Puerto Rico 5-Day Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip (2025)
Five days in Puerto Rico hits the sweet spot—enough time to experience the highlights without rushing. This itinerary balances Old San Juan's history, El Yunque's rainforest, Fajardo's water adventures, and an island day trip.
No passport needed. No currency exchange. Your cell phone works. Let's go.
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Browse All Tours →Day 1: Arrive + Old San Juan
Morning: Land at SJU, grab your rental car, check into your San Juan hotel.
Afternoon: Walk the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan. Hit Castillo San Felipe del Morro, La Fortaleza, and Calle del Cristo.
Evening: Dinner in Old San Juan. Try mofongo at a local spot.
Stay: San Juan (Condado or Old San Juan)
Day 2: El Yunque Rainforest
Morning: Early start for El Yunque (45 min drive). Beat the clouds and crowds.
Must-do: Hike to La Mina Falls. Swim in the natural pool. Spot coquí frogs.
Afternoon: Drive to Fajardo. Check into hotel near the marina.
Stay: Fajardo
Day 3: Culebra Island Day Trip
Full day: Boat to Culebra Island for snorkeling and beach time. Flamenco Beach, sea turtles at Tamarindo Beach, crystal-clear water.
Evening: Return to Fajardo. Light dinner.
Night: Bio Bay kayak tour at Laguna Grande. Paddle through glowing water.
Stay: Fajardo
Day 4: Beach Day + Return to San Juan
Morning: Sleep in. You earned it.
Late morning: Beach time at Luquillo Beach or Seven Seas Beach.
Afternoon: Drive back to San Juan.
Evening: Explore Santurce neighborhood or La Placita.
Stay: San Juan
Day 5: San Juan + Depart
Morning: Condado Beach, Café Mallorca breakfast, last-minute shopping.
Afternoon: Return rental car, fly home.
Pro Tips
- Rent a car — Public transit won't cut it outside San Juan.
- Book bio bay during new moon — Check lunar calendar before booking dates.
- Reserve El Yunque early — Vehicle permits sell out, or just book a tour.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen — Required at many beaches.
- Learn basic Spanish — Not required, but locals appreciate it.
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