Although there are lots of tourist attractions and things to do in Puerto Rico, you might be wondering where you should go to get off the beaten path? Keep reading to learn more about the six best day trips in Puerto Rico!

Day Trips in Puerto Rico

Renting a car to use for the day is very easy in Puerto Rico due to the size of the island. It takes about 2 ½ hours to drive from one end of the island to the other, making all destinations in Puerto Rico open for adventures! 

With San Juan being the biggest city, we will use it as a jumping-off point to talk about these absolutely stunning day trips in Puerto Rico. 

1. Visit the town of Isabela

Driving time from San Juan: 1 hour 46 minutes

Isabela is an adorable little town just a short drive away from San Juan. This quaint town has many interesting sights to see, like the Cara Del Indio, a giant face carved on the cliffside. Just be careful when you're driving into town as it's known to spook some people who aren't expecting it.

Isabela has many lovely shops and restaurants to try, and the beaches are out of this world. Walk along El Paseo de Isabela, a boardwalk that covers three beaches; at the end, you can find Jacinto's Well. Just try not to get splashed! 

There are many historical sites in Isabela, like the historical railway tunnel, The Guajataca Tunnel, which was built in 1904. You can also see Ermita San Antonio de Padua de la Tuna, the ruins of a church built in the 1700s. 

Turn this day trip into an overnighter if you want to stay and check out the nightlife in Isabela or elsewhere in Puerto Rico to really make it an adventure!

2. Swim at Gozalandia Falls

Driving time from San Juan: 1 hour 56 minutes

This waterfall/swimming hold combination is the perfect way to get out of the city and into nature. You can find lots of locals cooling off from the heat of the day in the refreshing fresh water. The hike to get in is relatively easy, and there is a small parking fee in the lot nearby. 

3. Hike in Cueva del Viento

Driving time from San Juan: 2 hours

Drive away from the crowds and into the scene of an Indiana Jones movie at Cueva del Viento. Take a small hike in Bosque Estatal de Guajataca, a public forest in Puerto Rico, and climb down into this open cave! As you climb down into the cave, you can see stalagmites and stalactites up close!

There is ample parking nearby and picnic and washroom facilities at the trailhead, making it easy to pack a picnic lunch! It is definitely one of the best day trips in Puerto Rico!

4. Trek through San Cristóbal Canyon

Driving time from San Juan: 1 hour 30 minutes 

San Cristóbal Canyon is one of the top 10 most beautiful destinations in Puerto Rico, and rightfully so. Towering rock walls lined with lush forest lead to beautiful cascading waterfalls! 

Although it's not easy to get to and requires a tour guide, it is worth the visit. It is an excellent alternative to the popular El Yunque National Forest. If you are looking for a hidden gem, this is it! It's one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico!

5. Snap a photo at Centro Interpretativo Las Salinas

Driving time from San Juan: 2 hours 43 minutes

These unique pink lakes should be on the top of your list when looking for hidden gems in Puerto Rico. These stunning pink lakes are actually operating salt flats, which gives them that pink hue. You won't want to dip your feet in it due to the high salinity, but they are a great photo op! 

If you want to take a dip and cool off, Playa Sucia and the Cabo Rojo Cliffs are close by, which make a great addition to this day trip! 

6. Swim and tan at Playa Colora

Driving time from San Juan: 1 hour 20 minutes

This is one of Puerto Rico's best-kept secrets! If you are tired of the crowded and touristy beaches, pack a picnic lunch and your beach chair and head off to Play Colora. This unique hidden beach will capture your heart instantly.

The red/orange sand contrasts perfectly with the green jungle and turquoise waters, and because it is difficult to get to, there is a chance you will get this gem all to yourself! What more could you want?

A small hike is involved, so it is best for those with some hiking skills, but it is not too difficult. You can park your car at Seven Seas Beach and walk West along the beach until you reach the trailhead.

It is easy to turn any of these days trips into multi-day trips. Check out some unique and fun hostels or classy, upscale hotels you can stay around the island!

Are you ready to see Puerto Rico?

There is no shortage of things to do and places to see on this Caribbean island, from waterfalls, beaches, cafes, and nightlife- Puerto Rico has it all. Now that you've read about the best-hidden gems get ready to plan the perfect trip.