Puerto Rico. Locals guide.

April 23, 2019

Even after the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico made Forbes' Top 15 Places To Travel In 2019, proving that despite what its gone through, it remains the Island of Enchantment and the perfect destination for a "Treat Yourself" getaway! 

The list of places to visit on the island is endless, but there are a few top locations any local will say you MUST go to on your trip. They range from gorgeous beaches, dancing hotspots, and rejuvenating waterfalls!

La Factoria (Old San Juan) 148 Calle San Sebastian, San Juan, PR

If you love to dance then you absolutely have to join the locals for a night of salsa dancing at this gem of a bar tucked away in Old San Juan. This is not only the perfect spot to get some cardio in, but their crafted cocktails are delicious - ask for the "Peligroso" to really get your night started! Pro tip - make sure to have you LUMION mist handy in your purse because trust me you will sweat - A LOT, you will need a spritz to give yourself a little refresh for round two, three, and four on the dance floor.

Playa Flamenco (Culebra Island)  

Just a short ferry ride off of the main land is a little island called Culebra, which has one of the most breathtaking beaches you will ever see! From the soft white sand to the crystal blue ocean water, Playa Flamenco is definitely one of the most Instagram worthy beaches you will come across.

Bistro Café (Isla Verde) 29 Calle Jupiter, San Juan, Carolina, PR  

Need to cure a hangover or just fueling up for the day? Bistro Cafe´ is the remedy! From avocado toast to mimosas and Nutella topped french toast. This popular brunch spot does fill up quickly so be sure to get there early to beat the rush!

El Yunque Rainforest (Rio Grande) 

To appreciate even more of Puerto Rico's nature, a hike exploring El Yunque Rainforest and its beautiful waterfalls should be on your list of things to do. It's recommended you go with a tour guide, but it's really not necessary as long as you go early in the day and follow the hiking trails. The best part is the trails lead you to waterfalls you can take a refreshing cold dip in, but if ice cold water doesn't sound appealing to you then a few sprays of LUMION Mist should do the trick!

Piñones (Loiza) PR-187, Carolina, Loîza, PR 

Ask any local and they will say that the best place to try Puerto Rican street food is Piñones! With Playa Aviones as its backdrop, PR 187 is lined with colorful roadside kiosks that have everything from fresh coconuts to pretty much friend EVERYTHING, but Bacalao (friend cod fish) is a favorite! If you're trying to be a little more health conscious on your trip then you might want to skip the friend food and enjoy a beautiful bike ride along the Piñones boardwalk.

La Placita (Santurce) 179 Calle dos Hermanos, San Juan, PR  

During the day, La Placita is a quiet plaza that is home to a farmer's market, but at night it comes alive and transforms into a local hotspot for drinking and dancing. There are a ton of bars so you can find whatever vibe fits you best - enjoy a chill night or come during the day to savor the local produce!

So...what are you waiting for!? Pack your flip flops, a bikini, and your LUMION (because the humidity is real out there) and be confident knowing that wherever you decide to go on your trip, you will have the time of your life!