How to Spend a Long Weekend in Puerto RicoSO good to be back in Boriquen... ¡Puerto Rico! It's my second time back—and here is my recent trip itinerary, including restaurant openings, women-owned bars, local shops, museums, and of course, the outdoors from San Juan and Caguas in the north, to Cabo Rojo and La Parguera in the Southwest!Authorsdominicanabroad
DestinationsPuerto RicoItinerary

I. What to Do in Puerto Rico

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico
A MUST VISIT!!! My fav museum in San Juan. Dedicate at least half a day here; it's huge. I went last year! The museum contextualizes a lot of the politics and the time period, and the history of Puerto Rico (through its extensive art collections).
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MADMi - Museo de Arte y Diseño de Miramar
MADMi in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is inside the historic 1913 "Pink House" and stepping in feels like entering a world of creativity. The galleries show contemporary art and design from Puerto Rico's local makers, and the house itself has history, once home to celebrated artist Lorenzo Homar. Beyond the exhibitions, they run workshops and community events, so there is always a way to see, learn, and connect with the island's creative spirit.
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La Parguera Glowing Bioluminescent Bay Boat Tour from San Juan
You can do a variety of bioluminescent tours from La Parguera. This year, we could not do this tour... It's very dependent on the moon and weather conditions. But last year, I got to go with local tour operators in La Parguera. It was truly magical to experience the sparkling, glowing waters.
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Loíza
This was truly a highlight experience. Half day Afro-Heritage Tour in Loiza by Sojourn PR. https://www.sojournpr.com/the-loiza-experience
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Cayo Caracoles
Spend at least half a day here. You can buy boat tickets (without reservations) from La Parguera in the daytime and a boat will take you to these small keys with sand banks, crystal clear water, and mangroves (super important for bioprotection). If you apply sunscreen on your skin, please be sure it's eco-friendly so we can keep these natural wonders safe!
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Buyé Beach
A beautiful white sand beach with clear, calm waves, Buyé Beach is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
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Guánica
This is where the hotel is located. The area is home to mangrove-hidden, quiet, white sand beaches. You can take boats from here to Gilligans Island. It is also close to the Dry Forest Reserve, for unique coastal hikes!
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Playa Piñones
While on the Afro-Boricua tour of Loíza with Sojourn_PR, we stopped at this iconic beach. Relaxing to drive through, stop for a coconut or food.
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II. Where to Eat & Drink in Puerto Rico

Manzana de Java
NEW SPOT. Manzana de Java is where local Puerto Rican classics meet bold Indonesian flavors, and every dish tells a story. The ceviche, pastel en hoja, and guava dessert were my favorites. Reservations are HIGHLY recommended. They do lunch and dinner.
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Cocina al Fondo
Still my #1 favorite restaurant in San Juan! The lobster and fish are the top dishes, along with the berenjena appetizer. Their portions are HUGE, so plan to save space for dessert ahead of time.
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Rancho Carbon Express
My second favorite place to eat on the whole island? You can truly feast for about $15 per person. Local family-owned. Get the roasted chicken. Don't miss the pumpkin flan (it is heavenly).
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conVIDA Cocktail Lounge
Visit the first and only woman-owned & Latina-owned gin bar! We stopped here on a foodie walking tour in the quaint town or small city of Caguas.
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Bamboleio
When you start feeling hungry, head to Bamboleio, located right next to Buyé Beach. Try the seafood paella, ceviche, and wash it all down with their delicious craft cocktails.
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Cabo Beach House
Come here to catch the sunset and enjoy a drink with their garlic steak (al ajillo). Definitely try to get a seat at the beach bar.
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Bacoa Finca + Fogón
Bacoa Finca and Fogón is a Puerto Rican wood-fire restaurant and farm by local chefs. Come for the drinks and dessert. Loved the hibiscus (I got it sin limón), best bacalaitos I've ever had, and their famous warm bread pudding is a must.
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III. Where to Stay in Puerto Rico

Hotel El Convento
Right in the heart of Old San Juan, the historic El Convento makes it easy to savor all of Old San Juan's highlights such as museums, local bars and restaurants, and local tours.
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Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa
This local hotel is located on a chill and dreamy beach area of Guanica. It offers kayaking, ferries, and tours to the nearby cayos. They also have a great breakfast! Don't miss stargazing at night here.
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IV. Where to Shop Local in Puerto Rico

Batey De Los Hermanos Ayala
Paired with the visit above, this studio explores artistry, craftsmanship, and storytelling through the history of the vejigante tradition.
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LUCA
LUCA features and sells works from local and international designers and creators. It's a beautifully curated boutique that offers a selection of jewelry, clothing, home goods, and other thoughtfully chosen objects by independent makers, and it also hosts events!
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Samuel Lind Art Studio
During the tour of Loíza, we stopped at this beautiful local art studio that showcased paintings and sculptures. It is a one-of-a-kind experience visiting this space.
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La Isla
Attached to the La Isla shop, they have a perfect café to stop at, too! Loved it. They sell locally-made health products and other goodies.
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