Are you thinking about going on holiday in Puerto Rico and looking for crowd-free destinations off the beaten track? You’ve come to the right place.
While there are dozens of worthwhile locations to explore, we’ve hand-picked the best so you don’t have to.
Take the road less traveled and discover the 10 Incredible Hidden Gems of Puerto Rico.
Cabo Rojo
Located on the southwestern tip of the island, Cabo Rojo is a beautiful coastal town favored by locals who want to spend a fun day at the beach. It includes many idyllic beaches, breathtaking cliffs and paradisiacal nature reserves. This means everyone can find something to do here.
One of Cabo Rojo’s most iconic spots is the Salinas. Often called the ‘pink beach’, the salt flats are part of the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge and provide habitat for several interesting bird species, including flamingos.
Cueva Ventana
Cueva Ventana, or ‘Window Cave’, is a striking limestone cave in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, offering visitors unparalleled views of the Río Grande de Arecibo Valley.
Accessed by a short walk through a wooded path, the cave has a large opening that serves as a natural frame for the breathtaking landscape below.
The location has become popular among nature lovers and photographers for its dramatic setting and unique vantage point.
Isla de Cabras
Isla de Cabra is a small island at the entrance to San Juan Bay. Once a leper colony. Nowadays, thanks to all the recreational activities, it is the perfect place for a day out with the whole family.
Take a short walk along the banks and enjoy the unique view of Old San Juan, swim, snorkel, fish or have a picnic. Isla de Cabras also hosts festivals and other cultural events throughout the year.
Bubble House in Pounce
Are you looking for a romantic place to stay to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with your partner? Nestled in the mountains of Ponce, this accommodation is the best option for this.
The transparent, bubble-like design blends in perfectly with nature and allows you to sleep under the stars. You can also look forward to a private pool, open-air kitchen and unlimited Costa Rican coffee.
El Yunque National Forest
Puerto Rico also offers excellent hiking opportunities. And some of the best trails are found nowhere else but in Yunque National Forest – an enchanted rainforest known for its lush landscape and diverse wildlife.
The La Mina Trail takes you to the La Mina Falls. Not only can you take a nice photo of them, but they are also open for a dip. La Coca Trail and Juan Diego Trail also lead to natural pools. At the end of Mt. Britton Trail you can enjoy beautiful views from the top of Mt. Britton or the lookout tower.
Charco Azul
Speaking of natural pools, Charco Azul is probably the most popular, but little talked about. The name – Blue Pond – comes from the deep blue color of the water which is fed by two small streams formed into waterfalls.
It is located in the middle of the Carite Forest and getting there requires a short, easy walk. If you come during the week, it is rarely busy. Summer weekends are a different story, so plan your visit accordingly.
Petroglyphs Puerto Rico
Another amazing historical feature of Puerto Rico that doesn’t draw attention among all the beautiful beaches and resorts are the petroglyphs on the island.
According to the researchers, pre-Hispanic rock art in Puerto Rico dates back to ancient times 13th century. Thousands of drawings have been found in the caves around the island.
This particular image in the photo above is a little different story and it only dates from 2000. The sculpture was created in honor of warrior Taíno chief Cacique Mabodamaca who fought against the Spanish colonists in 1511.
Maunabo
Maunabo is a sleepy town that takes you back in time and is therefore a fantastic place to disconnect and relax. You can get the vibe on the go. As you drive through forested mountains, rural roads and scenic coastal drives.
Maunabo is also a great starting point to visit many area attractions, such as the Punta Tuna Wetlands Nature Reserve, the Punta Tuna Lighthouse and a number of pristine beaches.
March Chiquita
Mar Chiquita, a picturesque coastal inlet on Puerto Rico’s north coast, is considered one of the island’s hidden gems. Surrounded by limestone outcroppings, this small bay offers a serene escape from the bustling city life and offers a unique blend of tranquility and natural beauty.
The beach is known for its striking turquoise water, which contrasts beautifully with the golden sand and rugged cliffs that frame the bay. This natural pool, formed by the ocean breaking through the rock barrier, creates a tranquil swimming area, protected from the stronger currents of the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal spot for a quiet day of sunbathing and swimming.
Playa Escondida
Playa Escondida should not be missing from this list, as its literal translation means “hidden beach”.
It is located just a few minutes from Fajarado in the eastern part of the island, very close to the famous places of El Yunque and Punta Santiago in Puerto Rico. That’s why it probably doesn’t get enough attention. Another reason contributing to its “hidden” status is that it is not very swimmable due to the tides and shallowness.
