Think you know Puerto Rico? From U.S. travel perks to local culture, here are some fun and interesting facts about Puerto Rico that might surprise you. Did you know U.S. travelers don’t need a passport to visit? Or that the island uses the U.S. dollar and your phone works without an international plan? These useful Puerto Rico facts are just the beginning — let’s dive into what makes this Caribbean paradise so unique and why there is so much to love about the Island.
Essential Facts About Puerto Rico to Know
Planning a trip? These useful and interesting facts about Puerto Rico will help you get ready. From language and currency to safety and weather, here are some essential Puerto Rico information every traveler should know before visiting the island.
Languages
Spanish and English are the official languages of Puerto Rico, though Spanish is more commonly spoken. In tourist areas, English is widely understood, and many locals speak both. You’ll also hear “Spanglish,” a mix that reflects the island’s cultural fusion — one of the many fun facts about Puerto Rico for travelers to know.
Learn more about the People of Puerto Rico
Location
Puerto Rico is the smallest island in the Greater Antilles, nestled in the Caribbean, just east of the Dominican Republic and west of the Virgin Islands. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, Puerto Rico’s location makes it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tropical escape with easy access from the mainland U.S.
Currency
The official currency of Puerto Rico is the U.S. dollar, making it convenient for American travelers since there's no need to exchange money. You’ll find ATMs, credit card options, and cash widely accepted throughout the island, so managing money while visiting is simple and straightforward.
No passport needed for U.S. travelers
As a U.S. territory, American citizens don’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, which makes it an easy and hassle-free getaway. Just bring a valid ID for identification at your point of entry, and you’re all set to enjoy the island’s unique culture, landscapes, and attractions without the extra passport requirements.
Transportation
You can get to Puerto Rico by air or by sea. Airlines such as Frontier Airlines, Delta, American Airlines, United, Southwest, Jet Blue, and Spirit Airlines have direct flights to the Island. To give you an idea, the Island receives over 1,300 weekly non-stop flights and almost 1,000 direct flights. Most of these flights come from cities like New York, Boston, Orlando, Philadelphia, Hartford, Dallas, Houston, Baltimore, Washington, and Chicago.
Small airlines and charters provide easy access to the small islands of Vieques and Culebra.
Weather
The climate in Puerto Rico is warm and tropical (i.e., expect an afternoon shower during the summer months). The temperature varies between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. It can go down to about 60 degrees in the central mountainous area during December and January.
Phone Plans
American travelers do not need to opt for international plans to make calls since their phones will work perfectly on the Island. In Puerto Rico, there is a 4GLTE network; 5G is available at some locations. In remote areas of the Island, cellular service and data coverage can be spotty, so always plan if you're going into the mountains, for example.
Population
There are around 3.2 million people in Puerto Rico, and close to 5 million Puerto Ricans living in the U.S.
Natural Wonders
Puerto Rico is home to some of the most unique natural features in the Caribbean. Explore El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, known for its lush trails and waterfalls. The island’s mountainous backbone, the Cordillera Central, offers scenic drives and cooler climates. Don’t miss the glowing bioluminescent bays in Vieques, Fajardo, and Lajas—one of the most magical and fun facts about Puerto Rico that surprises many visitors.
Safety Tips
You don’t need a passport when traveling from the mainland US, but if you travel with one, store it alongside your valuables in your hotel’s safe. It is best to carry a smaller ID or a copy of your passport. Don’t leave any valuables, such as purses, bags, or luggage, in plain sight when going out in a rental car. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid wandering alone at night in isolated areas. Consider contacting a tour operator to simplify your travels to various parts of the Island. Limit the cash you carry and take only what you need. After all, most places accept credit cards. Finally, be respectful of residents.
Fun Facts About Puerto Rico
- The legal age to consume alcoholic beverages in Puerto Rico is 18 years.
- The Island has almost 300 miles of coastline and nearly the same number of beaches.
- Puerto Rico has the largest shopping center in the Caribbean, Plaza Las Américas, and the most extensive rum factory globally, Casa Bacardí.
- El Yunque is the only rainforest in the U.S. Forest System and is in Puerto Rico. The forest receives over 120 inches of rain every year.
- Puerto Rico is home to three of the world’s five bioluminescent bays — including Mosquito Bay in Vieques, the brightest one on Earth.
- Although Puerto Rico is an American territory, it competes as an individual country in Miss Universe's contests and the Olympics.
- Flamenco beach, in Culebra, has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Beaches in the world on multiple occasions.
- The piña colada was invented in Puerto Rico.
- The remains of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León are in a tomb inside the San Juan Cathedral.
- Puerto Rico’s national animal is the coquí, a tiny tree frog famous for its distinctive “co-kee” call heard across the island at night.
Plan Your Escapade to Puerto Rico
Before you visit, get to know the island with these fun and interesting facts about Puerto Rico. From U.S. travel perks to unique cultural traditions, these insights will help you explore with confidence — and maybe even surprise you!
Puerto Rico is full of beautiful hidden gems, culinary experiences and a culture as warm and welcoming as our tropical weather.
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