Taking part in water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico is a classic and an absolute must when visiting this Caribbean island. In a tropical paradise with lush vegetation, captivating waterfalls, and white sand beaches, Puerto Rican warm, turquoise waters steal the show for tourists.
It’s no secret that beaches in Puerto Rico are from another world, being the perfect place for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, water sports, and so much more. However, you can find many interesting spots besides beaches, such as waterfalls, underground caves, natural pools, and an amazing bioluminescent bay.
So, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Puerto Rico offers the greatest natural attractions for aquatic enthusiasts seeking the perfect tropical escape.
With that said, grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into the best ways you can enjoy these magical waters!
Water Activities in San Juan Puerto Rico for an Adventurous Trip | Beaches, Tours, Sports, and More!
You might have googled “water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico” and become overwhelmed with websites, tours, and advertisements. There’s a lot you can do around the island and, logically, we want to make the most of our trip by trying a little bit of everything.
So, here is a compilation of the top activities that will make your trip an unforgettable adventure.
After reading this guide, your only problem will be how to fit each of these thrilling activities into your San Juan itinerary!
1. Spend the Day at the Beach – Best Beaches in San Juan Puerto Rico
San Juan is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, from the bustling shores and vibrant atmosphere of Isla Verde to the serene crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands of Flamenco Beach.
Unlike other vacation destinations, San Juan has miles and miles of uncrowded beaches that are great for swimming, doing watersports, or just enjoying the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Some of the best beaches in San Juan include:
- Condado Beach – here you’ll have more of a Miami beach kind of atmosphere, with luxurious beachside resorts and many restaurants and shopping areas within walking distance. Head to Condado Lagoon for water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
- El Escambron – located in Puerta de Tierra, between Old San Juan and Condado. It has tranquil waters which are good for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can even spot sea turtles.
- Isla Verde Beach – great for families with kids as it’s one of the safest beaches for swimming and learning to surf. It has a vibrant atmosphere and many restaurants and cafes nearby.
- Playa Peña – if you want a beach that’s not crowded or touristy, has nice views, and is only a short walk from Old San Juan, you’ve just found it! This one is great for couples seeking a quiet beach for a romantic walk or a picnic.
Where To Stay Near San Juan Beaches
- Budget ($) — CasaBlanca Hotel (Near Playa Peña)
- Best Value ($$) — Hampton Inn Suites San Juan (Isla Verde)
- Luxe ($$$) — Hyatt House San Juan (Near El Escambron)
- Unique ($-$$$) — La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort (Condado)
2. Explore the Natural Pools & Waterslides of El Yunque Rainforest
2. Explore the Natural Pools & Waterslides of El Yunque RainforestIf you’ve never heard about El Yunque Rainforest, it’s a tropical rainforest with mesmerizing nature and wildlife. The site welcomes all visitors to enjoy the flora and fauna, hiking trails, waterfalls, observation towers, and some of the best water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico that the whole family can enjoy.
You can spend the day exploring the forest as you spot different animal species and learn about the local ecosystem. Along the way, stop by natural pools and rock slides to take a refreshing dip or a rope swing into the water. It’s worth mentioning that you’ll be in the company of an experienced tour guide who will show you the way through the forest’s different highlights, making sure you’re safe and have a great time during your day in El Yunque.
At the end of the tour, grab a delicious Puerto Rican meal at the on-site restaurant.
Stay Here Near the Forest
- Budget ($) — Yunque Mar Beach Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Casa Alternavida
- Luxe ($$$) — Margaritaville Vacation Club
- Unique ($-$$$) — The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort
3. Take a Night Kayak Excursion at Condado Lagoon
Taking a kayak tour is always an exciting experience, but doing it at night while surrounded by the flickering city lights is simply unbeatable.
This tour provides you with a clear bottom kayak, LED lights, and neon paint for your face to glow your way across Condado Lagoon. You’ll also be accompanied by friendly guides who will instruct you in case you never kayaked before.
Book your tour here and experience Puerto Rico in a unique way!
Where to Stay in Condado
- Budget ($) — Coral Princess Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Olive Boutique Hotel
- Luxe ($$$) — Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
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4. Go on a Zipline and Waterfall Rappelling Adventure
For those who love including some adrenaline and thrill in their trips, you’ll love these water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico that will make your heart race and is suitable for all skill levels. Only a short drive from San Juan, Carite State Forest offers over 6000 acres of lush vegetation, picnic areas, natural swimming pools, and beautiful waterfalls.
After being picked up from your hotel, this tour will take you on an incredible day trip hiking through the forest, rappelling down waterfalls, and ziplining down a mountain with stunning views of the treetops. Along the way, you’ll learn about the indigenous culture and history of the area from your guides.
At the end of the tour, you’re safely returned to your San Juan hotel, but not before enjoying a delicious, complimentary, homemade meal!
Stay Here
- Budget ($) — Hyatt Place Manati
- Best Value ($$) — Hampton Inn Suites
- Luxe ($$$) — Hyatt Vacation Club at Hacienda del Mar
- Unique ($-$$$) — Dorado Beach A Ritz-Carlton Reserve
5. Sail the Caribbean Waters on a Boat Tour
Imagine gently sailing across the crystal-clear waters of Puerto Rico, breathing in and out to the relaxing sound of the ocean, with calm winds caressing your skin and the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink, orange, and gold – all while sipping on a refreshing cocktail, of course.
Sounds romantic, doesn’t it? That’s how it feels to take a sunset boat trip in San Juan. It’s a good place for celebrating a special occasion, like an anniversary date or your last day on the island of Puerto Rico.
Take a look at the top-rated boat tours on TripAdvisor:
- Icacos Deserted Island Catamaran & Picnic Cruise (from Fajardo)
- Private Bay Tour with Free Drinks and Tapas
Stay Here
- Budget ($) — Acacia Boutique Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Condado Palm Inn
- Luxe ($$$) — Cervantes Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — El Colonial
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6. Kayak on a Bioluminescent Bay
6. Kayak on a Bioluminescent BayKayaking on a bioluminescent bay has to be one of the best things to do in San Juan at night and one of the most extraordinary things to see in nature.
With each stroke of your paddle, you can see how the microorganisms –dinoflagellates– living in the water start glowing with a mesmerizing blue-green light beneath you, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, a romantic setting, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this wonderful tour on Laguna Grande’s bioluminescent bay promises an immersive journey you won’t forget.
Where to Stay By The Bioluminescent Bay
- Budget ($) — Fajardo Inn Resort
- Best Value ($$) — Las Casitas Village
- Luxe ($$$) — Wyndham Grand Golf & Beach Resort
- Unique ($-$$$) — El Conquistador Resort
7. Spot Sea Turtles on a Snorkel Tour
This list of water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico would not be complete without snorkeling – one of the best things to do around the island!
Head down into Puerto Rico’s underwater landscapes on the shallow waters of the coast of San Juan, known for being an ideal spot for turtle sightings and other aquatic creatures. You don’t need previous snorkeling experience since your guide will provide you with a pre-departure lesson as well as all the equipment you need. You can even take home a GoPro video of your excursion to keep it as a lasting memory.
Book your guided snorkel tour here.
Stay Here
- Budget ($) — Acacia Boutique Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Condado Palm Inn
- Luxe ($$$) — Cervantes Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — El Colonial
8. Paddleboard at Condado Lagoon
8. Paddleboard at Condado LagoonA paddleboard rental at Condado Lagoon is a great way to experience the beauty of San Juan on your own or with friends without leaving the city. Spend 1-2 hours exploring the lagoon, enjoying the scenic views, and looking for wildlife such as manatees and sea turtles.
No matter if you’re a pro or a total beginner, you can get an introduction class with all the basics before starting your adventure.
Here are two Paddle Board rentals I suggest:
- Condado Lagoon Paddleboard Rental – by Vip Adventures Puerto Rico
- Condado Lagoon Paddleboard Rental – by Aqua Experiences
Stay Near Condado Lagoon
- Budget ($) — Coral Princess Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Olive Boutique Hotel
- Luxe ($$$) — Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort
9. Explore Hidden Caves and Waterfalls
9. Explore Hidden Caves and WaterfallsEscape the crowds of San Juan and venture into a challenging adventure off the beaten path you’re going to want to repeat over and over. Join this small-group tour where you’ll hike through rocks and rivers as you stop by hidden springs and waterfalls. When you reach Arenales Caves, you’ll be able to swim and take lots of pictures inside this surreal underground paradise.
Stay Here
- Budget ($) — Acacia Boutique Hotel
- Best Value ($$) — Condado Palm Inn
- Luxe ($$$) — Cervantes Hotel
- Unique ($-$$$) — El Colonial
10. Learn Scuba Diving
Dip into the depths of the Caribbean Sea as you discover the hidden treasures of Puerto Rico’s marine world through scuba diving. This is the best scuba diving tour for beginners since it begins by teaching you the basics, and once you’re ready, you can dive into the open water accompanied by an instructor. You’ll get to see coral reefs and marine life, such as tropical fish and sea turtles.
This is one of those water activities in San Juan Puerto Rico that will stay with you as a cherished memory.
Stay Here
- Budget ($) — Hyatt House San Juan
- Best Value ($$) — Courtyard
- Luxe ($$$) — Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino
- Unique ($-$$$) — Condado Ocean Club
Last Thoughts
Without a doubt, San Juan, Puerto Rico is a playground for adventurous travelers who love exploring and immersing in the beauty of nature.
From calm and intimate sceneries for relaxation to more challenging and thrilling adventures, this Caribbean island offers authentic local experiences for all tastes and needs. If you were wondering what to do this summer in San Juan, I hope you’re even more excited about your trip now that you know all the wonderful activities and places waiting for you in this tropical paradise.
Safe travels and have lots of fun!
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
