Puerto Rico is one of the easiest Caribbean destinations for US travelers, but there are a few things worth knowing before you arrive. Here are the essentials from hosts who live on the island.
1. No passport required for US citizens. Puerto Rico is a US territory. If you are a US citizen, you just need a valid ID. It is a domestic flight with no customs or immigration.
2. The currency is US dollars. No need to exchange money. Your credit and debit cards work everywhere. Tips are expected at the same rates as the mainland (15-20%).
3. Your cell phone works normally. No international roaming charges. Puerto Rico uses the same carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) as the US mainland.
4. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Puerto Rico is bilingual. Spanish is the primary language, but English is spoken in all tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants in San Juan, Condado, and other popular destinations. Learning a few Spanish phrases is always appreciated.
5. The best time to visit is December through April. This is the dry season with comfortable temperatures in the low 80s. It is also peak season with higher prices. For better deals, visit May through June or November. Hurricane season runs June through November, with September and October being the riskiest months.
6. Rent a car if you plan to leave San Juan. Public transportation is limited outside the metro area. A rental car opens up the entire island, from Rincon to Fajardo to the mountain towns. If you are staying only in Old San Juan or Condado, you do not need a car.
7. Book the Vieques and Culebra ferry early. The ferry from Ceiba to Vieques or Culebra costs only $2-4 per person, but tickets sell out fast. Book online at porferry.com as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Short flights are also available.
8. Sunscreen is not optional. The Caribbean sun is strong, especially between 10am and 3pm. Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect both yourself and the marine environment.
9. Try the local food. Do not spend your entire trip at chain restaurants. Mofongo, lechon, alcapurrias, tostones, and fresh seafood are all must-tries. Ask your host for their favorite local spots.
10. Water is safe to drink. Puerto Rico has the same water treatment standards as the US mainland. Tap water is safe throughout the island.
11. Puerto Rico has three bioluminescent bays. Mosquito Bay in Vieques is the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world. Laguna Grande in Fajardo and La Parguera in Lajas are also incredible. Book a guided kayak tour for the best experience. Go during a new moon for maximum brightness.
12. Electrical outlets are the same as the US. Standard US plugs and 110V power. No adapters needed.
13. Hurricane season is real. If you travel during hurricane season (June through November), monitor weather forecasts and have flexible plans. Many rental hosts offer weather-related flexibility during this period.
14. Tipping culture is the same as the mainland. 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and tips for tour guides and drivers are expected and appreciated.
15. Book your vacation rental directly to save money. Many properties listed on Airbnb and Vrbo can be booked directly from the host at 15-20% lower total cost. The service fees that platforms charge go to the platform, not your host. Booking direct means same property, same host, lower price.