La Isla de Encanto is the phrase of endearment for this 3,515 square mile island, better known as Puerto Rico. This “rich port” certainly is an enchanting paradise — glistening waters, exotic plants, delicious foods, and incredible coffees. Let’s not forget that it’s also the birthplace of the pina colada.
It’s a divine spot for tourists, even when traveling with the kids. It’s affordable compared to other tropical destinations, and Americans can visit without needing a passport.
If you’ve decided to make Puerto Rico your next family travel destination, you may be looking for some family-friendly activities to add to your itinerary. While there’s a lot to do on the island, here are just some of my favorites that I recommend adding to your next Puerto Rican family vacation!
Parque de las Palomas
There’s a good chance this spot isn’t on your radar, but your animal-loving children would be delighted to visit! Parque de las Palomas in San Juan is a site where pigeons gather in large numbers. From here, the views are sprawling, offering picturesque glimpses of cobblestone streets and monuments paying tribute to Boriquen’s history. Visitors can marvel at the panoramic views, which encompass the sea and the city center.
Not too far away is La Fortaleza, which is another popular spot. The street in front of the structure is festively decorated, as if in constant celebration. However, it’s also a historic building: it’s the oldest and longest continuously inhabited government building in the USA. Even today, it remains the governor’s house.
Puerto Rico was seen as a strategic foothold in the sea. One thousand miles from the North American coast and just over 800 miles from the South American coast of Venezuela, whoever controlled it could have gained insight into foreign affairs and access to the gems on the southern continent.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Castillo San Felipe del Morro, commonly referred to as “El Morro,” is perhaps the most well-known of any Spanish construction on the island. The site was respected as a formidable entity, believed to be unconquerable.
With six levels looming over the Atlantic, it was designed to unleash massive artillery dominance over any approaching opponent. It wasn’t until the Spanish-American War that enemy bombardment struck the immense structure. After 400 years, the fort was conquered, falling into American hands.
Castillo San Cristobal
Castillo San Cristobal is revered as the largest fort constructed in the Americas, taking 150 years to complete. A dry moat surrounds this three-story stronghold. Within the structure, a series of tunnels is used to transport supplies and artillery, also serving as strategic defense options against potential attacks.
Another interesting aspect of the fortress is its rainwater network. The water tanks below could hold up to 800,000 gallons of water and are actually still in working order today.
Fortin San Juan de la Cruz
Fortin San Juan de la Cruz, nicknamed El Canuelo, which translates to “small channel” in Spanish, was a small wooden structure built opposite El Morro on a small island. Although it wasn’t as robust as its counterparts, it was strategically positioned to protect the river opening (Bayamon River) and served as a support to El Morro. Enemies attempting to avoid the larger fortification would most likely run aground, making them easy targets for the artillery within the seemingly futile fortification.
Ultimately, the fort was burned in 1625 by a Dutch attack. Although it was rebuilt, it fell out of use in the 1800s and now serves as an ideal location to view the grandeur of El Morro.
The forts are accessible every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. Entrance costs $10 for individuals 16 and older. It’s free for those 15 and younger.
Enjoy the Beaches
Everywhere you turn on this captivating Isle, the sea shimmers, beckoning for people to enter the pristine waters. But not all shores are created equal.
With currents differing, finding the ideal space for sand castles, water sports, or a safe place to splash in the waves can be overwhelming, especially for visitors. Fret not. Even if you’re staying local to the city center, beaches are abundant.
Condado
Condado is a perfect area in San Juan, especially for kids. A rock wall serves as a barrier to break up the waves, making it ideal for families, paddleboarders, and kayakers who seek calm tides. Vendors set up shop for easy access to refreshments, and restaurants are just a short stroll from the shore for when the family gets hungry after all their time in the sun.
Escambron
Adjacent to Condando is another beach area ideal for families called Escambron. The coral reef acts as natural protection, allowing the waters to remain tranquil and clear.
This is a popular place for snorkeling. In the area, there is also a walking path that leads to an old fortification called Bateria del Escambron, once used by Spanish and American military forces alike. (The U.S. military vacated this post in 1925.)
La Playuela
Located on the Southwest coast of the island is La Playuela. The water remains calm for most of the year, creating a serene spot for visitors with children.
It’s also a favorite spot for surfers and features various hiking trails that offer exquisite views of the area.
Flamenco Beach
This oasis is situated on the island of Culebra, approximately 20 miles off the east coast of the main island. An iconic U.S. tank remains displaced in the sand, solidifying it as a spot that piques tourists’ curiosity. However, this beach area is also a serene environment for snorkeling, sunbathing, and relaxing on the white sand due to its crescent shape.
Waves are nominal, and amenities such as showers, camping, parking, and lifeguards contribute to the popularity. Ferries and seaplanes transport guests to the island. Flights start around $60, and the trip takes about 30 minutes. Ferries depart from Ceiba, costing approximately $2 one way, and take about 45 minutes.
Bioluminescence in Laguna Grande
Take your water excursions to another level and take a swim or kayak through the stunning bioluminescent bays.
What exactly is bioluminescence? It happens when a chemical reaction occurs when a tiny organism is agitated while in the water and emits this beautiful light. These little creatures, called dinoflagellates, can be found in three locations in Puerto Rico where they glow: Laguna Grande, La Parguera, and Mosquito Bay.
The latter is the most dazzling place on the planet for this experience and is located on the island of Vieques, off the eastern coast of mainland Puerto Rico. There are various companies that offer tours on the island. Ferries from Ceiba to Vieques are common and inexpensive, costing as little as two dollars one way. Planes are also a great way to get there. Several airports have flight options, or you can charter a plane.
For tours on the main island, Fajardo is about an hour east of San Juan. It’s a quaint area on the waterfront where tours to Laguna Grande depart. Companies like Puerto Rico Bay Tours and Eco Adventures offer this distinct excursion.
La Parguera is southwest of San Juan and takes about two hours to drive to the town. What sets La Parguera apart is that you can swim in these waters and truly be immersed in the experience. Parguera Water Sports, Parguera Eco Tours, and Bio Bay offer various adventures, including the bioluminescent swim.
Yunque Ziplining
There are a few popular locations for ziplining that you can enjoy as a family if you have a more adventurous side. An exciting and epic way to experience the beauty and mystique of El Yunque National Forest is ziplining.
Float through the rainforest with Yunque Ziplining. Within the splendor of the forest, guests can experience five ziplining adventures, hiking, rappelling, and a canopy bridge. The organization also offers transportation to and from the national park for guests based in San Juan.
Toro Verde Ziplining
Toro Verde offers ziplining and other soaring excursions. This award-winning company has some of the best and longest zip lines in the Americas, including the infamous “La Bestia,” which is the longest zipline in the world. While the views are spellbinding, the adventure will leave you breathless.
Choose a package right for you or pick a pass to fly through all the lines. With all options, closed-toe shoes are a must. Height and weight restrictions apply, so check people you book with your little ones in mind.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo
Puerto Rico houses numerous museums that your family might love spending some time in, especially in the summer when it’s just a bit too hot out during the afternoons. The Museo de Arte Contemporaneo focuses on works from the mid-20th century to the present. All artwork on exhibit pays homage to Puerto Rican, Latin American, and Caribbean people as well as their descendants.
The museum is dedicated to preserving and studying the local culture and the individuals who have influenced the Puerto Rican lifestyle. The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $8. Children under five are $3.
Museo de las Americas
The Museo de las Américas strives to intentionally and relevantly emphasize Puerto Rican heritage. The conversation of Puerto Rican history and lifestyle is also imperative to their mission. The museum is situated in the Cuartel de Ballaja, in historic San Juan, which was once a military barracks.
Four permanent collections make their home here: Popular Arts in the Americas, African Heritage, The Indigenous of America, and Conquest and Colonization: Birth and Evolution of the Puerto Rican Nation. There are a number of other exhibitions that are on display annually throughout the museum as well. General admission is $6. Children under 12 and adults over 65 are $4.
Museo de Nino Carolina
For kids in particular, the Museo de Niño Carolina is an expansive property about 20 minutes from the old town. Here, kids can explore playgrounds, meander through a mini zoo, learn about space, transportation, and even cruise through a go-kart course! Paddle boats allow you to adventure into the museum’s ponds for a closer look at the mangroves. Reservations can be made in advance and are recommended for larger groups.
Museo Castillo Serralles
On the southern coast of the island, known as the “Pearl of the South,” is where you’ll find the popular town of Ponce. This rich and vibrant area is full of history. Visit the Parque de Bombas, the island’s first fire station, now a distinctive landmark with a museum.
The Ponce Museum of Art houses pieces dating back to the 17th century. Here you will find Puerto Rican art alongside European artworks. For rum enthusiasts, don’t miss the Museo Castillo Serralles. It was once the home of the Serralles family, who are known for founding the Don Q rum brand.
<p>The post Unforgettable Family Adventures You Can Have in Puerto Rico first appeared on Travelbinger.</p>