The capital of Puerto Rico has a lot of things to do in the city, but there are so many things to do that are less than hour from San Juan to enjoy! Get out in nature and see a little more of what Puerto Rico has to offer.
This is especially perfect for those visiting San Juan on a cruise and want to get out a little further to see the great beaches, waterfalls, and hidden gems in the area.
Keep in mind that you will need a car to visit almost any of these! Renting a car in Puerto Rico is easy. Take a look at our Guide for Renting a Car in Puerto Rico.
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Did you know that El Yunque is the only tropical rain forest in the US? That definitely makes it worth a trip in itself! Not to mention the lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and hiking trails you can experience here.
El Yunque is full of lush jungle and waterfalls.
El Yunque is located just an hour from San Juan, and has plenty of great spots packed into the main tourist area of the park. If you have time you can also explore plenty more rainforest, lakes, and nature around the main park area. Just make sure that you get your tickets in advance!
If you plan on visiting el Yunque, we have written a complete guide to know everything to expect while visiting here, how to get your tickets, and the best spots to check out!
Want to take a tour to El Yunque? Here are a few that you can choose from:
Day Trips From San Juan #2: Luquillo
Luquillo is a great spot right on the water that is just 45 minutes east of San Juan. This is one of our favorite places to go for lunch, as they have over 100 different kiosks!
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The restaurants are located right along the beach, and there is such a variety. Although we do suggest getting some seafood, or the stuffed mofongo at Rellenao.
Not only are there plenty of restaurants, but they also have some cute shops with local handmade souvenirs! This is definitely one of the best places for dining somewhere different that is less an hour from San Juan.
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Day Trips From San Juan #3: Las Pailas
This place is a true hidden gem of Puerto Rico, and is located just a few minutes from the kiosks in Luquillo. Parking is located inside the driveway of someone's home and is just $5. The trail is a couple minute walk and not strenuous, leading you to a beautiful spot tucked away in the trees.
While most natural pools are fed by waterfalls or rivers, this area is actually very unique because it features a natural waterslide! This is one of those day trips from San Juan that just never gets old.
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Day Trips From San Juan #4: La Planta, Arecibo
This is one of our absolute favorite day trips from San Juan because it is another true hidden gem. Here you can find a stunning waterfall and a river. But head further down the river and you will find an even bigger waterfall!
It is completely free of charge, and a place you could spend hours. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring this stunning area!
La Planta Arecibo is one of the best day trips from San Juan with it's sets of waterfalls.
Day Trips From San Juan #5: Cueva Ventana
This spot is located just a few minutes past Arecibo, so is a great one to pair with if you are stopping by the waterfalls.
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Cueva Ventana is a cave that actually sits on a limestone cliff and opens up to a view over the valley! this naturally made window is such a cool spot to stop by for a unique experience in Puerto Rico.
To check out the caves you will need to make a reservation in advance, Tickets are $19, and tours are 1 hour. They run every hour from 10:00-4:00, the last tour being at 3:00.
Cueva Ventana has some of the best views of Puerto Rico.
Day Trips From San Juan #6: Mar Chiquita
Mar Chiquita is not only just less than an hour from San Juan, but it is just 45 minutes! Which makes it the perfect beach day trip from San Juan. Mar Chiquita is rounded, making it super cool to see from a bird's eye view.
But even better? Walk over to the rocks and you will find crater like formations, that get filled with the water from the splashes of the waves crashing down. This actually makes natural pools, making you feel like you are in a jacuzzi on the moon!
Parking is free, but there are some rocks so just be careful when pulling in and pulling out. There are porta-potties there, but you'll have to pay a small fee to use them. As for food, there were signs for some food and drink vendors, but we got there late so didn't see any.
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Day Trips From San Juan #7: Fajardo
Fajardo is the most popular area on the East side of Puerto Rico, and is just a 45 minute drive away! Here you can find plenty of beautiful beaches, a light house, and a bioluminescent bay.
Fajardo is also one of the main hubs for catamaran and sailing trips to the nearby islands of Palomino and Icacos, so it's the perfect day trip from San Juan if you're looking for a fun Caribbean excursion.
Day Trips From San Juan #8: Piñones
Piñones is the closest of all the day trips to San Juan, and is a paradise location for the locals.
Here you can find plenty of local food kiosks, and the most popular beach in the San Juan area for families. The beach to check out is La Pocita, which features a naturally made rock walk, that stops the waves, and creates a natural pool inside the sea.
This place is perfect for those who want to enjoy the Caribbean waters but aren't looking for rough waters. Also for those that just want a nice relaxing day, outside the city, but close enough that you can get back in ample time (especially for people on cruises).
Day Trips From San Juan #9: Charco Azul
Charco Azul is the perfect place to visit less than an hour from San Juan, as it is a cool place to swim for those who don't want to go to the beach,
This swimming hole is located in Vega Baja, just 45 minutes from the city. It features turquoise waters and caves, making it great for those adventurers out there! We wouldn't' recommend this for small children, and we recommend packing a lunch beforehand.
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Day Trips From San Juan #10: Humucao
This spot is a little off-the-beaten-path, but is well worth the visit! Humucao is located just less than an hour from San Juan. Head to the Malecon to walk along to sea, and admire this picturesque little town.
There is also a great food truck located here with some of the best sandwiches ever! Head here midday for a great lunch and a nice day trip from San Juan's busier city vibes.
While you're in the area, Humucao also features a beach reserve with tons and tons of palm trees! Check it out for sunrise for a truly magical experience.
Humucao is one of the best spots to watch the sunrise.
Day Trips From San Juan #11: Caguas
Caguas is the perfect day trip from San Juan if you are looking to experience a cute city but on a smaller scale. This city is located just a little more or less than an half hour from San Juan, and features plenty of activities including a tobacco museum, botanical gardens, and an art museum.
We like the idea of Caguas because it's something different to see, and is a great day trip from San Juan. It isn't too far, but also offers some different activities than the capital city.
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The best way to be able to do most of these day trips from San Juan is by renting a car! Here is a site we use for our rentals:
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Puerto Rico has so many great places to explore. So don't stick to just San Juan- get out there and see all of the cool things that this island has to offer! The best part is that all of the places are less than an hour from San Juan so you don't have to travel far to experience new cool places.
Love the Day Trips from San Juan but also plan on traveling further out into the island? We have plenty of other guides about things to do around Puerto Rico.
Looking to plan your trip and need help? We're here to make it easy! Scratch Your Mapa is dedicated to save you money, and let you make the most of your travels. Want to learn more? We have a few different travel planning packages that you can choose from, or we can customize one for you!
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