Full of Latin flair, colonial history, and hip locals, Puerto Rico offers endless romantic potential. The tropical environs, golden-sand beaches, and luxe hotel accommodations provide an ideal setting for lazy days. By night, the capital of San Juan springs to life, with pulsating bars and restaurants on every corner.
Ideal for both beach bums and adventure enthusiasts, Puerto Rico offers equal parts relaxation and excitement. Not to mention, it's easy to get to and passports aren't required for U.S. citizens.
Before you plan your island honeymoon, take a look at our curated list of the 5 most romantic things to do in Puerto Rico -- because you wouldn't want to miss out on any memories of a lifetime.
1. Waterfall Hike
In the northeastern corner of Puerto Rico lies El Yunque National Rainforest, a mountainous tropical rainforest (the only one in the U.S. Forest Service), home to dozens of hiking trails, plus tons of waterfalls, wildlife, flora, and fauna. Couples can work up a sweat on Mount Britton Trail, which is less than a mile but has an elevation of 2,493 feet--and ends at a centuries-old stone watchtower. Also don't miss La Mina Trail, which leads to La Mina Falls, a 35-foot cascade that you can swim beneath.
2. Sunset in Rincón
The sleepy surf town of Rincón -- located on the western tip of the island, some 90 miles from San Juan -- remains one of Puerto Rico's most undiscovered spots. Secluded, with minimal tourist foot traffic, Rincón is the ideal spot to catch a sunset, be it from Punta Higuero Lighthouse, which overlooks Domes Beach, or the shores of Steps Beach, where you might spot nesting hawksbill turtles. Consider an overnight at the Horned Dorset Primavera, a boutique hotel in the center of town.
3. Tour of Old Town San Juan
No Puerto Rico honeymoon is complete without whiling away the day in Old Town San Juan. Wander the cobblestone streets, lined with shops, restaurants, and pastel-hued townhouses. Don't miss the especially colorful Paseo de la Princesa. Follow up your walking tour with a visit to the 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro, one of the Caribbean's most iconic Spanish colonial fortresses. If hunger strikes, grab a bite nearby at Sage Steak Loft, a rooftop restaurant serving shareable plates like veal parm croquettes and pork belly paella, plus Insta-worthy views of San Juan Bay.
4. Day Trip to Culebra
Situated just 17 nautical miles east of mainland Puerto Rico, the tiny isle of Culebra is home to multiple picturesque swaths of sand. Couples can fly from San Juan on Air Flamenco or Vieques Air Link, or opt for a less-expensive ferry from Fajardo.
Consider an overnight at Culebra Beach Villas. The boutique resort offers prime access to famed Flamenco Beach, where a natural barrier of coral reefs create crystal-clear, swimmable waters. Snorkel around, hike to Carlos Rosario Beach, or just plop down on the shores of Flamenco--even on busy days, couples can find a peaceful spot to enjoy the sun and surf.
5. Learn How To Salsa
San Juan has seen a culinary renaissance of late, as world-renowned Puerto Rican chef José Enrique puts the island on the global food map. Make a reservation at his namesake restaurant in trendy Santurce (if you can get in); the menu changes daily so you're guaranteed a surprise.
Also check out Gallo Negro, an industrial-chic spot where chef Maria Mercedes Grubbe blends Turkish, Japanese, Catalan, and Korean influences. But be sure to cap the night with drinks and salsa dancing at La Factoria, where the "Despacito" music video was filmed.
In case you missed it:
Where You Can Still Honeymoon in the Caribbean
Puerto Rico Honeymoon Destination Guide
Image courtesy of Matthew Brodeur
Editor's Note: Updated copy by Katie James Watkinson, April 2019