We have the opportunity to spend a short amount of time in Puerto Rico. I’ve started looking into it, but thought I might ask here if anyone has been, and what they would recommend.
It would be part of a planned trip, but we can adjust the return flight for a few day layover in PR, if it’s worth it. I know it was messed up by the hurricane, and rebuilding aid has been very slow.
Famous for sandy beaches. I’ll bet they are still there.
We’re not really beach people. We like nature, culture, and historical stuff. Last Caribbean cruise we did, we spent 1 day on the beach. Every other stop we found something else (caves, waterfalls, etc).
I would recommend it. The well developed areas, culture, historical stuff, etc, are largely untouched by the hurricane and of course nature can often recover quicker than infrastructure.
I will say that the one cave, I forget the name, that is in the side of a cliff face is now closed (or was when I last read about it). I recall reading that it became unstable or dangerous, or some other reason. Of course, the waterfalls remain. A day trip in a car hitting various spots was one of our favorite activities when we were there.
On all the cruises we went on we spent the majority of our time in the casino. Royal Caribean and Carnival are much richer for it.
The major problem with cruising in the Caribbean is the guests you travel with. Usually young and eager to get to the beach. On the one I did, they claimed all the chairs near the pools everyday with towels for their friends. Cruises to Canada or Europe are much better in my experience.
Perhaps the Arecibo Observatory?
If it’s open?
ralph
Alas, Arecibo collapsed a few years ago. To my knowledge they haven’t fixed it.
I also agree the Caribbean cruises tend towards younger people. Alaska, Europe, and Asia tend to be our style. But we did one, and we were able to see some sights that weren’t beaches (St Georges, Jamaica, and a few others). Looking forward to St Lucia…it has a volcano. 
Puerto Rico is unquestionably worth a quick trip! The island boasts breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural heritage. I recommend visiting Old San Juan, which has vibrant streets and storied forts like El Morro. Particularly in Vieques, the bioluminescent bays provide a surreal experience. The El Yunque National Forest offers amazing hikes and waterfalls you shouldn’t miss. Even though the hurricane’s aftermath is still felt, many places are lively and friendly. Savor delectable regional cuisine, and consider calling local companies while you’re there. It’s a stunning location that you should visit!
Went to PR a few years back, and wife and I really enjoyed it. It exceeded my expectations, and we’ve talked about going back as the island is really big compared to the other Caribbean islands we have visited. As some posters have stated:
It is quite nice. Especially around Christmas time when there are lots of decorations.
The fort is somewhat interesting and worth seeing.
Beware! Last time we were there (port of call on a cruise), we walked to Bacardi for the tour (and tasting I presume) and since we had a minor with us (my daughter), they wouldn’t even allow us into the building.
We are planning a short stay before flying home. Haven’t nailed down any activities yet, but we’ll hit a few highlights. If we really like it, we can always come back in the future.
Thanks for all the input.