Southwest USA Road Trip Guide: National Parks & Desert Landscapes

The American Southwest 

The American Southwest is a playground of incredible rock formations, other worldly deserts and endless highways. The region overlaps several states, includes many Native American reservations and is home to some of the country’s most cherished National Parks. 

An American Road Trip 

There’s something so freeing and spontaneous about road trips: listening to good music, driving with the windows down, stopping at roadside attractions and ordering drive through meals. Starting in Los Angeles, we spent 10 days driving along sections of Old Route 66 across Southern California, Arizona and Utah. 

Southern California 

Our roadtrip through Southern California led us from Los Angles into to desert. We passed roadside attractions, hiked through national parks and visited forgotten communities. 

Santa Monica Pier 

The Santa Monica Pier made for a fitting place start to our roadtrip, being the point where the historic Route 66 meets the Pacific Ocean. The wooden pier is buzzing with electronic violinists, fishermen and neon lights from vintage amusement park rides. It boasts coastal views of the ocean and tan sand shore line stretching along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

The Lobster Restaurant.  A seafood restaurant at the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier with dishes like grilled lobster, lobster mac and cheese and lobster rolls, all best paired with a Pacifico beer. 

Randy’s Donuts 

An landmark donut shop, easily recognized by the massive donut resting on top of its roof. It’s been featured in video games, movies, tv shows and referenced across Hollywood. We ordered coffees and a dozen donuts to begin our first morning on the road!

Cabazon Dinosaurs

Located just off the highway in Cabazon, CA, these dinosaurs captured our attention and imagination. This roadside attraction, considered to be one of the greatest, features two giant dinos: A brachiosaurus named Dinny the Dinosaur and a t-rex named Mr. Rex. We reveled at, walked under, around and even climbed inside both of them. 

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is one of the United States most treasured landscapes, home to exotic desert plant life, giant boulders and hiking trails. It’s famed for its namesake, the Joshua Tree, a multi-armed, spike leaved, desert growing plant. They are a fragile and enduring symbol the the Mojave Desert where the park resides, thriving in harsh conditions with little water and persistent sunlight.

Hiking Trails & Desert Sights 

Park Blvd.  The main road in Joshua Tree National Park. Several hiking trails branch off from it, meandering across the desert landscape and connecting with other trails. Choosing a trail head with available parking, we began hiking the South Side Connector Trail and later merging with the Big Foot Trail. We spent hours hiking through a forest of Joshua Trees, along side large rock formations and through an area with a wash where we saw a desert tortoises. 

Willow’s Hole Trail.  Considered one of Joshua Tree’s most scenic hikes. The trail offers a variety of the entire Joshua Tree landscape ending at a desert oasis surrounded by willow trees. The first half of the trial is relatively flat, surrounded by large rock formations, Joshua Trees, desert plants and countless whitetail and jackrabbits. The second half of the trail winds through a canyon with incredible cliffs and washes before ending at the peaceful oasis. During the return hike, we enjoyed golden hour illuminating the terrain and watched as the sunset painted the sky in an array of colors. 

Pro Tip.  Begin in the late afternoon to avoid peak heat, planning to finish the hike around sunset.

Good to Know.  The hike spans more than 7 miles round trip and takes about 4 hours at a normal pace. Be prepared to climb over large boulders to avoid floods parts of the trail. 

Chola Cactus Garden.  Located midway along Pinto Basin Road is this incredible cactus garden filled with Chola cacti. Watch your step along the trail and don’t touch them. 

Pinto Basin Road.  A scenic road leading from the north end to south end of the park, taking about an hour to drive. Most Joshua Trees are located in the High Mojave Desert in the north while the Colorado Desert to the south is known for its its cacti patches. 

Pinto Basin.  A vast swath of cacti covered desert and mountains. It’s easily viewed from the Pinto Basin Road.

Ocotillo Patch.  Located near the south end of Pinto Basin road is an extensive patch of Ocotillo Cacti. These massive cacti grow several feet high and gracefully sway in the wind.

Skull Rock.  An eroded rock formation that resembles the shape of a human skull.

The Night Sky.  The High Mojave Desert is located far enough from any major cities making light pollution very minimal and offering incredible night sky views. 

Joshua Tree Essentials 

Maps & Park Pass. Stop at one of the Visitor Centers to buy a park pass and map. Ask a ranger for recommendations on where to hike based on what you want to do or see. Visit the National Park Service for detailed info on Joshua Tree and its trails. Alternatively, set up an account with All Trails for detailed info on all of the parks routes with info curated by other hikers. 

What to Bring

• Water

• Trail Snacks

• Sunblock & Sunglasses 

• Flashlight 

• Map 

Where to Stay

There’s no shortage of places to stay in and around Joshua Tree. The park itself has a few campgrounds while many quaint desert resorts, motels and unique stays surround the park. 

Joshua Tree Airstream.  A traditional Airstream camper set amongst the shrub covered desert landscape. The cozy space is fully equipped with two beds, a communal area, kitchen, toilet and shower. It’s located less than 30 minutes from the West Entrance Station. Book on Airbnb.

Salvation Mountain 

Salvation Mountain is a massive art piece located in the California Desert started by Leonard Knight in the mid 80s. The site is inspired by the scriptural passages with the simple message, “god is love.” Love, in our opinion is the true theme of this place. The mountain is covered in colorful and peaceful imagery of waterfalls, flowers and the yellow brick road centered around the most prominent word, love, situated above a giant heart. The structure is built from a mixture of hay, packed clay and layers of paint.

Slab City & East Jesus 

Located just beyond Salvation Mountain are two off the grid alternative living communities, Slab City and East Jesus.

Slab City.  A community named for remnants of concrete slabs left behind after the demolition of a military training camp. The slabs are home to RVs, permanent trailers, make shift buildings and piles of debris. Many of the folks who live here have come to live off the grid while others are here as a result of poverty. There is no electricity, running water, waste management or local government. Despite that, there is a certain since of community with its own library, golf course, clubs and music venues. 

East Jesus.  A sustainable and habitable art installation focused on creative re-use. The experimental community is built from discarded materials and salvaged waste. It’s inhabited by artists, musicians, writers and other creatives. We spent hours wandering, observing and talking with some of the locals to get a better perspective on the place. Come here with an open mind. There is no where else quite like it. 

Salton Sea & Bombay Beach 

The Salton Sea.  An ancient lake bed, accidentally flooded during the early 20th Century, now contaminated with agricultural runoff. The shrinking body of water and its shoreline is covered in the decomposing remains of fish, dried clay and salt deposits. 

Bombay Beach.  A once thriving seaside community catering to celebrities, retirees and vacationers during the mid 20th Century. The town, now mostly forgotten is a place stunted in its growth yet still inhabited by a small number of families and artists. We passed a man painting television screens on the street, two children seamlessly sweeping dirt for leisure and a woman sitting alone on a chair in the middle of an empty lot. Many homes have been left behind due to the toxicity of the sea and damage caused by the salinity in the air. A sobering place that should’t be overlooked or looked down upon. 

Northern Arizona 

Our roadtrip through Northern Arizona led us to some of the United States greatest natural wonders and pre-Columbian ruins.

The Grand Canyon 

The Grand Canyon is revered as one of the greatest natural sights on Earth. Its size, at 1 mile deep and up to 18 miles wide, reveals millions of years of layered sediment and orange hued rock. We overlooked the South Rim of the canyon during the middle of a blizzard, unable to see much through the white out, we laughed and vowed to return one day!

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a 1,000 foot steep bend of the the Colorado River in the shape of a horseshoe. It’s a breathtaking and truly awe inspiring place. We spent the late afternoon wandering the rim and admiring its beauty. Located just off the highway outside of Paige, AZ and accessible by a 1.5 mile hike. The overlook is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Bring cash for the entrance fee. 

Lake Powell & Navajo Canyon 

Lake Powell is a manmade lake created by the Glenn Canyon Dam with over 2000 miles of shoreline. One of the best ways to experience it is by boat. Rent an boat from the Antelope Point Marina to explore the lake. Visit Navajo Canyon, a 16 mile long canyon with massive orange and brown cliffs ranging in height on all sides. The canyon is fairly wide but narrows in areas with tiny offshoots, carefully accessible by boat. 

Navajo Cliff Dwellings 

The Navajo Cliff Dwellings, also called The Betatakin Cliff Dwellings, are one of the best surviving examples of pre-Colombian civilization in the American Southwest. At its peak nearly 800 years ago, it was home to hundreds of people and contained over 120 sandstone structures built into the protected cliffside. The cave dwellings can be viewed from an observation point at the end of a short hike from the Navajo National Monument Visitor Center. 

Southern Utah 

Our roadtrip brought us into the southern sliver of Utah, a part of the state overlapped by the Navajo Nation and defined by its dramatic buttes. 

Monument Valley 

Monument Valley offers views of the most quintessential western landscapes and scenery. The valley is comprised of towering buttes and crumbling rock formations that rise from the orange hued desert landscape. Many of the buttes and mesas are visible from roadside overlooks within and outside the Tribal Park.

Sentinel Mesa.  A desert plateau and cliff formation with dramatic views overlooking Monument Valley’s three most famous buttes: West Mitten Butte, East Mitten Butte and Merrick Butte. The observation point is reachable by hiking a trail at the end of Sentinel Mesa Road. Always ask for permission to park or hike on private property. 

Stay in a Navajo Hogan.  A Hogan is a traditional Navajo home, once common throughout the tribal nation. These domed huts are built from cedar structures covered in layers of sand and clay to provide insulation from the heat and cold. Most Navajo People live in modern homes today but keep a Hogan on their property for guests and ceremonial purposes. Staying in one in the middle of Monument Valley was an unforgettable experience. It’s interior was rustic, with beds covered in Navajo blankets and a central wood burning stove. Our particular Hogan was built in 1934 and has been maintained ever since. Book here on Airbnb!

Try Navajo Frybread.  A round piece of flat dough deep fried until golden and puffy. It’s often made and served hot as a sweet or savory snack. Visit the San Juan Trading Post & Cafe in the town of Mexican Hat for their version, The Navajo Taco, with frybread covered in bean, tomato, lettuce, onion and cheese. For something sweet, order the Sweet Frybread, lightly covered in a sugary syrup. 

Forest Gump Hill

Forest Gump Hill is a scenic stretch of road that disappears into the horizon of Monument Valley. It’s been made famous by many Western movies and Hollywood films, most notably, Forest Gump. It’s here where Tom Hank’s character stopped running after 4 years crossing the country. It even has its own emoji. 

Mexican Hat

Mexican Hat is a rock formation named after a large flat rock, precariously balanced on top of a small vertical base protruding from the hillside, described as resembling a mariachi’s sombrero. Hiking trails lead around the base and underside of the “hat.” From here, there are beautiful views of the green and orange hillside carved out by the San Juan River.

Central Arizona 

Central Arizona is home to desert landscapes, meteor craters and national parks, much of it reachable along Old Route 66 (now Interstate 40).

Old Route 66

Old Route 66 is one of the most famous and nostalgic roads in the United States. It’s dotted with numerous small towns, roadside attractions, motels and diners. 

Holbrook, Arizona.  A small town along Old Route 66 famed for its roadside attractions, western history and Americana charm. The main street is lined with old buildings surviving from the wild west, a tee pee themes motels, retro roadsigns, several rock shops and attention grabbing roadside dinosaurs. 

Wigwam Motel.  A historic motel famed for its concrete and steel formed tee pees lined with vintage cars and a retro neon road sign. The motel has 15 tee pees, each acting as their own guest room. The stay was incredibly cute and felt like we had transported to a different era. Book here!

Winslow, Arizona.  A historic town along Old Route 66 made famous by The Eagles 1972 hit, “Take It Easy,” featuring the lyrics “I'm a-standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” Drive through the town to stand on said corner as the song plays on repeat over loud speakers.

Mr D'z Route 66 Diner.  A classic greasy spoon and retro style Americana style diner with an extensive menu of omelettes, sandwiches and milkshakes. It’s interior is decorated with teal and pink upholstered booths, black and white checkered floors, framed pictures and vintage memorabilia. 

The Roadkill Cafe/O.K. Saloon.  A famed restaurant along Old Route 66 with American style comfort foods like burgers, sandwiches and baked potatoes. It’s pine paneled interior is decorated with all kinds of taxidermy animals and vintage signs.

Barringer Meteor Crater

The Barringer Metror Crater is a giant impact crater formed over 50,000 years ago, measuring nearly a mile across and over 500 feet deep. The crater is accessible to view through the park’s visitor center and has two observation decks on its rim. Within the visitor center are a large number of meteorites on display as well as small fragments of it for sale.

Meteor City.  An abandoned roadside attraction near the Barringer Metror Crater. It was started in the late 30s as a gas station, grocery store and souvenir stand along the Old Route 66.It’s an eerie spot to walk around and watch trains pass by.

Petrified Forest National Park 

The Petrified Forest is a National Park covers a vast area of desert that was once home to an ancient rainforest. Preserved under the soil and exposed due to erosion are the remains of fossilized trees from the forest that existed over 200 million years ago. Some of the trees are so well preserved that you can count the rings and feel the grain of the bark. 

Blue Mesa.  An area of the Petrified Forest eroded by rain revealing colorful bands of blue, purple, grey and red soil as well as the petrified wood. Drive around its loop and hike the Blue Mesa Trail, an area with massive logs and fragments of the fossilized trees laying across the ground. It was crazy to think that we were walking across land where the dinosaurs roamed and a forest thrived over 200 million years ago. 

Southern Arizona

Southern Arizona is a dry and aired place, defined by its towering Saguaro cacti, desert landscapes and Southwestern cities. 

Saguaro National Park 

Located within in the Sonoran Desert outside of Tucson is Saguaro National Park, home to the Saguaro Cactus. The Saguaro is the classic symbol of the Southwest with its tall waxy green trunk and multiple arms. The park is divided into two separate districts located on opposite sides of Tucson. The Tucson Mountain District to the West and The Rincon Mountain District to the East. 

The Rincon Mountain District.  The eastern half of Saguaro National Park with a drivable loop and hiking trails with views of the Sonoran Desert and it’s towering Saguaro Cacti. It’s easy to spend an entire day here. 

Cactus Forest Drive.  An loop road leading through the The Rincon Mountain District. Its a scenic way to see a vast region of the park, lined with hiking trails, observation points and picnic areas. 

Cactus Forest Trail.  A lengthy trail meandering across the desert terrain densely populated with mature saguaros. Beware of diamond back rattle snakes slithering across the trail. 

Pro Tip. Wear sunblock and bring plenty of water for hiking, especially during the peak afternoon hours. 

Tucson’s Barrio Viejo 

Tucson’s Barrio Viejo is a historic neighborhood and one of the city’s first. It’s influenced by Mexican American influences with old adobe buildings, all painted vibrant colors and landscaped with desert cacti. Spend time walking around the barrio, imaging what it would be like to live in such a stunning place. 

Driving in The American Southwest

We spent 10 days driving thousands of miles around the American Southwest and its seemingly endless highways. Below are some tips for a making a smooth roadtrip. 

Maps.  Download offline maps and plan your route. Ask for an old school paper map from the rental agency or pick one up at a rest stop as a back up. 

Distance.  The southwest is a vast region of the country. Expect to drive hundreds of miles a day and thousands during the course of a multi-day to two week roadtrip. 

Gasoline.  Keep your tank at least half full. There are vast stretches without any gas stations. 

Be Spontaneous.  Give yourself extra time to get around and expect to make unexpected stops at roadside attractions and lookout points. Expect the occasional detour. 

Weather.  Check the forecast prior to driving, especially in the mountains. It’s not fun to get trapped in a blizzard.

Playlist.  Have plenty of music or audio books teed up for the long drive and days in the car. 

For Next Time…

The American Southwest is a vast region of the country where endless roads criss cross dramatic landscapes, small towns, big cities and historic sights. If we had more time, there is so much more we would see and do. Below is an extensive list of some of those places: 

The Pacific Coast Highway.  A coastal road stretching hundreds of miles along California’s Pacific Coast. 

Palm Springs.  A California town famed for it’s retro and mid-century style architecture, palm lined boulevards and desert landscapes. 

Pioneer Town.  An 1880s themed western town with dirt roads, wooden buildings, saloons and wanted posters. 

Sequoia National Park.  A California park with a forest of towering sequoia redwood trees, including the, General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest living tree. 

Death Valley National Park.  Considered one of the hottest and driest places on Earth with summer time temperatures often exceeding 120 degrees fahrenhrit, especially in Furnace Creek. 

Antelope Canyon.  A picturesque, narrow and winding sandstone canyon. It can only accessed via a Navajo guide. 

Vermilion Cliffs.  A sweeping wave of orange and golden shades of sandstone.

Beaver Falls & Havasu Falls.  Two turquoise waterfalls hidden in the middle of Arizona’s desert landscape on the Havasupai Reservation. 

Sedona, Arizona.  A desert town with striking rock formations, pine forests and breathtaking hiking trails, including the Devil’s Bridge Trail.

Santa Fe, New Mexico.  A historic and artsy pueblo with galleries, museums and adobe landmarks. 

White Sands National Park.  A sprawling desert park with white sand dunes cresting across the horizon. 

Taos Pueblo.  An adobe city, home to the Taos Pueblo people, dating back over 1,000 years. 

Zion National Park.  A national park with verdant oases, emerald river pools, steep canyons and hiking trails including Angles Landing. 

Bryce Canyon.  A dramatic canyon filled with hundreds of red and orange sandstone spires. 

Arches National Park.  A national park with over 2,000 naturally formed sandstone arches. 

Bonneville Salt Flats.  The location of an ancient salt lake with a crystalline salt crust covering its floor. 

Dinosaur National Monument.  A reserve with hundreds of paleontological sights and fossilized dinosaurs. 

New Orleans Travel Guide: Food, Jazz & Local Culture

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a historic city with a lively, liberal and romantic atmosphere. We fell in love with NOLA so much so that it’s where we decided to get married! Between visiting venues and wedding planning, we spent time indulging in the city’s unique Cajun cuisine and Creole flavors, riding the street car down oak lined boulevards, walking through residential neighborhoods to look at the colorful cottages, listening to Jazz echo from the bars while drinking in the streets and learning more about the city’s past. Above all, New Orleans is a place to relax and celebrate, one of the many reason we chose to it for our wedding day!

Explore the Neighborhoods & Streets

The French Quarter.  The Quarter is the historic center of New Orleans with Spanish and French architecture, gas lit lanterns and cobble stone streets. It’s a hub for live Jazz, all night cocktail bars and Creole cuisine. We loved wandering its quiet side streets as well as bar hopping on Bourbon Street. 

Bourbon Street. The city’s most well known street located in the French Quarter. This street is often packed with people flaunting Mardi Gras beads, having the fortunes read and ordering to-go drinks from the colorfully lit all night bars. It gets a bit crazy but is worth visiting at least once.

Lavender Line.  Not technically a street but it encompasses a number of gay bars in the French Quarter north of Bourbon Street, many along St. Ann Street. Some of our favorites are Café Lafitte in Exile and Good Friends Bar.

The Garden District.  A residential district flanked between Magazine St. and St. Charles Ave. The neighborhood is home to historic mansions and cottages, large oak trees and leafy palms. It’s a beautiful neighborhood to explore on foot or along the St. Charles Street Car. 

Magazine Street.  One of the city’s Main Streets with restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops and creole architecture. It’s about 6 miles long, stretching from The French Quarter through The Garden District and into Uptown. Every stretch of it is well worth exploring. 

Irish Channel.  Located between Magazine Street and the Mississippi River, this cute residential neighborhood has many of our favorites restaurants, cafes and bars. There are lots of great places to stay at here. 

Freret Street. An Uptown street with restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and bars. We happened to visit during the annual Freret Street Festival. All weekend long, local businesses set up tents and trailers serving everything from to-go drinks, barbecue, paella and tacos. 

Marigny.  This beautiful neighborhood, just outside of the French Quarter, is a charming place to walk through to look at the brightly colored Creole cottages and shotgun houses. There are also lots of great Airbnb’s here. Come for Frenchman Street, the artists markets and local restaurants. 

ByWater.  Basically an extension of Marigny, this neighborhood is a little more bohemian and hipster with flea markets, cafes, cocktail bars and funky restaurants. 

Arts/Warehouse District.  A former warehouse district converted into a hub for cocktail bars, high end restaurants and art galleries. 

Uptown.  A broad area on the Riverside of New Orleans. Visit Maple and Oak Streets for the restaurants and nightlife. Both areas are popular with Tulane and Loyola students.

Things to Do 

Have a Second Line.  Looking to celebrate like a local? Have a Second Line. It’s New Orleans traditional New Orleans parade usually used celebrate weddings or remember someone’s life. We had one during our wedding and paraded around the neighborhood near our venue leading it with the brass band, our 50+ guests and a police escort following behind. Photo credit, Brandon Xuereb at Xistence Photography. 

Jazz on Frenchman Street.  This is the place to be for dancing and live Jazz. There are a number of late night bars, creole restaurants and artist markets to make for a memorable night. It’s much tamer and more authentic than the famed Bourbon Street. 

Ride the St. Charles Street Car.  The street car follows St. Charles Avenue, an oak tree lined street covered in Mardi Gras beads. The street car is the perfect way to get across town while admiring the historic homes and mansions in the Garden District.

Beignets at Cafe du Monde.  Visit the original location, located in the French Market, the most famous place to order a beignet and cafe au lait. We were lucky enough to visit while a brass band was playing out front.  

• Beignets are fried rectangular pieces of dough covered in powdered sugar. 

• Cafe au Lait is French for coffee with milk. 

Enjoy Creole Cuisine.  A mix of West African, Indigenous American, French and Spanish flavors. Some of our favorite dishes are gumbo, catfish po’boys and charbroiled oysters. 

Order a To-Go Daiquiri.  Almost every bar on Bourbon St. offers a selection of frozen daiquiris made to go. As long as it’s in a plastic container, it’s legal to publicly drink anywhere in New Orleans.

Sunsets at Lake Pontchartrain.  Visit Breakwater Park on Lake Pontchartrain to watch the sunset. The calm shallow waters reflect every color in the sky. Afterwards, there are a number of seafood restaurants nearby to enjoy dinner.

Visit a Cemetery.  The dead in New Orleans are buried above ground in elevated plots or mausoleums because the city sits below sea level. We walked thorough the rows of St. Joseph Cemetery and Lafayette Cemetery No. 2. Both of which were open and free to tour. 

Armstrong Park.  A park on the edge of the French Quarter with walkways and bridges that meander over bayou-like waterways and ponds. Statues and sculptures of Jazz legends and musicians celebrate New Orleans’ musical culture, African heritage and Black History.

Audubon Park.  A spacious city park and green space with towering oak trees covered in Spanish moss, meandering and shaded walks ways, swan inhabited ponds and views of the Mississippi River. 

Walk Down Crescent Park.  A riverfront park located along the Mississippi with a 1.4mile path. Watch the ships pass by and sound their fog horns. Afterwards, cross the “Rusty Rainbow Bridge” into the ByWater neighborhood. 

Cross The Mississippi.  There is a ferry located along the river front at the end of Canal Street that crosses the Mississippi to Algiers Point. It’s a quiet neighborhood to enjoy a po’boy, view the skyline and walk the levy.

See Some Art

NOMA (New Orleans Museum of Art).  The museum has a great collection of Southern, French and Modern painting, historic and multi-cultural artifacts and a remarkable sculpture garden with beautifully landscaped grounds. There is also a rotating gallery, it had a LGBTQ+ photography exhibit when we visited. 

New Orleans Jazz Museum.  A museum teaching about the origin of Jazz, some of its most notable musicians and its importance in New Orleans. 

New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum.  A tiny but educational museum in the French Quarter with many voodoo artifacts and altars. It’s a great place to visit and learn more about the religion. They also offer cemetery tours and bone readings.

Go Shopping 

Frenchman Arts Bazaar.  A nightly market located on Frenchman Street where artists sell illustrations, sculptures, jewelry, decor and perform live music. 

Voodoo Authentica.  A voodoo shop with a dimly lit interior, small shrines, handmade voodoo dolls, figurines, charms, candles and incense. It’s an educational place to learn more about the modern practice of Voodoo. 

The French Market.  A market under a series of sheds in the French Quarter with food stands, to-go bars, live jazz performances, booths selling a range of items including Creole seasonings, fresh produce, Mardi Gras masks, voodoo dolls and colorful beads. Visit the original Cafe du Monde for sugary beignets. 

Get Out of the City

Outside of New Orleans, there are a number of mini excursions to go on. We booked ours with Cajun Encounters, a local tour company. 

Swamp Tours

New Orleans is surrounded by swamps that have had a large influence on they city’s architecture, industry and cuisine. They are also natural buffers that offer protection from hurricanes. We visited the Honey Island Swamp where we saw wild bores, alligators, cypress trees and Spanish moss while boating through the bayous and past swamp houses. 

Plantation Tours

Educate yourself on the history of slavery. New Orleans’ past is one we chose to learn more about while visiting. About an hour up-river are a number of plantations offering tours. We visited the Oak Alley Plantation, named for its row of 300 year old oak trees.Here, we learned about the lives of the enslaved people that were forced to labor here, the conditions they lived in and the African influences they brought with them. There is also a great restaurant here. Order a Po’boys and a flight of Mint Juleps!

Pro Tip.  Book a tour or drive here yourself. Uber and Lyft don’t drive to this area.

Taste Everything!

If you come to New Orleans for one thing, come for the cuisine! There are so many dishes and drinks unique to this city alone. These are some of favorites:

Po’Boy.  A classic Louisiana sandwich made on crispy bun with a fluffy center. It always has a protein, usually seafood, and comes “fully dressed” with lettuce, tomato, a pickle and mayo. 

Crawfish Mac n Cheese.  A Cajun classic made with crawfish tails, rich gooey cheese and macaroni noodles. 

Shrimp and Grits.  A classic breakfast dish with creamy buttery grits and tender Gulf shrimp. 

Fried Catfish.  A slightly gamey and flaky white fish. We often ordered it on a Po’boy.

Gumbo.  A traditional soup to New Orleans often eaten from October through March. It’s a savory melting pot of flavors and cultures having influences from the Indigenous Choctaw, West Africans, French and Spanish. 

Chargrilled Oysters.  Gulf Coast oysters that have been grilled with herbs and cheese.

The Holy Trinity.  A twist on the French mirepoix, made of onion, celery and bell peppers. It’s base to many dishes.

King Cake.  Traditionally served during Mardi Gras, it’s a green, yellow and purple glazed cake. 

The Sazerac.  A sipping cocktail made from whiskey, cognac and absinthe usually garnished with a lemon peel. 

The Hurricane.  A sweet, fruity, tropical rum drink served in a tall curved glass. 

Hand Grenade.  A cocktail served on Bourbon St. by a few specific bars. It’s a very sweet drink served in a tall neon green plastic container with the shape of a grenade at the bottom. Basically a hangover waiting to happen…enjoy! 

Places to Eat

Commander's Palace.  Commander’s is an unmistakable teal and white wooden restaurant located across the street from Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. It’s a family run business offering the best of high-end Creole cuisine in New Orleans. We tried the slow cooked gumbo, pecan crusted gulf fish covered in lump crab and a version of the crawfish linguini. For dessert, the bread pudding soufflé. Be sure to make a reservation and come dressed up. 

Jacques-Imos.  It’s hard to choose a favorite restaurant in New Orleans but this one is up there! Try the snail butter corn bread,Creole Bouillabaisse, Crawfish Étouffée and bread pudding. Make a reservation in advance and come ready to eat!

The Rum House.  Located on Magazine St. and a gem for á la carte tacos. We almost hired the restaurant to cater our wedding.  

Killer Po’Boys.  The best spot in the French Quarter for po’boys. In addition to the classic seafood options, they offer vegan Po’boys like roasted cauliflower, sweet potato and pb&j 

Pechê.  Recommended to us by a few locals, this restaurant in the offers Cajun and Gulf style seafood. 

Basin Sea Food & Spirits. We’ve came here multiple times for their classic southern seafood dishes including: charbroiled oysters, po’boys, fried catfish and gulf shrimp. Early on Friday nights they host lively drag shows!

Juan’s Flying Burrito. A favorite of ours on Magazine Street for Mexican food and margaritas. They blend Mexican, Creole and Native American flavors across their dishes. Try the Mardi Gras Indian and Creole tacos!

Landry’s Seafood House.  A seafood restaurant chain located throughout the Gulf Coast. We’ve dined at the Lake Pontchartrain location to watch boats sailing at the sunset. 

The Commissary Market + Kitchen.  A restaurant, bakery, butcher, bar and store shelved with miscellaneous provisions like including dried goods and homemade pickles. We’ve ordered cocktails, cookies and sandwiches.

Fat Boy Kitchen.  We came here for lobster po’ boys and steak fries the day after our wedding. The portions are huge and food is delicious! The owner even gifted us a bottle of Prosecco to celebrate.

Cafes & Coffee Shops

The Vintage.  A coffee shop with artisanal beignets by day and bar by night. We ordered a flight of three stuffed with matcha, pumpkin and raspberry for breakfast and enjoyed cocktails on their second floor balcony at night.  

Café Beignet.  A popular beignet chain. Visit the Bourbon St. location for a beignet, cup of chicory and of course live jazz. The beignets are delicious and lines are often shorter than their well known competitor, Cafe du Monde.

French Truck Coffee.  A local chain cafe with amazing coffee, biscuit sandwiches, breakfast toasts and croissants. If it’s fully brewed, try the Oji coffee. It’s Japanese method of slow brewing 1 drop at a time over 24 hours.

Bearcat Cafe.  A cafe in the middle of a residential street with breakfast and brunch options including cajun meals, vegan dishes and fresh kombucha. We ordered the blue crab omelette and vegan biscuits & gravy. Make sure to try the breakfast potatoes. 

City Donuts & Cafe.  One of the best finds in the city. Come here for a king cake donut to glazed donut breakfast sandwich! Literally egg and cheese sandwiched between two regular glazed donuts. 

Orleans Coffee Espresso Bar.  A great spot to relax with a coffee or cafe au lait. 

DeVille Coffee House & Crêperie. A restaurant serving crepes all day. We came here for brunch and dined outside right on Magazine Street.

Mojo Coffee. A cafe on Magazine Street with coffee and pastries. Try the NOLA brew, a blend of coffee and chicory.

Places to Have a Drink 

Delachaise Wine Bar.  One of our favorite spots in town. Come here for a glass of wine and to watch the St. Charles street cars pass by.

The Elysian Bar.  A former church turned into a restaurant and cocktail bar. The nave of the church is now the main dining room with multiple parlors located throughout the rectory. It’s a funky and unique experience!

Old Absinthe House.  A 200+ year old absinthe bar on Bourbon St. offering traditional absinthe drip cocktails. It stands out from the neon lit cocktail bars lining the street. The walls are covered in notes and business cards from generations of customers, 

The Pelican Club.  A creole restaurant with a quiet and semi hidden patio in a French Quarter alley. We came here for a post dinner nightcap, sitting between two potted palm trees under a string twinkling lights. 

The Sazerac Bar.  A cocktail bar with classic cocktails, most notably, the Sazerac, a cocktail invented in New Orleans and made with rye whisky, absinthe, bitters, lemon and sugar.

Salon Salon.  A cocktail bar with a glamorous and eclectic library styled interior. They have a revolving bookcase that opens up to a secret back room (we have yet to get in). 

Jewel of the South.  An inventive cocktail bar with seasonal drinks, contemporary concoctions and New Orleans classics like the French 75 and the Sazerac. Sit outside in their tropical plant courtyard. 

Café Lafitte in Exile.  Located on Bourbon Street and said to be the oldest operating gay bar in the US, dating back to the 1930s. Their cocktails bring new meaning to “gay bar strong.”

Good Friends Bar.  One of the many gay bars in the French Quarter but also one of our favorites. The 2 floor bar is a hub for the gay community, locals and tourists. 

QiQi.  A LGBTQ+ dive bar with inexpensive drinks, a laid back vibe and outdoor seating. 

Hot Tin.  A rooftop bar at the Pontchartrain Hotel with great cocktails and views of NOLA.

Getting Around 

Take the Street Car.  There are 4 lines that branch out from Canal St in the city’s center to different neighborhoods. Streetcars are the easiest and most affordable way to get around town. Download the RTA Go Mobile App to buy single ride tickets or multi-day passes.

On Foot.  Grab a to-go cocktail and start walking. The city is so photogenic and great for exploring on foot. 

Ride Shares.  Overall, New Orleans is pretty easy and affordable to get around. 

• $10 for short distances 

• $10-$20 to get across town 

• $30 to/from the airport to Canal St. 

Location Specifics 

NOLA.  The unofficial name for the city, short for New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Dining Attire.  Dress casually chic to semi formal for higher end restaurants.

Riverside vs Lakeside.  Riverside refers to the south side of the city and area along the Mississippi River. Lakeside refers to the north side of the city and area along Lake Pontchartrain. 

Bourbon St. Scams.  Watch out for scam artists on Bourbon St. If any one bets they can tell you where you got your shoes…tell them you’ve got them on Bourbon St.

Places to Stay

The Pink Cottage: Steps from Parades Courtyard.  A modern version of a creole cottage, a small house with a singe room, tiny kitchen and bathroom. Book on Airbnb. 

Courtyard Suite on Tchoupitoulas by Convention Center.  A beautiful and large Airbnb on the ground floor of a historic home neighboring our wedding venue. Book on Airbnb.

Next Time in New Orleans… 

New Orleans holds a special place in our hearts and we will certainly be back in the future! When we return, we have ideas of what we would like to do and see next including: 

• Celebrate the festivities during Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. 

• Tour St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 after their repairs are complete. 

• Go sailing on Lake Pontchartrain. 

A Local’s Guide to New York City: Boroughs, Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems

New York City 

New York City is an ever changing landscape of cultures, histories, movements, styles and cuisine. It is a worldly city, both glamorous and gritty filled with people from all walks of life. The city attracts dreamers and offers an endless supply of inspiration. Having lived here for 7 years, we’ve had the chance to explore and experience so much of what makes NYC unlike anywhere else. In no particular order, we’ve curated a list of sites worth visiting, hidden gems to appreciate, mouthwatering food to try and activities to do anywhere in NYC and across all 5 boroughs.  

Manhattan

Manhattan is the most iconic borough of New York City. Its towering skyscrapers, bustling avenues, historic neighborhoods, world renowned museums, famed parks and all hours of activity make it mesmerizing and energizing place to visit, live or work. 

Central Park 

Nestled within Manhattan’s grid of concrete and skyscrapers, is Central Park. The park acts as a retreat space for every New Yorker to escape the busy life of the city, spread out and re-connect with nature at all times of the year. These are our favorite reasons to visit the park: 

• Picnic! Gather some friends, bring a blanket, drinks, snacks and have a picnic. The park is filled with all types of lawns, fields and rock formations to choose from, finding a spot is never difficult to do. A few of our favorites are Umpire Rock, Sheep Meadow and Cedar Hill.

• The Lake.  With so many scenic spots nearby, the lake is one of our favorite areas in all of NYC. From here, you can listen to opera singers perform at Bethesda Terrace, share a kiss on the Bow Bridge, row across The Lake, sip on bubbly the Loeb Boathouse and get lost in the winding trails within The Ramble. 

• The North Woods.  Located in the northwest corner of the park between 100th & 110th streets, The North Woods is a vast section of the park with old trees, rolling hills and plenty of roads and trails to hike without leaving the city. 

• The Central Park Zoo.  A small but fun zoo to stroll through, see animals and learn about conservation. Our favorite part are the seals that frolic, splash and chase each other around in a large pool.

Grand Central Station 

An icon of NYC and well worth the visit with plenty to do and see outside of the typical commute.

• Wander The Great Hall, admire the celestial ceiling and check time on the Connecticut Clock. 

• Try a seafood tower, fresh oysters or whole lobster at the Oyster Bar.

• Whisper sweet nothings in the Whispering Hall. Outside of the Oyster Bar is a vaulted ceiling with columns at each corner. Stand diagonally across from another person speaking directly into the column. You’ll hear each other’s voice carry across the noisy hall’s ceiling.

• Drink a cocktail at The Apartment Bar, an old school NYC style speakeasy behind the restaurant on the south east corner of the great hall. 

• Shop for produce or souvenirs at the Grand Central Market. We usually grab specialty items from here on our way home; such as spices, seafood and Murray’s Cheese.

Photograph the Empire State Building 

The Empire State Building is easily the most recognizable and iconic sight in NYC defining the skyline day and night. At night, the building is illuminated in white or themed colorful lights. Try to spot the white lights twinkling on the hour after dark. Other special times to see the building illuminated is during Pride when it’s splashed in a rainbow of light, on New Years Eve when it glitters in color or Valentines Day when it’s lit in red and has a “heart beat.”

Observatories & Lookouts 

There are several observatories at the tops of historic and super tall buildings across the city. We’ve played tourist in our own city and visited multiple of them including:

• Empire State Building.  The most popular observatory in NYC and a must see with an outdoor deck, 360 city views and a small indoor room at the top of the spire. 

• The Edge.  An observatory with a large outdoor terrace and panoramic views of Manhattan. There’s a champagne bar to order bubbly from and enjoy the views. 

• World Trade Center.  The highest observatory in NYC with views of the Hudson Harbor and looking north across Manhattan. There is a cute bar with drinks and light bites 

• Rockefeller Center.  An observatory with views looking south towards Central Park and Midtown. 

Bryant Park 

This urban oasis is magical spot to relax and admire the city. Find an open chair or green patch of grass, sit back and listen to the hum of everything happening around you. The park is a few blocks from the energy and lights in Times Square and adjacent to the quiet and calm found within main branch of the NY Public Library. Bryant Park also hosts events year round from group yoga classes, chess competitions, ping pong, square dancing and a seasonal ice rink. 

Times Square 

While most New Yorkers avoid Times Square like the plague, you have to visit at least once or pass through in route to a Broadway show. Take in the lights, giant billboards, bustling chaos and noise.

Ride the Subway 

There’s hardly anything glamorous about riding the subway but it’s part of the NYC experience. Take the trains across town, look and listen for performers and don’t be afraid to ask strangers for directions. 

Directions to Keep in Mind: 

• Uptown = Central Park/Harlem

• Midtown = Times Square

• Downtown = World Trade Center

• Most trains pass through Times Square or Grand Central. From either, you can transfer almost anywhere. 

Eat NY Style Pizza 

Grab a slice of New York style pizza. Characterized by its crispy thin crust and wide slices, it’s a staple of NYC cuisine. Look out for pizzerias with long counters lined with dozens of pizzas all sold by the slice. Many of these shops are open 24 hours and constantly crank out new pies ensuring a fresh and delicious slice at any time of day. The East Village hosts a large number of pizzerias.

The Cast Iron District 

Spend an afternoon strolling through the cobble stone streets of the Historic Cast Iron District in SoHo. Hundreds of ornately designed cast iron clad buildings define the neighborhood, many of which are now home to high end restaurants, residences, boutiques and nightlife. Our favorites streets to walk down are Green Street, Bond Street and Crosby Street.

Urban Hiking 

One of the best ways to see the NYC is on foot. We often spend our weekends walking down avenues, across bridges and through Burroughs to explore the neighborhoods, discover restaurants and see areas we would typically passby while riding the subway. Get lost wandering, as Alicia Keys said it, “these streets will make you feel brand new.”

Vesuvius Bakery

One of our favorite bakeries in the city! This SoHo bakery often lures us in with its window display made from stacks of large chocolate chip cookies. Their cookies are crispy on the edges and gooey in-the middle made from layers of thin chocolate that melt apart with each bite.

The High Line 

Walk The High Line in Chelsea and Meatpacking. It’s an old rail line turned into an elevated park surrounded by contemporary architecture. It’s beautiful year round but our favorite time to visit is during autumn. Midway through, stop by Chelsea Market and eat your way through the food stands and restaurants.

Liberty Island 

Visit Liberty Island to see one of the United States most recognizable sights, The Statue of Liberty. The island is home to a museum recounting the statue’s history, construction and renovations. Most sightseeing tours leave from Battery Park.

Governor’s Island 

An island park in the NY Harbor accessible from the ferry terminal in lower Manhattan. Come here to picnic, admire the skyline and Statue of Liberty, ride bicycles without the stress of nyc drivers, rent kayaks at Pier 101, visit Castle Williams and admire artwork at summer galleries. There are a range of seasonal restaurants to dine and relax at including:

• Gitano Island.  A beach club style restaurant and bar with palm trees, a live DJ and tropical food and drinks.

• Taco Vista.  A taco stand in a shipping container with a patio overlooking the Manhattan skyline. 

• Island Oyster.  An outdoor oyster bar with an east coast vibe and skyline views. 

If you’re looking for something ritzier, buy a pass to the QC NY Spa or stay overnight at The Collective’s luxurious glamp-ground.

Roosevelt Island 

Ride the cable car connecting the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island that runs parallel to the Queensboro Bridge. While on Roosevelt Island, visit Four Freedoms Park, appreciate the island’s Brutalist Architecture or admire the Cherry Blossoms from April to May.

Union Square Market 

Every Saturday morning, the northwest side of Union Square transforms into a large farmers market comparable to those found in the plazas of Europe. It’s one of our favorite places to shop for locally made and grown items including Brooklyn honey, cut flowers, fresh caught seafood, funky mushrooms, artisan bread, smelly cheese, NY wine, maple syrup, seasonal produce and other specialties from local and urban farmers.

Greenwich Village

A historic Manhattan neighborhood known for its narrow streets, brick town houses, high end restaurants, trendy cocktail bars and fashion boutiques. It’s a home to the lgbtq community and movement with numerous gay bars including The Stonewall Inn, Julius, Dupex, The Monster, Pieces and Playhouse. Come to any of these for drag shows and dancing.  

Little Island

A fairy tale park built on tulip shaped pre-cast concrete columns rising from the Hudson River. The park has a winding pathway that gently climbs to a high point with views of the river. It’s home to a lawn, amphitheater and stage; each host concerts, fashion shows, comedians and other performances. There is also a rotunda with concession stands and colorful dining tables.

Chinatown 

After emerging from the Canal St subway station, it’s evident you’re in Chinatown by the pagoda style architecture, strings of red lanterns, vertical Mandarin signs and vendors selling fresh produce and knock-off handbags. Sip on bubble tea from Miss Du’s Tea Shop, lick ube or black sesame ice cream from Soft Swerve Ice Cream, shop for live seafood at Aqua Best, get a massage from the Renew Day Spa, check out the exhibit at world’s smallest museum, TheMmmuseum and sing dollar karaoke songs at Winnie’s Bar. Visit during Lunar New Year and participate in the neighborhoods festivities and traditions.

Little Italy

That's Amore! Visit Little Italy for authentic homestyle Italian cuisine. While looking for a place to eat, you can expect to be invited into every restaurant on the street by their respective hosts. Come here to eat wood fired pizza at Gelso & Grand, homemade pasta at Benito One, freshly filled cannolis or gelato at Ferrara Bakery & Cafe and espresso or espresso martinis at Caffe Roma. If you happen to visit during September, go during the Feast of San Gennaro, the neighborhood’s yearly food festival and street fair. 

Lower East Side

A popular Manhattan neighborhood that feels both grungy and upscale, trendy and timeless, home to locals and welcoming of tourists. About every cuisine imaginable is just a New York minute away with decades old restaurants, corner bodegas and street cafes serving customers late into the night. It’s a trendy area for nightlife with roof top cocktail bars, late night dives, hidden speakeasies and infamous clubs lurking around every corner. 

Go on a Bagel Crawl 

The city is dotted with delis, bakeries, bodegas and food carts offering these quintessential NY breads. Order one and split it amongst friends. After your first bagel, set out for your second, third, fourth and so on…enjoying the moments in-between to walk off a few carbs and see the city. There is an abundance of bagel shops throughout the Lower East Side. If you only have one type of bagel in NYC, make sure it’s a bagel with lox (cured salmon).

See Some Art

With renowned museums and galleries, NYC is home to some of the best art and artists in the world.

• Visit The Guggenheim and experience the museum as it was intended. Take the elevator to the top floor then walk down the spiral ramp viewing the art as you descend. 

• Spend a day at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMa)to see modern artwork by world famous artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol and Frida Kahlo. 

• Tour the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, walk among the Ancient Greek sculptures and galleries of renowned artwork at The MET

• Question the meaning behind contemporary art at The Whitney. 

• Tour the galleries and exhibits of city’s second largest art museum, The Brooklyn Museum.

• Go Gallery Hoppingin Chelsea on a Thursday during the open gallery night from 5-8pm. See work by new and emerging artists while enjoying free glasses of wine or beer. 

American Museum of Natural History 

An expansive natural history museum with some of the world’s most important discoveries and finds on display including full dinosaur skeletons, the oldest discovered humanoid, the world’s largest meteorite on display and thousands of preserved once living creatures from across all biological kingdoms.  

Brooklyn

Brooklyn is one of New York City’s most inviting boroughs! It’s home to historic neighborhoods with iconic brownstones, rooftops water towers, Manhattan views and vintage amusement parks. It’s urban charm, arts scene and ritzy areas are quintessential of the city’s diverse and ever changing character. 

Coney Island 

This nostalgic and eccentric place is a usual highlight of our summer. We often spend the day here riding amusement park rides, walking the boardwalk, relaxing on the beach and eating fried foods. Make sure to ride the Wonder Wheel and The Cyclone. Have a meal at Nathan’s with a Mermaid Pilsner. If you’re in NYC during mid June, make your way out to Coney Island to witness or participate in the Mermaid Parade, where thousands of people dress up as mermaids, sea creatures and in nautical costumes.  

Walk Across the Bridges 

Walk between Brooklyn and Manhattan on 3 of the city’s most iconic bridges: The Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge.

DUMBO 

Short for “Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” this Brooklyn neighborhood is once of the most iconic for its city and bridge views, rooftop water towers, cobblestone streets, red brick buildings and warehouses. Ride Jane’s Carousel, a vintage merry-go-round on the waterfront for only a few dollars. 

Admire the Brownstones

Take the subway to Brooklyn to see New York’s historic Brownstones. These architectural beauties are scattered throughout the city with large concentrations in Bed Stuy and Park Slope. Characterized by their brown stone facades, elevated stoops and narrow width, these homes exude urban charm. 

Tawk like a New Yawker 

Easily recognizable, the New York accent comes from the mix of ethnicities, social groups and cultural influences. It’s known for its combination of excitement, hand gestures, attitude, unique phrases, cursing and drawn out words. When you’re here, it’s hard not to notice and even harder not to try speaking.

Queens

Queens is the largest of New York City’s boroughs, famed for its multicultural neighborhoods, international food scene, waterfront views of midtown Manhattan and city beaches. 

Manhattanhenge 

Manhattanhenge is a rare spectacle when the sun lines up precisely with Manhattan’s east/west street grid during May - July. During this time, the sun rises and sets within the city’s canyon of buildings.

Rockaway Beach 

One of the most easily accessible beaches from NYC. The Rockaways are home to miles of mostly sandy beach and boardwalk. The boardwalk is lined with seasonal restaurants and concession stands serving everything from ceviche, pizza, burgers, arepas and ice cream. Get here by taking the East River Ferry from Wall Street or the A and S trains.

• Rippers. Come here for burgers and beer on the boardwalk.

• Tacoway Beach.  A seasonal surfers bar with board lockers, a large outdoor patio, strong margaritas and a range of delicious tacos. Try the black bean, cheese and sweet plantain tacos.

• Rockaway Brewing. One of our favorite NYC breweries with a location at Rockaway Beach and in Long Island City. They have a tap room and canned beers to go. Try the Beach Cruiser Ale and Hawaiian Pizza IPA.

Jacob Riis Beach.  Our go to beach spot in the Rockaways. It gets packed but it’s one of the most diverse and lgbtq+ friendly beaches we’ve visited. We usually arrive early because it tends to get crowded by late morning.

TWA Terminal

If you find yourself at JFK, visit the TWA Terminal and Hotel. This Mid Century masterpiece is an iconic symbol of the golden age of air travel. With numerous things to keep you occupied during a layover or night’s stay, it is a destination in itself. Order a drink in Sunken Lounge or outside in The Connie, a converted airplane bar, enjoy fine dining at the Paris Cafe and watch airplanes take off from the hotel’s rooftop pool. 

Long Island City Waterfront

The LIC waterfront is one of the most photogenic locations in NYC and a popular location for sunset proposals. The park provides sweeping views of Midtown Manhattan and is a beautiful spot to watch seaplanes land in the East River. The north end is home to Gantry Park and the neon lit Pepsi Cola Sign, a favorite spot of ours to picnic during the summer. At the heart of the park is Gantry Plaza, where dozens of food trucks line up during the late afternoon though evening. Visit the beer garden at Frank Ottomanelli's for drinks, burgers and the occasional salsa night. The south end, Hunters Point, is a favorite for its winding pathways and lush gardens. The surrounding neighborhood is home to several breweries, MoMA PS1 and a variety of restaurants and cafes, especially along Vernon Blvd. 

Getting Here.  Both Gantry Park and Hunters Point have their own East River Ferry docks making them easily accessible. In addition, the neighborhood is only one subway station east of Grand Central via the 7 Train and one north of Brooklyn via the G Train.

Take the East River Ferry 

For an inexpensive way to see the city by water, buy a ticket and hop on the East River Ferry. Ferries operate between Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and The Bronx for less than $4 one way. There’s also a bar on board and an outdoor deck. It’s an easy way to enjoy the waterfront, see the skyline and get to Rockaway Beach.

Eat at an All Night Diner

NYC is known as the city that never sleeps. This couldn’t be truer than at an all night diner. Characterized by their run-on menus, cake displays and signed photos of celebrities mounted to the walls, these comforting places are waiting to welcome you at any hour of the day. 

Order Street Food 

Some of the best meals we’ve had have come from unassuming street vendors. Whether it’s tacos, falafel, kimchi, an egg and cheese or pretzels, there’s likely a street cart or food truck selling it.

The Bronx 

The Bronx is the northernmost of New York City’s five boroughs. Its home to lush green spaces, island neighborhoods and Yankee Stadium.

The Bronx Zoo & Tree Top Canopy Adventure 

An adventure park at The Bronx Zoo with zip lines, rope suspension bridges, wood plank walkways and platforms built between the canopy of trees. There are several challenge course ranging from beginner to expert with various style activities including a zip line over the Bronx river, one where you sit in a sled and another in a kayak. The zoo is home to a world of animal life including asian elephants, southern white rhinos, giraffes, gorillas, monkeys, red pandas and snow leopards.

Pro Tip. Visit in late June to collect feathers from the mating peacocks! 

City Island

An island neighborhood of the Bronx located in the Long Island Sound. There is a main street lined with lobster restaurants, boat marinas, bait and tackle shops, cute houses with wooden siding. Walk from one end to the next in less than an hour stopping for drinks at The Black Whale and lobster rolls at The City Island Lobster House. 

Staten Island

Staten Island is the southernmost of New York City’s five boroughs, located across the harbor from Manhattan and Brooklyn. The best way to visit is by taking The Staten Island Ferry, an iconic orange ship ferrying passengers between Staten Island and Manhattan. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy the views of lower Manhattan, New Jersey, Brooklyn and the State of Liberty.

The Best Restaurants & Bars in NYC 

Writing about the best restaurants in NYC is a lofty under taking so we created a list with our city wide favorites, neighborhood haunts, vegan and vegetarian eateries, fine dining establishments, speakeasies and rooftop bars. View the list here, The Best Restaurants & Bars in NYC.

New York City Food Guide: Best Restaurants, Bars & Dining in NYC

The Best Restaurants & Bars in NYC

Writing about the best restaurants in NYC is a lofty under taking so we created this guide with our city wide favorites, go-to neighborhood haunts, recommended vegan and vegetarian eateries, places for fine dining and celebrations, speakeasies and rooftop bars. 

Long Island City Favorites 

These neighborhood favorites keep us coming back time and time again. Having lived in Long Island City for over 7 years, we’ve grown to love these neighborhood eateries. 

Tournesol

A classic French bistro where the meals and vibes are always magnifique! This neighborhood hole in the wall transports diners to Paris. The owner, chef and servers are all French expats providing an appetizing and welcoming experience. The menu consists of homestyle dishes and desserts often paired with a bottle of French wine or gin martini. As lovers of seafood, we often order staple dishes from their menu including: the moule frites, pan seared skate, seared trout or roasted hake. Some frequent specials include the poisson en papillote and bouillabaisse.

The restaurant is recognizable by its mural of a woman with a tournesol (French for sunflower) on the side of the building and a tiny red car parked out front. The dimly lit interior with white table cloths, bistro chairs, a tin ceiling and antique tiled floor provides a cozy ambiance.

Skinny’s Cantina 

One tequila. Two tequila. Three tequila. Floor! Skinny’s frozen margaritas are enough to get you buzzing or further. In addition, we regularly come here for their extremely well made fish tacos, veggie burrito and sizzling fajitas. Though more expensive than a typical tacoria, it’s worth every dollar and that’s not the tequila talking. 

Sweet Chick 

Tastes like chicken! We come here for their vegetarian chicken and waffles! A personal favorite is the spicy Nashville chicken and waffles. They also offer Southern sides like hush puppies, baked man-n-cheese, shrimp and grits. It’s a usual go to for brunch with friends! We even hosted our 40 person engagement party here in their Jazz Room. 

Slice LIC

We’re not going to be so bold as to claim it’s the best pizza in NYC but it’s surly the best pizza in Long Island City! Walk up window with a spread of NY style pizzas by the slice. We often order an assortment of slices to share including their margarita, vodka, white pie and pesto slices! 

Jora 

A Peruvian restaurant with traditional Peruvian dishes like ceviche, corn causas, arroz con mariscos and empanadas. Their Pisco bar offers Pisco forward cocktails including the classic Pisco Sour among other libations made with Peruvian ingredients. 

New York City Favorites 

New York City is a food lovers paradise with every cuisine and type of food imaginable. With over 10,000 restaurants across the city, it would be impossible to try them all but we’ve curated a list of a few of our favorites. 

Kokomo

Everyone knows a place like Kokomo! This extravagant Caribbean restaurant in the heart of Brooklyn offers tropical vibes, rum cocktails and traditional dishes from the West Indies like whole fried red snapper, vegan curries and goat stew. 

Petit Boucherie 

One of our favorite restaurants in NYC is Petit Boucherie. It’s an intimate French Restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village with an old world ambiance. We love coming here for their traditional absinthe drip cocktails. 

The Haab 

A hole in the wall for authentic Mexican dishes. We often come for weekend brunch ordering chilaquiles, huevos rancheros and conchas. We’ve been to both locations in Sunnyside Queens and East Williamsburg. The East Williamsburg has a large vegan menu including dishes like seitan mole enchiladas, spicy tempe tacos, black bean tamales and more. 

Tea and Sympathy 

Did someone say tea time? An English style restaurant for afternoon tea complete with mismatched tea cups and a tiered tower of tea sandwiches and authentic sweets like scones, sticky toffee pudding and rhubarb crumple. With English owners and staff, this tea house feels like a piece of merry ole London in the West Village. Stop into their next door businesses, Carry On, for English teas and A Salt & Battery for fish and chips.

St. Mazie Bar & Supper Club

A genuine gem of a restaurant tucked away in Williamsburg with nightly Jazz performances. The historic and warmly lit interior provides an intimate setting for a romantic date night of evening with friends. Order a spread of snacks and appetizers for the table with a bottle of wine or absinthe cocktails.

Socarrat

One of the few paella restaurants we’ve been to that makes genuine paella! Paella is prepared in a traditional pan and scraped out of the dish by the server, revealing the crunchy rice (aka socarrat) beneath. Our personal favorite is the seafood paella made with squid ink rice, scallops, shrimp and oysters. Enjoy a carafe of red, white or rose sangria on the side. 

Fine Dining 

NYC has countless fine dining restaurants worth your top dollar. Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, promotion or simply having a date night, these are some of our favorites. Just make sure to secure a reservation weeks ahead of time. 

The River Cafe

An iconic restaurant on a barge below the Brooklyn Bridge with contemporary American cuisine. It is a popular location for proposals and has a very strict dress code. 

Le Coucou 

A contemporary French restaurant with a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere. The menu features dishes like rabbit, duck, lobster, sea bass and our favorite, the dover sole. A interior is illuminated with dimly lit candle style chandeliers, features an open kitchen and comfortable velvet furniture. Located in SoHo, it’s popular among celebrities and boasts a Michelin Star. 

One if Land, Two if by Sea

A romantic restaurant with fine American cuisine served in multi-course menus with changing dishes. The dim interior glimmers with the light from candle lit chandeliers reflected off the warmth of the red brick walls and American style artwork as a pianist serenades diners throughout the night. Come during the holidays for a festive ambiance when the walls are decorated in evergreen garland. 

Omakase room by Maaser

A simple 12 seat omakase room offering a 12 and 17 course tasting menus and sake pairings. The Itamae (sushi chef) will individually prepare an assortment of sea life as pieces of sushi, sashimi, nigiri and oyster at the counter. Some pieces served are raw while others are flamed and all are balanced with the perfect level of umami flavor. 

Le Crocodile

An elevated French restaurant in an upscale area of Williamsburg. It has a slightly relaxed vibe and an antiqued interior with high ceilings, brick walls, wood paneling and warm lighting. Come for the dinner service and order the mushroom pate with black truffle, summer ratatouille, almond encrusted trout and chocolate mousse. 

Marseille 

A higher end southern French restaurant specializing in Bouillabaisse, the traditional seafood stew created in Marseille, France. Come here on a romantic date night and share the Bouillabaisse between two. Sit indoors and enjoy the French styled interior with elegant decor, leather banquettes and warmly lit lighting. 

Vegan and Vegetarian Cuisine   

Restaurants across NYC cater to every palette and cuisine, as mostly plant based we’ve frequented several vegan and vegetarian restaurants over the years. These are some of the best we’ve been to.

Delice & Sarrasin 

An inventive French restaurant with vegan versions of classic French dishes like escargot, boeuf bourguignon, steak tartare, foie gras and French onion soup. Using pea protein, traditional preparations and a bit of ‘je ne sais quoi,’ the chef is able to create delectable dishes that elevate vegan cuisine. 

Ja Ja Ja Mexicana 

A restaurant with multiple locations across NYC known for their vegan Mexican dishes including tacos, quesadillas, burritos, tamales and enchiladas. For their base, each dish is made with veggies or vegan meats like chorizo, pollo, pescado and carnitas. At the bar, order from a range of mezcal and tequila forward cocktails with citric and floral notes. Each location has a colorfully tiled and textured interior with plants and wicker decor. 

Anixi 

A high end vegan restaurant with Turkish influences both in its food and interior. Try the mezze dips, pide flatbreads and vegan meats grilled on 14” swords. A palace like restaurant has tall ceilings, stone covered walls, a large fireplace, velvet curtains and crystal chandeliers. 

Bunna Cafe 

Head to Bushwick for plant based Ethiopian cuisine at Bunna Cafe. We come here for their injera and a combination of plant based dishes like cremini mushrooms, steamed collared greens, spiced and pureed chickpeas, berbere seasoned lentils, seasoned yellow lentils, vegetables with cabbage and sautéed beets

Beyond Sushi 

If you like sushi, you’ll like Beyond Sushi. This restaurant creates convincingly flavorful and artful vegan sushi rolls. Seafood is made from vegetables like marinated carrot and radish, jackfruit and mushroom. 

Vegan on the Fly

A fast food style vegan restaurant in the heart of Midtown with shaved seitan gyros, vegan drumsticks, chicken sandwiches and milkshakes. 

Speakeasies 

In a city where something new lingers around every corner, some of the best surprises remain truly hidden. A few of these hidden gems are speakeasies. Here are a few of our favorites and how to get in. 

Please Don’t Tell

The entrance is located through a phone booth inside Criff Dogs on St. Marks Place. After 6pm, enter the phone booth, pick up the receiver and dial 1. The other side of the phone booth will open leading into the bar. The bar itself is known for its mixologists, often crafting custom cocktails to your taste. 

Basement Chinatown

Located in Chinatown down a flight of stairs on Mott St is a Coca Cola refrigerator door. Behind the door is a basement bar with a subtle carnival theme, emphasized by a self serve popcorn machine.

Employees Only

The entrance, hidden behind the curtains of a fortune teller’s shop in Chelsea, leads to this classy cocktail bar. The speakeasy is known for its experimental drinks and prohibition era vibes. 

Fig. 19 

A speakeasy in the Lower East Side disguised as a white box art gallery. Once inside, behind a hidden door is a cozy cocktail lounge. Friday nights and weekends can get surprisingly busy.

Rooftop Bars 

A swanky NYC night out involves cocktails at a rooftop bar or lounge. We’ve gone to numerous across the city, each with a different vibe and unique view. Here’s a shortlist of some of our favorites.

The Broken Shaker

Located on the roof of the Freehand Hotel, this 70s style tiki themed rooftop features multiple bars, tropical drinks and tasty small plates.

Spyglass Rooftop

This intimate rooftop cocktail bar has some of the best views of the Empire State Building. As its name suggests, it even has a viewing periscope pointed directly at the building. 

The Boom Boom Room

Located at the top of the Standard Hotel, this iconic and ultra glitzy spot embodies the glamour of NYC. Come for the high end cocktails, live music and make sure to check out the restrooms.

Bookmarks

A cozy cocktail lounge with charcuterie, an outdoor patio (covered during the winter) a fireplace, velvet furniture and the smell of books.

Ophelia Lounge

A cocktail bar and restaurant at the top of the Art Deco style Beekman Tower with 360 city and East River views.

The MET Roof Garden Bar

Located on the rooftop of the MET, this seasonal bar features outdoor art installations, skyline views and overlooks the treetops of Central Park.

Other rooftop bars worth visiting are: Bar Blondeau, Westlight, RT60 Rooftop, PHD Dream Rooftop & Apotheke Nomad. 

Eclectic Bars Across the City 

There are a lot of eclectic and viby cocktail bars across the city. These are a few that we’ve found ourselves returning to when we’re in the area. 

Dutch Kills Bar

An old school cocktail bar only open after 5pm with a dimly lit interior and a wide range of spirits. Mixologists are known for inventing drinks based of your spirit and flavor preferences. 

Surf Bar

A beach like dive bar with a sand covered floor, surfboards on the ceiling, stings of colorful bulb lights and walls covered in natural decor and accessories. Come here for the tropical cocktails and tiki drinks. 

Joy Face

This is one of those funky NYC bars. It’s decorated like the 1970s complete with a disco ball, water bed and vintage furniture. After a couple of cocktails, we seemingly get lost in time. 

Analogue

Try a Manhattan in Manhattan! Mixologists stir, shake and serve up sipping cocktails made from strong spirits like whisky, scotch, bourbon, rye, gin and mezcal. This dimly lit bar has a cozy feeling with leather sofas, Edison bulbs and framed black and white photos. 

Russian Samovar 

A Russian vodka and piano bar with a range of house infused vodkas steeped with dill, cucumber, horseradish, pepper, ginger, lemon, basil and more. Our personal favorite drink is the horseradish martini. Their food menu has plenty of Eastern European classics like pierogi, cured lox and Russian salads.  

Tips for Dining Out in NYC

Reservations.  Making reservations ahead of time is necessary whenever dining out in NYC. Call the restaurant directly or book online with Open Table. Some places require a refundable deposit to hold your reservation. 

Dress Codes.  Double check restaurant websites and reviews for any dress code requirements before arriving. Generally only fine dining restaurants or exclusive bars have set dress codes.  

Tipping.  A 20% tip is standard for service across restaurants and bars in NYC. Always double check that the gratuity is not included in the final bill to avoid double tipping. 

Cash vs Card.  Most restaurants and bars accept credit and debit cards while the occasional business will be cash only. Carry cash for street food. 

Big Island Travel Guide: Volcanoes, Black Sand Beaches & Island Adventures

The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Its rugged and lush terrain is home to idyllic nature, volcanic landscapes, cultural sights and all around island vibes. Blackened lava fields grow from active volcanoes while waterfalls spill over lush cliffs. Manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles and colorful reef fish swim offshore. Coastal cities like Kona and Hilo are tourist hubs while inland towns like Pāhoa and Honomu provide a local atmosphere. Tiki bars serve tropical cocktails and pupus, cafes brew Kona coffee and farmers markets selling locally grown produce. Cultural sights including petroglyph parks and royal grounds highlight Hawaiian heritage. 

Volcanoes National Park 

The Big Island is famed for the Volcanoes National Park. A park encompassing a sprawling region of the island stretching from sea level on the South Coast to the summit of the Mauna Loa Volcano. The park is home to active volcanos, hardened lava fields and flows, craters, lava tubes, steam vents, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, sea arches and Hawaiian petroglyphs. We spent an entire day in the park exploring sights along the Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road. There is a vehicle fee to enter the park. The park is open 24 hours a day. 

Crater Rim Drive

A road partly circling the Kilauea Crater with active volcanos, crater overlooks, steam vents, lava tubes and trails. The drive starts at the Kilauea Visitor Center. 

Sulphur Banks.  Steam vents with yellow sulphur deposits. It’s reachable from the visitor center after a half mile hike. 

Halema‘uma‘u Trail.  A 1.8 mile trail leading through the forest to Kilauea's blackened lava field. It’s located just past the visitor center to the left. 

Byron Ledge Trail.  A 1.1 mile trail leading from the end of the Halema‘uma‘u Trail. It crosses through the lava field, up the crater rim and into the forest. 

Steaming Bluff.  A crater ridge where steam rises from volcanic vents with views of the Kīlauea caldera. It’s located 1 mile last the visitor center to the left. 

Kilauea Volcano.  A volcano that has been frequently erupting since 1983. Hawaiian’s call this the Home of Pele, the Lava Goddess. It erupted and created a lava lake weeks before we visited. 

Kilauea Overlook.  One of the best locations to overlook the Kīlauea Caldera. Steam is visible during the day and the glow of lava at night, if erupting. If not, the stars look incredible from here on a clear evening. It’s located 2.3 miles past the visitor center to the left. 

Kilauea Iki Overlook.  An overlook with sweeping views into the Kīlauea Iki Crater’s hardened lava lake. 

Kilauea Iki Crater.  A volcanic crater next to Kilauea. A 4 mile hike descends down the crater rim to the crater floor. Start at the Kilauea Iki Trailhead hiking along counter clockwise. 

Thurston Lava Tube.  An ancient lava tube in a tropical fern forest. A trail leads hundreds of feet inside. It’s open 24 hours a day however its amber hued lights are only on from 8am - 8pm. The lava tube is accessible after a 5 minute walk from the Kīlauea Iki parking lot. 

Chain of Craters Road

A scenic road passing many volcanic craters, lava flows and trails leading to the coast. It starts near the Devastation Trail parking lot and ends where a lava flow overtook the road. 

Luamanu Crater.  The first crater on the right with a roadside lookout of it and the hardened lava flow. 

Puhimau Crater.  The second crater on the left with a roadside lookout. Come here to yell into it for the echo. 

Ko’oko’olau Crater.  A small overgrown crater on the right with a trail leading to a hardened lava flow. 

Hiiaka Crater.  A large overgrown crater on the left with a hardened lava flow from 1973. 

Mauna Ulu Eruption Trail.  A volcano trail at the end of a road with hardened lava covering it. It leads into the lava field with a lookout viewing the cinder cone created by the eruption. 

Keauhou Trail.  A 6.8 mile backcountry trail crossing the lava field towards the coast and other trails. Follow the lava rock piles to keep on the trails. 

Pu‘u Loa Petroglyphs.   An archeological area with thousands of petroglyphs carved into the hardened lava by ancient Hawaiians. The petroglyphs include human figures, dotted designs and circular formations. The area is surrounded by a boardwalk and accessible along the 1.4 mile Puna Coast Trail.

Kealakomo.   An observation deck and picnic area with views of the hardened lava fields, cinder cones and coast. 

Hōlei Sea Arch.  A 90ft high volcanic rock arch along the seaside cliffs at the end of the Chain of Craters Road. 

Kailua Kona 

A beach town on the Leeward side of the island with historic sights, seafood restaurants, tiki bars, Kona coffee farms and souvenir shops. The area has many nearby beaches and bays perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling and marine excursions. It’s a popular spot for tourists, though most stay at their resorts north and south of Kona. 

Hawaiian Cultural Sites

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park.  The location of the former Hawaiian royal grounds. The archeological park includes reconstructed canoe houses and carved statues, original stone foundations, lava rock walls, a cemetery, fish ponds, palm groves and trails.

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Park Trails

• Pu’uhonua Trail.  The trail leading through the royal grounds and sights.

• Coastal Trail.  A trail leading from the visitor center to a coastal picnic area, past areological ruins and to the 1871 Trail.

• 1871 Trail.  A trail leading from the visitor center past many archeological sights and coastal rock formations. Sights include the abandoned and overgrown Kiʻilae Village, stone walls, temple ruins, sport ramps, cliffs and a lava tube.  

KamakahonuNational Monument.  The reconstructed home of Kamehameha The Great, one of Hawaii’s most powerful kings. The monument is located on a small peninsula at Kamakahonu Beach. 

Hulihe‘e Palace.  A royal summer house used by Hawaii’s royalty during the 17th Century. It’s now a museum with Hawaiian artifacts. 

Surfing & Beaches

Old Airport Beach.  A long white sand and palm lined beach along Kona’s old airport runway. The water is not safe for swimming due to shallow coral reefs. It’s a popular spot for surf lessons. I took a private lesson here with Kona Town Surf Adventures. 

Kamakahonu Beach.  A small white sand beach in downtown Kona for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. Kona Boys Beach Shack rents hourly and daily equipment. There’s also a beach bar at the hotel.

Magic Sands Beach.  A small white sand beach popular for watching the sunset, body surfing and boogie boarding in the waves. 

Snorkeling & Sailing 

The Big Island is a home to an array of scenic coastal sights and underwater marine life. We booked two snorkeling trips with Sea Paradise on their large ocean catamaran.

Kona Snorkel Tour.  A leisurely half day sailing tour along the Kona coast with snorkeling stops in two bays. The tour included snorkeling gear, lunch and cocktails for purchase. The friendly crew pointed out important Hawaiian sights and kept us entertained with their sea themed Disney playlist. 

• Keawekāheka Bay.  A bay with deep blue water, coral reefs and schools of fish. 

• Kealakekua Bay.  A bay near the Captain Cook Monument with an area of healthy and recovering coral reefs home to many species of fish. Spotted spinner dolphins swim through the bay in pods and jumping above the surface in their emblematic spinning motion. 

Manta Ray Night Snorkel.  A nighttime snorkel tour to watch manta rays feed on plankton. Fitted with wetsuits and snorkels, we held onto an illuminated platform face down in the water. As we watched, swarms of plankton drawn to the light attracted the attention of 3 manta rays. They began gracefully swooping up to feed on the plankton, gradually getting closer to the surface. After about 30 minutes, the gentle giants swooped upwards within inches of our faces, showing off their impressive 10ft wingspans. It was possibly one of the most unbelievable experiences to witness. 

Pro Tip.  Don’t try taking photos, just be present and enjoy the moment. Photo credit courtesy of Sea Paradise. 

Kona Coffee

Coffee is easily grown on the lush volcanic slopes in the Kona region. There are hundreds of coffee producing farms here, offering tours and tastings throughout the week. We toured Hala Tree Coffee Farm, learned about Kona coffee, the growing, harvesting and the roasting process, then tasted multiple brews. 

Places to Eat & Drink in Kona

Kona Brewing Company.  The famous Hawaiian brewery known for its Big Wave Golden Ale and Longboard Lager. Come here to enjoy brews only served at their tap room and restaurant. We sampled two flights from their “Backyard Batch” and “Pints of Paradise” menus along with a Hawaiian pizza baked with pineapple and bbq sauce. 

Huggo’s.  A long running romantic seaside restaurant overlooking the Kailua Bay with tiki torches and live music. The menu features Hawaiian dishes like garlic shrimp, seared sesame tuna and macadamia nut encrusted ono. The mixologists serve class tiki cocktails and tropical concoctions. One item not to be missed is their coconut cake!

Huggo’s on the Rocks.  A bar next door to Huggo’s with a pupus menu, tiki drinks and live music.

Cheeky Tiki Kona.  A waterfront tiki bar with a second floor dining room overlooking Kailua Bay. The menu has over two dozen cocktails served in tiki mugs, bowls and fresh pineapples. The cocktails are noted by strength. Try the Zombie, Mai Tai, Painkiller or Scorpion Bowl. The pupus menu has sharables like mac nut shrimp, ahi tuna poke, kimchi fried rice and fish tacos. Order the off menu fish collar. 

Magics Beach Grill.  An oceanfront restaurant next to Magics Beach with a seafood specialties and tropical cocktails. Try the poke nachos made with raw tuna and wonton chips, the seared tuna steak, kimchi fried rice and mai tais. 

HiCO Coffee.  A coffee shop brewing local kona coffee. Try some local flavors like ube latte and crab musubi. 

The City of Hilo 

Hilo is the largest city on the Big Island and lesser traveled to by tourists. It has a local feel and a historic center with an artistic and bohemian edge. It’s a central location for shopping at markets and boutiques or dining at a range of cafes, restaurants and bars. 

Kamehameha Ave.  The road along the bay with painted wooden and Art Deco buildings home to various shops selling surf supplies, ukuleles, clothing, jewelry and souvenirs.

Kamehameha The Great Statue.  A gold and black statue of the Hawaiian king dedicated to his life and legacy.

Keawe St.  A street with murals, restaurants, bars, antique shops and resale stores. 

• PineapplesIsland Fresh Cuisine.  A restaurant with Hawaiian dishes like coconut & panko encrusted ono, furikake seasoned shrimp and cocktails served in pineapples. There’s live music from Thursday to Sunday. 

• Booch Bar.  Come here for the house brewed Kombucha, kombucha cocktails and vegan dishes. Try the tempeh reuben and tempeh BLT.

• Puna Chocolate.  A chocolate shop and cafe specializing in locally grown chocolates, macadamia nuts, coffee and dried fruit.

Friday Night Market.  A popular Friday Night market on Keawe St. with live music, food trucks and vendors selling locally made snacks, jewelry, clothes and artwork. Visit during Black & White Night, held during the first Friday Night Market of the month. Locals dress in black and white as a low key nod to a black tie event. 

Rainbow Falls.  An 80ft tall waterfall over a hardened lava cave. A rainbow can be seen in the mist above the falls in the early morning as the sun is rising. In Hawaiian lore, the cave was the home of the demigod Maui’s mother.

The Town of Pāhoa

A small town with hippie vibes, colorful wooden buildings and an old boardwalk with restaurants, craft stores and galleries. It’s located nearby public black sand beaches and hardened lava fields. The town is 30 minutes south of Hilo. Many hitchhikers and skateboarders congregate around here. 

Places to Eat & Drink in Pāhoa

Pele's Kitchen.  A heath foods cafe with a colorful painted interior, tropical fruit platters, pancakes, omelettes & vegan dishes. Come here for breakfast. 

Bananarama Bakery.  A bakery with pastries and breads. Try the macadamia nut banana bread. 

Puna Kai Shopping Center.  A new shopping center in Pāhoa with restaurants, cafes, shops, a grocery store and bi-weekly markets and events.

Kohoa Coffee.  A coffee shop in the Puna Kai Shopping Center with a drive-through window. 

Coco Cantina.  A Mexican and tropical fusion restaurant. Try the coconut shrimp, ono ceviche and road to Pāhoa cocktail (essentially a rum punch). 

Black Sand Beaches 

Pohoiki Back Sand Beach.  The island’s newest black sand beach formed during the 2018 eruption. The beach has a mixture of soft sand, tumbled lava rocks and large boulders. The stong currents and large waves make it unsafe for swimming. There are volcanic springs called “hot pots” along the tree line. 

Kehena Black Sand Beach.  A nude beach hidden below a roadside cliff with soft black sand. The stong currents and large waves make it unsafe for swimming. Vendors selling crepes and fresh coconuts set up nearby the parking lot above the cliff. 

The Town of Honomu 

A small town with a colorful western vibe, old wooden buildings and a boardwalk. The main street is home to bakeries, antique shops, a church and abandoned buildings. It’s located 20 minutes north of Hilo nearby Akaka Falls and Hawaii Zip-lines. 

Akaka Falls.  A 442ft tall waterfall spilling down the center of a mossy cliff within the lush tropical forest. It’s accessible by a paved trail that loops through the forest with an overlook. There is a fee to enter the trail and to park in the parking lot. 

Mana’s Aloha Farms.  A farm stand minutes away from Akaka Falls with fresh coconuts, pineapples and sugarcane.

Mr Ed’s Bakery.  A bakery with pastries, toasts, coffee and poi bowls. Try the Guava Bearclaw and Ensemada.

Hawaii Zip-line Tours.  A scenic zip-line course with 7 lines through farmland, across ravines and over waterfalls. Our favorite zip-lines went through a row of banana trees and over a half mile across a ravine with views of Kolekole Falls, a 250ft waterfall. We even got to sample freshly picked bananas. Reserve Online. 

Kaʻū, The South Coast

Kaʻū is a mostly rural and remote area of the island with rugged terrain, farmland and beaches. We visited two beaches along the South Coast during our drive from Pāhoa to Kona. 

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach.  One of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii with a jet black shore, palm trees and nesting sea turtles. It’s safe for swimming and snorkeling with life guards. There is a beach kiosk selling t-shirts, sunblock and freshly harvested coconuts. 

Papakolea Beach (Mahana Beach).  A remote green sand beach located in a cliffside bay. The beach gets its green tint from tiny sand-like crystals known as olivines. The deep blue water is rough but swimmable. We even spotted a sea turtle. To get here, park uphill from the Kaulana Boat Ramp at the end of South Point Road. From here we hiked 3 miles through dry grassland and sandy trenches carved by trucks and ATVs. Alternatively, locals with pickup trucks offer roundtrip transit to the beach for $20. 

Southernmost Point.  The southernmost point in Hawaii with steep cliffs and sunset views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Come here for sunsets!

Kohala, The North Coast

Kohala is a remote region of the island’s North Coast defined by its verdant landscapes, desert-like terrain, pristine beaches and farmland. The best way to experience it is on a Helicopter Tour!

Helicopter Tour. We toured the most remote stretches of Kohala region by helicopter. Starting in Kona, we flew north over hardened lava flows, cinder cones, volcanic craters, collapsed lava tubes and gulches. From above, turquoise bays, green golf courses & seaside communities stood out from the dry arid landscape and cattle ranches.

As we flew further north, the landscape and climate transitioned. It became cloudy, rainy and lush. We even saw a full circle rainbow! We flew into picturesque valleys covered in dense greenery, with trickling waterfalls and black sand beaches. The North Shore coastline is characterized by sheer cliffs, rocky outcrops, crashing waves and white caps. Helicopter tours range from regional flights to full island tours. We booked with Paradise Helicopters. 

Pauko Petroglyph Park.  An archeological park with over 3,000 petroglyphs carved into lava rock dating back 800 years. From the parking lot, a rocky trail leads through overgrown bush past various petroglyphs, a small cave and ends at a loop around a large lava flow covered in two dimensional human figures. The carved figures range is size, groupings and poses. 

Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach.  A crescent shaped beach with pale white sand and calm aquamarine water at the Mauna Kea Resort. We spent a half day here sun bathing, swimming and snorkeling. The reef is located near the rocks along the south end of the beach. Sadly the coral isn’t very healthy. We later enjoyed a few cocktails at the beach bar at the resort on the north end of the beach. The resort rents umbrellas, lounges, kayaks, stand up paddles and surf boards. Parking is free but limited to 40 cars per day. Arrive before 8am to get a spot. 

Seafood Bar and Grill.  A tiki style bar & restaurant with a Hawaiian seafood dishes and a tropical cocktail menu. Try the furikake calamari, the pineapple mac-nut slaw, grilled fish sandwich and mai tai. 

Big Island Farmers Markets

The Big Island is home to dozens of farmers markets held throughout the week. All of which have vendors selling a range of local produce, homemade goods, products and tasty meals. 

Hilo Farmers Market.  A daily farmers market with sheds of vendors selling tropical fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, flowers, plants, clothing, jewelry and souvenirs. There are two cafes with coffee, shaved ice, smoothies, acai fruit bowls and poke. The market is loocated in downtown Hilo. 

Maku'u Farmers Market.  A Sunday morning farmers market with up to 150 tents and vendors selling locally grown produce and goods like preserves, cheese, honey, vanilla, coffee, macadamia nuts, fresh caught fish, coconut milk and juices. Cooks sell sweet & savory baked goods, fried snacks & full meals, poke and shaved ice. Located between Pāhoa and Hilo. 

Ho'oulu Farmers Market.  A craft and farmers market with vendors selling locally grown produce and items made from local materials like soaps, candles, jewelry, artwork and souvenirs. It’s located South of Kona outside of the Outrigger Kona Resort. The market operates on Wednesday and Friday between 9am - 2pm.

Hawaiian Cuisine

The flavors of the Hawaiian islands are as enticing as the sights. While here, we feasted on pacific seafood, tropical fruits and tiki cocktails.

• Poke.  A seafood dish made with pieces of raw tuna on a bed of rice and covered in a thick umami sauce.

• Pupus. A Hawaiian appetizer or small plate. Most restaurants have a menu of them to choose from. Order them solo before a meal or several of them tapas style as the meal. 

• Ono (Wahoo). A local white fish and a favorite at restaurants across the Big Island. It has a delicious taste, dense texture and flaky meat. It’s commonly served grilled or coconut encrusted. 

• Ube.  Purple sweet potato. It’s often served mashed as a side or in sweet deserts. 

• Musubi.  A rice patty with glazed spam (vegan or traditional) wrapped in seaweed and garnished in Furikake.

• Furikake.  A widely used seasoning made from seaweed, dried fish flakes, sesame seeds, salt and sugar. It’s garnished on snack mixes and savory dishes. 

• Banana Bread.  Commonly baked with macadamia nuts, sold at farmers markets, bakeries and cafes.

• Tropical Fruit.  Pineapple, papaya, mango, starfruit, banana, lychee, passion fruit, guava & rambutan are all commonly grown and sold at farmers markets across the island. 

• Shaved Ice.  Seen at food trucks, farmers markets and cafes. This popular treat is served all day long. Try the tropical favors like coconut, pineapple or guava. 

• Mai Tais.  A tropical cocktail on nearly every drink menu in Hawaii made with rum, lime and orgeat syrup. 

• Kona Coffee.  Coffee made from beans grown specifically within the Kona region. 

Places to Stay

We spent over a week on The Big Island, splitting our time equally between Hilo in the east and Kona in the west. 

Lava Sanctuary.  Surrounded by hardened lava flows and craggily black rock sat a wooden tiny house with a corrugated tin roof. It was our home for the first half of our trip on The Big Island. The remote stay was located in Kalapana Gardens, a small off-the-grid community about 45 minutes south of Hilo. The house was part of a Lava Sanctuary with two tiny homes and a meditation center. It was comfortable and spacious stay with a lofted bed, small deck and wide windows overlooking the lava field. Book on Airbnb. 

Kona “Tree House”.  Surrounded by lush trees above a converted garage was our home for the second half of our trip. The “Tree House” was Hawaiian style with a warm wooden exterior, bamboo ceilings and a floral patterned furniture. From the windows and balcony we could look upon the twisting limbs and green canopy of the trees. It had a cozy feeling of being in nature while being close to central Kona. Book on Airbnb.

Location Specifics 

Hawaiian Culture.  Be respectful of the island and Hawaiian culture. 

Hiking Trails.  Follow trails markers and signs while hiking.

Sea Turtles.  Do not approach or touch any sea turtles. 

Lava Rocks.  Do not take lava rocks from the island.

Coral Reefs.  Only wear reef safe sunblock when going in the water.

Produce.  You cannot take any produce back to the mainland. 

Getting Around

By Air. There are two main airports, one in Hilo and another in Kona.

By Car.  The most efficient way to explore The Big Island is by renting a car at one of the airports. 

Coastal Roads.  Wrap around most of the island, except remote areas of the North Shore.

The Saddle Road.‍ ‍A scenic road crossing the center of the island between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Volcanos.

For Next Time… 

Mauna Kea Volcano.  Visit the summit and astronomical observatories of the Big Island’s tallest volcano. 

Island Hopping.  Visit other islands in the Hawaiian archipelago including Maui and Kauai. 

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond

Southwestern Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s southwestern region is home to some of the island’s most diverse landscapes and historic pueblos. The Caribbean coast features unspoiled beaches, protected marine reserves, a bioluminescent bay and pink salt flats. Hiking trails meander through the dry forest while scenic mountain roads reveal sweeping panoramic views of the region’s lush terrain. Historic mountain towns and vibrant pueblos provide rich cultural experiences and culinary delights. During adventures to the region, we’ve explored Cabo Rojo, San Germán, Lajas, Yauco and Guánica.

Cabo Rojo

Cabo Rojo is a picturesque corner of the island with pink salt flats, Caribbean beaches and turquoise waters. 

Cabo Rojo Salt Flats

The Cabo Rojo Salt Flats are famed for their bright pink and light blue hued salt ponds. Stop into the Visitor Center to learn about the salt flats indigenous beginnings, current uses and the surrounding ecosystem. Climb the 3 story tall Observation Tower for views overlooking the salt flats and their multihued ponds. Continue further down the road for access to the salt flats and the narrow pathways separating the ponds. 

Good to Know.  Read recent reviews to gauge the current level of pinkness and accessibility. 

Vamos a la Playa 

Cabo Rojo is home to some of Puerto Rico’s most pristine beaches and scenic coves. We’ve beach hopped along the coast on previous visits to the region. 

Playa El Combate.   A lengthy tan sand beach with swimmable aquamarine waters and a shaded tree line near the town of El Combate. The water’s higher salinity, due to nearby salt flats, makes floating effortless in the calm waters. The section closest to town tends to be livelier while the southern half provides a quiet and scenic escape. The town is home to small hotels, restaurants and bars making it a popular getaway for locals and families. 

Pro Tip.  Arrive before 9am to find free parking along the roadside. 

Buyé Beach.  An extremely popular beach with a narrow white sand shore, turquoise hued cove and shaded tree line. Locals gather for sunny beach days as groups of jet skiers race off shore. Music fills the air as speakers blast Bad Bunny and Reggaetón. The lively shoreline is lined with colorful cottages and beach kiosks serving Puerto Rican cuisine alongside tropical cocktails and local beers. Visit the Sunset Shack for mojitos!

Pro Tip.  Arrive before 9am to find free parking along the roadside or pay $10 at the lot leading to the beach. 

Playa Sucia.  A crescent shaped beach covered in soft white sand hugging a turquoise bay. The beach overlooks distant cliffs and the Faro Los Morrillos Lighthouse. It’s a popular beach despite being semi-remote. Bring your own food, snacks and water for the day as there are no nearby kiosks or vendors. 

Pro Tip.  Like the other beaches, arrive early to find parking and a shaded spot under the tree line. 

Nature Trails & Sights 

There are a few nature trails that weave through the salt flats and desert terrain surrounding the ponds. We spent about two hours hiking through them and exploring the area. When coming here, wear sun protection, bring a sturdy umbrella and plenty of water. 

Observation Tower Loop. A trail leading through the dry forest from the visitor center to an observation tower overlooking a large salt pond.

Ruins Trail.  A trail that cuts across two large salt ponds, past a piles of salt and smaller ponds. The trail ends at the sea and connects to the Observation Tower Loop and Bikes Trail.

Bikes Trail.  A lengthy trail that weaves throughout the salt flats and along Playa El Combate. It can be hiked but is frequently used by mountain bikers. 

Faro Los Morrillos Lighthouse.  A cliffside lighthouse with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Nature trails lead from The Cabo Rojo Salt Flats and Playa Sucia across the peninsula, rock formations and steep jagged cliffs. 

Places to Eat & Drink

Buena Vibra.  A restaurant with innovative Caribbean dishes and seafood like a ceviche filled pineapple, mahi mahi stuffed avocados and coconut encrusted grouper. It’s one of the best restaurants we’ve dined at on the island! Meals are pricy but worth every dollar. 

San Germán Pueblo

San Germán Pueblo is a charming mountain town deeply rooted in Puerto Rican culture and history. Its origins date back nearly 500 years to the early Spanish colonial period, time of French corsairs and indigenous rebellions. The historic center is defined by red brick and cobblestone streets, treelined and manicured plazas, colorfully painted and stylized buildings. It’s home to local residences, municipal buildings, churches, museums and restaurants. 

Plaza San Germán.  A historic plaza at the center of San Germán Pueblo. It’s surrounded by colonial era and landmark buildings including the town hall, theater and church. 

Plaza Santo Domingo.  A tree lined and brick paved plaza with green benches, bronze busts and overhanging strings twinkle lights. It’s flanked by historic wooden homes, colorful buildings and the Porta Coeli.

El Convento de Santo Domingo de Porta Coeli.  A 400+ year old church converted into a museum of religious artwork. It features paintings and wooden artifacts like hand carved statues, the stations of the cross and a large reredos. It overlooks the Plaza Santo Domingo.

Casa Morales.  A landmark house with ornamental designs, a wrap around porch and wooden shutters. It’s a central feature of the Plaza Santo Domingo.

Parroquia San Germán de Auxerre.  A 300+ year old neoclassical church located at one end of the Plaza San Germán. 

Museo del la Historia de San Germán. A historical museum with largely written exhibits about the history of San Germán and Puerto Rico from pre colonial times to modern day. 

Ceiba de la Libertad.  A 100+ year old Ceiba tree planted to commemorate Puerto Rico’s right to self governance from Spain in 1897. 

Places to Eat & Drink

El Cubujon.  A popular cocktail bar and lounge specializing in signature cocktails and reenvisioned classics. Try their Daiquiri made with Puerto Rican rum or the Pina Buena made with clarified citrus punch and coconut oil. 

Me Latte un Pocillo.  A brunch cafe in the Plaza San Germánoffering Puerto Rican coffee and waffles, omelettes and sandwiches. Sit at their sole outdoor table, overlooking the plaza, listening to the musical sounds of the town’s church bells. 

Yí Restaurant.  A Caribbean restaurant serving a fusion of Haitian, creole and Puerto Rican cuisine. Order the stuffed Mofongo, fried plantain mash and Accra, a yautia and malanga fritter.

Bosque Estatal de Maricao

Bosque Estatal de Maricao isa tropical forest covering the mountains bordering San Germán and Maricao. Drive along Ruta Panoramica 120 from the town of Sabana Grande to the town of Maricao to experience it. Stop at La Torre de Piedra, a castle shaped stone tower on a mountainous ridge overlooking the forest.

Lajas 

Lajas is a coastal region of Puerto Rico along the Caribbean Sea with fishing villages, mangrove forests, chains of cayos, turquoise sand bars and one of the island’s famed bioluminescent bays. Its inland valleys are abundant with pineapple farms and roadside stands selling fruits and honey. 

La Parguera

La Parguera is a fishing town along the coast of Lajas. It’s a hub for marine activities like boating, snorkeling and scuba diving. Floating houses line the waterways while the town centers is home to several tour operators, a night market with craft and souvenir vendors, late night bars and seafood restaurants. 

La Parguera Nature Reserve 

A marine reserve comprised of over 30 cayos, mangroves, sand bars, coral reefs and a bioluminescent bay. The only way to explore the reserve is by boat. Hire a captain for a full or half day with Joy Tours PR or Fondo de Cristal Tours & Boat Rental to explore the cayos. Weekdays are often quiet while weekends become a party on water. 

Cayo Caracoles.  A popular cayo with a shallow sand bar and clear turquoise water protected by the reefs and mangroves. Underwater trails lead through the mangroves and into the reef teeming with massive schools of tiny fish, strange marine life and sea urchins. The cayo is a hub for activity with dozens of locals and party boats anchored here all weekend long. We spent the afternoon lounging in a raft, snorkeling in the mangroves, tanning in the sun and drinking Caribbean rum punch. 

Cayo Robo la Gata.  The second most popular cayo in the reserve. It offers a very similar experience to Cayo Caracoles with mangrove islands, shallow sand bars and a dozens of party boats. 

Cayo Enrique.  A lesser visited cayo popular with families for its calmer atmosphere and shallow waters. Channels lead through the shaded and sandy mangroves making them a fun place to snorkel and wade in the shallow waters. 

Good to Know:

• Bring all food and drink with you for the day. 

• Wear water shoes to avoid sea urchins and broken coral. 

• Some cayos were closed due to damage from Hurricane Fiona. 

• Many boats often dock here on the weekends while the weekdays are quiet. 

La Parguera Bio Bay 

One of three bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico, and the only one that people are allowed to swim in. Arriving on a tour boat at night, we jumped into the water causing a bright blue cloud of bioluminescence to form around us. As we swam in the warm salty water, it glowed bright blue with every movement, sparkling on our skin. It was a surreal experience that felt like swimming in a pool of glitter. 

We booked with Paradise Scuba. Our tour included unlimited medallas and 2 fried vegetarian empanadas. We stoped at Cayo Caracoles to swim at sunset before making our way to the bio bay. We spent about half an hour in the bio bay before returning. Out of all 3 bio bays in Puerto Rico, this one was our favorite experience! 

Pro Tips. The best time to visit this bio bay is on a dark and moonless night after a sunny day without any rain. Wear snorkels and swim down a few feet to block out any ambient light. Bring a hoodie for the boat ride back. After swimming it gets cold.

Places to Eat & Drink 

There are many restaurants and bars along the main road in the city center of La Parguera. Most serve seafood, Puerto Rican dishes and rum based cocktails. 

Puerto Parguera Restaurant.  A seafood restaurant with dishes like octopus salad, whole fried red snapper and seafood paella. We splurged and ordered a grilled Caribbean lobster with a side of maduros (fried sweet plantains).

Isla Cueva.  A restaurant and bar with over a dozen burger options including beef, chicken, pork, fish and vegan. We ordered the fried mahi mahi burger, piña colada and sangria. It’s a great spot to come before or after visiting the bioluminescent bay tour. 

Papo’s Pinchos.  A small kiosk serving Puerto Rican pinchos (grilled kabobs) with meats like chicken, pork, shrimp, shark and mahi mahi. 

Frozen G Spot.  A takeaway bar serving a variety of frozen cocktails including fruit flavored mojitos and margaritas. 

Yauco 

Yauco stretches from the Caribbean Sea to the lush and rugged landscapes of the island’s interior. The region is famed for its colorful hillside pueblo and coffee production. 

Yauco Pueblo 

A pueblo at the heart of Yauco that blends historic architecture and urban artworks. Vivid murals and colorful geometric patterns transform its walls, staircases and neighborhoods into an open air gallery. The town’s historic character is reflected in its mix of Creole, Spanish colonial, neoclassical, Baroque and Art Deco architecture. Adding to its charm, cafes serve locally grown and roasted coffee. 

Pro Tip.  Visit from Thursday to Saturday. Most businesses are closed during the first half of the week. 

Yaucromatic.  A hillside neighborhood converted into a canvass of colorfully painted houses, staircases and walls. The best views of the art installation is from the intersection of Calle E Sanches Lopez and Calle de la Cruz. Walk up Calle E Sanches Lopez to the top of the hill for photogenic views of the entire pueblo. 

La Escalinata de Yauco.  A painted staircase featuring Yauco’s flag and a statue of an indigenous Taino warrior. There’s a small park near the base of the stairs with a colorfully crochet wrapped tree and murals of Puerto Rican birds 

Mural de la Niña con el Pelo de Trinitaria.  A mural of a young child whose hair is formed by a vibrant bush of blossoming purple flowers.

Miradas del Barrio.  A series of murals at the top of the hill overlooking Yauco featuring close up paintings of people’s staring faces and eyes. 

Calle 25 de Julio.  A central road with many colorful historic homes spanning different architectural styles. Some of the most notable buildings to see include: Franceschi Antongiorgi House, Filardi House and The Cesari Mansion. 

Guánica 

Referred to as the “Paraíso del Eterno Verano,” or the Paradise of Eternal Summer, Guánica is a sunny region with white sand beaches, dry forests and coastal look out points.  

Playa Santa.  A popular white sand beach with turquoise waters, kayak rentals and beach restaurants. Stop for drinks at Mojito Beach Bar & El Anclan Flontante for all kinds of fried empanadas like fish, lobster, conch, octopus and shrimp. Arrive early to find roadside parking and shaded space under the beach trees. 

Guánica State Forest.  A vast. Bio-reserve and dry forest home to many species of cacti, thorny evergreens and coastal mangroves. The park is divided by the Guánica Bay with several hiking trails that lead to beaches, rock formations and ruins.

• Fuerte Capon.  The ruins of a small fort overlooking the Guánica Bay and forest. Start at the visitor center and hike follow the 6 mile trail to hike here or park at Playa Jaboncillo beach and follow the shorter 30 minute trail to Fuerte Capon.

• PR-333.  A scenic coastal road with views of the dry forest and Caribbean Sea. There are many beaches, scenic pull offs and hiking trails along the way.

• Good to Know.  The visitor center closes at 4pm. Park rangers prevent people from beginning hikes after 2pm. 

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Chillo Frito Entero.  A fried red snapper served whole with crispy skin, tender meat and squeezed with lime. It’s usually accompanied by fried plantains like tostones, mofongo or amarillos. 

Mofongo.  Fried plantain mashed with garlic and butter. It’s often served plain or stuffed with an option of seafood. If prepared with bread fruit and yucca, it’s known as trifongo. 

Empanadillas.  Puerto Rican style fried empanadas stuffed with a range of fillings like octopus, conch, cod, shrimp, crap and pizza. 

Pinchos.  Grilled meats served on a stick often served at beaches or roadside kiosks. Our favorites are shark and shrimp. 

Mojo Isleño.  A savory sauce made from tomato, onion, bell pepper, garlic, olives and bay leaves. It’s often served on fried red snapper, lobster or mixed with octopus and conch.

Mallorca.  A Puerto Rican pasty often shaped like a bun or swirled roll and dusted in powered sugar. Our favorite preparations are pressed with guava with cheese or egg and cheese. 

Coco Frio.  A cold and freshly opened coconut. Drink the coconut water inside then the sweet meat inside. Alternatively, enjoy it with coconut rum to create a tropical cocktail 

Rum.  Puerto Rico is unarguably the rum capital of the Caribbean with several distilleries and local brands served in bars across the island. Order it on the rocks, in a Pina Colada or other tropical cocktail. 

Medalla.  The island’s most popular local beer, recognizable by it’s small golden can. It has a light slightly nutty flavor and is served everywhere. Buy a 6 pack for the beach!

Getting Around

Rent A Car.  Renting a car is necessary to get around anywhere on the southwest side of Puerto Rico. Rent from a reputable rental agency from any of the island’s three airports in San Juan, Aguadilla or Ponce. We’ve had luck renting from local agencies including: Charlie Car Rental, Cabrera Car & Truck Rental and Flagship. 

Where to Stay 

Orange B Living (OB3).  A tropical style motel in Cabo Rojo with a series of vacation rentals and apartments. It’s walking distance to nearby restaurants and driving distance to Cabo Rojo’s beaches. Book on Airbnb. 

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From historic cities and mountain landscapes to rainforest trails and island escapes, continue your journey beyond Puerto Rico's southwestern coast through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around the southwestern region of Puerto Rico including: 

Hacienda Iluminada Coffee Farm.  A coffee hacienda home to 787 Coffee. They frequently offer tours and tastings. Book onlineor call ahead for reservations. 

Parque Nacional Balneario Boquerón.  A lengthy golden sand beach with a large palm grove, protected swimming area and sunset views. 

Finca El Girasol.  A sunflower farm with near year round rows of sunflowers. The finca offers tours and fresh cut sunflowers. 

El Rodadero Peak.  A mountain peak reachable after hiking a steep and slippery trail. It offers stunning views of the island’s lush and rugged landscape. 

The Wall.  A vast drop off along the continental shelf spanning several miles with over 30 different dive sites. Paradise Scuba & Snorkelin La Parguera offers snorkeling and scuba diving tours. 

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture

Ponce, The Pearl of the South

Ponce, known as “The Pearl of the South,” is famed for its historic architecture, cultural landmarks, Taíno archaeological sites and annual carnival traditions. 

Architectural Styles 

Ponce is a historic city with multitudes of architectural styles and colorful buildings. We spent an afternoon wandering the streets to see the mix of Creole, Colonial, Neoclassical, Spanish Revival, Miami Art Deco, Arabesque and 90s Modernist style buildings. 

An Underdog 

The city is a bit of an underdog; recovering from hurricanes, earthquakes and the effects of the pandemic. Though quieter and less traveled to, it has a charming local ambiance that can’t be overlooked. Like many Ponceños, we’re rooting for this beautiful city!

Visit the Sights & Museums

Plaza de las Delicias.  The lush town square and historical center of Ponce with monuments, statues, landmark buildings and adjacent restaurants.  

Fuente de los Leones.  A large two tiered fountain with statues lions, a symbol of strength and of Ponce.

Parque de Bombas.  Ponce’s iconic red and black striped former fire station and now museum. 

Museo de la Historia de Ponce.  Ponce’s historical museum with galleries explaining the significance of the city, its history, politics, architecture and cultural impacts on Puerto Rico as a whole. A local historian, Ronald, gave us a tour, recommended places to eat in Ponce and nearby places to visit. 

Ponce Cathedral.  A large light blue and white neoclassical cathedral that divides the plaza.

La Guancha.  A waterfront boardwalk and beach with restaurants, kiosks, a marina and an observation tower. Hurricane Fiona caused structural damage to the boardwalk and its since been condemned. Many restaurants have since opened food trucks along a road in the parking area. 

Museo Castillo Serrallés.  A large mansion overlooking the city that once belonged to a sugar cane & rum baron. It’s now a museum and event venue with lush gardens and city views. Come to tour its grounds and interiors while sipping on a Don Q piña colada from its cafe.

Centro Ceremonial Indígena de Tibes.  A free archeological museum dedicated to the Tiano people with exhibits displaying artifacts including pottery, stone tools, shell jewelry and human remains. A short walk behind the museum is an open air exhibit with uncovered petroglyphs, stone platforms, ball courts and a plaza. 

Carnaval Ponceño (Festival of Masks)  

Ponce’s week long carnival festival included nightly events, parades, performances and the famous Vejigantes leading up to carnival Tuesday. 

Vejigantes

Carnaval Ponceño, also known as The Festival of Masks, is famous for the Puerto Rican Vejigantes, elaborately painted paper mache masks decorated with pointed horns, jagged teeth and worn with colorful jumpsuits. The Vejigantes are the symbol of the carnival and traditionally act as a reminder of evil spirits. Nowadays, they’re an expression of Puerto Rican culture. 

The Festival 

Plaza de las Delicias is turned into a fair with food, drink and craft vendors, amusement park rides & a main stage hosting musical performances and announcing the events on the carnival. Unlike what’s typically expected from carnival, Ponce’s is very family friendly.

Food vendors fry all types Puerto Rican dishes like mero (grouper), mofongo bites (mashed plantain), bacalaitos (cod fritters) and cheese. Full bars serve medalla, the local beer, and a list of cocktails like piña coladas, cuba libres and rum punch. Craft vendors sell handmade items like Vejigante pins, masks, horns and painted jackets. We bought and wore a pair of horns, similar to the full face masks worn by the Vejigantes.

The Main Parade 

The main parade is the largest event of the carnival celebrations with Vejigantes, marching bands, floats, the queens of the carnival, classic cars & loud speaker trucks. The parade travels west down Calle Reina towards Plaza de las Delicias and ending in front of the main stage. The parade happens on Sunday afternoon before carnival Tuesday. It started around 2:30pm and lasted into the evening with festivities lasting even longer. Most people arrive by late morning and set up chairs along the shaded side of Calle Reina for the best views. 

Places to Eat & Drink

Campioni Pizza Birra & Tapas.  A popular restaurant for Puerto Rican style pizza (thin crust pizza cooked in a wood fired oven). Order the fruto del mar pizza topped with shrimp, calamari and octopus to and a sangria.

Lola Eclectic Cuisine.  An elevated restaurant serving international cuisine. Try the tuna tartare wonton tacos, grilled salmon on a taro cake, sea bass over lentils and ice-cream on a fried plantain. 

Mariscos Patio Beach.  A roadside seafood kiosk overlooking the Caribbean with fresh and fried seafood dishes. Try the octopus salad, shrimp salad and tostones. 

Tazza D' Oro Caffé.  A breakfast and brunch spot across from Plaza de las Delicias. Try the egg quesadilla or eggs Benedict on brioche. They serve Gusto’s coffee, a Puerto Rican coffee roaster. 

Con Leche.  A breakfast and brunch cafe. Try the Mallorca egg sandwich or breakfast wrap made with eggs and salsa rojo.

Chango Bar.  A dive bar named after the little black birds seen across Puerto Rico. Come here for a Medalla or glass of Don Q served neat. 

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Chillo Frito Entero.  A fried red snapper served whole with crispy skin, tender meat and squeezed with lime. It’s usually accompanied by fried plantains like tostones, mofongo or amarillos. 

Mofongo.  Fried plantain mashed with garlic and butter. It’s often served plain or stuffed with an option of seafood. If prepared with bread fruit and yucca, it’s known as trifongo. 

Empanadillas.  Puerto Rican style fried empanadas stuffed with a range of fillings like octopus, conch, cod, shrimp, crap and pizza. 

Pinchos.  Grilled meats served on a stick often served at beaches or roadside kiosks. Our favorites are shark and shrimp. 

Mojo Isleño.  A savory sauce made from tomato, onion, bell pepper, garlic, olives and bay leaves. It’s often served on fried red snapper, lobster or mixed with octopus and conch.

Mallorca.  A Puerto Rican pasty often shaped like a bun or swirled roll and dusted in powered sugar. Our favorite preparations are pressed with guava with cheese or egg and cheese. 

Coco Frio.  A cold and freshly opened coconut. Drink the coconut water inside then the sweet meat inside. Alternatively, enjoy it with coconut rum to create a tropical cocktail 

Rum.  Puerto Rico is unarguably the rum capital of the Caribbean with several distilleries and local brands served in bars across the island. Order it on the rocks, in a Pina Colada or other tropical cocktail. 

Medalla.  The island’s most popular local beer, recognizable by it’s small golden can. It has a light slightly nutty flavor and is served everywhere. Buy a 6 pack for the beach!

Where to Stay

Casa Luna.  An inexpensive hotel in a neon green creole style building located 2 streets away from Plaza de las Delicias inPonce’s city center. It has multiple private rooms with bathrooms, a public patio and outdoor kitchen. Book on Airbnb.

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From rainforest adventures and surf towns to offshore islands and the colorful streets of Old San Juan, explore more of Puerto Rico beyond Ponce through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around the southern side of Puerto Rico including: 

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set on visiting Isla Caja De Muertos, a secluded nature reserve off the coast of Ponce home to a dry forest, many species of birds, coral reefs for snorkeling and diving, sandy beaches, turquoise water, hiking trails and mangroves. It can only be reached by boat however most ferries and tour operators have stopped visiting the island since hurricane Fiona and a series of earthquakes. 

Oʻahu Travel Guide: Waikīkī, Beaches & Island Adventures

Aloha from O’ahu!

Aloha from the Hawaiian Island of O’ahu! O’ahu is an adventurous destination for active vacations and leisurely itineraries. The ocean invites surfers to ride breaking waves and snorkelers to spot marine life in lively coral reefs. Hikers take to rigorous trails along mountains ridges, volcanic craters and lush forests. Sunny days are made for relaxing on pristine beaches, sipping mai tais and watching sunsets. Vibrant rainbows arch over the skyscrapers of Honolulu after tropical showers. 

Honolulu

Honolulu is a big city with tropical vibes and access to some of the O'ahu’s best beaches, hiking trails and farmers markets. Its neighborhoods and streets are hubs for Hawaiian culture, cuisine and nightlife. 

Waikiki.  Famed for its palm lined beaches, luxury high-rises and oceanfront hotels, Waikiki is at the center of Honolulu. It’s an energetic place popular with both travelers and islanders. Many visit to relax at its beaches, shop the busting streets, sip cocktails at tiki bars, order from food trucks and dine at restaurants. 

Kalākaua Ave.  Brimming with luxury brands, clothing boutiques, souvenir stores, surf shops and hotels, Kalākaua Ave. is the commercial artery of Waikiki. It comes to life each night with an eclectic mix of street performers, tarot card readers, karaoke stands, typewriter poets, bible salesmen, human statues and exotic animals. 

Chinatown.  A historic neighborhood known locally for its weekend nightlife scene and authentic Chinese restaurants. The most lively area is on Hotel St. between Smith St. and Nuuamu Ave.

Relax on the Honolulu’s Beaches 

Honolulu is a famed beach destination lined with sandy shores, turquoise waters, surf breaks and coral reefs. Its beaches offer a range of places to enjoy the island vibes. 

Waikiki Beach.  Palm trees and luxury hotels line the beach’s golden sands and aquamarine waters. It’s a paradise for sunbathing, swimming and water activities. Vacationers sip on tropical cocktails and couples watch picturesque sunsets. Surfers take lessons and ride gentle waves. Rowers experience the “Hawaiian roller coaster ride” on outrigger canoes. Catamarans ferry passengers on sightseeing tours along the coast.

Surf Rentals.  Rent surf boards from Moku Hawaii, a nearby surf shop with better priced boards than those available on Waikiki Beach. They also provide secure storage for personal belongs. 

Kapaemahu (The Stones of Life).  A sacred spot in Hawaiian folklore marked by four lava stones at Waikiki Beach. They’re believed to hold the healing knowledge brought to the islands by Polynesian healers. The full story can be learned by watching Kapaemahu, an animated short film. 

Queens Beach.  The tan sand beachfront along Waikiki’s southern end is a relaxing place to gather with friends. The beach attracts volleyball players and onlooking sunbathers. Meanwhile snorkelers search for tropical in the reef and along the pier. A boardwalk leads to the nearby Barefoot Beach Cafe offering Hawaiian bites. 

Fort DeRussy Beach.  The shoreline of Fort DeRussy Beach is a laid back place away from the crowds of Waikiki. It’s a spacious spot to sunbathe, enjoy a swim and view the Friday night fireworks. Walk the boardwalk to the Koa Oasis Booze Shack for a variety of takeaway cocktails garnished with orchids. 

Magic Island.  An artificial peninsula with a lush city park and protected sandy lagoon. It’s a popular spot to picnic, gather with friends, watch the sunset and enjoy the Friday night fireworks. 

Waikiki Friday Fireworks.  Weekends in Waikiki kick off with a firework show, held on the beach of the Hilton Hotel every Friday at 7:45pm. The show is visible from multiple places including Magic Island and Fort DeRussy Beach. 

Places to Shop 

Waikiki is a popular shopping destination with countless places to shop. We shopped for Hawaiian goods like tropical clothes, surfboards, ukuleles and souvenirs. 

Surf Garage.  A reputable surf shop specializing is new and used surf boards and accessories. The family run shop is the perfect place for first time buyers or experienced surfers. They also ship to the “mainland.” 

Ukulele Puapua.  A tiny shop selling a range of Hawaiian ukuleles. They offer free 30 minute lessons to learn strumming basics. Reserve a spot a day in advance. 

Avanti Hawaii.  A clothing store specializing in vintage style Hawaiian prints utilized across silk Aloha shirts, dresses and accessories. 

Hawaii Hat Shack.  A small boutique near Waikiki Beach specializing in embroidered baseball caps, bucket hats and floppy beach hats. 

Vibrations 'Ohana.  A gay friendly clothing shop with vibrant and patterned shirts, low cut shorts and swim briefs.  

ABC Stores.  A chain convenience store selling snacks, beverages, beachwear and souvenirs. They’re located on practically every corner of Waikiki.  

Mai Tais & Tiki Bars 

The Mai Tai, considered the ultimate tropical cocktail is synonymous with Hawaiian resort culture. We sampled versions at about every tiki bar in Waikiki, coming up with a list of our favorites. 

Mai Tai Bar.  A beachfront bar at the historic Royal Hawaiian Hotel credited with inviting the Hawaiian Mai Tai, a twist on the classic made with pineapple juice in lieu of lime juice. 

Duke’s Waikiki.  A beach front bar with all around Hawaiian vibes. Order the Duke’s Mai Tai, their house version made with fresh fruit juices and rums. It was our favorite on the island! Buy a handmade floral lei from a vendor near the host stand after 7pm. 

Arnold’s Beach Bar.  An off the beaten path tiki bar with inexpensive tropical cocktails, live music and free popcorn. They make a perfectly balanced traditional Mai Tai. 

Rumfire.  A beachside hotel bar with tropical cocktails, Hawaiian pupus and flaming tiki torches. Come for their Mai Tai Flight with your choice of three different versions of the famed cocktail. 

Cuckoo Coconuts.  An umbrella covered parking lot turned restaurant and bar with tropical cocktails, fried bar food, live music and tiki vibes. Their House Mai Tai is more juicy than boozy but won’t fail to sneak up on you. 

Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand.  A tiki style gay bar in Waikiki popular with both locals and tourists. Visit mid day for their Happy Hour Mai Tai, returning later in the night for live music, drag performances, strong tropical cocktails and bar snacks like nachos. 

Skull & Crown Trading Co.  A speakeasy style tiki bar decorated with vintage nautical artifacts. Their menu features a range of signature cocktails like the  Dagger Mai Tai, made with “redacted ingredients.” Make a reservation!

Merriman’s.  An elevated restaurant known for their happy hour specials and inventive cocktails. Try the Merriman’s Mai Tai, their house version made with macadamia nut orgeat and lilikoi (passion fruit) foam. 

Tiki’s Bar & Grill.  A restaurant and bar overlooking the palm lined shores of Waikiki Beach. Tropical cocktails are served in take home tiki mugs. Order the Hula Girl Mai Tai with an extra rum shot for a boozy experience! To eat, try the Hawaiian pupus like coconut shrimp, poke wontons and seared tuna. 

Aloha Amigo.  A vibrant Mexican style cantina in Waikiki serving a range of traditional tacos. Pair an order with the Spicy Mezcal Mai Tai for a cocktail that blends Mexican and Hawaiian flavors. 

Places to Eat in Honolulu 

In addition to the menus at the above tiki bars and restaurants, there is no shortage of places to eat in Honolulu. From food-truck parks to beachfront cafes and high-end restaurants, here are some of our favorites:

The Sunrise Shack.  A healthy spot to begin the day with a smoothie bowl and strong coffee. Visit one of many locations around O’ahu. 

Musubi Cafe Iyasume.  A small cafe specializing in Hawaii’s famed Spam Musubi and Japanese Onigiri. Expect to see a line out the door for the flavorful snacks.

Sam's Kitchen.  A hidden poolside restaurant at the Bamboo Waikiki Hotel known for its garlic shrimp, a Hawaiian staple. Service may be slow but it’s worth the wait!

Maguro Brothers.  A seafood spot in a food hall specializing in freshly prepared sashimi platters and generously sized poke bowls. 

Maui Brewing Company.  A Hawaiian brewery offering a selection of craft beers made with island flavors like citrus, pineapple and toasted coconut. Sip on a pint or order a flight while listening to nightly live music over dinner. Try the macadamia nut encrusted mahi mahi.

Orchids.  An upscale restaurant at the Halekulani Hotel with a romantic dining room. It’s the perfect place to come for a celebratory dinner, glass of champagne and famed coconut chiffon cake. 

Hawaiian Aroma Caffe.  A cafe at the Beachcomber Hotel serving tropical waffles, acai bowls and Kona Coffee. 

Kai Coffee Hawai’i.  A coffee shop with bold and flavorful brews of Hawaiian coffee. Visit one of their locations across O’ahu for a macadamia nut or coconut latte. 

Island Vintage Shave Ice. Shave ice is a Hawaiian treat popular across the islands. Come here for tropical fruit flavors like lilikoi, coconut, lychee, yuzu, acai and mango. 

Barefoot Beach Cafe.  An oceanfront cafe near Queens Beach with vegan breakfast dishes, smoothie bowls and coffees. Hawaiian music plays throughout their outdoor patio as customers relax with a meal and drink. 

Waikiki Food Truck Park.  Food trucks are commonplace across O’ahu with some of the best variety being at the Waikiki Food Truck Park. The park brings together over two dozen food trucks offering everything from poke, tacos, barbecue, garlic shrimp, vegan meals, international dishes, bubble tea, churros and smoothies. Take food to-go or dine under the thatched umbrellas picnic tables. 

Diamond Head

Diamond Head is a residential neighborhood of Honolulu defined by its volcanic crater, recreational activities and weekend farmers market. 

Diamond Head Crater.  Towering above Waikiki is one of O’ahu’s most iconic sights, the Diamond Head Crater. A trail leads from the floor of the extinct volcano to its rim, switchbacking past lookout points until reaching the summit. Panoramic views look towards the skyscrapers of Honolulu and the gradient blue coast.

Reservations.  Non islanders need a reservation to visit the crater. Bookings can be made online with Hawaii State Parks up to 30 days in advance. 

Diamond Head Beach Park.  The secluded shores flanking Diamond Head Crater are the perfect place to sunbathe away from the crowds. Surfers catch waves breaking on the reef while snorkelers explore its underwater life. 

KCC Farmers Market.  One of Honolulu’s most beloved farmers markets attracts dozens of vendors and hundreds of visitors each week. Merchants sell locally produced goods including roasted macadamia nuts, raw honey, fresh fruits & vegetables, baked breads & pastries, jars of pickles & preserves, plants & cut flowers. Food stands serve Kona coffee, fruit juices, smoothie bowls, all types of mochi and a range of international street food. The market is held across from Diamond Head Crater every Saturday morning from 7:30-11am. 

Hawaii Kai

Hawaii Kai is an area spanning the southeast coast of O’ahu. It is a bustling area with access to protected bays, coastal formations, pristine beaches, volcanic craters and hiking trails. 

Koko Head.  A volcanic crater with rigorous and scenic hikes along its slopes and a botanical garden spanning its inner crater floor. 

Koko Crater Railway Trail.  Leading up the steep slopes of Koko Crater is an abandoned railway converted into a trail. Hikers use railroad ties like stairs to reach the summit with rewarding views of the island’s volcanic landscape and coastline. It’s a strenuous trek, taking about 30 minutes one way. 

Koko Crater Arch Trail.  Few hikes are as adventurous as the trek to the Koko Crater Arch! Begin by crawling through the Halona Beach lava tube, minding yourself, as it narrows towards the end. Exit the lava tube and scale up the rocky cliffs to reach the crest of the volcanic ridge. A trail leads along the crest to a golden patch of rock. Veer left before the steepest part to approach the arch from the side. 

Koko Crater Botanical Garden.  The floor of Koko Crater is home to a botanical garden with a variety of flora and fauna. A trail loops through groves of plumeria & hibiscus trees, gardens with desert cacti & dry palms and sections of Hawaiian & African plants. Wild mongooses roam free while red-crested cardinals fly between trees.

Hawaii Kai Lookout.  A roadside lookout with picturesque views of Koko Crater. Stop for a photo en route to or from Hanauma Bay. 

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.  The eroded crater of an extinct volcano frames the turquoise waters of Hanauma Bay. Beneath its surface are colonies of algae covered rocks, colorful corals and a variety of tropical fish, including endemic species only found here. Snorkel throughout the bay and relax onshore. 

• Good to Know.  Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it at the beach kiosk. Don’t wear fins in shallow waters to avoid kicking algae covered rocks and corals. Wear reef safe sunblock. 

• Tickets.  A limited number of visitors are allowed into the bay between Wednesday and Sunday. Tickets are released by the Department of Parks and Recreation at 7am two days in advance. Tickets often sell out within minutes. Be ready to book and prepare for a back up time and date if sold out.

Sandy Beach.  Aptly named for its golden sand shore, Sandy Beach is a relaxing place to swim, sunbathe and body surf. Pack a picnic or order poke, shaved ice and Hawaiian juices from the parking lot food truck. 

Halona Beach.  A small but adventurous beach nestled between jagged coastal cliffs near the Halona Blowhole. The tide creates a natural wave pool in the beach’s protected cove. A narrow lava tube leads from the beach to the Koko Crater Arch Trail.

Halona Blowhole Lookout.  A seaside lava tube that ferociously sprays seawater into the air during high tide and strong surf. It’s viewable from a roadside parking lot.

Makapu’u.  The far eastern tip of O’ahu is defined by its volcanic ridges, seaside landscapes and beaches. 

• Makapuʻu Beach Park.  Tan sand shores line the turquoise cove of Makapu’u Beach. It’s a popular spot for experienced body surfers and boogie boarders. A lookout on the volcanic cliffs offer sweeping views of the scenic beach and coastline. 

• Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail.  A paved walkway lined with scenic views of distant Hawaiian islands and the deep blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean. The trail ends at a lookout point of Makapu’u Beach and the Makapu’u Lighthouse. 

• Makapu’u Tide Pools.  Sea grasses, small corals and spiky urchins thrive in the shallow tide pools. Tiny fish swim and jump between pools while crabs scurry along lava rocks. Echos of crashing waves reverberate off volcanic cliffs while air rushes through blow holes and lava tubes. 

• Getting Here.  The rocky trail to the tide pools begins beyond the signs at the third lookout point along the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail. 

China Walls.  The lava rock ledges and seaside cliffs of China Walls are a beloved place amongst locals. Hawaiians gather during golden hour to watch the sunset, vibe to island music, cliff jump and surf. We watched whales spouting and witnessed the green flash as the sun set below the horizon.

Kona Brewing Hawaii Kai.  The beers of Kona Brewing are a staple of the Hawaiian Islands. Their tap house in Hawaii Kai offers pints and flights of exclusive brews, seasonal flavors and drafts like Kona Big Wave or Longboard Lager. Try the pineapple topped Hawaiian pizza or sharable pupus. 

Leonard’s Bakery.  A bakery known for their flavorful Malassadas, a puffy Portuguese donut covered in cinnamon sugar and often filled with a custard or jam. They’re popular across O’ahu. Visit the historic location in Honolulu or their food truck in Hawaii Kai. 

Kailua

Kailua is a large beach town on O’ahu’s Windward Shore with lengthy white sand beaches, small offshore islets, scenic hiking trails and farmers markets. 

Kailua Beach.  Powdery white sand covers Kailua’s lengthy shoreline making it a tranquil place for beach walks and seaside picnics. Turquoise waters and ocean views invite beachgoers in for a swim and kayakers on a voyage to the Moku Islands.

Good to Know.  Beware of Portuguese Man-O-Wars on windy days. 

Moku Islands.  The Mokus are two protected islets and a sanctuary for seabirds, endangered Hawaiian monk seals and green sea turtles. Kayakers can land on Moku Nui, the larger of the two islets. On shore is a small sandy beach and rocky tide pool where sea animals lounge. The conical hillside is covered in burrows from nesting birds. Rent kayaks from Kailua Beach Adventuresfor half or full day excursions.

Lanikai Beach.  Palm trees sway above white sand shores while sunbathers bask in the sunshine. The Moku Islands rise from the turquoise hued waters as waves break beyond the reef. Colorful fish and green sea turtles swim between lively corals as snorkelers drift overhead.  

Lanikai Pillbox Trail.  A short but steep trail leads to a series of graffitied military bunkers perched on the volcanic ridge beyond Lanikai Beach. Lookout points boast picturesque views of the seaside neighborhood below and nearby Moku Islands. The trail continues further along the ridge with views of the island’s rugged interior. 

Good to Know.  Wear sturdy shoes and be cautious of the loose gravel. Park at Kailua Beach and walk to the trail head located at this Map Pin.

Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden.  Few places transport visitors to the Jurassic Period like O’ahu’s famed HoʻomaluhiaBotanical Garden. Cloud covered mountains, lush volcanic ridges and dense rainforest characterize the verdant landscape. Nature trails meander through tropical gardens to lakeside lookouts. 

Kailua Farmers Market.  Local vendors set up a weekly farmers market in the Kailua Town Center with a range of produce stands, mobile kitchens and live music. Come here to shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, baked goods, juices and international meals. The market is held each Thursday from 4-7pm. 

Kalapawai Market.  A chain of “small town markets” located along the Windward Side of O’ahu. Their aisles are stocked with snacks, beverages, beach goods and island decor. The Kailua location prepares sandwiches in their deli while the barista brews a range of hot and iced coffees. 

Ocean Excursions  

Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail Along Oahu's Waikiki Coast. Sunsets in Hawaii hit differently, especially on a boat! We boarded a catamaran as the crew served mai tais and margaritas. The boat cruised along the coast with the sail unfurled and Hawaiian music playing. The golden glow of the sun illuminated Waikiki’s skyline and the island’s rugged mountains. The sun began to set as bottlenose dolphins played in the bow waves if a scene from a movie. Book with Moana Sailing Co on Viator. 

Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast of O’ahu.  We joined the crew from Indigo Ocean Hawaii on a half day excursion from Waikiki to swim and snorkel with wild dolphins along Oahu’s Leeward Coast. A playful pod of Spinner Dolphins greeted us in the shallow waters outside of the marina. They porpoised one after another, occasionally jumping from the water and twirling into the air. After an hour at sea, a pod of Spotted Dolphins gathered in the deep open water. With snorkels on, we jumped from the boat and watched as they swam past. On the voyage back to the marina, migrating humpback whales sent spouts of water into the air before rising their tails and diving into the depths. Book on Viator. 

Getting Around

There are multiple ways of getting around O’ahu depending on where you’re staying and everything you plan to see. We primarily explored the city on foot and island by scooter. 

On Foot.  Waikiki is very walkable and an enjoyable way of exploring the neighborhood, getting to the beaches, shopping and discovering restaurants and bars. 

Scooter.  Vespas and Mopeds are the best individual way of getting around Honolulu and coast. We rented a pair of scooters from Waikiki Moped Rental, a reliable and well reviewed shop with affordable options. 

Good to Know.  Scooters are not allowed on the island’s main freeways or inner island highways: H1, H2, H3, 61 & 62. 

Uber.  Ride shares like Uber are ideal for getting between the airport and city as well as across town. Expect airport rides to cost $50 and city rides to cost between $10-$20. 

Rental Car.  Driving is best way to explore all areas of the island on your own time. Rentals, gas and parking are extremely expensive. 

Waikiki Trolly.  A tourist trolly offers routes to around Honolulu and the South Shore of O’ahu. Single and multi-day passes make getting around convenient if not renting a scooter or car. 

Where to Stay

Waikiki is a convent place to stay when visiting Honolulu. Its skyscrapers and beachfront hotels are home to countless vacation rentals and luxury accommodations. We split our time between two locations in Waikiki. 

Waikiki Monarch Hotel.  An apartment complex on the north side of Waikiki with hundreds of vacation rentals. Our comfortable unit had a small kitchen and ocean views. The building is a short walk away from the Waikiki Food Truck Park and Fort DeRussy Beach. Apartments are available for rent on Airbnb. 

Aloha Suites Waikiki.  A small hotel in the center of Waikiki with well equipped apartment rentals. Our unit had a full kitchen, outdoor balcony and high speed wifi. It’s located less than 5 minutes from Waikiki Beach. Apartments are available for rent on both Airbnb and Booking. 

When to Visit 

Early December.  The sweet spot to visit O’ahu is early December between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The crowds are smaller and the temperature is comfortable. Humpback whale begin their migration increasing the chances of seeing them anywhere around the island. 

For Next Time… 

The Hawaiian Islands keep calling us back! On our next trip to Hawaii we plan to rent a car and venture to the North Shore of O’ahu, visit Hawaiian cultural sights and make our way to the islands of Kauai and Maui.

• Haleʻiwa.  A colorful and historic town on the North Shore with small cafes, surf shops, boutiques and markets. 

• Waimea Bay Beach.  A North Shore beach with a large rock, popular for jumping from. It has a calm surf during the summer and big waves during the winter. Dolphins and sea turtles can frequently be spotted off shore.  

• Ko Hana Distillery.  O’ahu’s only sugarcane rum distillery. They offer tours, tastings and cocktails. 

• Pu'u o Mahuka Heiau.  The stone ruins and platforms of an ancient Hawaiian temple. It’s located walking distance from Waimea Bay Beach. 

• Bishop Museum.  Hawaii’s main cultural and natural history museum with Hawaiian artifacts, science exhibits and art galleries. 

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches

La Isla del Encanto  

Puerto Rico is known as La Isla del Encanto, which translates to The Island of Enchantment. Eastern Puerto Rico is home to golden sand beaches, bioluminescent bays, verdant rainforests and waterfalls.

El Yunque National Forest 

El Yunque is home the island’s only rainforest. The landscape is full of lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls with natural pools, hiking trails, lookout towers, tree snails and frogs. Here are a list of sights and trails in consecutive order past El Portal Visitor Center.  

La Coca Waterfall.  An 85ft tall waterfall streaming down the face of a large rock. It’s visible from the roadside waterfall shortly after entering El Yunque. 

Yokahú Tower.  An cylindrical observation tower perched on a clearing overlooking the rainforest. It’s located less than 1km past La Coca Waterfall.

Juan Diego Falls.  A series of small waterfalls with natural swimming pools below. The water is cold and refreshing! The falls are reachable via a short and often muddy trail from the roadside. 

Sierra Palm Picnic Area.  The only restaurant in El Yunque with Puerto Rican dishes and drinks. It’s a great lunch option and picnic spot while in the forest. 

Baño de Oro.  A historic swimming pool fed by rainwater and streams. It’s no longer swimmable, however pathways lead through the gardens surrounding it.

Mt Britton Trail.  A thinly paved trail leading through the rainforest to Torre Mt Britton. It takes about 45 minutes from the trailhead to reach the peak.

Torre Mt Britton.  An observation tower at El Yunque’s second highest peak with cool breezes, rolling clouds and sweeping views of the Caribbean and Atlantic coasts. 

Mt Britton Spur Trail.  A trail connecting the Mt Britton Trail to El Yunque Trail just before the trail to Torre Mt Britton. 

El Yunque Trail.  The rainforest’s longest trail leading to El Yunque’s highest peak. It can be picked up from the Mt Britton Spur Trail. It takes an additional 45 minutes to reach the peak. 

El Yunque Peak.  Often within the clouds, the peak is surrounded by a forest of foliage with stunted growth due to the heavy rain, wind and erosion. There is also an abandoned medical building and series of antenna. 

Tips for Visiting El Yunque:

• Bring water and snacks.

• Wear hiking shoes with good treads, rocks are slippery (speaking from personal experience).

• The temperature gets colder the higher in altitude you hike.

• Expect it to rain, bring a raincoat or umbrella and change of clothes.

• Rent a car. There are no Ubers or taxis allowed into the park. The drive is 1 hour from San Juan.

• Take a photo of the map sign outside the visitor center before hiking.

• Only park in designated parking zones. Rangers will ticket you.

• Arrive early, parking spots fill up quickly.

• Many trails not listed above are still under repair after damage from Hurricane Maria. 

• Reservations are no longer needed to enter the rainforest. 

Degree 18 Juice Bar.  Come here for a healthy pick-me-up after hiking in El Yunque. Located in the town of Palmer at the base of the mountain, they offer smoothies, vegan burgers and hammocks to relax in.

Rain Forest Zip Line Park. An adventure park at the base of El Yunque with 8 zip lines traversing through the lush rainforest canopy. One zip line spans 2,300 ft and is by far the most exhilarating part of the course. We visited here after a day hiking in El Yunque.

Luquillo

Nearby El Yunque is the town of Luquillo, known for the Luquillo Kiosks. Located along the highway, there are 60 street side stalls and restaurants selling Puerto Rican street food and classic Caribbean dishes.

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Bacalaítos.  Large and flat fritters made with a mixture of batter and cod. 

Whole Fried Red Snapper (Chillo Frito Entero).  Whole fried fish, especially red snapper, is a typical Puerto Rican dish. The fish is fried until crispy from head to tail. The meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones while the fins and tails break off like “chips.” 

Caribbean Lobster.  Also known as a spiny lobster, it lacks the large claws of a Maine lobster but is filled with much more meat. It’s grilled and covered in a mixture of Sofrito, a sautéed medley of pepers, onion, garlic and spices. 

Mofongo.  Fried green plantains that are mashed in a pilón (a wooden mortar and pestle) with oil, garlic and salt. Many restaurants make Stuffed Mofongo with seafood, vegetables or meat. 

Carrucho.  The meat of the queen conch. It’s often served raw as ceviche or salad either alone or with an arepa.

Salmorejo.  A mixture of tomato and land crab strewed together. It can be gamey depending on the preparation. 

Empanadillas.  Similar to empanadas but slightly flakier with rolled edges. Common fillings are meats, seafood, cheese and pizza. 

Alcapurrias.  A fritter made from green plantain and cassava molded with a leaf and fried. They’re typically filled with annatto oil and a meat or crab. 

Kiosks to Visit

Kiosko #7 de Sonia & Peyin + Kiosco Mi Favorito #49 & #52 + El Castillo del Mar Kiosco #54.  Visit any of these kiosks for Puerto Rican street food like empanadillas, alcapurrias, bacalaítos and seafood salad in an arepa. 

La Parrilla Bar & Grill (Kiosko 2).  For locally caught seafood & Caribbean lobsters 

Terruño Comida Artesanal (Kiosko #20).  For classic dishes like mofongo, carrucho, coconut rice and plantains. 

Relle Na’o (Kiosko 40).  For vegan options and build your own mofongo 

Mojito Lab (Kiosko 42).  For extra large mojitos & cocktails.

Luquillo Beach

After the Kiosks, head to one of the beaches. Luquillo Beach (Playa Balneario) is a swimmable palm lined beach behind the kiosks with more food stalls selling empanadas and pina coladas served in pineapples. Parking costs $5. Playa Azul, is the other main beach in Luquillo for swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kite surfing, and kayaking.

Las Croabas 

Las Croabas is the furthest northeastern part of Puerto Rico. It’s a popular place for marine activities, exploring nature, relaxing on the beaches and kayaking to the bioluminescent bay.

Laguna Grande (Bioluminescent Bay)

Kayaking through the mangrove forests at night to reach the bioluminescent bay is one of our favorite things to do in Puerto Rico! In the lagoon, you can run your hands through the water, let it run down your arms and splash around. Movement causes the dinoflagellates (bioluminescent plankton) in the water to glow a bright blue color. 

Book a Tour. You need to book a tour to visit Laguna Grande. There are a dozen companies offering nightly tours from Parque Las Croabas. Most offer two tour times, one at twilight and one hours after sunset. The biggest difference between the twilight tour and nighttime tour is how much of the mangrove forest you can see while kayaking to the lagoon. Tours cost around $50/person and last 1h 30min. We’ve booked through Island Kayaking Adventure and Kayaking Puerto Rico. 

Tips for Visiting Laguna Grande:

• Visit on a sunny day, the dinoflagellates are more active at night.

• Avoid going when the moon is full, the dinoflagellates are difficult to see. If you do, tour guides will bring tarps to cover the kayaks to block out the light.

• Don’t bring your phone for pictures, they can’t capture the bioluminescence.

Visit the Beaches 

Seven Seas Beach.  This is the main beach in Las Croabas. It’s great for swimming, snorkeling and renting kayaks or stand up paddles. The beach has a sandy shore with a rocky ledge several feet into the water. The beach is divided by a mobile home park. The east side is narrow but long and great for walking. The west side is larger with pavilions available for rent and a nature trail leading to Playa Escondida and Playa Colora.

Playa La Matita.  A semi secluded beach east of Seven Seas Beach. It’s a great destination to kayak to, look for conch shells or hike to La Zanja from.

Playa Escondida.  This long golden sand beach has calm and shallow waters perfect for lounging in. The shore is lined with sea grape trees offering shaded nooks to relax under. The beach is popular with all groups of people, especially the LGBTQ+ community. It’s one of those beautiful and welcoming places you’ll want to stay at all day!

Playa Colora.  A semi secluded beach great for sunbathing and enjoying nature. The waves are large and the undertow is strong making it un-safe for swimming. Though not an official nude beach, people come here to sunbathe naked near the rock formations to the right. 

Getting to Escondida & Colora.  Both beaches are accessible through a nature trail at the west end of Seven Seas Beach. It’s an easy walk that takes about 30 minutes. The trail forks after about 5 minutes, take a right and continue walking. This trails leads directly to Playa Escondida. A short path at the halfway point leads to Playa Colora. 

Pro Tip. Please take your trash with you and don’t pile it up at the trail heads.

La Zanja

La Zanja is a natural tench-like wave pool nestled within a cliffside and protected from ferocious waves by large jagged rocks. The pool is a secluded and unreal place to swim and listen to the ocean. 

Getting to La Zanja.  Walk down Seven Seas Beach, past Playa La Matita until it looks like you can go no further. From here there will be a trail leading into the tree-line. The trail forks at multiple points but all lead to a road. Take the road ending at a stoney beach. At the stoney beach, walk to the left until you see a trail leading up the hill and along the cliffside. This trail will lead you to La Zanja. From start to finish, it takes about 1 hour to reach. 

Safety

• Bring water shoes or wear shoes with good soles. 

• Do not attempt in flip flops or sandals. 

• Be very careful on the rocks and of waves 

• Be mindful of the current within La Zanja 

Places to Eat & Drink in Las Croabas

Las Vistas Cafe.  A hidden gem and easily the best brunch spot in the area. The restaurant is located on the roof of a house with surrounding views of Las Croabas. Everything is handmade and takes a little longer but is well worth the wait. Try the fresh fruit salad and juices, strong coffee and brunch dishes like the French toast with bananas and coconut or eggs Florentine on a arepa.  

El Pescador.  Located in Parque Las Croabas, this is one of our favorite places to dine at for seafood and Puerto Rican dishes. Come here for a pan fried red snapper, the stuffed mofongo, creole crab salad, jumbo shrimp and anything with conch. 

La Estacion.  A former gas station turned into an open air jungle themed restaurant offering grilled and smoked meats and seafood specials. 

Maunabo

A remote town on the far southeast corner of Puerto Rico with lengthy natural beaches along the Caribbean Sea. 

Playa Los Bohios.  A pristine yellow and black sand beach lined with palm trees and views of the mountains. The water can be dangerous for swimming due to currents. 

Faro de Punta Tuna.  A historic Spanish lighthouse overlooking Playa Los Bohios and Punta Tuna Beach.

Punta Tuna Beach.   A secluded palm lined yellow sand beach. The beach is not safe for swimming but makes for a beautiful setting for a relaxing afternoon. 

Ecuarican Bar Restaurant.  A restaurant with Ecuadorian and Puerto Rican fusion cuisine. It’s perched high on a cliff with an outdoor deck overlooking the coast. Come here for the mixed seafood ceviche and empanadas.

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From colonial cities and offshore islands to mountain villages and surf towns, discover more of Puerto Rico beyond El Yunque and the eastern coast through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around the eastern side of Puerto Rico including: 

Day Trip to The Icacos Islands.  The Icacos are a key of many small islands with diverse sea-life, coral reefs, sandy beaches, migrating birds and marines sports like snorkeling, swimming & diving. They’re only accessible by boat. There are water taxi services or a catamaran tours that leave from Parque Las Croabas. From what we’ve heard, the best time to visit is mid-week to avoid the large crowds. 

Las Paylas Waterfall.  Nearby El Yunque and on private property is a natural river rock slide. An older gentleman who owns the property charges $5 admission. There are no official hours so you have to chance it if visiting. We tried but were turned away. 

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites

A Lush & Rugged Landscape

The central mountainous region of Puerto Rico is a lush and rugged landscape with tree covered mountains, ancient cave systems, breathtaking canyons, mesmerizing waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, coffee haciendas and Taino archeological sites. We’ve ventured to the interior of the island on previous trips, getting to explore more of its natural landscapes, biodiversity and learn about its history. 

Natural Landmarks  

The interior of the island is home to many natural landmarks worth visiting. Rent a car and road-trip through the interior to swim below waterfalls, explore caves, traverse canyons and overlook the mountains from scenic lookouts. 

Canyon Blanco.  A canyon with large white rocks and cliffs polished smooth by the river. There is a trail leading along the canyon with Taino petroglyphs, a small beach and views of the surrounding mountainside. 

• Petroglyphs.  There are well defined Taino petroglyphs dating back hundreds of years carved into some boulders throughout the canyon. The most notable are figures of babies swaddled in blankets. They’re unmarked but easily visible if you’re looking. The petroglyphs are primarily located on large boulders downriver from the bridge before entering the canyon. 

• Getting Here. Take PR-140 and park at “Parking For El Sofa” just before a small bridge over the river. Walk down the west bank of the river and wade through it on foot before the rapids to reach the canyon trail. Alternatively, there is paid parking at Private Property a few minutes past the bridge for $10 with access to the canyon and trail. 

• Good to Know. The canyon is one of the most beautiful sights on the island but is difficult to reach. There is no cell service here. Download offline maps before traveling to the canyon. Don’t go on rainy days. Flash floods and rising waters are common. 

Charco Los Morones.  A remote waterfall and river canon along the Río Guaonica in Utuado. A trail leads from the roadside to a rocky path with views of the cascading waterfall, river pools and verdant mountainside. Indigenous Taíno petroglyphs are carved into the tops of several rocks along the riverbank and canyon wall. 

Getting Here.  Park anywhere along the roadside on Highway 123 (Antigua Puerto Rico 10). The steep trail begins just beyond the Zona Protegida sign. Use this Google Map Pin. 

Piedra con Petroglifo.  A large river rock covered in dozens of Taíno petroglyphs including faces, full human figures, swirling patterns and a symbol representative of the sun. 

Getting Here.  Wade into the Río Guaonica at the Cam Bañadero bridge. Walk about 150 feet downstream to the largest rock on the lefthand side. Use this Google Map Pin to locate it. 

Cueva Ventana.  A cave that leads underground through multiple chambers with bat colonies, stalactites and stalagmites before reaching a cliffside opening that overlooks the valley and river below. From here, Taino petroglyphs can be seen as cave birds and bats flutter into and out of the window like opening of the cave. It’s located 15 minutes from the city of Arecibo. Make reservations online ahead of time. 

Cueva La Clarito.  A cave with a large chamber, giant flow stone, stalactites, stalagmites and petroglyphs dating back thousands of years. It’s accessible along the tour to Cueva Ventana. 

Gozalandia Falls.  A waterfall over a smooth rock cliff with a natural swimming pool below it. Upstream are several river pools and another waterfall with a natural swimming pool. Parking costs $10. There is restaurant and bar at the entrance selling fresh coco frio (cold coconuts).

Doña Juana Waterfall.  A 100ft tall waterfall with a swimming pool at its base, It’s a popular roadside stop in the central mountains with a restaurant and bar. 

Lago dos Bocas. A mountain lake created by a dam popular with locals for fishing and kayaking. It’s located 20 minutes from the city of Arecibo. 

Cerro Las Tetas.  A mountain range known for its twin peaks that resemble a pair of breasts. It’s visible from various roadside overlooks and pull offs along Highway 1 in Salinas. 

Cerro de Punta.  The tallest point on the island measuring 4,390 feet above sea level. Park along the road, Ruta Panoramica (PR-143), at the trail head and hike about 20 minutes to reach the summit. On a clear day, there are views across the island. Be cautious of the wasp nests in the bushes at the lookout.

El Yunque National Forest.  A rainforest full of lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls with natural pools, hiking trails, lookout towers, tree snails and frogs. Read more about El Yunque in our Eastern Puerto Rico Guide. 

Adventure Tourism

The rugged interior of the island is a popular place for adventure tourism and contrasts with the golden beaches surrounding the island. Come here to overlook Puerto Rico from its tallest peak, speed down one of the world’s longest zip-lines and hike miles up a river canyon. 

Tanama River Eco-Adventure.  On a guided tour, we hiked up the Tanama River, a river located in a canyon with steep walls, overgrown cliffs, small waterfalls and stalactite covered caves. Hiking through the forest to reach the river. Our guide, pointed out flora invasive to the island, toxic vegetation and medicinal plants. Once reaching the river, we plunged in and began a miles long journey upstream, swimming against the current, wading through the water and crawling into dark caves. On our return, we floated downstream and let the current lazily carry us back the starting point. Along the way, we learned that the Tanama River is the original route the Taino people traveled to navigate between the coast and the mountains. We booked the experience through Viator.

Toro Verde Adventure Park.  An adventure park high in the mountains known for two of the world’s longest zip lines, suspension bridges and smaller zip lines. 

• The Monster. The zip line measures over 1.5 miles long and spans between two lush mountains above a 1,000 feet deep canyon. Unlike typical zip lines, on The Monster, you lay flat in a cocoon flying between the mountains reaching speeds over 90 miles per hour. 

• The Beast.  The park’s other super long zip line. We have yet to ride this one but have it on our list for next time. 

• Toro Bikes.  A zip line with bikes attached to the cable and used to peddle back and forth between towers. 

• Good to Know. The park is located about 2 hours from San Juan. Book tickets online in advance and prepare to wait in-line for over an hour for your chance at riding The Monster or The Beast. Phones and cameras are not permitted. Photos are available for sale.

The Land of The Tainos

The central mountainous region was home to the Taino people, a pre-Columbian culture that populated the Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands hundreds of years ago. Today, several archeological sites including ceremonial grounds, detailed petroglyphs and museums with artifacts from the Tainos are on display throughout the region. 

Cemí Mountain.  A mountain with 3 distinct peaks that held spiritual and cultural important to the Taino people. Many artifacts have been found shaped in the likeness of the mountain.  

Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center.  A Taino archeological park at the base of the sacred Cemí Mountain with outdoor ball courts and stone monoliths carved with ornate petroglyphs of humanoid figures, condors and a fish. The sight is one of the most important Taino archeological sites in the Caribbean. 

Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Museum. A museum with hundreds of Taino artifacts including: tools made from manatee bone and shells, remnants of clay pottery, stone axe heads, stone ceremonial belts and statues representing the Cemí Mountain. 

La Piedra Escrita.  A massive river boulder with Taino petroglyphs including faces, swirling formations and an iconic frog. Many locals come here to swim in the natural pool at the base of the boulder. 

El Cemí Monument Museum.  A museum built in the shape of a giant Cemí with exhibits that promote and celebrate the Taino culture and people. It houses Taino artifacts including wooden vomit spatulas, tools made from bone and shells, clay pottery, stone axe heads and statues representing the Cemí Mountain. There is a grave of a Tiano woman outside of the museum. 

Coffee Haciendas 

The mountainous region provides the perfect climate and conditions for coffee farming. There are dozens of coffee haciendas across the region growing beans for cafes across the island and offering tours of their farms. 

Hacienda San Pedro. A coffee hacienda with a cafe, shop, museum, processing factory and farm stand with local produce, honey and juices. 

Good to Know.  Many of the coffee haciendas are remote and have inconsistent hours making them difficult to visit. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability. 

Ice Cream in Lares

Lares is a small and historic mountain town famed for its ice cream shops serving a large variety of exotic flavors including: sweet corn, sweet potato, carrot, garlic, ginger, anise, cinnamon, almond,  coffee, bizcocho, coquito, piña colada, chichaíto, pineapple, mamey, soursop, guava, banana, avocado, papaya, dragonfruit, passionfruit and tamarind. Visit either Heladería El Grito or Heladería Lares. 

Getting Around

By Car.  The only way to get around the central mountainous region is by car, preferably one with all wheel drive. Many of the roads twist and turn around the mountainsides and steep valleys. 

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From colonial streets and Caribbean beaches to offshore islands and bioluminescent bays, discover more of Puerto Rico beyond the mountains through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around the interior and mountainous regions of Puerto Rico including: 

• Explore Arecibo.  Spend a weekend exploring the beaches, sea arches and caves in Arecibo. 

• Rio Camuy Caves.  A vast cave system with an underwater river, large caverns, stalactites, stalagmites, rock formations and colonies of bats. It located about an hour from San Juan between the central mountains and the town of Arecibo. 

• Hike Cerro Mime.  A steep grassy mountain peak with views of the surrounding valleys. 

• Toro Negro State Forest.  A forested area in the central mountainous region with hiking trails, waterfalls, mountain peaks and camp grounds.

• River Caving Tour.  Join a kayaking tour through one of the mountainous rivers and caves. El Batay Adventures across from the Caguana Ceremonial Indigenous Heritage Center offers excursions. 

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing

Tropical Paradise 

The western coast of Puerto Rico a tropical paradise with surf towns, palm lined beaches and sunset views. It’s best known for the districts of Rincón and Aguadilla. The relaxing atmosphere is best enjoyed on a surf board at sea or under an umbrella on shore with a piña colada in hand. 

Rincón

Rincón is a tropical destination famed for its surfing, laid back vibes and large “expat” population. The district is centered around two main areas, Centro Puntas and Rincón Pueblo. Each has their own atmosphere, beaches and nightlife. 

Centro Puntas.  A sleepy stretch of Rincón dotted with colorful homes, verdant hillsides and beaches that wrap around the island far western point. Surf schools provide lessons while oceanfront restaurants provide offer views of surf breaks. The 

Rincón Pueblo.  The town center is a hub for activity in Rincón while capturing the laidback vibes of the island’s west coast. It’s home to weekly markets, cocktail bars, roadside cafes, island boutiques and Puerto Rican restaurants.

Surf & Snorkeling Beaches 

Rincón is the surf capital of Puerto Rico. It’s the point where the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean meet providing consistent waves year round. The winter months offer the best surf conditions with larger waves caused by strong Atlantic winds. Surfers of all levels can be seen riding waves from sunrise until sunset. There are multiple surf schools and board rentals near the beaches. 

Don Antonio’s Beach.  A beautiful beach with a coral reef located just off shore. The reef makes it a quiet and peaceful place to sunbathe or relax under the shade of the palm trees. It’s a popular beach for surfers to practice and catch waves. 

Playa Maria.  A very popular surfer’s beach for all levels of experience. Instructors offer lessons and rentals while shops sell surf gear. It’s great location to spot sea turtles and snorkel in the beautiful coral gardens on a calm day. The shallow but long shore offers a range of places to hideout under the palms and enjoy the tropical vibes.

Domes Beach.  Named after the giant white dome, a deactivated nuclear reactor, towering above the palm trees. Its placement offers a stark juxtaposition to the pristine nature surrounding it. The beach itself is popular with experienced surfers and for surf competitions. 

Sandy Beach. A golden sand stretch of shoreline perfect for sunbathing, bodysurfing, swimming and surfing. There are a couple boutique hotels overlooking the shore, nearby restaurants, cafes and bars. Multiple surf schools are based in the area offering lessons and board rentals. RD2Happiness rents boards for $20 for 2 hours.

Dogman Beach.  A very small beach with a reef on either side. It acts as a launching point for surfers to safely paddle out. It’s located just south of Playa Maria. 

Pro Tip. Surf earlier in the morning before the waves become too choppy. 

Steps Beach.  A snorkeling beach with healthy coral formations and many species of fish. We snorkeled over large formations of elkhorn coral and spotted parrot fish. During low tide, there are shallow tide pools where families relax with children. The beach is named for a set of concrete steps washed up onshore. It’s also a great spot to look for sea glass. 

Playa Dona Lala.  A sandy beach with a deep shoreline and calm aquamarine waters. It’s the perfect place to swim and relax under the Caribbean sun. Vendors rent umbrellas, beach chairs and jet skis. There is a small plaza with cafes & restaurants behind the beach parking lot. It’s only about a 10-15 minute walk from Plaza Pública de Rincón.

Rincón Surf School

A surf school near Sandy Beach with board rentals and a range of lessons. We booked a 3 day surf class with 3 hour morning lessons starting at 8am. After some onshore basics, the paddled out to begin surfing!

• Day 1 - Dogman Beach.  The first day focused in the basics of paddling, standing up and balancing while riding the waves. With the push of our instructor, we were able to catch and ride several waves! 

• Day 2 - Playa Maria.  The second day was very similar to the first but at a different beach. With practice, we were able to catch several more waves with less assistance. An onshore photographer even snapped a few photos! While waiting in the lineup, we spotted sea turtles swimming in the reef beneath our boards. It was a magical experience. 

• Day 3 - Playa Don Antonio.  My third and final surf lesson was the most rewarding. We were able to watch for, catch and ride about half of the waves without the help of our instructor. From never having surfed before to riding waves on my own felt so rewarding. 

A surf lesson in Rincón is worth every moment for anyone who loves the ocean! It’s a mix of high energy and relaxation while being surrounded by stunning nature. The only advice to anyone learning to surf is be ready to paddle a lot! It’s all worth it once you ride a wave! Book Lessons Here. 

Rincon Sights 

Punta Higüero Lighthouse. Located at the south end of Domes Beach is a Spanish style lighthouse and lookout point. It’s a nice place to watch surfers, spot for whales or enjoy a meal and drink at the cliffside restaurant, Ola Sunset Cafe.

Tres Palmas Reserve Path.  A nature and biking trail along the Caribbean coast and a gated cattle field north of Steps Beach.

Domes Trail.  A coastal nature trail north of Dome’s beach and around the nuclear reactor. It passes multiple smaller secluded beaches. 

Plaza Pública de Rincón.  This plaza is the heart of Rincón Pueblo. It hosts weekly events like the Rincon Art Walk and Farmer’s Market. 

Events & Markets 

Rincón Art Walk.  On Thursday nights, the plaza comes to life with artists and vendors selling handmade jewelry, sea glass, decorated drift wood, scenic paintings, local photographs, wooden cookware, oils, soaps, etc. At the same time, live musicians and performances entertain crowds in the center of the plaza. All the while, people sipping on ice cold medallas and tropical cocktails spill out of bars onto the surrounding streets. The art walk typically lasts from 5-10pm while the nightlife continues into the early morning. 

Rincón Farmers Market.  On Sunday mornings, the plaza transforms into a farmers market. Vendors set up under white tents selling locally grown produce, tropical flowers, potted herbs, baskets of eggs, empanadas, fresh squeezed orange juice, vegan meals and organic oils. The market is open from 8am until the early afternoon.

Surf Shops & Boutiques 

Centro Puntas features several surf shops, while Rincón Pueblo offers boutique specializing in handmade goods and home decor. A few we love visiting are:

Rincón Surf Market.  Located under Kahuna Burger Bar. Come here for clothes, beverages, jewelry, surf boards and sun block. The owner owns the restaurant above, hotel and surf school.

Stoked : Surf + Espresso.  A surf shop and cafe at Playa Maria. It’s a great place to come before or after surfing for coffee, juice, baked goods or surf equipment.

Mango Beach Surf Shop.  A shop selling souvenir t-shirt’s, hoodies, jeweley sunblock and aloe vera.  

The Uncharted Studio.  A tropical boutique specializing in beachwear, jewelry, artwork and hand made items. 

Places to Eat & Drink

There are many amazing cafes, restaurants and bars across Rincón, here are some of our favorites in Centro Puntas and Rincón Pueblo. 

Kahuna Burger Bar.  A local favorite near Sandy Beach. Come here for the mahi mahi and veggie burgers. Add a grilled pineapple for a tropical twist. Their bar is open late, offering rum punch for $5. 

Jakes Java House.  A road side coffee shop with smoothies and açaí bowls next to Sandy Beach. 

Jack’s Shack.  A roadside restaurant with breakfast tacos, egg sandwiches and iced coffee served from a food truck and trailer. 

Caddy’s Calypso.  A surf bar & restaurant at Playa Maria. Come here for their double rum cocktails, mahi mahi tacos, nachos & coconut shrimp. 

Tamboo.  A restaurant on Sandy Beach with Caribbean views, Puerto Rican seafood and tropical cocktails. Try the mahi ceviche, and watermelon tuna tartare with tostones. Order the hibiscus rum cocktail. 

La Rosa Inglesa.  A hotel restaurant perched on the hills overlooking Rincón. Come here for their brunch menu including flights of tropical mimosas, fresh fruit bowls, latin egg dishes and shrimp hollandaise Benedicts. 

The Beach House.  A restaurant, bar, hotel and surf shop with a line up of white chairs overlooking the forested coast behind Dome’s Beach. Come here to enjoy a drink, sunset, the view or all of the above.

Ola Sunset Cafe.  A cliffside restaurant overlooking Dome’s Beach and the Caribbean Sea. Come here to spot migrating whales and watch the sunset while eating empanadas and sipping on large tropical mojitos. 

La Sirena.  A nautical themed restaurant and tiki bar serving sushi, seafood, dim sum and tropical cocktails served in classic tiki mugs.

Harbor Restaurant.  A popular beachfront seafood restaurant. Order a classic rum cocktail, try the whole fried red snapper and a side of crab tostones. 

La Marketa.  A restaurant and bar in downtown Rincon and the former location of the city’s market. They keep the market alive with tables of craft vendors on Sunday morning. Come to play darts and corn hole while sipping on a medella. We ordered the fish burger with yucca fries and mahi mahi skewers. 

Paletados.  Stop in for ice cold paletas (popsicles) on a hot afternoon. They offer tropical, fruit and dessert flavors with a range of toppings. 

Good to Know. Carry cash. Many businesses are cash or Venmo only.

Aguadilla 

Aguadilla is the entrance to the west side of Puerto Rico. It’s home to the west’s main airport, renowned beaches, pinchos kiosks and daily sunset views.

Crash Boat Beach

Famous across the island for its concrete pier that juts out and branches into the bay. People of all ages line up to jump, dive and cannon ball from it into the calm blue water. On shore, people eagerly await grilled pinchos like skewered shark and buttered shrimp while sipping drinks including ice cold Medalla or piña colada made with Don Q. Vendors rent chairs and umbrellas for $5 a piece and offer tours of the bay on jets skis or inflatable banana boats.

Good to Know.  Recent hurricanes and tropical storms have collapsed parts of the pier. While not what it once was, it’s still a joy to jump from.

Aguadilla Pueblo

In the city center of Aguadilla, people stroll down a concrete promenade while others relax along the golden sand beach. At the same time, fishermen return from sea on small boats with the day’s catch and artists sell items including crocheted beachwear, home made candies and hand painted ceramics. 

Casas de Colores Aguadilla - Pintalto.  A colorful hillside community with dozens of painted houses and apartment rentals. Walk up the stairs and through the local neighborhood! 

Plaza Fuente de la Juventud.  A lively plaza with several restaurant and bar kiosks. It’s a great place to order food and drinks at while visiting Rompeolas Beach or to party with locals late into the weekend evenings. 

El Parterre.  A tree covered plaza with a natural cold spring and series of canals passing through it.  

Rompeolas Beach.  A small but popular local beach with a protected cove and calm swimmable water. 

Playa del Tamarindo.  A tan sand beach lined with small homes and apartments. It’s accessible from the parking lot on the south side. 

Paseo de Aguadilla

Along the promenade are several kiosks and restaurants serving coffee, pastries, fried food, the fisherman’s catch, tropical cocktails, frozen paletas and a range of Puerto Rican cuisine. As night falls and the sun sets, locals in cars with souped up speakers and buses with equipped with train horns and lights roll into town for a vibrant night out. 

Salty Pelican.  A Puerto Rican and Mexican fusion restaurant on the Paseo de Aguadilla serving fresh caught seafood, deep fried frituras and tacos. The restaurant is unmissable, with its giant statue of a hanged shark. 

Sal de Mar.  A seafood restaurant across the street from Mint with a rooftop overlooking the ocean. Their menu specializes in dishes like Caribbean lobster, fried mahi mahi bites, ceviche and crab empanadas.

Aguada 

Aguada is city half way between Aguadilla and Rincon. It’s a peaceful place to stay and the perfect location to branch out from. The coastal route is lined with palm trees, painted sculptures, boutique hotels and restaurants. The town center is built around a tree lined plaza, flanked by a cathedral, Puerto Rican homes and narrow streets. 

Beaches & Restaurants 

Pico de Piedra Beach.  A spacious and quiet beach with several nearby restaurants and bars. It’s a tranquil place to relax for the morning or afternoon. Visit Platano Loco, a beach front restaurant where everything on the menu includes plantain. Try the plantain burger with large tostones for buns. 

El Galeón.  A pirate themed seafood restaurant with pirate ship paintings, a port hole bar and a pirate statue. It’s located across the street from the waterfront. 

Guayabos.  A beachfront restaurant on a small cliff with a patio overlooking Aguada Beach. Order dishes tapas style and try the octopus salad, ceviche, shrimp empanada and fried mahi mahi bites. 

Isabela 

Isabela is a town on the northwest corner of Puerto Rico. It’s home to protected beaches, cliffside restaurants & nature trails. It’s located about 30 minutes north of Aguadilla by car. 

Beaches & Restaurants 

Jobos Beach.  A sandy beach in a protected cove shielded from large Atlantic waves by a rocky  peninsula. Its turquoise waters are the perfect place to swim and surf in the remnants of broken waves. Palm trees line the shore, offering sunbathers a shaded reprieve from the tropical sun. Empanada vendors walk the beach while a series of restaurants and bars offer places to eat and drink. Shops and rental kiosks offer beach necessities, surf boards, chairs and umbrellas. 

Montones Beach. A sandy beach protected by a large rock island. It’s a popular spot to snorkel and lounge onshore, especially for those staying at the beach’s colorful rental cottages.

Pozo De Jacinto.  A cliffside plateau with jagged rock formations and a large seaside cave. Waves crash into the cave, spraying mist into the air during large swells.

Mirador Paseo Tablado.  An elevated boardwalk meandering over steep sand dunes and through a pine forest. Its located between Jobos Beach and Montones Beach. 

Jobos Mojito Beach Bar & Restaurant.  A cliffside restaurant with panoramic views overlooking the Jobos Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. A chalkboard menu above the bar lists over 30 different types of mojitos. We ordered tamarind and passion fruit mojitos along with veggie paella for dinner from a menu including fried seafood, burgers and mofongo. 

La Playa

As the name suggests, La Playa is all about the beach. We stopped here for an afternoon at Balneario Tres Hermanos, a vast sandy and palm lined beach with calm swimmable waters. The beach also doubles as a camp ground for tents and trailers. Sea turtles are known to nest here. La Playa is about 15 minutes south of Rincon by car. 

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Chillo Frito Entero.  A fried red snapper served whole with crispy skin, tender meat and squeezed with lime. It’s usually accompanied by fried plantains like tostones, mofongo or amarillos. 

Mofongo.  Fried plantain mashed with garlic and butter. It’s often served plain or stuffed with an option of seafood. If prepared with bread fruit and yucca, it’s known as trifongo. 

Empanadillas.  Puerto Rican style fried empanadas stuffed with a range of fillings like octopus, conch, cod, shrimp, crap and pizza. 

Pinchos.  Grilled meats served on a stick often served at beaches or roadside kiosks. Our favorites are shark and shrimp. 

Mallorca.  A Puerto Rican pasty often shaped like a bun or swirled roll and dusted in powered sugar. Our favorite preparations are pressed with guava with cheese or egg and cheese. 

Coco Frio.  A cold and freshly opened coconut. Drink the coconut water inside then the sweet meat inside. Alternatively, enjoy it with coconut rum to create a tropical cocktail 

Rum.  Puerto Rico is unarguably the rum capital of the Caribbean with several distilleries and local brands served in bars across the island. Order it on the rocks, in a Pina Colada or other tropical cocktail. 

Medalla.  The island’s most popular local beer, recognizable by it’s small golden can. It has a light slightly nutty flavor and is served everywhere. Buy a 6 pack for the beach!

Getting Around

Fly into Aguadilla.  The airport has several flights per day and two small restaurants, usually open when flights are arriving or departing. Multiple car rental companies have lots nearby the airport.

Rent A Car.  Renting a car is an absolute must to get around anywhere on the west side of Puerto Rico. The entire west side of the island can be driven across in about 2 hours from north to south. We’ve had good experiences renting from Enterprise and Cabrera Car & Truck Rental. 

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Places to Stay

Having spent two weeks on the western side of Puerto Rico over the years, we’ve found two go-to places to stay.

Puntas Tree House. A vacation rental located in the middle of Cento Puntas across from Sandy Beach. The house has two floors of affordable apartment rentals, all decorated in tropical & beachy aesthetic. Book on Airbnb.

Aguada Oceanfront House.  A vacation rental located along the beach in Aguada. It has a spacious and simple interior with nautical decor and a large window with panoramic views of the sea. We fell asleep to the sounds of the waves. Book on Airbnb.

Casa Colonial.  A vacation rental in Aguadilla with a series of units built into a historic colonial home. Its beautifully tiled floors, fully equipped kitchen and comfy bedrooms make it an ideal space for a beach weekend. It’s centrally located in Aguadilla within walking distance of Rompeolas Beach and the Paseo de Aguadilla. Book on Airbnb.

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From colonial architecture and rainforest adventures to bioluminescent bays and Caribbean islands, discover more of Puerto Rico beyond the surf coast through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around the western side of Puerto Rico including: 

More Beach Time.  Visit more beaches along the far southwest side of the island including: Buyé Beach, Parque Nacional Balneario Boquerón and Playa El Combate Beach. 

Isla de Mona.  A remote island halfway between Puerto Rico’s western coast and the Dominican Republic. It’s known at the Galapagos of the Caribbean for its isolation, diverse wildlife, coral reefs, caves, Taino petroglyphs and beach camping. 

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures

The Puerto Rican Archipelago  

Culebra and Vieques are two islands off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast known for their sleepy vibes, tropical atmosphere, natural landscapes and Caribbean beaches. They’re lesser traveled to and equally as enchanting as other areas of Puerto Rico with unique character of their own.  

Culebra 

Culebra is a tiny island half way between “mainland” Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. Things move a little slower here making it a great place to relax and appreciate life. The island has a small town with great restaurants, is home to multiple nature reserves and a variety of beaches. 

Things to Do

There are many things to do while exploring Culebra, primarily focused on outdoor activities like snorkeling, beach hopping, hiking and watching the sunset. 

Explore Dewey.  Culebra’s only town can be walked from end to end in minutes. Though small, its main road is home to restaurants, cafes, guest houses and the ferry terminal.  

Jump from the Bridge.  Join locals and jump from the Dewey bridge into the canal. Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the mussels and urchins.

Hector the Protector.  Walk along the rock break wall across from the ferry terminal and visit Hector the Protector, a planked wood human figure holding a lantern. 

Watch a Caribbean Sunset.  Many of the western beaches like Tamarindo, Punta Soldado or Carlos Rosario are peaceful places to watch the sunset below the Caribbean.

Visit the Beaches

Culebra has many great beaches all worth visiting for different reasons. There are white sand beaches, rocky beaches, remote beaches and unofficial nude beaches.

Flamenco Beach. Flamenco Beach is beloved for its powdery white sand shore that wraps around a turquoise blue bay. Come here to relax in under the heat of the Caribbean sun or shade of a swaying palm tree. The beach is famed for its graffitied tanks. home to a campground and offering of beach services and amenities. 

Flamenco’s Tanks.  Flamenco Beach is famed for its graffitied tanks. The shoreline surrounding the most iconic tank has been swept away by recent storms. Though still accessible, it’s now a pelican nesting ground. The second tank resides on a small hill nearby. 

Beach Services.  Flamenco Beach has a range of services and amenities making it easy to stay here all day. 

• Fees.  Parking costs $5 per vehicle and $2 per person. 

• Amenities.  Restrooms, showers and lockers are available 24/7. Lockers cost an additional fee to use. Bring your own hand soap for the restrooms. 

• Kiosks.  A series of modern kiosks offer food, beverages, ice cream, beach supplies and souvenirs. Try the traditional Puerto Rican snacks like empanadillas, bacalaitos, alcapurrias and pinchos. Pair them with a boozy tropical cocktail, local beer or fruit juice. 

• Rentals.  Two kiosks offer beach rentals including chairs, umbrellas, snorkel masks, life jackets and floaties.  

• Lifeguards.  Life guards watch over designated swimming areas. 

Flamenco Beach Camping.  Camping at Flamenco Beach is one of the most enjoyable ways to maximize beach time and experience Culebra’s pristine nature. We camped here for a long weekend on our most recent trip to the island. Ten under the stars, fall asleep to the sounds of crashing waves and wake up to the calls of roosters.

• Camping is DIY.  Bring your own gear: tent, sleeping bags, air mattress, hammock, beach chairs, flashlight, etc. 

• Where to Camp.  The official camping area is located after the kiosks and behind the beachfront tree line. It’s an expansive and shaded area with plenty of space to set up undisturbed. 

• Fees & Bookings.  Camping costs $35 per night per tent. Call ahead for a reservation or book at the beachfront ticket office. The office hours are from 8am-5pm. If showing up after hours, return the next day to register and pay. For reservations and information, call (787) 742 0700. 

Culebrita Beach. A crescent shaped beach with a narrow white sand shore and calm aquamarine water. It’s located on the island of Culebrita (Little Culebra) and requires a boat to reach. We sailed here on a catamaran with a group of friends through East Island Excursions. The tour brought us to coral garden off the coast of Culebra to snorkel before mooring off shore from Culebrita Beach. We spent the afternoon diving from the catamaran, dancing to Reggaeton music, swimming between the boat and shore, relaxing on the beach and enjoying an unlimited supply of rum cocktails. 

Playa Resaca.  This beach is as much about the journey as it is the destination. After a rigorous hike, you’ll reach a vast beach that you’ll likely have to yourself the entire day. The only swimmable area is the shallows at the far east end of the beach. Because it’s so remote, it’s the perfect place to get naked ;)

Hiking to Resaca:  

• Follow a paved road up the hill past the airport. There will be a parking lot at the top. Walk through the waist high grass behind the sign to locate the trail. 

• The further you descend, the more rigorous the trail gets. You’ll have to walk over boulders and duck under tree branches. We recommend wearing pants, hiking shoes and bringing a stick to knock away spider webs and thorny plants. 

• The trail ends at a mangrove forest just before the beach. There will be pink and orange ribbons, nautical debris and water bottles strung along the trees guiding you through it. Follow these markers, even if you think you’re on the path, or you will get lost! 

• The final stretch leads through a thicket of beach grape trees ending at a lone palm tree overlooking the beach. From the parking lot, it should take 45min to reach Playa Resaca. Plan to leave the beach at least 1 hour before sunset. 

Playa Zoni.  A white sand beach equally as beautiful as Flamenco. It’s located on the northeast side of the island, easily reachable by car though rarely that busy. Outside of free parking, there are no amenities.

Playa Punta Soldado.  A rocky beach great for finding conch shells. You’ll find a lot of fragments and occasionally a whole shell. Supposedly it’s a good spot to snorkel though we’ve never tried here.

Snorkeling Beaches 

Culebra is beautiful place to snorkel with multiple reefs easily accessible from shore. The beaches along the southwest coast of Culebra are the best on the island for snorkeling.

Reserva Natural Canal Luis Peña.  A canal and  protected nature reserve separating Culebra and Cayo Luis Peña. It’s home to coral reefs, sea grass meadows, an abundance of sea life and views of Caribbean sunsets. 

Playa Tamarindo Grande.  A secluded beach along the Canal Luis Peña, accessible via the Carlos Rosario Nature Trail. Just offshore is a vibrant reef with all types of lively and colorful corals. For the best snorkeling, enter the water near the green beach sign at the center of the beach, swim about 25 feet out, then follow the reef to the left. Water shoes are recommended due to jagged rocks near the shore.

Carlos Rosario Nature Trail.  A nature trail leading from the parking lot of Flamenco Beach to Playa Tamarindo Grande and Playa Carlos Rosario. The hike is relatively easy, leading over a hilltop crest, taking about 20 minutes one way. Along the trail, watch out for skittish lizards, hermit crabs and the occasional gardener snake. 

Good to Know.  Stay on the trail as unexploded munitions from military testing are believed to be in the area. 

Playa Tamarindo.  A beautiful beach with salt and pepper pebbles and a narrow stretch of white sand. This easily accessible spot is popular place for snorkeling. A small and colorful reef home with tropical fish resides just offshore to the far left while a vast meadow seagrass meadow begins about 50 feet out. Sea turtles, eagle rays and reef squids can be seen gliding through these waters.

Playa Melones.  A small and unassuming beach with a rocky shoreline and breathtaking coral reef. Enter the water at the center of the beach then swim out and towards the rocks on the right. Beneath the surface are large formations brimming with colorful corals and tropical fish. Green, purple and yellow corals sway in the currents as fish swim between and lurk within crevices. It’s some of the best snorkeling on Culebra!

Tips for Snorkeling in Culebra:

• Snorkel Gear.  Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it from Blue Water or Culebra Divers, both located next to the ferry terminal. 

• When to Snorkel.  The sea life is most active before 10am and an hour before sunset. 

• Sunblock.  Wear reef safe sunblock to avoid harming the corals.

• Underwater Camera.  Capturing photos underwater is possible with most smart phones and a specialty case. We used the Pictar Waterproof Smartphone Caseavailable on Amazon. 

Places to Eat and Drink 

For a tiny island, Culebra has a range of great restaurants, cafes and bars, mostly centered around Dewey.

Dinghy Dock.  A popular restaurant overlooking the island’s inner bay, frequented by boaters on inflatable dinghies. Come here for tropical cocktails and fresh caught seafood dishes like grilled Mahi Mahi and Chillo Frito Entero (whole fried red snapper). Feed the scraps to the giant tarpon waiting dockside.  

Mamacita’s.  A lively restaurant and bar located along the narrow canal in the middle of town. It’s a favorite spot of ours to come for boozy cocktails and sharable appetizers like coconut shrimp, mahi mahi bites and tostones. Like Dinghy Dock, come here to feed the tarpon.

La Cocina del Navigante.  An elevated restaurant overlooking the island’s inner bay. Their kitchen specializes in seafood dishes like Caribbean lobster, filets of red snapper, shrimp stuffed mofongo and paella! 

El Batay.  A roadside bar and local hangout located halfway between town and the airport. Come here to play a game of pool, sip on drinks or order one to takeaway.  

Pan Cafe.  A very popular bakery serving pastries, breakfast sandwiches and coffee. Try the Mallorca, a bready Puerto Rican pastry shaped into a swirl and sprinkled with powdered sugar. 

Hotel Kokomo.  The perfect go to for an inexpensive meal or quick lunch, especially while waiting for the ferry. We’ve ordered fish sandwiches and empanadas. 

Black Flamingo Coffee.  Our favorite breakfast spot on the island. Come here for their coffee, homemade sourdough toast and breakfast tacos.

Culebra Coffee.  A coffee shop selling mango and acai bowls, egg dishes and baked goods.

Tips for Dining Out in Culebra:

• Most places accept credit cards however it’s good to have cash. There’s an ATM in town near the ferry terminal.

• Make reservations at places you want to eat. Service ends early and places can book up.

• Be patient, people and businesses move slower here.

Grocery Stores 

There are two grocery stores on the island. Colmado Carniceria Milka, located in town and Colmado Costa del Sol, located next to the airport. Both offer all the basics and necessities of any grocery store. They’re also good spots to buy snacks and drinks for the beach.

Getting to Culebra 

By Ferry.  Take the Puerto Rico Ferry from Ceiba to Culebra. It’s an efficient and cost effective way of reaching the island. The ferry operates on a strict schedule. You need to buy tickets at least 1 week in advance, especially if traveling on a weekend. It can take anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on the type of boat and sea conditions. 

Getting to Ceiba.  Preschedule an Uber or Lyft. Rides typically cost around $100 one way. The drive from San Juan to Ceiba takes on average 1 hour 30 minutes depending on traffic and time of day. 

By Plane.  Book flights on a puddle jumper through Cape Air. Flights take less than 30 minutes from San Juan. Roundtrip tickets can cost between $200 and $300 per person. Due to cost, we typically opt for the ferry.

Getting Around Culebra

Golf Cart Rentals.  A golf cart is the most efficient way to navigating Culebra on your own. UTV Rental PRoffers a range of rugged club cars for $70-$85 per day   

Jeep Rentals.  Having a Jeep is helpful for getting around on your own schedule but can be expensive. We’ve rented from Jerry’s Jeep Rental and Carlos Jeep Rentalon past trips for around $150 per day. It’s often more adoptable to rent a golf cart or call a taxi when needed.

Culebra Taxis.  Local drivers provide taxi services around Culebra. The typical ride costs $20 for up to 4 people. Expect to pay in cash or by payment link. Here are some reputable taxi drivers. 

• Angel (787) 455 1892

• Damaris (787) 455 1893

• Abner (787) 237 5313

On Foot.  Though Culebra is a small island, getting around on foot outside of the town is difficult but not impossible. Many people are friendly enough to stop and give you a ride. Carry a flashlight when walking at night. 

Where to Stay 

Having visited Culebra three time, we’ve camped, stayed in Dewey and further away along the bay. 

Mamacita’s Guest House. A hub for activity on Culebra and a lively place to stay in the center of town. The rooms are simple but well equipped for a relaxing stay. Make sure to visit the restaurant and bar for dinner and drinks. Book on Airbnb. 

Oceanfront Villa.  A vacation rental with panoramic views the island’s inner bay. The villa has private suites and shared balcony. It’s located about 20 minutes on foot from Dewey or 5 minutes by car. Book on Airbnb. 

Vieques

Vieques is an island 6 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico. It’s home to a bioluminescent bay, free roaming horses, white and black sand beaches, turquoise swimmable water and marine reserves.  

Faro Puerto Mulas.  A small abandoned lighthouse overlooking Isabella Segunda. 

El Fortín De Conde Mirasol.  A small Spanish fort overlooking the town of Isabel Segunda surround a blue and orange painted museum. 

300 Year Old Ceiba Tree.  A sacred tree known for its age and impressive root structure. It’s located between the airport and Mosquito Pier.  

Mosquito Pier.  A mile long pier on the north side of the island. Come here to spot marine life including manta rays, sea turtles and jelly fish.

Paso Fino Horses.  The island is home to over 2,000 free roaming horses. They are tame and can be found walking the beaches, grazing in fields and along the road sides. Watch out for piles of horse manure. Various company’s offer riding tours along the beaches. 

Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.  A nature reserve that covers more than half the island and includes bays, mangrove forests, salt flats, hiking trails, beaches and coral reefs.

Things to Do 

Explore the Small Towns.  Vieques is home to two small towns on opposite sides of the island.

• Isabel Segunda. The main town on the north side of the island with the ferry terminal, grocery stores, restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops.

• Esperanza.  A beach town on the south side of the island with restaurants, hotels, tour companies and a range of beaches. 

Crab Island Rum Distillery.  Visit the island’s on rum distillery! Crab Island produces 14 month, 3 year and orange flavored rums. Most bars and restaurants on the island serve their rum. Go to Bili for a Rum Island Iced tea made from all three! 

Go Stargazing.  Given the remote location and lack of city lights, the sky is often dark for brilliant stargazing. Download the free Sky Tonight app to identify constellations, planets and distant stars.

Kayak in the Bioluminescent Bay (Mosquito Bay).  Recognized as the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. We came here to kayak at night to experience the bioluminescence. Immediately after paddling away in our kayak, the water began to sparkle around us, our paddle illuminated vibrant streaks of bioluminescence and swimming fish left a glowing trail behind them. It was truly an unreal experience that felt like the Manta Ray in Moana or a patronus charm in Harry Potter. Book with Abe’s Snorkeling and Bio Bay Tours. They offer snorkeling tours across the island and kayaking tours in the bio bay and mangrove channels. 

Beach Hopping 

Rent a car and spend time beach hopping across the island. Vieques is home to numerous beaches ranging in size, swimmability and accessibility. The most popular and swimmable beaches are on the south side of the island. The most remote are located in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

Bastimento Beach.  A long meandering beach with turquoise water, a sandy shore, coral reefs, a protected tide pool and snorkeling on the north side of the island.

El Gallito (Gringo Beach).  A roadside beach with a sandy shore, short palm trees and views looking towards the mainland of Puerto Rico and Culebra. 

Playa Negra.  A semi remote cliff side black sand beach. There is a small parking lot nearby Playa Negra Fine Foods. Follow a trail to get here (technically a stream) and walk for 15 minutes until reaching the beach. It’s not the safest for swimming due to rocks and currents. It’s located on the south side just west of Esperanza. 

Playa Caracas (The Red Beach).  A beach with white sand, palm trees, turquoise water and shard gazebos. It’s located in the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge.

Esperanza Beach.  A popular beach nearby town on the south side of the island with kiosks, restaurants, bars and kayak rentals.

Sea Glass Beach.  A small beach to collect handfuls of sea glass within minutes of beach combing. It’s located in the town of Isabel Segunda. 

Playa Pata Prieta (Secret Beach).  A secluded beach popular for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a 10 min drive east of Playa Caracas. 

Playa Chiva (Blue Beach).  A long powder white sand beach with calm with turquoise and navy blue water. Come here to swim and snorkel. It’s a 5 min drive east of Playa Pata Prieta. 

Escondida Beach.  A small beach with some snorkeling. It can frequently be covered in sea weed. Located a 15min walk east of Playa Chiva. 

Playa Plata.  A semi private white sand beach with crystal clear turquoise water for swimming and snorkeling. Located a 5min drive east of Playa Chiva. 

Places to Eat & Drink 

Saint Voodoos Mar Azul.  A waterfront bar with a deck overlooking the Caribbean. Come here for cocktails and lite bites at sunset. 

Lazy Jacks.  A restaurant and bar near Esperanza beach for tacos, sandwiches, salads, beers and cocktails. 

Lydia’s Bakery.  A bakery with breads, sandwiches, pastry’s and coffee. 

Bili.  A restaurant with an impressive seafood menu including Caribbean lobsters, grilled mahi mahi and octopus. Come here for their Crab Island Long Island. 

Vieques Food Park.  A food truck park with several restaurants. We came to Rincon Cafe for breakfast and coffee. 

Bar La Nasa.  A beach front bar with cocktails, beer and music. 

Family Market Centró Ahorras.  A grocery store located in Isabella Seguda. Come here to stock up on water, beers and snacks before heading to the beach. 

Getting to Vieques 

By Air.  We booked a one way flight with Cape Air, from San Juan to Vieques. It’s a quick 20 min flight over the El Yunque rainforest and scenic way to travel. They offer multiple flights daily for around $100 one way. 

By Sea.  We booked our return trip on the Puerto Rico Ferry, from Vieques to Ceiba. From Ceiba we took an Uber to San Juan. One way ferry tickets cost $2 and the Uber costs around $100. 

Getting Around Vieques

By Car.  Vieques is a large island. The best way to get around, see all of the sights and explore is by renting a car. We booked with Maritza’s Car Rental for about $110 per day with insurance. 

By Taxi.  Taxis were readily available across the Island bringing people between Isabella Segunda, Escondida, the airport and accessible beaches. 

Where to Stay

Tropical Guest House. A beautifully decorated home in Isabella Segunda with a comfy bed, kitchenette, outdoor grill, beech chairs, umbrellas and snorkel equipment. Book here on Airbnb. 

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico 

From vibrant cities and rainforest hikes to surf breaks and mountain landscapes, explore more of Puerto Rico beyond its offshore islands through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm.  Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips to Vieques including: 

Mt. Pirata Observation Post.  Hike to tropical summit of the tallest point on Vieques measuring nearly 1,000 feet above sea level. 

Horseback Riding on Vieques.  We have our eyes set on a beach sunset horseback riding tour. 

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm

Bienvenidos al Viejo San Juan

Old San Juan is an enchanting, romantic, vibrant and historic neighborhood of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The old town is lined with cobble stone streets, colorful colonial architecture, world famous cocktail bars, restaurants serving Caribbean cuisine and music playing during all hours of the day. It is rich in history, flanked by two fortresses and surrounded by a stone wall overlooking the North Atlantic. 

A Second Home

Puerto Rico has become a second home to us. From quick weekend getaways to month long trips, we’ve spent time exploring the island and immersing ourselves in so much of what it has to offer from the nature, cuisine and culture. This guide focuses on our time visiting and staying in Old San Juan. 

Neighborhoods & Streets

Calle San Sebastián.  A cobblestone street is lined with colorful and vibrant colonial architecture. It’s known for its bustling nightlife scene, famed cocktail bars and lgbtq+ friendly atmosphere. 

Calle San Francisco.  This street runs central through Old San Juan and is a good place to start exploring. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, hotels, plazas and residences here.

Calle de la Luna.  Though all streets in Old San Juan are flanked with beautiful architecture, this one is one of our favorites to walk down. There are many colorful buildings, colonial balconies, unique door knockers and abandoned buildings that have been retaken by nature. 

Plaza das Armas.  Old San Juan’s historic town square with performers, a fountain, statues and pigeons. It’s a favorite spot of ours to grab a coffee and mallorca from the green gazebo in the northwest corner. 

Caleta de San Juan.  A romantic tree covered street lined with colorful colonial buildings, hole in the wall restaurants and wine bars. The cobblestone street leads uphill from the Puerta de San Juan to the historic Basilica of San Juan. 

La Perla.  A colorful seaside neighborhood located between the north wall of Old San Juan and the Atlantic Coast. Over the past years, the community in La Perla has turned their neighborhood into a destination filled with rustic bars, local hangouts and art. 

Sights & Museums 

Castillo de San Cristóbal.  This is one of the largest colonial military fortress in the Caribbean and marks the entrance to Old San Juan. You can easily spend a half day here exploring the barracks, fortress walls, guard towers and grounds. One of the fort’s hidden gems is a surviving drawing of Spanish ships drawn on the wall of a former prison cell deep with in the tunnels. 

Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro).  This is the oldest colonial fortress in the Caribbean and a great place to learn about the history and strategic importance of Old San Juan. Similar to San Cristobal, you can spend an afternoon here exploring the different levels and sections. The fort is perched on the NW side of the old town. It’s accessible after crossing a large lawn known for flying Chiringas or kites and food carts selling tropical flavored snow cones called Piraguas. 

Pro Tip.  The receipt from one fort gets you access to the other on the same day you visit.

Paseo del Morro.  A romantic seaside promenade that follows the old town’s wall. It is a beautiful place to walk, watch the sunset and look out towards the sea. We we’re incredibly lucky to see the Green Flash from here. It passes La Puerta de San Juan, the original entrance to the walled city and connects Paseo de la Princesa to the Maria Magdelana Cemetery. 

La Casa Estrecha.  A narrow house, measuring about 5 feet wide, with a vibrant yellow facade. Adorned with the Puerto Rican flag, the building is an iconic symbol of Old San Juan.  

Calle Fortaleza. A street is filled with souvenir shops, restaurants and jewelry stores, ending at the Governor’s Mansion, La Forteleza. The end of the street is often decorated in an ever changing canopy of umbrellas, banners, flowers or lights. 

Paseo de la Princesa.  A palm lined seaside promenade along the south wall. There is a nightly market with salsa dancing, food trucks offering up fried foods and sweets, gazebos selling cocktails, and tented vendors selling homemade crafts.

Plaza del Quinto Centenario.  A plaza commemorating the 500 years since Columbus first voyaged to Puerto Rico. At its center is a tall totem made from fragments of clay pottery representing the violent first meeting between the indigenous Taino and European colonists. 

La Puerta de la Bandera.  A black and white painting of the Puerto Rican flag on the wooden door of a crumbling brick building. It symbolizes Puerto Rican resistance against injustice.

Parque San Francisco.  A small and hidden park nestled between the crumbling brick and plaster walls of the surrounding colonial buildings. The park offers a quiet place to relax and take a break while exploring the old town. 

Callejón de la Puerta con la Bandera. A large doorway at the end of a blue cobblestone alley with a vivid painting of the Puerto Rican flag. It’s a very popular photo spot for both tourists and locals. Recently an artist added a colorful mural of Puerto Rican artists Bad Bunny and Elizam Escobar to the adjacent door.

Maria Magdelana Cemetery.  A beautiful seaside cemetery with above ground tombs, a large mausoleum and monuments dedicated to the dead. Its location between La Perla and El Morro along the coast is strategic to carry the deceased souls across the ocean into the afterlife. 

Museo de las Americas.  This museum focuses on pre-colonial and modern art and artifacts, the colonization of Puerto Rico and the island’s African heritage.

Capilla del Cristo.  A small chapel built on the cliffside edge of the old town’s wall. It is dedicated to health and well being, commemorating the story of a man who plunged off the cliff while horse racing but survived. 

Things to Do

Hire a Photographer.  Hire a photographer to take photos of you around the old town during the morning or evening golden hours. We booked with Raul at Rolo Photo PR and couldn’t have been happier with the outcome! 

Fly a Chiringa. The ocean breezes from the lawn in front of El Morro make it a great location and fun Sunday afternoon pastime. Kites can be bought from street vendors adjacent to the lawn. 

Visit the Farmers Market.  Located in front of the San Juan Museum every Saturday morning. It’s a great spot to purchase local produce, fresh baked breads and flowers.

Sunset Harbor Boat Ride.  A sunset cruise on a large pontoon style boat around the harbor of Old San Juan with historical info, snacks, rum punch and music. Book Here!

Vamos al la Playa

Playa Peña.  A secluded beach in Old San Juan, located on the other side of Castillo de San Cristobal. It’s a cute sand and rock beach below the cliff in front of the capital. The water isn’t safe for swimming. 

Playa El Escambrón.  A sandy palm covered beach between Old San Juan and Condado. It’s a popular beach for swimming, snorkeling, grilling and sunbathing. The best place to snorkel is the protected cove next to the Caribe Hilton. Come here in the morning to spot sea turtles feeding in the seagrass and tropical fish swimming among the underwater sculpture garden. There’s also the ruins of a small fort, Fortín del Escambrón, nearby. 

Places to Shop

Spicy Caribe. A spice store with hot sauces, spices and vanilla made from locally grown ingredients. 

El Mundo Taino.  A souvenir shop with locally made home goods, artwork, jewelry and coffee. 

Hatian Gallery.  A shop specializing in handmade artwork, sculptures and jewelry from Puerto Rico and other Caribbean islands. 

Materia Prima.  An organic grocery store with local farmed Puerto Rican produce, provisions and meats. It has a coffee bar and is connected to a wine bar in the Hotel Convento. 

U Go Market. A grocery store with produce, snacks, beverages, alcohol, beach-ware and sunblock. 

John Napoli.  A kitchen supply store with a range of cookware and kitchen gadgets including Puerto Rican pilóns, calderos and large paella pans.

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Chillo Frito Entero. A fried red snapper served whole with crispy skin, tender meat and squeezed with lime. It’s usually accompanied by fried plantains like tostones, mofongo or amarillos. 

Mofongo. Fried plantain mashed with garlic and butter. It’s often served plain or stuffed with an option of seafood. If prepared with bread fruit and yucca, it’s known as trifongo. 

Empanadillas. Puerto Rican style fried empanadas stuffed with a range of fillings like octopus, conch, cod, shrimp, crap and pizza. 

Pinchos. Grilled meats served on a stick often served at beaches or roadside kiosks. Our favorites are shark and shrimp. 

Mallorca. A Puerto Rican pasty often shaped like a bun or swirled roll and dusted in powered sugar. Our favorite preparations are pressed with guava with cheese or egg and cheese. 

Coco Frio. A cold and freshly opened coconut. Drink the coconut water inside then the sweet meat inside. Alternatively, enjoy it with coconut rum to create a tropical cocktail 

Rum. Puerto Rico is unarguably the rum capital of the Caribbean with several distilleries and local brands served in bars across the island. Order it on the rocks, in a Pina Colada or other tropical cocktail. 

Medalla. The island’s most popular local beer, recognizable by it’s small golden can. It has a light slightly nutty flavor and is served everywhere. Buy a 6 pack for the beach! 

The Food Scene 

A huge part of the culture in Puerto Rico involves eating, drinking and getting together with others. With that in mind, there are so many great places to eat and drink. Having visited Old San Juan several times, we’ve been able to try out numerous restaurants, cafes and bars. 

Pro Tip. It’s best to make a reservation whenever dining out in Old San Juan. 

Restaurants 

La Garita.  A restaurant and bar serving Puerto Rican dishes and rum cocktails with a view overlooking La Perla. Ask for a Pina Colada made with a double shot of Don Q, Puerto Rico’s most popular rum. 

El Jibarito.  Another restaurant serving Puerto Rican dishes. Come here for the whole fried fish and mofongo. 

La Madre.  A Mexican restaurant with delicious tacos. Eat outside on the pedestrian tree-lined street. 

Cayo Caribe.  A local chain of restaurants serving Caribbean seafood. Try the Salmorejo (stewed land crab and tomatoes), stuffed mofongos or chillo frito entero. 

Ladis.  A famous seaside restaurant built into the cliff between OSJ and Condado. Come here for seafood, cocktails and ocean views.

Señor Paleta.  A popular spot to buy fruit and dessert popsicles mid-day or after dinner.

Puerto Criollo. A Puerto Rican restaurant with classics like fried snapper, stuffed mofongo and octopus salad. They also service inventive tropical cocktails in unique glasses.

Al Fresco Rooftop Wine & Tapas.  A quiet place with a rooftop patio in the middle of Old San Juan. Come here for lite bites and wine. We shared a cheese board and bottle of bubbly. 

Otras Cosas.  A large outdoor restaurant to come for lunch, dinner and live music. Try the whole Caribbean lobster and coconut filled with coconut rum. 

Mar y Rosa.  A rooftop restaurant with el fresco dining and an elevated menu. Come here for the panoramic views at sunset, tasty cocktails and seafood menu with Korean & Caribbean influences. 

El Champi.  A tapas restaurant offering Spanish style small plates, paella and charcuterie. It’s located on Caleta de San Juan, a romantic tree covered street.  It’s adjoined by El Rincón del Vino, a small wine bar with a broad selection of wines all nestled within a small interior courtyard. 

Atelier Rooftop Terrace.  A rooftop bar and restaurant at the Hotel Palacio Provincial. It offers sunset views and overlooks the neighboring basilica.  

Caleta del Vino.  A charming wine bar, nestled on cobblestone street along the historic city wall. Come here for a romantic sunset to enjoy a curated charcuterie spread paired with wines by the glass or bottle. 

Dos Lobos.  A local chain specializing in nearly a dozen different types of baked Puerto Rican pastelillos (aka, empanadas). Order a pastelillos to go or enjoy one at the bar with a local beer or cocktail.

Aliado Bar & Apertivo.  A fully vegan restaurant with an inventive menu and range of dishes made using locally sourced ingredients. Order a trio of dishes to share like the papaya nigiri, funghi pasta, and fondue. 

Pirilo Pizza Rustica.  An extremely popular pizzeria hidden on the second floor of an old town building. They offer a variety of handmade and artisan style pizzas, empanadas and local beers. 

Cafes & Coffee Shops 

Cuarto Estaciones.  A green gazebo located in the Plaza de Armas serving coffee and pastries. We often come here for our first breakfast while in town, sitting under the shaded patio, surrounded by potted plants and chirping birds. Our usual order consists of iced lattes with canela and Mallorca with guava and cheese. They’re cash only. 

La Carreta.  Come here for the variety of sweet and savory breakfast dishes. Try an egg sandwich on Mallorca and a mimosa made from freshly squeezed OJ. 

Caficultura.  A brunch spot in Plaza Colón serving versions of the Puerto Rican sweet bread, Mallorca. Try the Mallorca con Guayaba (guava) or Mallorca French Toast with locally grown and roasted coffee. 

St Germain Bistro & Cafe.  A vegetarian friendly brunch spot with pancakes, toasts, sandwiches and burgers. 

Mallorca. A bakery specializing in its namesake, Mallorca. It’s unmistakable by its sign spelling out Mallorca in large red letters.

787 Coffee.  A coffee shop brewing Puerto Rican grown and roasted coffee beans. We discovered them on the East Village of NYC and visited their location near Escambron Beach while in Old San Juan.  

Pilao Bakery-Cafe.  Bakery with large portion breakfasts and coffee. 

Bien Papaya.  A coffee shop with Mallorca, smoothies and smoothie bowls right by San Cristobal. 

Don Ruiz.  A cafe in the Museo de las Americas with fresh roasted coffee and bottled beer.

C.B Restaurant.  A breakfast and brunch spot in plaza colon. Try the Boricua Morning Mallorca. 

Cocktail Bars & Nightlife 

La Casita de Rones.  A pink house and outdoor cocktail bar serving rum and tiki drinks overlooking the bay. It’s a nice escape from the busy streets or to end the night.

La Factoria.  A famous cocktail bar, ranked in the Top 50 in the World. The bar is in a dimly lit old world interior, connected to multiple other bars. One of our favorite drinks to order here is the El Peligroso, made with Ron de Barillito, Campari, spices and lime. 

Vino.  A wine bar connected to La Factoria with wine based cocktails like sangria. 

El Desvio.  A tiny candle lit cocktail bar hidden within the passageways of La Factoria. It’s open sometimes and closed others. 

La Cubanita.  A cocktail bar with a local atmosphere and menu of traditional and craft cocktails. Like Vino and El Desivo, it’s connected to La Factoria. 

Antiguo 26.  A high end cocktail bar, set inside a former soda factory. Mixologists craft innovative cocktails using homemade sodas as a nod to the building's history. Its distinctive yellow and blue tiled facade makes it easily recognizable among the colorful buildings of Old San Juan.

The Mezzanine.  A cocktail bar offering a variety of tropical drinks made using local ingredients and spirits. Try the Coqui Coqui, a modern take on the classic Piña Colada, awarded best at the annual Piña Colada Festival or the Rum Sunset and Borikén Breeze for fruity and refreshing rum based drink.

El Batey.  A late night dive bar with graffitied walls, a pool table and lights covered in notes, cash and napkins left behind from past visitors.

Colmado Cocteleria Tropical.  A bar on Calle de San Sebastián designed like a traditional Puerto Rican colmado (a local convenience store) with shelves of faux and vintage groceries and plantain decor. Sip on a cocktail while playing dominos or taking pictures in the photo booth. 

La Sombrilla Rosa.  A popular gay bar on Calle San Sebastián. Bartenders serve in inexpensive drinks while Reggaeton music echos out onto the street. 

El Cafetín.  One of the most energetic bars on Calle San Sebastián with locals and tourists standing shoulder to shoulder, singing and dancing with a drink in hand late into the night 

Barrachina.  The location where the Piña Colada was invented. Come here for the classic cocktail and stay for lunch or dinner in their courtyard. 

Cannon Club.  A dueling piano bar with live parrots, multiple levels and eclectic decor. This place is more about the drinks and unique atmosphere than the food.

La Verguenza.  This multi-level bar overlooks La Perla is the center of nightlife in OSJ. The nightly party spills out into the streets and continues early into the morning. 

Cafe Darsenas.  A blue gazebo on the Paseo de la Princesa with affordable drinks and light bites. We often come here for a frozen sangria to-go. 

El Vino Crudo.  A hidden wine bar tucked away on Callejón Gambaro. They pour natural wines and serve Spanish tapas late into the night.

Scryer Rum Barrelhouse & Rooftop.  A small batch rum distillery and cocktail bar in Old San Juan with a wall of barreled rum. We drank cocktails here made exclusively from their house distilled rum under candle light during a city wide black out. 

Cervecería Del Callejón.  A micro-brewery with a small menu of house brewed beers and bar games. It’s located on the blue cobblestone alley of Callejón. Come here for flight and try their whole menu. 

Nico Rooftop Bar.  A small bar with a rooftop deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the seaside community of La Perla. Come here for classic cocktails and small bites. 

La Grieta.  A dimly lit cocktail bar specializing in mezcal and mezcal cocktails. There is limited seating inside however the bar spills out onto the cobblestone street with small tables and sofas.

Cui Cui.  An upscale cocktail bar specializing in the truest forms of classic cocktails using ingredients of the era and location in which they were created. Their specialty menu features experimental cocktails with a Puerto Rican twist. 

Casa Melaza Rum Boutique.  A small rum bar offering tastings of vintage, rare and specialty rums. 

Places to Stay 

We’ve stayed at a range of places in Old San Juan including apartments overlooking the ocean, a private room in a rum baron’s mansion, a ruin style apartment and a boutique hotel. 

Casa Luna.  A boutique hotel with range of apartment rentals and a rooftop terrace. It’s located in the middle of Old San Juan on Calle de la Luna. Book Here!

Cozy Historic Ruin Apartment.  A small apartment built within the ruins of a crumbling building.The space has character and charm that exemplifies the old town. Book Here!

PH Apt in Old San Juan w/ Terrace.  A comfortable and spacious apartment with a large private terrace overlooking the old town’s cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Book Here!

Live Like a Rum Baron in a 200 Year Old Mansion.  An elevated apartment with private rooms and cozy communal spaces in a renovated colonial building. Book Here!

Getting Around

On Foot.  Old San Juan is very walkable and by far the best way to see the city. Be careful of the narrow sidewalks and cobble stones. 

By Uber.  Use Uber to get to/from Old San Juan from the airport or San Juan proper. Ubers are typically inexpensive. The best place for pick up and drop off is Plaza Colon at the entrance of the old town. 

Free Shuttle.  There is a free “shuttle” aka a large golf cart the shuttles people a loop in the old town.

By Car / Parking.  Traffic gets congested in and around Old San Juan. The best place to park in Old San Juan is Dona Fella, garage on the south side of the Old Town. Parking typically costs $1 per hour.

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport. 

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From rainforest adventures and island escapes to surfing beaches and mountain landscapes, continue exploring Puerto Rico beyond Old San Juan's historic walls through these travel guides:

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture.  Discover Puerto Rico's vibrant capital through historic neighborhoods, Caribbean beaches, local cuisine, nightlife and the rhythms of everyday island life.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches.  Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing.  Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond.  Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

For Next Time…

Whether a spontaneous weekend trip or planned vacation, we will certainly be back to Puerto Rico many more times! We have our eyes set experiencing things we’ve missed during past trips around Old San Juan including: 

San Sebastian Festival.  A massive festival and street party held throughout Old San Juan in January to mark the end of the holidays with performers, a parade, street food, music and dancing. 

Tomb of Juan Ponce de León.  The tomb of the decisive conquistador credited with founding San Juan. His tomb is located inside of the Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista

Casa Blanca.  A 500 year old house in Old San Juan built for Ponce de Leon. It was converted into a museum with Spanish colonial artifacts.

San Juan Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Local Culture

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is a tropical metropolis that’s equal parts city and beach with skyscrapers and homes lining the Atlantic coast. Come here to spend leisurely afternoons on a sandy shore, under an umbrella or at a beach club. Explore the city’s cultural side at art museums, graffitied streets, historic sights and rum distilleries. Celebrate life like a Puerto Rican with Reggaeton music, salsa dancing, traditional dishes, tropical drinks or a local beer. 

Neighborhoods & Streets

Condado.  A seaside neighborhood with skyscrapers, hotels, restaurants, bars and beaches.

Miramar.  A residential neighborhood with historic homes and buildings built in The Spanish Colonial Revival style. It’s central to Old San Juan and Condado. 

Santurce.  A large area of San Juan home to art museums, food truck parks and the nightlife hubs of Calle Cerra and La Placita. 

Ocean Park.  A trendy yet local neighborhood popular for its beach and variety of restaurants and nightlife. 

Calle Loíza.  Ocean Park’s main street for brunch spots, open air restaurants, cocktails bars, surf shops and Loíza Brinca, a famous corner building featuring the Puerto Rican flag.

Carolina.  A suburb of San Juan home to the city’s airport, oceanfront resorts and pristine white sand beaches. 

Vamos a la Playa

Atlantic Beach.  A lengthy golden sand beach in Condado and one of the most popular in San Juan. Come here so tan in the tropical sun, swimming in the turquoise blue waters or body surf in the waves. Hotels rent sun umbrellas and lounges to non-guests, kiosks offer tropical cocktails and juices and vendors walk the beach selling empanadas. There is a large gay section in front of The Tryst Hotel on weekends. 

The Atlantic at the Tryst.  An ocean front bar and restaurant at The Tryst Hotel on Atlantic Beach. Come here for drag brunch on Sundays to watch Puerto Rican queens perform, lip sync for their life and collect dollar bills from lively guests. 

Pro Tip.  Join the other gays soaking up the sun on the beach after brunch! Keep your receipt to rent a pink umbrella and sun lounge for free!

Playita del Condado.  A beach located next to the Puente dos Hermanos between the Condado Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. The water is calm enough for swimming and snorkeling with chair rentals for lounging on the beach.

Ocean Park Beach.  This vast beach is probably the most popular in San Juan. Everyone from locals, tourists, families and couples come here. There are plenty of restaurants, marine sports and activities, chair and umbrella rentals and vendors selling drinks on the beach.

Numero Uno Beach Hotel & Restaurant.  A beach club located at Ocean Park Beach. Come here for a relaxing day under the shade of an umbrella or palm tree while watching kite surfers ride the wind and waves. Order the beach vibes package, it includes two chairs, an umbrella, bottle of bubbly and bag of chips and salsa.

Carolina Public Beach.  A lengthy tan beach with calm and swimmable waters. It’s watched over by lifeguards and popular with locals and families. There are a few beachfront gazebos offering drinks, snacks and ice cream. 

Ocean Lab Brewing Co.  A craft brewery at Carolina Beach with nearly 2 dozen beers. Come for lunch and order a flight while overlooking the aquamarine ocean waters. Try the Mambo for a juicy wheat beer with passionfruit notes or the SJU for an easy drinking lager.

Isla Verde Beach.  A continuation of Carolina Public Beach with tall palm groves, shaded gazebo rentals and a series of resorts providing chair and umbrella rentals. The beach is the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe and relax! 

Pine Grove Beach.  A beach between Island Verde and Ocean Park Beaches. It’s popular for beginner surfing with surf schools and rentals.  

See the Sights & Museums 

Fortín San Jerónimo de Boquerón.  A small fort at the mouth of the Condado Lagoon. The visiting hours are infrequent due to repairs post Hurricane Maria. It’s worth visiting if open. 

Puente Dos Hermanos.  The bridge crossing the Condado Lagoon connecting to Old San Juan. It’s beautiful to walk across with great views. There is also a ledge making it easy to jump from into the lagoon. The Condado side has a small sandy beach, Playita del Condado.

Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.  A well curated and diverse collection of Puerto Rican art and history. After touring the galleries, walk through the sculpture garden. 

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico (MAC).  A contemporary art museum with rotating galleries specific to social movements, local artists and Puerto Rican heritage. 

Things to Do

Visit a Rum Distillery.  The two distilleries to visit are the Bacardi Factory or Ron del Barrilito. Both offer similar experiences. Bacardi is large scale production while Ron de Barrilito is small batch and higher end. Arrive to a welcome drink, learn about the history of each distillery, their processes of rum making and afterwards take a mixology class, sample aged vintages or simply order cocktails from the bar. Either way, expect to leave tipsy.  

SUP or Kayak in Laguna de Condado.  Tour companies based around the lagoon offer SUP and Kayak rentals for $20/hour. The lagoon is a boat free place to spot eagle rays, star fish and sea turtles. We booked though VIP Adventures Puerto Rico.

Take the Ferry to Cataño.  A neighborhood a quick ferry ride across the harbor from Old San Juan with a waterfront boardwalk home to several restaurants and bars. The ferry operates from the cruise docks hourly throughout most of the day for just a couple of dollars. It’s a popular place to visit for the Bacardi Factory from. 

Eat at Piñones.  A food hub known for Puerto Rican and Caribbean cuisine just outside of San Juan. The main street, located along the Atlantic coast, is lined with dozens of restaurant, bars and kiosks. We hopped from place to place and ordered crab empanadillas, cod alcapurrias, coco frio and rum punch. Visit El Coco Frio for quick roadside bites and Los Barriles Restaurant for a plated dishes and beach views. Visit the dockside restaurant of La Casita Amarilla for their arepas de coco and flavored mojitos. Relax in the sandy and shallow tide pools at Poza Los Barriles Beach. 

Take Salsa Lessons.  Take a salsa lesson from a local instructor, learning the history and basics before heading to a salsa bar in La Placita to practice your moves. Lesson happen by night in Plaza Antonia Quiñones. Return on Sunday mornings for a weekly farmers market. Book Here!

Visit the Parque Forestal La Marquesa.  A forested nature park covered in a verdant canopy of trees and palms in the mountains outside of San Juan. Ride the teleferico (cable car) above the forested mountainside and lush ridges. Visit the butterfly conservatory and aviary to see monarchs, parrots and colorful birds fly around the netted enclosures. Hike the nature trails and climb the observation tower for picturesque views of the forest. 

Getting Here.  The forest park is located in the suburb of Guaynabo, reachable from San Juan by Uber or Lyft after a 30 minute ride. 

Calle Cerra

Calle Cerra is a gritty street with large murals and graffiti covered walls. The surrounding neighborhood is home to many hostels, restaurants, cafes & bars. The area becomes a center for nightlife on weekends. Hundreds of people gather at in the street and at bars as live music and reggaeton echos throughout the neighborhood. Some of our favorite spots are:

Esquina El Watusi.  This bar is the heart of the nightlife scene in Santurce. Come here to join hundreds of people gathered in the street out front and ordering from the bar. Drinks are strong and inexpensive. 

Machete.  A bustling yet vibey cocktail bar with well priced drinks and a menu of flavorful bites. To drink, try the Vampiro for something smokey or House Daq for something fruity. To eat, order the ceviche and pulpo + fries! 

Botánico.  A spacious cocktail bar with an interior patio decorated in florals. Come here for an escape from the high energy atmosphere of other bars along Calle Cerra. Try the Flora or Mezcal Botanical. 

Identidad.  A James Beard Awarded cocktail bar with a menu of Caribbean flavored cocktails and small plates as well as a seasonal list of contemporary and experimental cocktails. Order the Crocantes de Atun, a raw tuna mixture over crispy rice. We plan to return for their 5-7pm happy hour! 

Pro Tip.  Wear pants and shoes to avoid being turned away at bars.

La Placita

La Placita is a Puerto Rican cultural hub. Its historic market opens each morning to vendors selling locally grown produce like plantains, papaya, ñame and yautía. Elderly locals gather in the surrounding to play dominoes by day. Music fills the plaza each night as locals come to dance Salsa and feast on Puerto Rican cuisine from surrounding restaurants. 

The Produce Market.  Located inside the Plaza de Mercado in the center of the plaza. We used a machete to cut plantains from the bunch, picked out limes to make our own cocktails and selected a ripe papaya for lunch. 

La Tasca del Pescador.  The place to go for seafood! Come here for the whole fried red snapper, squid ink rice & grilled prawns.

Taberna Los Vázquez.  An energetic salsa bar on the corner of La Placita with live music and cheap drinks.

Boronía en la Placita.  A restaurant serving Creole cuisine like mofongo, gumbo and seafood dishes.

El Sabor de Reina.  A Puerto Rican restaurant preparing traditional dishes like stuffed mofongo, fried pork chops, seafood rice dishes and whole fried red snapper. 

Jungle Bird.  A tiki cocktail bar located on a side street of La Placita with a menu featuring tropical cocktails, both classic and contemporary. Try their namesake, Jungle Bird, their version of the Rum Runner or house creation, the Tijuana Surf Rider. 

Puerto Rican Cuisine 

Chillo Frito Entero.  A fried red snapper served whole with crispy skin, tender meat and squeezed with lime. It’s usually accompanied by fried plantains like tostones, mofongo or amarillos. 

Mofongo.  Fried plantain mashed with garlic and butter. It’s often served plain or stuffed with an option of seafood. If prepared with bread fruit and yucca, it’s known as trifongo.

Empanadillas.  Puerto Rican style fried empanadas stuffed with a range of fillings like octopus, conch, cod, shrimp, crap and pizza. 

Pinchos.  Grilled meats served on a stick often served at beaches or roadside kiosks. Our favorites are shark and shrimp. 

Mallorca.  A Puerto Rican pasty often shaped like a bun or swirled roll and dusted in powered sugar. Our favorite preparations are pressed with guava with cheese or egg and cheese. 

Coco Frio.  A cold and freshly opened coconut. Drink the coconut water inside then the sweet meat inside. Alternatively, enjoy it with coconut rum to create a tropical cocktail.

Rum.  Puerto Rico is unarguably the rum capital of the Caribbean with several distilleries and local brands served in bars across the island. Order it on the rocks, in a Pina Colada or other tropical cocktail. 

Medalla.  The island’s most popular local beer, recognizable by it’s small golden can. It has a light slightly nutty flavor and is served everywhere. Buy a 6 pack for the beach!

Places to Eat & Drink

From beachfront restaurants to food truck parks and cocktail bars, there is no shortage of great places to stop for a meal or drink in San Juan. Some of our favorites are: 

Cafes & Brunch Spots

Café Comunión.  A coffee shop and breakfast spot. Come for the coffee, open faced sandwiches and fresh sugar glazed donuts

Tostado.  A coffee shop breakfast spot. Come for the coffee, tropical fruit, French toast and egg dishes.

Musa.  A funky brunch spot with egg dishes, French toast and mimosas 

La Coffeetera.  A breakfast spot with dishes like pancakes and egg scrambles. Order the eggs Benedict on a Hawaiian roll or the stuffed avocado. 

Restaurants

La Vergüenza.  A traditional Puerto Rican restaurant serving criollo style dishes with ingredients like plantains, seafood, pork and chicken. It’s a popular spot with locations in San Juan and Old San Juan. 

La Cueva Del Mar.  A Puerto Rican seafood restaurant with a range of dishes like whole fried red snapper, ceviche, creole style shrimp, fish filets and fried plantains. 

Casita de Miramar.  A romantic restaurant serving elevated Puerto Rican cuisine. We dined here one evening on their outdoor porch. For our meal, we enjoyed plantain soup, mini bacalaitos, arroz de montosteo cooked with house made pique, a whole fried red snapper, and for dessert, tres leches made with coquito.

Paulina Escanes Gormandize.  We’ve dined here twice, for bunch and dinner, tasting a range of items across the menu including mallorca with egg, cheese and avocado, corn bread soufflé, tacos and Tiradito (Peruvian sashimi) on a tostada. 

Container Bar.  One of several waterfront restaurants and bars in Cataño nearby the ferry terminal. Try the crab salad arepas and enjoy a medalla. 

Food Truck Parks.  Quite popular across Puerto Rico, our go-tos in San Juan are Tresbé, Lote 23, and Miramar Food Truck Park.

Cocktail Bars & Nightlife 

Kane Rum Bar.  A rum bar in Condado with lux tropical vibes, cocktails and bites. Order a tiki drink like the Zombie, Mai Tai or Painkiller along side light bites like a vegan Hawaiian pizza, tropical ceviche or sesame seared tuna.

Bar La Unidad.  A speakeasy hidden behind an unmarked frosted glass door. The bar is open if the red light is illuminated. Their menu features a range of modern and innovative cocktails organized by spirit type, each served in differing crystal glassware. 

Pinaloca.  A walk-up window in Condado serving Pina coladas in pineapples. 

El Bar Bero.  A barbershop themed bar with barber chairs, mustache art and smokey cocktails.

Places to Stay 

We’ve stayed at a range of places in San Juan including airbnbs like a private room at a hostel and an apartment style inn. 

Casa Santurce Hostel.  A hostel with dorm and private rooms in San Juan’s arts district. It offers affordable rates and near nightly activities. Book Here!

Casa del Caribe Inn.  A small family run hotel in the heart of Condado. It’s large apartment style rooms are perfect for a weekend getaway. Book Here!

Cool Tripper’s Inn.  A boutique hotel near Ocean Park Beach with tiny yet well designed apartments. Book Here!

Getting Around 

On Foot.  The Condado and Ocean Park neighborhoods of San Juan are easily walkable. Be mindful of missing man hole covers on sidewalks. 

Ride Shares.  Uber and Lyft are both available in the San Juan area. They’re great for getting to and from the airport and around town. 

By Scooter.  Scooters are available to rent on the streets of San Juan. There are multiple companies including Skootel, Bird and Kick. 

By Car.  Rent a car to explore the island outside of the San Juan area. We’ve rented with affordable and reputable companies like Ace Rental, Charlie Car Rental, Sixt, Budget and Flagship.  

Location Specifics

Respect the Culture.  Puerto Ricans are very proud of their island, culture and heritage. Please show respect when discussing local issues and topics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn about the culture and island.  

US Territory.  Puerto Rico is a US Territory meaning US Citizens can visit the island without a passport.

Language.  Spanish is the primary language spoken in Puerto Rico. English is widely spoken as a second language. Knowing basic Spanish words and phrases is helpful and beneficial when visiting. 

Currency.  Puerto Rico uses the US Dollar. 

Metric vs Imperial.  Puerto Rico uses a combination of the Metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits are in marked in mph while distances are marked in kilometers. Gasoline is sold by the liter instead of by the gallon. 

Cash vs Card.  Credit and debit card is widely accepted across the island. Cash is preferred by most vendors at markets, kiosks and some businesses. 

Power Outages.  The electrical grid is fragile due to devastation from past natural disasters. While power outages rarely affect tourists, they do happen. It’s a difficult part of life for many Puerto Ricans. 

Tap Water.  Tap water is generally safe for consumption around the island. 

Tropical Weather.  Puerto Rico experiences tropical weather. Carry an umbrella incase of afternoon and evening rain storms. Tropical storms and hurricanes are possible from June through November with September through October being the most active. 

Swimming.  Mind the warning signs and red flags advising about dangerous ocean currents. Pay attention to where others are and are not swimming. 

Sun Protection.  The harsh UV is dangerous in Puerto Rico. Wear sun block when outside, even on cloudy days. 

Insect Repellent.  Mosquitos are prevalent across the island with mosquito borne illnesses on the rise. Wear insect repellant to minimize bites.  

Clothing.  Shorts and tank tops are generally acceptable to wear, keep the swimwear for the beach and plan to change into pants while dining out or visiting local spots. 

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico

From the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan to bioluminescent bays, mountain trails and Caribbean islands, discover more of Puerto Rico beyond the capital through these travel guides:

Old San Juan Travel Guide: Historic Streets, Food & Colonial Charm. Wander colorful cobblestone streets lined with colonial architecture, historic forts, local restaurants and centuries of Puerto Rican history.

Eastern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: El Yunque, Bioluminescent Bays & Beaches. Explore Puerto Rico's lush eastern coast through rainforest trails, bioluminescent bays, secluded beaches and outdoor adventures.

Culebra & Vieques Travel Guide: Beaches & Island Adventures.  Escape to Puerto Rico's offshore islands for pristine beaches, snorkeling, wildlife refuges and some of the Caribbean's clearest waters.

Western Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Rincón, Beaches & Surfing. Discover Puerto Rico's surf capital through laid-back beach towns, coastal scenery, marine life and world-class waves.

Southwestern Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Cabo Rojo, La Parguera & Beyond. Experience salt flats, mangrove channels, bioluminescent waters, coastal cliffs and some of Puerto Rico's most unique landscapes.

Central Puerto Rico Travel Guide: Mountains, Hiking & Taino Sites.  Journey through Puerto Rico's mountainous interior to discover cloud forests, hiking trails, coffee farms and Indigenous heritage.

Ponce Puerto Rico Travel Guide: History, Architecture & Local Culture.  Explore Puerto Rico's second city through grand architecture, local museums, historic plazas and a distinctly southern cultural identity.

Key West Travel Guide: Beaches, Bars & Island Life

Key West

Key West is a tropical island at the end of the Florida Keys where roosters roam free, flip flops are worn as dress shoes and beach vibes rule above all else. The key is home to many restaurants, bars, boutique hotels, historic sights, colorful wooden houses and waters dotted with sailboats. 

The Overseas Highway

The Overseas Highway is scenic stretch of road crossing the ocean and connecting the Florida Keys with mainland Florida. We made a day trip of our drive on the highway, stopping at multiple keys along the way.

Tiki Bar at Postcard Inn.  A hotel bar on Islamorada credited with inventing the Rum Runner cocktail. We stopped for a drink to find the restaurant under renovation. 

Robbie’s.  We ordered a Rum Runner here and stopped to hand feed the tarpon swimming around the restaurant’s dock. For $5, we bought a bucket of fish and dangled them over the edge of the dock. Soon after, a tarpon jumped from the water snatching the fish directly from our hands. 

Keys Fisheries.  A restaurant on Islamorada with all manner of fresh caught seafood. We stopped here for their famous lobster ruebens. 

Sea Turtle Hospital.  A sanctuary to rehabilitate rescued sea turtles on Marathon Key. Tour the facility and its tanks of sea turtles. I visited here on a trip to the keys years ago.

7 Mile Bridge.  A stretch of the overseas highway crossing 7 miles of open ocean. Stop at the 7 Mile Bridge Vista to walk onto the pedestrian bridge and overlook and the blue tropical seas. We spotted manatees swimming here. 

Bahia Honda State Park.  We stopped here for some afternoon sun and beach time. We lounged in the shallow waters of Loggerhead and Sandspur beaches.

Big Pine Key.  One of the last keys before reaching Key West. We kept an eye out for the Key Deer, an endangered species of tiny deer native to the island. 

The Conch Republic 

Key West, also called The Conch Republic, is truly an island paradise! While here, eat fried conch fritters and conch ceviche from one of the islands many restaurants, buy a conch shell from a souvenir shop and spot Conch Republic flags flying from local’s homes. 

See the Sights

Duval Street.  A famed and historic street stretching a mile across the key with seafood restaurants, cocktail bars, Cuban cafes, art galleries and souvenir shops.The north end is the most touristy while the south end is quieter and more local. 

The Old Town.  A historic area with colorful wooden house located at the north end of Duval street. 

Southern Most Point Buoy.  A striped concrete buoy and monument marking the southern most point in the continental US only 90 miles from Cuba. 

Bahamas Village.  A neighborhood in the south side of the key settled by immigrants from the Bahamas. Come to see the colorful houses and tropical gardens. 

The Hemingway Museum.  The former residence of American writer Ernest Hemingway. Tour his home and writing studio where he wrote many of his iconic novels and short stories. Walk through the grounds lush gardens and pet Hemingway’s cats. 

Key West Lighthouse.  A short white lighthouse with a spiral stair case leading to the crown with panoramic views of the key. The light house keeper’s house is a small museum dedicated the history of Key West.

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach.  A park with a coral beach, short nature trails and a civil war era fort. Come here to swim and sunbathe, walk the nature trails and explore the cannon lined red brick and black cement fortress. The beach has a snack & beverage hut renting umbrellas & lounges. Wear beach shoes to avoid the jagged coral lining the beach. Along the shore is a shaded park with picnic tables and grills. 

Higgs Beach.  A small but sandy beach between two piers for snorkeling, swimming and swimming. I came here several years ago on a previous trip to Key West.

Mallory Square.  No night in Key West would be complete without joining hundreds of people and watching the sunset from Mallory Square during the daily sunset festival. Arrive early with a drink in hand as the day ends and the night begins. 

Truman Waterfront Farmers Market. A Thursday afternoon market with vendors selling boozy popsicles, empanadas, samosas, honey, breads, cheeses, vegetables and tropical fruits like dragon fruit, pineapple, papaya, star fruit, lychee & star fruit. 

Places to Eat and Drink

Key West is where “it’s 5 o’clock somewhere” and “island time” meet.  There are many restaurants with laid back vibes and bars serving tropical cocktails. 

Tiki Bar.  A cocktail bar with classic tiki drinks like the Mai Tai, Jungle Bird, Zombie and Hurricane. There is live music nightly, a shop selling tiki mugs and hidden tiki bar in the back.

Eaton Street Seafood Market.  A seafood market and restaurant serving the day’s fresh catch. We came for conch ceviche, stone crab claws and beers from Islamorada Brewing. 

Schooner Wharf Bar.  Come here for the shrimp! They source their shrimp from Key West’s last shrimping boat docked in front of the restaurant. We devoured the coconut shrimp and drunken shrimp, a peel and eat shrimp boiled in beer and spices! 

Speakeasy Inn and Rum Bar.  An inn with several rooms and a rum bar with one of the largest collections of rum in the US. Sip on rum neat the at bar chatting with locals and other vacationers or sit on their porch overlooking Duval Street while enjoying a Painkiller. 

Hemingway Social Club.  A cocktail bar attached to the Hemingway Rum Distillery. Come here for cocktails like a Hemingway Daiquiri made with their house run while listening to the live music.

Cafelito.  A cafe with a walk up window selling iced Cuban coffees and Cuban pastries like the guava and cheese turn over.

Sally Frog’s.  A bar near Malloy Square with cocktails and local beers like the Crazy Lady Honey Blonde Ale brewed at The Waterfront Brewery.

Cuban Coffee Queen.  A small coffee shack by the harbor selling cups of Cuban coffee.

Cocomelon.  A juice bar and cafe selling ice cold fresh coconuts. Come here to sip coconut water from the tropical fruit while relaxing in their patio.

Kermit’s Key Lime Shop.  Come for the key lime pie! They sell it by the slice, whole and frozen on a stick. 

Dry Tortugas National Park

60 miles from Key West are the Dry Tortugas, a national park with several low lying islands, protected marine and avian reserves, a massive civil war fortress, a light house and a campground. 

Fort Jefferson.  An hexagonal three level civil war fort rising from the sea. The historic red brick fort is surrounded by a mote with a large interior court yard and the ruins of many military structures. 

We spent time exploring the 3 levels of the fort. The ground level houses many of the forts supportive facilities like a bakery, cistern and the barracks. The second level was dedicated to the prisoner’s cells and the hospital. The third level is overgrown with trails leading along the wall past cannons and to the fort’s lighthouse. 

Outside of the fort is a mote and wall designed to protect the main fort from the sea. Walk along it to admire its historic outer walls, look out towards the sea and spot tropical fish. 

Beaches.  Outside of the fort, there are two coral beaches to swim at with warm and shallow water. The South Beach was the calmest and clearest for swimming and snorkeling. There is some sea grass, fragments of broken coral throughout the bay. The North Beach was a little choppier with less visibility for snorkeling. 

Snorkeling.  Along the wall of the South Beach, we spotted smaller tropical fish, some living coral, sea anemones, pink jelly fish and the carcus of a giant spiny lobsters.  

Land Bridge. Walk the tidal land bridge towards the avian reserve of Long Key. The shallow stretch of sand it covered in conch shells, sand dollars and broken coral. Come here to spot pelicans and sand pipers. 

Loggerhead Lighthouse.  A black and white lighthouse visible on the horizon from Fort Jefferson on Loggerhead Key, nearly two miles away.

Camping.  There’s something special about camping on a desert island in the middle of the sea! I camped here overnight on my last trip to Key West and the Dry Tortugas between some of the islands only few trees and bushes. 

Yankee Freedom.  The main company ferrying between Key West and the Dry Tortugas. The ticket includes transit, a tour of the fort, snorkel equipment, breakfast and lunch, cocktails for purchase. 

Getting Here.  It takes 2 hours 30min to reach the Dry Tortugas from Key West with 4 hours on the island. Book in August and September for $50 off an order of 2 tickets. Book here!

Where to Stay

We stayed at the Speakeasy Inn & Rum Bar! The boutique inn on the south end of Duval Street has two floors of newly renovated rooms and is stumbling distance away from their rum bar. Our stay included free parking, a welcome cocktail and discounted drinks! 

Getting Around 

Key west is very walkable, especially along the mile long stretch of Duval Street. Even so, there are many rentals offering bikes, scooter and golf cart. 

• Bikes $10 / day 

• Scooters $35 / day 

• Golf carts $100 / day 

The Conch Train.  A multi car trolly that rides around the city passing most of the sights with a narrated guide. 

Location Specifics

Locals leave during the month of September to vacation elsewhere. As a result, some restaurants and bars are closed. However, as this is the slow season, many hotels offer deals making the island more affordable to visit.

For Next Time…

We loved our time visiting Key West! We hope to return for more rum cocktails, sunset views and the tropical atmosphere. Outside of Key West, we would love to spend a few nights exploring the other keys more.