Chasing Sunshine 🌞 : A Memorable Winter Escape to Puerto Rico
Winter vacations can be tricky when you’re chasing warm weather but aren’t big fans of beaches. After some brainstorming, Puerto Rico made the perfect choice—it’s a vibrant blend of nature, architecture, and yes, beaches (which we didn’t mind admiring from afar). We visited in late November, at the tail end of the wet season, making it an ideal time to enjoy lush waterfalls without constant rain.
💡Traveler Tips
💦 Weather Wisdom:
Puerto Rico is hot and humid, so pack accordingly! Sunscreen 🧴and wide-brimmed hats 🤠are a must to keep the sun at bay. While beachy clothes may tempt you, opt for light, sweat-absorbing fabrics that provide better coverage. And don’t forget extra clothes—you’ll likely need few showers every day.
🚘Transportation Tales:
If you’re sticking to Old San Juan, skip the car. The city is wonderfully walkable, but parking is a nightmare, especially during events (we’re talking two-hour delays just to get into parking lots).
However, if your plans include adventures beyond San Juan (like ours), renting a car is a good idea. Go for a compact vehicle—narrow roads and tight parking make it a lifesaver.
🛏️ Our Stay: 352 Guest House
We couldn’t have picked a better place to stay! 352 Guest House boasts cozy rooms, rainfall showers, and a delightful breakfast included in the price. The staff is a gem—helpful and courteous. Bonus points for the rooftop jacuzzi! With a grocery store and plenty of dining options nearby, it was an excellent base for our adventures.
🗺️ Mapping our Trip
🗓️ 1️⃣2️⃣3️⃣ Our 3-Day Itinerary
1️⃣ 🪨 Day 1: Wonders of Nature
🛑 Stop 1: Cueva del Indio (Cave of the Indian)
Our day began with a visit to this spectacular seaside cave in Arecibo. The dramatic limestone cliffs and ancient Taíno petroglyphs make this a must-visit. Entry is $10 per person.
The crashing waves, breathtaking views, and echoes of the ocean made this spot unforgettable. Plan to spend 2-3 hours hiking and soaking it all in.
💡Pro tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the jagged rocks and sudden sinkholes are no joke! (Seriously, be careful. Falling here is not the kind of adventure you want.)
🛑 Stop 2: Catarata Gozalandia
This was an absolute gem! We started with a bite at the café—we can’t stop raving about the vegetarian burger and watermelon margarita (chef’s kiss!). The chicken quesadilla was pretty good too. After a fantastic meal, we explored the lower and upper falls. Don’t forget swimwear and towels! The upper falls feature a rope swing for the adventurous, and there are changing rooms conveniently located near the café.
2️⃣ 🏞️ Day 2: Exploring El Yunque National Forest
🛑 Stop 1: We booked a half-day guided tour, and it was worth every penny!
💡Pro tip: Choose the earliest time slot to beat the crowds and enjoy the water activities in peace.
The tour kicked off with a 30-minute hike through muddy terrain to a stunning waterfall. Waterproof shoes and swimwear are essential. Our guides were fantastic, helping us navigate tricky rock climbs and even guiding us through cliff jumps (while snapping cool videos, of course).
🛑 Stop 2: After the hike, we drove to Torre Yokahu, a 1,500-foot observation tower offering sweeping views of the rainforest. Parking here is tricky, but the views are well worth the effort. On the way, you’ll pass a lovely waterfall, perfect for a quick stop. If you’re up for more adventure, El Yunque has challenging hikes, though many were closed during our visit.
3️⃣ 🏰 Day 3: A Stroll Through History in Old San Juan
Our final day was all about soaking in the charm of Old San Juan.
🛑 Stop 1: Castillo de San Cristóbal
We started the day exploring this historic Spanish fortress, the largest of its kind in the Americas. Perched on a hill along San Juan’s northern coastline, its three levels are packed with history and stunning views. Entry is $10 per person, and the ticket also grants access to Castillo San Felipe del Morro.
The vistas here are breathtaking—picture-perfect blue skies, sparkling waters in shades of turquoise, and lush green expanses. It’s a photographer’s dream!
🛑 Stop 2: Castillo San Felipe del Morro
A scenic walk took us to this iconic fortress at the other end of San Juan. With six levels designed for artillery defense, it’s a fascinating place to explore and steep yourself in history. Plan to spend more time here—it’s larger and even more awe-inspiring.
Don’t Miss: Stroll along Paseo del Morro, the scenic trail that hugs the fort’s outer edge. It offers serene views of the ocean, cityscapes, and even cruise ships docking or departing. Both forts also provide incredible perspectives of Old San Juan, the capitol building, and more.
🛑 Stop 3: Exploring Old San Juan
The rest of our day was spent wandering the hilly streets of Old San Juan. The cobblestone roads, colorful colonial buildings, and vibrant atmosphere made it a memorable workout! Every corner seemed to have its charm, with plenty of opportunities to pause for photos or just take it all in.
🍲🍔Where to Eat & Drink 🍹🍸
After all that walking, we fueled up at two fantastic spots:
Tropical Taste: A hidden gem offering delicious local flavors.
Stuffed Avocado: Perfect for fresh, filling meals with a creative twist.
Marmalade Restaurant and Wine Bar: Contemporary fusion cuisine with prix fixe menu
Verde Mesa: Modern Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine (vegetarian friendly)
Old San Juan was the perfect way to wrap up our Puerto Rico adventure. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, savor the views, and let history surround you. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to dedicate a day to this magical district—it’s worth every step!
Puerto Rico swept us off our feet with its mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or history buff, this island has something for everyone. Ready to pack your bags? ✈️🌴