City Guides: Things to do While Boating in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Lying along Puerto Rico’s northern coast, in the Atlantic Ocean (the southern section of the island is in the Caribbean), San Juan offers a variety of historic landmarks, arts and culture, natural attractions and lively nightlife for visitors to enjoy. There’s plenty of activity opportunities for history buffs, beach lovers and adventure seekers.
Old San Juan
Photo: Wikimedia
One of the most popular attractions in San Juan is historic Old San Juan, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings and impressive fortresses, Old San Juan is a living museum. Explore the narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses adorned with intricate ironwork. Be sure to visit the iconic landmark El Morro, a 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Another must-visit site in Old San Juan is Castillo de San Cristóbal, a massive fort that once guarded the entrance to San Juan Bay. Walking along the fort's ramparts and exploring its tunnels is a fascinating experience that offers insights into the island's history and military architecture.
Museum of Art of Puerto Rico
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For art enthusiasts visiting from a private boat dock rental, a visit to the Museum of Art of Puerto Rico is a must. Located in Santurce, a vibrant neighborhood known for its arts scene, this museum houses a rich collection of Puerto Rican and Latin American art from the 17th century to contemporary works. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, making it a hub for creativity and expression.
Beaches
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If you're looking for some relaxation, head to the beautiful beaches of San Juan. Condado Beach and Isla Verde Beach are popular options, offering soft sand, warm turquoise water and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, surfing and water sports.
You can also stroll along the picturesque Paseo de la Princesa, a waterfront promenade lined with colorful flowers, historic buildings and street vendors selling local crafts and snacks. The Paseo de la Princesa is home to La Puerta de San Juan, a grand city gate that once served as the main entrance to Old San Juan.
La Placita de Santurce
Photo: Moebiusuibeom/Wikimedia/CC by SA 4.0
For a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine and culture, a visit to La Placita de Santurce is a must. This bustling market square comes alive in the evenings with a vibrant atmosphere, live music and delicious street food. Sample local delicacies like mofongo, a dish made from mashed plantains, and sip on refreshing cocktails like piña colada or mojitos.
El Yunque National Forest
Photo: Wikimedia
For nature enthusiasts, a trip to El Yunque National Forest is a wonderful place to visit from a private boat dock rental. Located just a short drive from San Juan, El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest system. With its lush greenery, cascading waterfall and diverse wildlife, El Yunque offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s natural beauty. Hike along its numerous trails to discover hidden gems like La Mina Falls or take a dip in its refreshing natural pools. The forest is also home to the coqui, a small frog that's considered the unofficial mascot of Puerto Rico. Its distinctive calls can be heard throughout the forest.
Whether anchored at a marina, moored at a resort or docked at a private boat slip rental, we hope you’ve discovered a few places to visit the next time you’re in San Juan. Happy boating!
