20 Best Outdoor Things to Do in Puerto Rico This Summer
- Bianca Paola Gonzalez
- Jul 15
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 16
When I was in school, I always looked forward to summer—the excitement of no classes, endless fun, and the occasional summer camp. Sure, those camps used to spike my anxiety at first, but I usually ended up enjoying them more than I expected.
As an adult, not much has…changed? Except for the fact that now work goes on as usual. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make time for some fun in the sun, right?
In this post, I’m sharing 20 outdoor activities you can enjoy during the summer in Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking to soak up some Vitamin D, break a sweat, or just relax—there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Disclaimer: Some links in this post lead to external websites, including informational resources and local activity providers. These links are based on my own research and are provided for convenience. I am not affiliated with or sponsored by any of the organizations or companies mentioned, nor do I receive compensation from them. Inclusion of a link does not imply endorsement, and I have not necessarily used or experienced the products or services offered.
To read in Spanish, click here
Beach
Puerto Rico has some of the most beautiful beaches and you can’t spend a summer on an island like ours without going to at least one of them. To mention a few:
Puerto Nuevo Beach, Vega Baja
Crash Boat, Aguadilla
Buyé Beach, Cabo Rojo
Montones Beach,Isabela
Flamenco Beach, Culebra
Mar Chiquita, Manati
Cerro Gordo Beach, Vega Alta
Here you’ll find a list of additional beaches.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Hike:
If you’re craving fresh air and nature, hiking is a perfect way to stretch your legs and soak in Puerto Rico’s natural beauty. Trails range from beginner-friendly to full-on pro-mode.
For a list of hiking trails click here.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Kayak
For the water lovers, kayaking gives you a mix of fun, relaxation, and adventure. Not to mention, it’s a great arm workout.
A few places where you can put your arms skills to the test, while enjoying a peaceful water ride are:
Rivers and Waterfalls
Hiking through lush greenery to end up at a magical waterfall? Sign me up. Is it cold? Yes. Will you break a sweat? Most likely. But is it worth it? Of course.
Here are a view waterfalls worth visiting:
Charco El Mangó at Adjuntas
Rio Las Tinajas at Fajardo
Charco El Hippie at Naguabo
Charco El Ataúd at Adjuntas
Salto Collores at Juana Díaz
For more rivers and waterfalls here.
Source: West Indies Travel
Ziplining
For those thrill-seeking adventurers, soar through the air and take in the island from a different point of view: ziplining.
Some companies that offer these services are:
Pedal Kayak
If you’re looking for something a little more on the low-key side, pedal kayaking is perfect and it might give you a nice leg workout as well.
Check out these companies to give pedal kayak a try:
Four-track
Want to get your heart rate up? If you're into speed, mud, and off-road adventure, hop on a four track and drive to your heart’s content.
To experience the thrill, consider:
Archery
For a more relaxing, fun, and focused driven activity, plus a chance to channel your inner Katniss Everdeen, try Archery with:
Paddle Board
Stand-up paddleboarding is a full-body workout that also helps you slow down and take in the natural surroundings.
Whether you're at a beach, lagoon, or bay be sure to check out these sites to book your paddle board activity:
Picnic
Sometimes all you need is a blanket, snacks, and good company. Summer is the perfect time for a picnic at a park, beach, or even a mountain.
A few places worth considering are:
Fly a Kite
Flying a kite is one of those activities that just lets your inner child run free. If you’re flying a kite or taking your kids to do so, enjoy the simplicity and joy of watching a kite dance in the sky.
The green field of Castillo San Felipe del Morro is the most popular place in Puerto Rico to fly a kite. Be sure to spot nearby kiosks to purchase yours.
Camp
If you’re looking to get away from the city and sleep under the stars, go on a camping trip — be it on a mountain, beach, forest, or even having a more elevated experience by glamping.
A couple of places where you can enjoy this experience are:
You can find more camping site options here.
Source: Discover Puerto Rico
Ride a Bike or Go for a Walk
Whether you're pedaling through a coastal path or strolling a nature boardwalk, biking and walking are great ways to explore while staying active and soaking in the scenery.
A couple of trails worth visiting are:
Drive- in-Cinema
Spend a cozy time outdoors while watching a movie at a Drive-in-Cinema— a perfect way to enjoy a summer night in Puerto Rico.
Currently, the only Drive-in-Cinema on the island is Auto Cine Santana in Arecibo
Jetski
Feel the wind in your face on a Jetski water ride, a great activity for beach lovers who want something a bit more speedy and thrilling.
For rentals, a few companies to consider are:
Skydiving
Are you an adrenaline enthusiast? Then skydiving is for you, even if it’s your first time or a recurring one. And what better place to do it than over an island paradise?
Do your research to see which company you’d like to do it with. I leave you three options I found below.
Surfing
Puerto Rico has great surf spots for both first timers and pros. So, grab a board and catch some waves, but be safe and mindful of weather conditions. Stay alert and follow local authorities’ safety warnings.
Here are a few companies that offer surfing lessons:
Water bikes
Think of it as tropical biking.
Check these companies’ website to plan your water bike experience:
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Snorkeling gives you a beautiful opportunity to discover Puerto Rico’s marine life, from coral reefs to sea turtles, without going too deep into the ocean. However, if you want to dive deeper, scuba diving might be a better fit for you.
Here are a few companies that offer you either one experience or both:
Outdoor yoga
If you’re looking to start your morning with a stretch and a peaceful mindset, try outdoor yoga— especially on the beach with the sounds of the waves to ground and calm you.
Although different organizations, entities, or freelance instructors might hold an outdoor class here and there, Santosa Yoga & Health offers them as part of their services, so that can be a reliable reference to schedule your class ahead of time. Regardless, I encourage you to do your research beforehand.
BONUS: Waterpark
Whether to reconnect with your inner child (or take your actual child), visiting a waterpark is great for pure, no-pressure fun.
Puerto Rico has a few waterparks, but here are the ones I feel might be a slightly better fit for adults:
So there you have it—20 outdoor things to do this summer in Puerto Rico (plus a little bonus at the end, because why not?). Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, looking to relax by the water, or just trying to spend less time indoors, I hope this list gives you a few ideas to make the most of the season.
Summer doesn’t have to be about big plans or expensive getaways. Sometimes all it takes is a towel, a little sunshine, and a half-decent playlist. So go out there, get a little sweaty, a little salty, maybe even a little sunburned (but wear sunscreen, please), and make this summer one to remember.
If you end up trying any of these, let me know! I’d love to hear what you enjoyed—or what you’d add to the list.
Be sure to download the list below or save it on your Summer Pinterest board for quick and easy access. ☀️
