


Novice wave riders should head to Pine Grove in Isla Verde, known for its small, steady waves. Here, fabled La Ocho (named after its bus stop, the 8th) has some of the largest swells – locals claim the left side is the best. The mixologists here are purists and let the island’s local produce and ingredients shine without any flashy gimmicks. Locals swing by at all hours for an ice-cold Medalla (Puerto Rico’s national beer), a glass of wine or a classic cocktail – daiquiri, old fashioned or Negroni. Amid its eclectic vintage vibe – burgundy-and-green walls etched with landscape paintings, red velvet sofas, chandeliers – try a signature passionfruit or habanero mojito, made from local rum, tropical fruit and spices.Ī short walk south of the plaza, La Penúltima is a community bar housed in a low-slung building painted with colorful murals. Asere Kitchen and Bar is a slice of Old Havana. Some of San Juan’s top restaurants and cocktail bars are here. Bold street art, innovative cocktail bars and culinary temples orbit La Placita de Santurce – a farmers market by day and nightlife hub by night. Spend your first night in the Santurce district. Our blue-chip picks include Walter Otrero and Roberto Paradise. The beautifully curated collection of Taíno artifacts provides a historic perspective of the country.ĭozens of San Juan’s small galleries showcase Puerto Rico’s contemporary artists, who are finally gaining recognition on the international stage. If you’re short on time, head straight for seminal paintings by Puerto Rican artists, including José Campeche and Francisco Oller, and acclaimed photographs and installations of modern artist Marta Mabel Pérez. Located in a lofty 17th-century building, the museum houses 24 exhibition galleries and an expansive collection of paintings, lithographs, sculptures and mixed media artworks spanning over 400 years. The streets of Old San Juan and Santurce are dotted with galleries and museums that celebrate emerging local artists and established international talent.Ī short walk east of La Placita is Puerto Rico’s most prestigious cultural institution, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico. Afternoon: Fall for Puerto Rican artĮxplore the city’s dynamic art scene. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter. Pick up a kite from the vendors alongside the fort’s grassy promenade and join local families who gather on the weekend to picnic, walk their dogs, play baseball and fly kites. This remarkable feat of military engineering was built by the Spanish over a quarter century from 1529. No visit to Old San Juan is complete with exploring El Morro, widely considered the oldest fortification in the Americas. Stroll along Calle Norzagaray, a picturesque street lined with townhomes, to the colossal Castillo San Cristobál. Stop for brunch and a locally grown Gustos coffee at Mercado la Carreta. Immerse yourself in the city’s romantic charms with a stroll along Calle San Sebastián, which brims with flower-filled patios, eclectic boutiques and contemporary art galleries. Puerto Rico’s cultural jewel is a rainbow-hued confection of preserved Spanish townhomes, palatial forts, venerable churches and historic plazas, encircled by a (largely intact) 16th-century wall. Old San Juan’s historic alleys are filled with romantic charms – and a soundtrack of irresistible music © Colvin / Getty Images Day 1 Morning: Tread the cobblestones of Old San Juanįall under the spell of Old San Juan.
