Planning Ahead for Puerto Rico: What to Pack, How to Get Around and When to Visit

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Puerto Rico is a beautiful island with gorgeous scenery, vibrant culture, and wonderful waves. As it is a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico is an amazing tropical getaway for those living in the continental United States to travel to without a passport. Still, the climate and available amenities can differ from what travelers are used to back home, so it is crucial to be prepared ahead of your visit. Follow along for helpful tips on what to pack, how to get around, and when may be the best time to visit.

What Should I Pack for Puerto Rico

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As Puerto Rico is a relatively small, tropical island with large, spacious beaches, you can expect to pack short-sleeved shirts, shorts and sandals, as well as beach attire and accessories. However, it can rain fairly regularly on the island, usually in short bursts, especially during the summer months, so it is a good idea to pack a long-sleeved shirt, such as a hooded sweatshirt or a rain jacket. Additionally, if you plan to do moderate walking or hiking during your trip, it is advisable to bring a good-quality pair of walking shoes.

Outside of clothing, you may wish to pack sunscreen as well as any necessary ointments or medications, as you may find that the availability of certain kinds and brands of these products varies from that in the continental United States. For air travel, please be advised that the carry-on allowance for liquids is limited to containers of 3.4 ounces or less; larger containers of liquid are permitted in checked baggage. Visit tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-rule for complete information.

For any items you pack, be sure to visit the website of the Transportation Security Administration for complete information on what is and what is not allowed in carry-on and checked baggage: tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all.

 

How Can I Get Around Puerto Rico

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In much of Puerto Rico, ridesharing (such as Uber or Lyft) is unavailable, with Uber only available in the metro areas of the island like San Juan. Throughout the island, however, there are numerous taxi and transportation services, including several in Rincon such as Rincon Taxi and Local Juan Transportation.

If you plan to travel extensively, however, it is advisable to rent a vehicle. Vehicle rentals can be arranged in advance at the airport of your arrival, or you can arrange a vehicle rental where you are staying on the island. In Rincon, Wavy Car Rentals and Angelo’s Car Rental are two popular vehicle rental services.

 

When Is The Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico

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Puerto Rico is a wonderful place to visit year-round, although certain times of the year may better suit your needs. From the end of fall to the beginning of spring, Puerto Rico is in its dry season, and the day-to-day weather is a little more predictable. Also during the winter months, the waves are bigger and stronger, which is ideal for an experienced, advanced surfer. The big waves and consistently sunny weather bring large crowds, so flights and accommodations are more expensive and may be less available. 

From the end of spring to the beginning of fall, Puerto Rico is in its rainy season, although it generally only rains in brief bursts rather than the full day. Additionally, the waves are smaller and weaker, which is ideal for a beginner or inexperienced surfer. Because it is the island’s off-season, flights and accommodations run cheaper than during the winter months. Maria’s offers a lower season rate on villa bookings from May 1 – October 31.

Now that you know what to pack, how to get around, and when to visit, all that’s left is to plan your stay, and Maria’s can offer you the experience of a lifetime. When you’re ready to stay with us, booking is done through Twin Palms, Maria’s rental, and onsite management. Please visit our booking page on this website to view the availability of Maria’s and fill out our convenient contact form. If you have any additional questions regarding Maria’s, you may call Elizabeth at 787-685-6648 (español: Cristina at 787-449-3673).