Things to Do in Puerto Rico for Families: Local Favorites & Must-Do Tours
- kindlittleexplorer
- Jul 26, 2021
- 12 min read
Updated: 27 minutes ago
Planning a family vacation to Puerto Rico? Whether you’ve already booked your flights or you’re just starting to explore options, you’re in for an unforgettable trip.
As a military family with two kids — and with both my husband and me born and raised in Puerto Rico — we return to the island often to reconnect with our roots and share our favorite places with our children. We know the island inside and out, and we’re excited to share a local, family-focused perspective on the best things to do in Puerto Rico.
Many of the activities in this guide are kid-approved by our own boys, and to make planning easier, we’ve included recommended hotels near each attraction along with bookable tours and activities to help you plan stress-free, memorable experiences for your family.
Let’s dive into the most fun, unique, and family-friendly things to do in Puerto Rico!
For information on Puerto Rico's Top Resorts, click here
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Things to do in Puerto Rico
From exploring hidden beaches on the west coast to swimming in glowing bioluminescent bays, Puerto Rico is one of the most family-friendly Caribbean destinations. You’ll find rainforest hikes, calm beaches, historic cities, and unforgettable adventures — all without needing a passport for U.S. travelers.
Stroll cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, colonial forts, and centuries of history. Old San Juan is perfect for walking tours, food tastings, and sightseeing with kids.
Recommended Tours:
What We Love as a Family: Our boys were fascinated by the dungeons and cannons at Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro), one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic historic sites. Even better—kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge here by completing fun, educational activities provided by the National Park Service!
🎖️ Military Tip: If you're a U.S. military family, you can enter El Morro and other San Juan National Historic Sites for free using your America the Beautiful Pass. Just show your pass at the entrance!
Local Tip: Start your tour early to beat the heat and crowds, then grab a piragua (shaved ice) as you explore the plazas and parks nearby.
From food tastings to photography walks, there’s a tour for every type of traveler. Book now to uncover the rich stories hidden in every corner of this charming city!
💡 We recommend booking hotels first, then adding tours — many family-friendly areas in Puerto Rico sell out quickly during weekends and school breaks.
Where to Stay in Old San Juan
Staying in Old San Juan lets you explore colorful streets, forts, and restaurants entirely on foot — perfect for families with kids.
Our top picks for families:
Hotel El Convento: Historic charm with modern comforts in the heart of Old San Juan.
Caribe Hilton San Juan: A beachfront resort just minutes from Old San Juan, offering pools, beach access, and plenty of space for families. A great option if you want resort amenities while staying close to historic sights.
Sheraton Old San Juan: A recognizable brand with larger rooms and harbor views.
Explore El Yunque Rainforest: Kid-Friendly Hikes + Tours
Puerto Rico is known for its stunning beaches, but if you're looking for family-friendly beach experiences, head west. This side of the island is home to calm waters, great snorkeling, local food, and amazing sunsets. As locals born and raised in Puerto Rico, we always make time to visit these gems when we come back with our kids.
Step into Puerto Rico’s lush rainforest—El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. With waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife, it’s a dream come true for adventurous families.
Tips:
Book a guided El Yunque tour for easy access, expert insight, and stress-free transportation. Click here for Yunque Tours
Kids can earn Jr Ranger Badges here, and it doubles as a Free souvenir!
🎖️ Military Tip: If you're a U.S. military family, you can enter El Yunque and other National Historic Sites for free using your America the Beautiful Pass. Just show your pass at the entrance!
Where to Stay Near El Yunque National Forest
Staying near El Yunque National Forest allows you to start hikes early, avoid crowds, and easily combine rainforest adventures with beach time.
Our top picks for families:
Wyndham Grand Rio Mar: A favorite for families who want both rainforest access and beachfront amenities. Spacious rooms, multiple pools, and dining on-site.
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve: A polished resort with large pools and open spaces — great if you want comfort after long days exploring El Yunque.
St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort: A luxury option for families looking for a special stay surrounded by nature.
Head West to the Beach: Puerto Rico's Best Family Beaches
Crash Boat Beach, Aguadilla
This vibrant beach is a favorite for both locals and tourists. It features a large pier perfect for jumping into the water, snorkeling, and taking unforgettable family photos. You can enjoy freshly grilled pinchos (meat skewers) from nearby food stands or dine at sit-down restaurants like Rico’s, Sazones, and Mona.
Why We Love It: Our boys love jumping off the pier, snorkeling around colorful fish, and we always grab pinchos and coconuts right while we are there. It’s a tradition every time we visit.
Great for:
Snorkeling or diving
Swimming
Pier jumping
Relaxing
Local food
Tip: Arrive early, free parking is limited. Last time we visited we paid $9 for parking. But even the paid parking fills quickly. I suggest arriving at 8am.
Rompe Olas Beach, Aguadilla
Located near the downtown boardwalk, Rompe Olas is perfect for young kids thanks to its gentle surf. It’s close to parks and eateries, making it easy to pair beach time with a casual lunch or evening stroll.
Why We Love It: It is a less crowded option and close to many dining options. We always stop by Rex Cream for some unique ice cream flavors and visit the big tree house located at Parqué Colón.
Great for:
Toddlers and small children
Swimming
Exploring Aguadilla's town center
Grabbing ice cream or casual meals
Where to Stay Near Crash Boat Beach and Other Popular Aguadilla Beaches
Staying near popular Aguadilla beaches makes it easy to arrive early, avoid parking stress, and enjoy sunset visits without rushing back to your hotel.
Our top picks for families:
Punta Borinquen Resort: A laid-back resort close to the beach, with spacious rooms and an on-site restaurant. Great option for families who want comfort without being right in the crowds.
Parador El Faro: Affordable and family-friendly with a pool and easy access to Aguadilla’s beaches. A solid choice if you’re traveling with kids and want good value.
Courtyard by Marriott Aguadilla: Reliable amenities, a beachfront location, and familiar comforts. Ideal if you prefer a well-known hotel brand with pools and dining on-site.
Pozo de Teodoro, Isabela
Also known as "La Pocita" or "Montones", this shallow natural pool is great for kids and beginner snorkelers. Our boys love collecting shells and spotting fish in the clear, calm waters.
Why we love it: It is a calm and relaxing spot for families with small children, and there is a restaurant & bar right there. There are also many dining places along the road. We always like to stop by " La Parada de los Surfers" for some empanadillas and other typical Puerto Rican cuisine.
Great for:
Families with young kids
Seashell collecting
Exploring tidal pools
Safe swimming
Where to Stay Near La Pocita and Other Popular Isabela Beaches
Staying near the beaches of Isabela is perfect for families looking for calmer waters, fewer crowds, and a slower pace than larger resort areas. It also makes it easy to visit spots like Jobos Beach and La Pocita (Montones) early in the day.
Our top picks for families:
Villa Montaña Beach Resort: A beachfront favorite for families, with spacious rooms, direct beach access, and a relaxed atmosphere. Great for kids who love being steps from the sand.
Bella Surf Inn: A budget-friendly and cozy option close to Isabela’s beaches. Ideal if you plan to spend most of your time exploring and want a simple, comfortable place to stay.
Royal Isabela: A luxury cliffside resort with stunning ocean views. Best for families with older kids or those looking for a special, quieter stay near nature.
Puerto Rico has three bioluminescent bays, each offering a slightly different experience depending on where you’re staying and how you plan to explore the island.
Bio Bay Location | Best For | Where to Stay Nearby | Tours & Experiences |
Laguna Grande (San Juan Area) |
| ||
| |||
Mosquito Bay (Vieques) |
| Blue Horizon Boutique Resort or small guesthouses |
Why We Recommend It: We booked a boat tour in La Parguera, and it was surreal. Our kids were amazed at the glowing water, and swimming in it was the highlight of the trip. Experience one of nature’s most magical light shows with a nighttime tour of Puerto Rico’s glowing bioluminescent bays. Click here for Bioluminescent Bay Tours
💡 Families exploring the southwest coast often choose La Parguera because it’s close to the bioluminescent bay, Cabo Rojo Salt Flats, and multiple cays and boat tours.
Which Bioluminescent Bay Is Best for Your Trip?
Use this quick guide to choose the best bioluminescent bay based on your travel style and itinerary:
👉 Choose Fajardo if:
You’re staying in San Juan or on the East Coast
You want an easy evening tour without extra travel
You’re visiting Puerto Rico for a short trip
You want to visit multiple attractions from one home base
👉 Choose La Parguera if:
You’re exploring the southwest coast
You want to be able to swim in the BioBay.
You plan to combine the bio bay with salt flats, cays, and boat tours
👉 Choose Vieques if:
Seeing the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world is your top priority
You don’t mind taking a ferry or a short flight
You’re planning to stay on Vieques for at least one night
💡 Evening tours are limited and often sell out on weekends and school breaks.
Family-Friendly Hacienda Experiences in Puerto Rico
Visiting a hacienda in Puerto Rico is a great way for families to experience the island beyond the beaches. Traditionally, haciendas were working farms or plantations, many of which are now open to visitors for cultural tours, outdoor adventures, and hands-on experiences.
Today, hacienda visits can include everything from coffee history and sugarcane traditions to ziplining, horseback riding, and nature walks, making them a fun and educational option for kids and adults alike.
What Families Can Do at a Hacienda
Depending on the location, hacienda experiences may include:
🌱 Learning about Puerto Rico’s agricultural history
☕ Coffee or rum production demonstrations
🐎 Horseback riding through countryside trails
🌉 Ziplining, rope bridges, and adventure courses
🥾 Easy nature walks suitable for kids
🌿 Open green spaces for kids to explore
Many tours are guided and designed to be family-friendly, with options for younger children as well as teens.
Popular Hacienda Experiences to Consider
Here are a few well-known options families often enjoy:
Hacienda Buena Vista: A historic coffee plantation offering guided tours focused on Puerto Rico’s agricultural and cultural heritage. Best for families with older kids interested in history.
Hacienda Campo Rico: A great option near San Juan that combines culture with adventure, including ziplining and horseback riding.
Hacienda Tres Angeles: A working coffee farm in the central mountains offering intimate tours and scenic views.
Hacienda La Fe: Ziplining, a rope bridge, walking trails, and a full restaurant.
El Paladar Campesino: Incredible views and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine.
Hacienda Carabalí / Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park – Luquillo (near El Yunque)
One of the most popular outdoor adventure haciendas in Puerto Rico. Set in the foothills of El Yunque National Forest, this expansive ranch-style park offers horseback riding (forest and beach routes), ATV tours, go-kart tracks, rainforest hayrides, and more — all in one visit. The rides and activities are excellent for families with kids who like outdoor fun and adventure.
(Availability and activities vary by season, so booking ahead is recommended.)
Salt Flats of Puerto Rico (A Unique & Educational Stop)
Puerto Rico’s salt flats offer a fascinating look at one of the island’s oldest industries. These shallow pink and white pools are used to harvest sea salt through natural evaporation, creating a striking landscape that feels completely different from the rest of the island.
The most well-known salt flats are located in Salinas de Cabo Rojo, on the southwest coast, near beaches, wildlife refuges, and La Parguera.
Why Visit the Salt Flats?
Salt flats are a great stop for families who enjoy short, educational outdoor experiences without committing to a full-day excursion.
Highlights include:
🌸 Seeing naturally pink and white salt pools (color varies by season)
🦩 Spotting birds and wildlife in nearby protected areas
📸 A unique photo stop that feels off the beaten path
This is an easy add-on when exploring Cabo Rojo, La Parguera, or the southwest coast.
A stunning natural site with pink-hued salt flats, unique photo ops, and proximity to:
Local seafood restaurants
Nearby beaches
Why Go: It’s quiet, beautiful, and unlike anything else on the island.
Address: PR-301, Boquerón, Cabo Rojo 00622, Puerto Rico
La Parguera is a laid-back fishing village on Puerto Rico’s southwest coast that punches way above its weight when it comes to things to do. It’s one of the few places on the island where you can experience a bioluminescent bay, island cays, boat tours, and nature attractions all from one central location.
If you’re planning to explore the southwest region, La Parguera makes an excellent base for families.
This laid-back hidden gem is perfect for water adventures and for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path alternative! Book a La Parguera boat tour to:
Snorkel in mangrove canals
Swim in the bioluminescent bay
Relax at Cayo Caracoles—shallow and crystal-clear
Go Ziplining (Thrilling but Family-Friendly)
Zip-lining in Puerto Rico is one of the best ways to experience the island’s lush interior, mountains, and rainforest views. Many zip-line parks are designed with safety-first systems and offer multiple line lengths, making them accessible for beginners and families with older kids.
Ready to feel the rush? Ziplining in Puerto Rico is a must-do for thrill-seekers! Fly above lush rainforests, rivers, and mountains with the help of expert guides. Click here for ZipLining Tours
Whether you're zipping over the treetops in Toro Verde Adventure Park or taking a family-friendly route, it’s an unforgettable way to see the island from a new perspective. Secure your zipline adventure today—it’s one of the top-rated tours on the island!
Horseback Riding in Puerto Rico’s Forests and Beaches
Horseback riding is a calmer alternative to adrenaline-heavy activities and a favorite for families wanting to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Rides often take place through coastal trails, countryside paths, or rainforest foothills. Click here for Horseback riding Tours
Popular Horseback Riding Experiences
Hacienda Carabalí: One of the most popular horseback riding experiences in Puerto Rico and a great option for families staying in San Juan or the northeast coast. Located near El Yunque, Carabalí offers guided rainforest and beach rides, well-trained horses, and beginner-friendly routes — making it an easy day trip from the metro area.
Tropical Trail Rides: A fantastic alternative for families staying on the west coast, especially near Isabela and Aguadilla. These relaxed countryside rides take you through scenic trails and open landscapes, pairing perfectly with beach-focused itineraries in northwest Puerto Rico.
Top Picks:
Caves of Puerto Rico (Adventure Meets History)
Puerto Rico’s cave systems offer a completely different kind of adventure — one that blends natural beauty, geology, and cultural history. These experiences range from easy, guided walks to more adventurous explorations.
Is Cave Exploring Kid-Friendly?
Great for school-age kids and teens
Educational and memorable
Not stroller-friendly
Some caves involve stairs or uneven ground
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes and expect cooler temperatures inside.
Popular Cave Experiences
Cueva Ventana: Known for its iconic window overlooking the Río Grande de Arecibo valley. Short hike, big payoff, and great for photos.
Rio Camuy Cave Park: One of the largest cave systems in the world, featuring paved paths, guided tours, and educational exhibits — excellent for families.
Here are some of the most frequently searched questions about Puerto Rico:
Do I need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico? No, U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory.
Is the water safe to drink in Puerto Rico? Yes, the tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink, as it follows the same sanitary standards as the U.S.
What is the best time to visit Puerto Rico? The best time is between mid-December and April when the weather is warm and dry.
Should I rent a car in Puerto Rico? Renting a car is recommended if you want to explore beyond San Juan. However, taxis and public transport are sufficient for getting around San Juan.
Do I need an international phone plan in Puerto Rico? No, Puerto Rico uses U.S. phone networks, and most mobile services work without additional plans.
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