With countless things to do in San Juan, a fun-in-the-sun cruise vacation is just a call away!
If your upcoming cruise itinerary includes the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, you might be wondering what are the best things to do in San Juan during your time there. San Juan offers visitors a wide variety of excursions, and most cruise lines offer guests an entire day (8 hours or more) in the area in order to enjoy them. Old San Juan and the surrounding areas are filled with unique architecture, such as the El Morro Fortress, charming cafes, a tropical rain forest, and miles of breathtaking beaches. Speaking of beaches in San Juan, Escambron public beach, which offers an ideal swimming beach bordered by rock formations and natural reefs, and El 8, a hot surfing spot that offers snorkeling, are two popular beach sites to visit.
Whether you are looking for things to do in San Juan with kids or are seeking a more romantic PuertoRico vacation with your loved one, you are sure to find something exciting on our top five list:
1.) Plan a Family Beach Day – If you and your kids are looking for one of the top beaches in San Juan, check out Isla Verde Beach. Considered to be the widest and longest beach in the area, it is the perfect place to enjoy sun-bathing and a flurry of watersports. Rental equipment is available mostof the time thanks to the area’s clear, smooth waters. It is also an ideal spot for snorkeling and trying your hand at parasailing. Families congregate in this area because it is close to hotels, restaurants and an abundance of cafes. If a day of sun-worshipping and water activities is on your “to-do” list, than be sure to stop by Isla Verde.
2.) Schedule a Girls Shopping Day – Shopping is always fun, especially when you can find interesting knickknacks you can’t get at home. One place to stop is the Plaza Arturo Somohano. You will find this shopping district about a block behind the Old San Juan Sheraton Hotel. Located in a park, all stall owners here must pass a rigorous government approval process. You can find anything from exquisite tooled leather and beach-glass jewelry to hand blended soaps and artisan handbags.
3.) Explore a Fortress – Another thrilling thing to do in San Juan with kids is to explore a real-life fortress, the El Morro Fortress. A small entrance fee with get you and your party into this incredible landmark, built between 1540 and 1783. Here you will find a mazelike design comprised of dungeons and tunnels. Just outside of the Fortress, you will find a grand park area and beautiful gardens, the perfect setting for kids to expend some more energy. Popular landmarks nearby you might want to peruse include a small museum, cafes and several churches.
4.) Adore Some Art – If art and culture is more your style, one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico is to explore the museums. Be sure to stop by the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Puerto Rico, where you will finds hundreds of pieces from Puerto Rican, Latin American and Caribbean artists. Most of the artwork in this location is post-1940s style. Another option is the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, which houses sophisticated Puerto Rican art and theme-specific exhibitions.
5.) Get Golfing – Thanks to Bahia Beach, there is no reason to miss golfing while on your Puerto Rico vacation. This stunning 18-hole public course is located away from tourist areas but does requires transportation (well worth the drive!). It is bordered by a breathtaking sea and palm trees, and offers rental equipment for those who need it.
There are plenty of things to do in San Juan, and luckily most cruises give their passengers plenty of time on the Island to explore. Check out hot cruises happening soon such as this 7 Day Celebrity cruise from San Juan. Or consider Holland America Line’s 7 Day cruise from Fort Lauderdale, with stops in San Juan, St. Thomas and more starting at just $549.
To find more things to do in San Juan, or if you are ready to book your Puerto Rico vacation, call CruiseExperts.com today at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784). Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour!