baja/Morovis Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes southwest to the border of the municipalities of Vega Baja and Morovis. Park here, on a nice couples’ property (Junior and Diana). It costs $5.00 per car. Park on the road closer to the trailhead at your own risk as theft is apparently a problem here. Walk down a steep street that levels out and then ends leading to the river. There are places to park here, but the road is extremely steep and I have heard that cars commonly cannot make it back up and need to […]
- [Cañón Blanco](https://westindiestravel.com/canon-blanco/): Cañón Blanco  4.5/5 Location: Utuado Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour west to Arecibo, then head south for an hour into the interior of the island along the scenic highway 10. I love this drive, hopefully it’s a sunny, clear day when you make the drive so you can appreciate the amazing limestone hills you drive through. When getting there via Google Maps, make sure you pass this church. If not, it might take you down a road on the other side of the river where you’ll find a locked gate blocking the route. There is one other route not […]
- [Charco Prieto](https://westindiestravel.com/charco-prieto/): Charco Prieto  4.5/5 Location: Bayamón Getting there: From San Juan, drive 45 minutes south to a remote neighborhood in the country of Bayamón. Park around here. If you use the pin for the actual waterfall location, it will take you to the wrong spot. You’ll see a Puerto Rican flag that marks the trailhead that turns around a fence. The hike will take around 20-30 min each way. Prepare to get wet as there is a river crossing right at the start that is unavoidable (depending on the season). Before you get to the waterfall, you’ll come to a pool that […]
- [Las Tinajas](https://westindiestravel.com/las-tinajas/): Las Tinajas  4.5/5 Location: Fajardo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes east around El Yunque to the rainforest’s southern side. Park here, you’ll need to pay $5.00 per car. Then, hike along the trail (ask around if you are unsure where that is) until you reach a swimming hole with a rope swing. You’ll need to pay $2 per person to cross private property, a man will be waiting to collect. Alternatively, you can follow the river directly until you arrive for free, though I have not tried this.  Things to do: Water slides – What makes this […]
- [Beach Index](https://westindiestravel.com/beach-index/): Beach Index Puerto Rico has a lot of beaches. I’ve heard it said that there are over 300 beaches in Puerto Rico. I don’t know if that’s true, but if it is, I’ve seen a little less than 1/3 of them. I will never see them all, but I have seen all the best ones. Listed below are all of the most noteworthy beaches. I would say that all of them are worth visiting, but some more than others. See Beaches to help you decide which to visit.  B Balneario de Boquerón Balneario Cerro Gordo Balneario Punta Salinas Black Eagle […]
- [Los Bohíos Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/los-bohios-beach/): Los Bohíos Beach  1/5 Location: Maunabo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes south to reach the lesser-traveled south coast. You’ll turn onto a dirt road that goes down the beach a ways where you can park wherever you like. There’s more black sand closer to the entrance. Things to do: Walk the beach – If you have ever wanted to walk on a beach that is mostly not black sand but has some black sand and also probably some seaweed, this is the beach for you. Get in the water – It is possible to get in the […]
- [Emajaguas Beach](https://westindiestravel.com/emajaguas-beach/): Emajaguas Beach  1.5/5 Location: Maunabo Getting there: From San Juan, drive 1 hour 15 minutes south to reach the lesser-traveled south coast. I’ve not been able to find an official name for this beach but the pin above will get you there. You’ll turn down a dirt road that leads along the beach and eventually continues into the forest to parts unknown. Pull over wherever you like.  Things to do: Walk the beach – This is a pretty beach with palm trees lining the sand until you get to a rocky section. There are also sea grapes you can eat right […]


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