A Sun-Soaked Escape to Puerto Rico: Our January Journey

Puerto Rico greeted us with its beautiful sunshine and vibrant culture. For our adventure, we rented a car and planned to explore the island while staying at three distinct locations: Dorado, San Juan, and Ponce. This allowed us to balance relaxing beach days with exciting discoveries on the road.

Dorado: Beachfront Bliss

In Dorado, we stayed close to our hotel and indulged in activities like go-karting, billiards, bowling, golf, and casino visits. It was a serene start to our trip, and we chose not to venture far, enjoying the convenience of amenities and the nearby beach.

San Juan: Festivities and Colonial Charm

Old San Juan came alive during our visit, coinciding with the vibrant San Sebastián Festival from January 16th to 19th. The area was bustling with festivities, and cars weren’t allowed past Luis Muñoz Rivera Park. Rather than braving the walk, we opted for an Uber to Terminal de Lancha Cataño, where we caught the ferry to Old San Juan. The ferry itself felt like an event, offering scenic views and a smoother entry to the celebrations.

Walking through the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, we admired its unique colonial architecture. The energy was electric, with live music and performances scattered across various “Calles.” If you plan to attend, be prepared for large crowds and some jostling. On our way back, we explored Cataño, where we joined locals for salsa dancing by a lively stage—an unexpected and joyful experience.

Exploring Nature: El Yunque and Luquillo

We dedicated a day to exploring El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Arriving at 2 p.m., we managed to secure parking near the trailhead of El Yunque Trail, a 7.4-kilometer round trip with a 431-meter elevation gain. The hike took approximately three hours, during which we encountered rain, mud, sunshine, and even spotted a hummingbird. Along the way, we stopped at waterfalls, adding to the magical rainforest experience.

From El Yunque, we drove to Luquillo, a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and the famous Luquillo Kiosks. Being there on a Sunday was a treat, as live music filled the air around 6 p.m., adding a festive touch to our visit.

Ponce: Sun, Sand, and Beyond

In Ponce, we soaked up the sun on its windy beaches, perfect for surfers and kite surfers. From there, we embarked on a day trip to Rincón, a west coast paradise renowned for its sunsets and marine life. At Steps Beach, part of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, we snorkeled among parrotfish, hawksbill turtles, and even a stingray. Parking was limited, but the effort was well worth it for the underwater wonders and breathtaking sunset.

Bioluminescent Magic in La Parguera

That evening, we headed to La Parguera for a bioluminescent bay experience. Our 9:15 p.m. tour included a boat ride, kayaking, and swimming in the glowing waters. The bioluminescence, caused by dynoflagellate algae, was mesmerizing, though nearly impossible to capture on camera. It was a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

Missing Out on Vieques

While we tried to plan a visit to Vieques to see the brightest bioluminescent bay, logistics proved challenging. The ferry schedule didn’t allow for a return after sunset, making a day trip infeasible. For anyone planning a trip, staying overnight on Vieques is a must to fully experience the bioluminescence.

Tips for Future Travelers

• Plan Around the Moon Phase: Visit during a new moon for the darkest skies and the best bioluminescence.

• Book Ahead: Reserve bioluminescent tours and Vieques accommodations well in advance.

• Check for Holidays: Festivals like San Sebastián can make travel more challenging but offer a unique cultural experience.

Wishlist for Next Time

If we return to Puerto Rico, we’d love to explore:

• Charco Azul: A picturesque swimming hole in the mountains of Patillas.

• Camuy River Cave Park: An incredible underground cave system suitable for all ages.

• Salinas Salt Flats: Stunning pink-hued flats near Cabo Rojo, perfect for photography.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Rico offered a delightful mix of sunshine, natural wonders, and vibrant culture. However, with the current unfavorable exchange rate, we may prioritize exploring other destinations in the future. While Puerto Rico is a gem in the Caribbean, we’d recommend the Bahamas for those seeking clear waters and equally memorable experiences. That said, Puerto Rico’s unique combination of history, tropical beauty, and adventure leaves a lasting impression, and we’d encourage travelers to embrace its vibrant spirit at least once.

For us, the highlights were the rainforest hike, the snorkeling adventure in Rincón, and the ethereal bioluminescence of La Parguera—moments that will forever shine in our memories.