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Puerto Rico is a vibrant travel destination for families! With a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, Puerto Rico has been one of our favorite places to visit with kids. We went a couple of years ago for spring break – and can’t wait to return!
For us, hiking and time on the beach were a huge draw to traveling to Puerto Rico (not to mention seafood mofongo and other local dishes). And, boy, were we impressed! Puerto Rico offers diverse ecosystems for families to explore and learn about, from its tropical forests and pristine beaches to its bioluminescent bays. With that in mind, Puerto Rico with kids is best experienced slowly and outdoors.
This 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids is best for adventurous families who want to get outside the touristy areas. Our family trip to Puerto Rico included a lot of hiking, beach time, getting to know the local culture, and eating a lot of street food and mofongo – if that sounds like your style of travel, keep reading!
Tips + Packing List for Puerto Rico with Kids
Before we dive into this itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids, let’s talk about a few tips and packing advice to get you started. From where to vacation in Puerto Rico to tips for eating on the island, these tips will help you know more about what to expect when you visit Puerto Rico with kids.
How to Get To + Around Puerto Rico with Kids
One of the reasons that families choose Puerto Rico for spring break and other holidays is because passports are not required for U.S. citizens. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory. But it is also culturally different than America, Spanish is the dominant language, and it looks and feels much different than most of the U.S. This makes Puerto Rico an attractive option for families interested in dipping their toes into international travel (with the safety net of widespread English and American-style amenities and brands).
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is the airport you will fly into from the United States. If you live in Minneapolis, like we do, you can even find direct flights!
For this Puerto Rico trip with kids, you will need a car. The bulk of the itinerary takes place on the island’s western side. You will only need a U.S. driver’s license to drive here. Expect driving to be similar to the U.S., including road signs (though most will be in Spanish). As you drive on the western side of Puerto Rico, expect winding and narrow roads (particularly in the mountains). Drive slowly and carefully as you make your way between sites. Driving also means you can freely stop at one of the many roadside vendors for fresh fruit or lunch – YUM!
A Few Tips
Here are a few tips for planning a family vacation to Puerto Rico:
- Puerto Rico is actually an archipelago with several islands – not just one island. While we didn’t do this, it’s possible to visit some of the smaller islands with kids (ideas for that below).
- As a U.S. territory, the currency in Puerto Rico is still the U.S. Dollar (USD).
- Since it is a U.S. territory, passports are not required for U.S. citizens to visit.
- Spanish is widely spoken and the dominant language in Puerto Rico. It is helpful to learn a few phrases (think greetings, ordering food, etc.). “Buena!” is the most common greeting. Typically, at least one staff member speaks English on shift. Cities like San Juan and Fajardo will offer more English-speaking locals than other parts of Puerto Rico. When in doubt, have a translator app ready to use.
- Want to avoid the crowds? June to November is considered the off-peak travel season in Puerto Rico. However, be aware that part of this is also hurricane season.
- In Puerto Rico, it is very common not to flush toilet paper. When visiting, follow signs requesting that you throw it away (instead of flushing it).
- If you plan to drive, the phone signal can be iffy in the island’s center. We recommend that you use downloaded maps.
- Do you research on the beaches before swimming. Not all of them are good places to swim, especially with littles. Some beaches can have powerful currents or rip tides. Talk to the locals before entering the water.
- Check out our Instagram highlights to see more of our Puerto Rico itinerary for families.
A Few Tips for Eating in Puerto Rico with Kids
We LOVED the food in Puerto Rico! Simply trying new foods was one of the best things we did while exploring Puerto Rico together. It is truly a haven for foodies! Here are some tips for eating in Puerto Rico with kids:
- Most restaurants in Puerto Rico have kids’ menus (though some do not). Menu items like rice and beans, chicken nuggets, tostones, and pasta are common for kids.
- For parents, local fare like plantains, seafood (like shrimp, lobster, octopus, mahi-mahi, and other fish), rice and beans, and fresh fruits and vegetables are very common and delicious!
- Many beaches have beachside vendors who offer excellent food, like pastelillos (or empanadillas), pinchos (meat kabobs), and tropical fruit drinks/smoothies. These are definitely worth eating! Some of our best meals were from these types of vendors.
- Similarly, there are a lot of roadside vendors offering similar menu items. If you are driving between sites and need a meal, stop. You can’t plan on when you might see the next one.
- You can’t go wrong with local dishes like mofongo or churrasco (almost always with a side of tostones) at dinner time. So dang good!!
Throughout this 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids, I’ll share a few restaurants we tried and loved. Any gaps you notice mean we chose to eat at home (a common practice for breakfast this trip), stopped at a roadside vendor en route to the next activity, or the location has since closed.
Packing List Reminders for Puerto Rico with Kids
In addition to the things you usually pack for a vacation with kids, don’t forget these things for traveling to Puerto Rico with kids:
- No special adaptors or converters for electronics are needed for Puerto Rico.
- We recommend packing multiple swimsuits for each person. They can take a while to dry in the humidity, and you will likely need at least one each day.
- The sun is HOT and powerful here. Pack proper sunscreen and reapply multiple times daily (especially if you are Midwesterners like us!). Hats, sunglasses, and chapstick are also good ideas.
- Mosquito repellent is a good idea for anyone planning to do a lot of hiking.
- Like many Caribbean islands, Puerto Rico experiences frequent afternoon rain showers. Pack an umbrella or rain ponchos.
- Waterproof shoes. I recommend these shoes from Vessi; they offer adult and kid sizes. They are helpful for staying dry while exploring during rainy weather.
- Do not pack beach toys – you can find them once you arrive. In fact, your hotel or home rental probably already has them.
- Bring water bottles – again, the sun is hot! Make sure you have what you need to stay hydrated.
Find More Beach Day Items Here!
Day 1 in Puerto Rico with Kids
We arrived in the evening and drove straight from the airport in San Juan to our home rental near Añasco. The drive was about 2 or 2.5 hours (note that it always takes longer to get anywhere on the island than Google Maps suggests). As such, day one of this 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids accounts for our first full day on the island (after a good night’s sleep!). Day one in Puerto Rico with kids is all about the beach!
Spend the Day at Crash Boat Beach
Coming from snowy Minnesota, our first priority for our Puerto Rico trip with kids was definitely THE BEACH! After researching, we chose Crash Boat Beach for our first day. Due to its easy (and free) parking, variety of beachside vendors, and sweeping beach, it was an excellent option for the lazy beach day we envisioned.
Located in Aguadilla, Crash Boat Beach is one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids! It’s also one of the most kid-friendly beaches on the western side of the island. Parking was easy to find (there is a large parking lot right next to the beach). After parking, head down to the beach. Go past the pier before picking your spot for the day. We found that the waters to the right of the pier seemed calmer – and this is the more significant section of the beach with the most vendors. Then, grab your spot and enjoy the day! While kids jump in the waves and build sand castles, parents can read and soak in the sun. Don’t forget to swim a bit and look for crabs along the pier together, too!
If you don’t have a beach umbrella, you can usually rent one from a nearby vendor. We did this and definitely recommend it. As I mentioned, the sun is HOT, and the extra shade was definitely appreciated. It’s worth noting, though, that the vendors do change from day to day. As such, don’t plan on specific vendors being available the day you go. With that said, in addition to the umbrella rentals, we also saw options for coco frio, pinchos, ice cream, tropical drinks, pizza, etc. Finally, bring cash for the vendors. While some accept Venmo and PayPal, cash is definitely easiest.
Dinner at Restaurante Mahi Mahi
Spend the first night of your Puerto Rico family vacation with dinner at Restaurante Mahi Mahi in Añasco. It is an excellent family spot known for its seafood and outdoor seating. While our daughter munched on kids’ menu fare and tropical juices, we loved the mahi mahi ceviche, octopus mofongo, and mahi mahi mofongo. Finally, the staff is super friendly and excellent with kids!
Day 2 in Puerto Rico with Kids
By now, you will already be loving your time in Puerto Rico with kids – I know we were! Day two of this 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids offers more island exploration, beach time, and a bit of time to rest in the afternoon or enjoy the pool at your accommodations.
Explore Cabo Rojo Together
If you have one week in Puerto Rico with kids, Cabo Rojo is a beautiful location to explore together! On day two, your first stop is the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. It is located at the main entrance of Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you will learn a lot about the ecosystems and endangered species in Puerto Rico.
Pink Salt Flats + Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo
Then, no Puerto Rico itinerary for families is complete without exploring Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo. That’s your next stop! You’ll need to get back in the car to get here, as it’s located on the other side of the wildlife refuge. As you drive, watch for the iconic pink salt flats. Sometimes, they are open for public viewing. Even if they aren’t open, there is an area where you can see them through the fence if you are interested. The beautiful, rosy color will be a fun surprise for kids!
After a quick stop, drive to Faro Los Morrillos de Cabo Rojo. Be very careful on the final approach to the lighthouse; the road is FILLED with huge potholes (at least it was when we were there – at one point, they almost stopped us from finishing the drive). There is a small parking lot at the end of the drive. Park your car here and walk the rest of the way to the lighthouse. While you cannot go inside, the grounds are stunning. Just be mindful of the high winds as you approach the cliffside.
Splash in the Waves at Playa Sucia
Finally, pack your swimsuit, water/snacks, and towels, as there are a few beaches here worth exploring. We chose Playa Sucia (just downhill along a path from the lighthouse). There are no amenities here (no changing areas or bathrooms either). However, it’s a gorgeous spot for jumping in massive waves together and meandering along the beach. There is a fair amount of shade here, too – perfect places for towels and beach bags.
Late Lunch at La Frutera
On your way back to your accommodations, stop at La Frutera for lunch. They offer lots of smoothies and yummy tropical bowls to satisfy all ages. Be prepared to wait; each one is made fresh, and they can get busy. During our family trip to Puerto Rico, we loved stopping at roadside vendors like this one to experience part of the local culture and eat our fill of tropical fruits!
Afternoon at Your Accommodations
During your family vacation to Puerto Rico with kids, building time to rest and enjoy quiet time together is essential. This afternoon is a great time to swim in the hotel pool, nap, or play card games together. If you’d rather have a more active afternoon, I’ve included a few more things to do in Puerto Rico with kids below!
Dinner at Carne Mía Restaurant
Located in Aguada, I think Carne Mía Restaurant was our favorite sit-down meal of the trip. If you have one week in Puerto Rico with kids, I highly recommend adding this restaurant to your itinerary. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a great spot with kids after a fun second day of exploring.
The staff was so fantastic! Our server was a huge part of why we loved this spot. For dinner, kids can select something yummy from the kids’ meal. Meanwhile, for parents, we recommend starting with the sopa de plátano (a flavorful soup made with fried plantains flavored with onions and cilantro). Then, try the lobster mofongo and steak-wrapped shrimp and lobster for dinner.
Day 3 in Puerto Rico with Kids
Get an early start on day three at Panaderia La Variante, where you will find some very tasty treats to kick-start your day. Since you will spend most of the morning on the road, grab a few for the drive, too. Admittedly, this is one part of our 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids that I would consider rearranging, and I’ve included notes on why below. Quick version – it was a lot of time in the car for one, very long day.
That said, it was a GREAT day and one of the best parts of our family trip to Puerto Rico. While we explored two of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, we were mighty tired by the time we returned to our home rental.
Hike at El Yunque National Park
After breakfast, head straight to El Yunque National Forest. We arrived at about 11:00 am. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, arrive earlier or plan an additional day here. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. This was one of our favorite experiences on our 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids!
When we were in Puerto Rico, reservations were required to enter El Yunque. However, reservations (at the time of publishing) have been suspended. Instead, entrance to the park is on a first-come, first-serve basis. And, admission is free.
Stop at El Portal de El Yunque on your way into the park. Here, kids can get what they need to earn their Junior Ranger badge! If you visit El Yunque, this is definitely one of the best things to do with kids in Puerto Rico!
We started our visit at La Coca Falls. It’s a popular spot, but it’s an accessible waterfall to see without needing to hike. There is a small viewing area from the road.
Hike Mt. Britton Trail
When you’re ready to explore a bit more, several excellent hiking options are available within the park. We chose (and highly recommend) the Mt. Britton Trail! While the hike is relatively short in length and duration (less than an hour), it is very steep. I mean, it’s very steep. It’s uphill the whole way to the tower. But the views are worth it! Kids will love spotting wildlife on the hike, like tropical lizards and butterflies along the way too. Then, at the trail’s end, the historic tower offers epic views of the rainforest below.
Alternatively, Angelito Trail is less than one mile, and it would be another excellent option for families. This trail leads to the Las Damas pool in the Mameyes River, popular for swimming.
After our hike, we made a few more stops to explore the park, including Baño de Oro. It’s a beautiful place for a photo opp, but you can’t swim here, so many families may find it skippable. More ideas for where to stop can be seen here.
Late Lunch at La Estación
After our El Yunque, it was time for a late lunch. We opted to try Puerto Rico’s play on BBQ at La Estación. The outdoor patio was lovely, especially since we could spot little lizards crawling around the fences. We were all tired after hiking, so it was nice to have a chill lunch. We tried the swordfish with mango butter and the brisket. Both were pretty good. While there is no kids’ menu here, I still think it’s an excellent place for lunch on any Puerto Rico itinerary for families!
Play at the Pirate-Themed Playground in Fajardo
Not too far from the restaurant, we headed to the area where our night kayak tour would embark in Fajardo. We had a few hours to spare before the tour, and weren’t really sure what we would do. Luckily, there was a playground right off the parking area! Arriving early for the night tour also means you will be more likely to find parking. If you’re traveling to Puerto Rico with kids, this epic playground is definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.
The playground has a pirate theme, which is super fun for kids. They will love being able to run around a bit and play. My daughter loved making us “walk the plank”. Likely, there will be other kids to play with, too.
Near the playground, there is a beach, public bathrooms, plenty of restaurants, and a few shops. We also took the opportunity to nap in the car a bit since we knew it would be a long day. While you’re planning your Puerto Rico itinerary, keep this area in mind if you need a play break in Fajardo.
Embark on a Night Kayak Tour of a Bioluminescent Bay
If you’re anything like us, this experience is on your Puerto Rico trip bucket list with kids! A few different outfitters offer night kayaks to the nearby bioluminescent bay. We chose (and recommend) Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours. They offer two tour times in the evening. While we opted to do the later tour time, it is still dark enough to see the bioluminescent organisms during the earlier time slot. I was worried it wouldn’t be, so we did the later time. In hindsight, the earlier time would have been better for the scope of the day and with young kids.
You will meet the guides near the embarkation area to receive instructions and meet the group. We were one of the only families in the group with kayaking experience – so this is definitely doable for all skill levels (though some semi-strenuous paddling is needed and may be difficult for some kids). The typical family kayak set-up is one parent + one child per kayak. Afterward, the guides start the tour through an ocean bay. Then, you’ll maneuver down a mangrove channel and into the lagoon.
In the lagoon, there is a brief discussion about the history and ecology of the bay. We really enjoyed learning more about the bioluminescent organisms that live here. How many you see will depend on the season. We did the tour in early April and only saw a few as we waved our hands in the water. It wasn’t the Instagram-worthy experience we envisioned, but the tour was still worth it during our family trip to Puerto Rico.
Finally, the tour takes about 3-4 hours. Bring water shoes and quick-drying clothes, you will get wet. This tour has a minimum age requirement of 6 years old.
Notes on Day 3: It Was Long! Here’s What I Might Do Differently…
Day two of our Puerto Rico family vacation was VERY full. To drive from the western side of Puerto Rico, do both El Yunque National Forest and a night kayak tour, and then go back in one day was tough. We did it all in one day, so it is doable. But, likely, most families would prefer to do this day differently (especially if kids don’t have high travel stamina or get grumpy with disrupted bedtime routines).
Instead of this super long day, you could begin or end your trip by spending two nights in San Juan. This way, you wouldn’t spend quite as much time in the car and could consolidate your itinerary a bit. The two nights in San Juan could still include everything we experienced (El Yunque and the night kayak tour), with the added benefit of more time in Old San Juan. Plus, adding another activity or two near San Juan. Hopefully, this gives you a bit of extra context to help you plan your own experience.
Day 4 in Puerto Rico with Kids
Since day three of this Puerto Rico itinerary with kids is such an intense day, day four starts with a lowkey beach experience. Parqué Colón can fill a whole day, but if you’re up for a bit of adventure, we’ve included a second, hike-in beach on this day, too. Do one or both as you please. Here’s how to spend the fourth day of your 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids!
Play Together at Parqué Colón + Lunch on the Beach
I believe Colón Beach is an absolute must for any family trip to Puerto Rico. This beach in Aguadilla is lovely, and the massive playground will leave your kids speechless. When you arrive, street parking is available. After parking, start your visit at the treehouse playground.
The giant treehouse is built into an old Banyan tree, and will undoubtedly be a massive hit with your kids. There is also a slide, swing, and spacious green space nearby. It is honestly such a great place for families to play and hang out! While kids climb and run throughout the playground, parents can also hang out at a nearby picnic table or bench.
When you’re ready for lunch, several beach vendors flank the park. We saw options for seafood, pinchos, ice cream, etc. If you see it, we recommend the octopus salad! There were a few souvenirs vendors, too. You can use one of the several picnic tables or head to the beach for a little picnic.
The beach is across the street from the treehouse. It offers golden, soft sands and calm waters. We spent most of our time on the beach, building sand castles and swimming. There is very little shade here, and we didn’t see any vendors with rentable umbrellas, so be prepared for full sun. Spending the day here with kids is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico!
Hike to Survival Beach (from Surfer’s Beach)
If you’re up for a hike and time on a secluded beach, spend the afternoon at Survival Beach. It’s one of the best things to add to any Puerto Rico itinerary for adventurous families! Survival Beach is about a 25-minute drive north of Colón Beach (but still in Aguadilla). I won’t sugarcoat it; the hike to get here is tough (short in both duration and length), but it will involve scrabbling and some climbing. The pristine beach that awaits you at the end of the hike is well worth the effort, though.
Set your GPS for Surfers’ Beach. Its huge swells make this beach popular with surfers, but it is a terrible spot for swimming (too many currents). You can watch the surfers before heading to Survivor Beach if you’re lucky. Look for the sign pointing toward Survival Beach at the end of the parking lot. This will set you on the right path.
Follow the trail through the woods, making your way along the ocean and over large rocks. The trail is filled with roots, rocks, and low-hanging branches – mind your step and your head. We also saw tons of wee lizards, birds, crabs, tidal creatures, and insects. You’ll know you’re about halfway there once you see the “tabletop” rocks in the water. Some climbing is needed on the final stretch down. The hike took us about 30 minutes each way.
Once you arrive, you will love the private ocean views and soft, golden sands. There was only one other couple on the beach when we were there. Otherwise, we had it entirely to ourselves!
Tips for Hiking to Survival Beach with Kids
- Wear closed-toed water shoes. Sandals won’t cut it.
- Pack water and snacks in a backpack or backpack cooler. Do NOT bring a handheld cooler. You will need both hands free.
- Do not swim here. The current is powerful, and the waves are high.
- Mind the tide and the waves. High tide will impact your route. And big waves can make reaching Survival Beach a challenge. We went mid-day in early April, and it worked well.
- There are no facilities here. Pack it in, pack it out.
Note: Because you can only get to Survivor Beach by hiking, this stop may not be a good fit for all families or kids. In particular, those with tiny children or who are new to hiking may not find this a suitable experience.
Late Dinner at El Grand Marnier Restaurant
End day four of your Puerto Rico trip with kids with dinner at El Grand Marnier Restaurant. Located in Aguada, this restaurant is known for its Italian spin on local dishes and mofongo. It’s a beautiful wooden building, with a lovely outdoor dining room. The staff is very kind and welcoming. In fact, you will see a lot of families dining here! We, of course, continued trying as much mofongo as possible, but the extensive menu has no shortage of great options for you to try.
Day 5 in Puerto Rico with Kids
As I said earlier, Puerto Rico with kids is best spent outdoors. And day five of this 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids is no exception. Spend the morning at one of the most beautiful places on the island, followed by another beach, Puerto Hermina (which features unique historic structures). If you love Cascada Gozalandia and prefer to spend the entire day there, do it. Puerto Hermina is easily skippable for a low-key day at the waterfall.
Cascada Gozalandia
Cascada Gozalandia (or Gozalandia Waterfall) is located in San Sebastian. No matter where you stay during your Puerto Rico family vacation, I am positive it is worth the drive! When you arrive, a staff member will collect money to park in the on-site lot (USD 10.00). Make sure you have cash. Off the parking lot, you will also see a restaurant, bathrooms, and a small pond (have your kids look for turtles!).
Two Falls to Explore
There is actually a series of waterfalls here along a beautiful river. And, it is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids. You’ll see a sign directing you from the parking lot to the waterfalls. Take the stairs, which will lead you to a path. When you reach a fork in the path, both directions lead to a waterfall. The left goes to the more iconic of the two, while the right will lead you to another cascade to explore. I recommend going left first. You will likely spend most of your time at the larger of the two falls. Alternatively, a right the fork sends you to the smaller of the two waterfalls (about a 10-minute walk). At the smaller falls, there is a rope swing to launch into the water.
Kids can swim, splash about, or wade in the shallow area at the larger of the falls, searching for fish. I recommend bringing life jackets for kids. Meanwhile, older kids and teens – or stronger swimmers – can also swim out to the base of the waterfall.
Additionally, you will notice courageous adults and teens jumping from rock outcroppings in the falls. Similarly, there is also a tiny underground cave that you can swim into. The entrance is to the right of the falls. The cave fits about two people, and you need to swim underwater for a stretch to get there. We didn’t do either of these things, but it will quickly become apparent how to do both, especially on busy days.
Tips for Visiting Cascada Gozalandia with Kids
- Bring cash for the parking fee.
- Expect a lot of stairs. There is no accessible route to the falls.
- Do not bring a stroller here; babywearing is the best option.
- Pack life jackets, swim shoes, towels, little buckets or mesh nets for fish hunting, snacks, and water bottles.
- Rainfall will change the flow and height of the water. If there has been recent rain, be mindful of the current and depth of the pool.
Looking for more recommendations? Find more family beach items here!
Playa Puerto Hermina
If you want to explore another beach with kids during your Puerto Rico trip, head to Playa Puerto Hermina. It is just under an hour’s drive from Cascada Gozalandia, in the town of Quebradillas. It’s a great spot to hang out on the beach, water surfers, and have a picnic. In fact, there are several platforms with grills along the water to encourage family outings!
Hip currents can make swimming difficult here, but wading in the water is still pleasant. The historic ruins are the big draw here. Dating back to the 18th Century, legend has it that this area was used as a storage place or a hideout for pirates!
It’s a fun place to explore, but there are better beaches for swimming and lounging, depending on your interests. If I were to do it again, I’d probably skip this stop and stay at Cascada Gozalandia longer, especially since it’s a bit of a drive for such a quick stop.
Day 6 in Puerto Rico with Kids
On day six of our 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids, start by exploring Añasco Plaza. Then, the afternoon is a “choose your own adventure” of sorts. We opted to let our daughter choose two final activities, but you may decide to approach it differently.
During our Puerto Rico trip with kids, we didn’t spend much time in Old San Juan. If this interests you and you have followed the itinerary up until now, you could also check out of your accommodations this morning and spend the final night in Old San Juan.
Explore Añasco
Start your morning in Añasco Plaza. A charming, central plaza filled with locals starting their day in Añasco, it’s a great place to get a sense of the routines of life here. Around the town square, you’ll find plenty of places to park. After parking, head to Hojaldre Añasqueña, a local bakery. Grab a few yummy treats for breakfast and head back to the plaza. Alternatively, grab coffee and breakfast from D’Coffee Shop (located right in the middle of the plaza). Let kids meander about, while you enjoy your morning pastries with a view of the fountain. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Añasco is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico.
Let the Kids Choose
For our final full day in Puerto Rico, we let our daughter decide the day’s agenda after breakfast in Añasco. We gave her a few choices of things we’d already done and a few things we hadn’t done yet. She chose to go back to Crash Boat Beach and Cascada Gozalandia. Since these are two of the best things to do in Puerto Rico with kids, we were more than happy to go back, too!
During your 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids, I encourage you to let your kids pick a few itinerary items, too! It’s such a fun way to involve them in the planning and keep them engaged.
If you’d rather pack in one or two more new things, there are some ideas for you below. I’d probably add Río Camuy Cave Park here if it were me. I wish we had explored one of Puerto Rico’s caves.
Dinner at Picapica Grill
End your family trip to Puerto Rico with dinner at Picapica Grill. A delicious food truck near Añasco, you’ll be spoiled for choice with options. We decided to split some nachos and burritos for our final dinner on the island. There is a picnic table near the truck, or you can take it to go (like we did).
Get an early night’s sleep; it’s back to San Juan in the morning.
Day 7 in Puerto Rico with Kids
It’s the last day of our 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids! We packed up early and returned to San Juan to catch our flight. It was a night flight, so we had some time to keep exploring beforehand. Since we hadn’t seen much of Old San Juan yet, we started our final day there.
Old San Juan is filled with beautiful cobblestone streets lined with brightly colorful buildings, which means simply meandering the area is fun and exciting. Plus, there are many shops and restaurants if you need a few final souvenirs, or want to get a bite to eat.
Add Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro to your itinerary if you have time. One entry ticket will get you into both locations, and children under 15 years old are free. While visiting the historic forts, families can learn about the port’s military history (roughly, colonization to WWII). Plus, the lives of the soldiers who lived and worked here during that time.
Afterward (or if you only have a short time like we did), hang out outside Castillo San Felipe del Morro. There is also a large green space here – great for playing, taking in the sea views, and walking the length of some of the fort walls. It is also a popular spot to fly kites, so you will see many people launching those, too. If interested, nearby vendors may have a few for sale.
Alternatively, Museo del Niño de Carolina may be a better option for your final morning if you’re visiting Puerto Rico with toddlers or young kids. It is located just outside San Juan, so it is an easy stop on your way to the airport.
More Things to Do in Puerto Rico with Kids
If you are looking for a few more fun things to do in Puerto Rico to fill your days with kids, this itinerary is only one example of the MANY things you can do on the island. Here are a few additional things to consider adding or swapping into your trip to Puerto Rico with kids, depending on your time and interests.
- There are outfitters for kayaking, snorkeling, and other water sports across Puerto Rico.
- Explore the caverns at Río Camuy Cave Park.
- Near El Yunque, get your thrills at Carabalí Rainforest Park, which offers ATV rides, go-karts, and more. Or, go zip-lining at Toro Verde Adventure Park.
- Learn about local ecology and history at Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve.
- Those traveling with littles should also plan to visit Museo del Niño de Carolina.
- Visit Hacienda Campo Rico and explore by ATV or horseback.
- See one or more of the smaller islands around Puerto Rico. This is especially fun if you are planning an extended visit. Consider Gilligan’s Island, Culebra, Flamenco Beach, or Cayo Icacos.
Where to Stay in Puerto Rico with Kids
Now that you know what to do in Puerto Rico with kids, let’s talk about where to stay. We chose a Vrbo called STARRY SKY VILLA for our family vacation to Puerto Rico. It was perfect for us! And, I think you will like it too.
We loved the location on the island’s western side, where it was quieter and less touristy. The home sleeps 9 (3 bedrooms, 1 bath). Plus, it features a full kitchen, an outdoor pool, and a spectacular view. The patio is perfect for meals together, too. I highly recommend it! We would definitely stay here again.
Looking for more options? Some of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico with kids include Rincón, Añasco, and Cabo Rojo. Each offers quick access to all the things to do on this itinerary. Each offers a variety of hotel or home rental accommodations. Though we haven’t stayed there, Rincon Beach Resort in Añasco, tends to be a family favorite for its laid-back vibe and beach access.
Enjoy Puerto Rico with Your Kids!
I hope you found this 7-day itinerary for Puerto Rico with kids helpful in planning your own trip! We absolutely adored our time on the island and can’t wait to return. If you’re on the fence about Puerto Rico with kids, don’t be! I highly recommend planning a trip. Puerto Rico is such a fun place to visit with kids, featuring great food, beautiful beaches, tropical hikes, and so much more. Have a great family trip to Puerto Rico!
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