This is the blog for you if you are looking for an affordable way to unwind and destress in a tropical paradise. Below is your Puerto Rico Travel Guide to Fun Thing To Do in Isla Verde Beach and options for beachfront stays in PR (Puerto Rico).
This was my first time in Puerto Rico and will not be the last. It has been on my bucket list for years and I am happy I could cross it off. If you have never been to PR, then this travel guide will help you plan your next vacation trip.
Reasons To Plan A Vacation To Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico offers an unforgettable experience with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re exploring the stone streets of Old San Juan, relaxing on gold sand beaches like Isla Verde, or hiking through the lush El Yunque Rainforest, there’s something for every traveler.
With its warm climate all year round, friendly locals, and no passport required for U.S. citizens, Puerto Rico is an easily accessible and captivating destination. This Caribbean getaway is the perfect choice for your next vacation.
Fun Water Activities
Isla Verde Beach is a hub for fun water activities. Its warm aqua-blue seas and smooth sands make it ideal for both relaxation and adrenaline-rushed activities. However, come prepared to spend a buck or two.
Fun Water Activities Includes:
(1) Jet skiing: Rent a jet ski for an hour and enjoy the thrill of speeding over water.
(2) Parasailing: This may seem daunting, but if you build up the courage to fly high above the beach for stunning coastline views, it will be worth all the memories.
(3) Snorkeling: Discover the undersea world, including colorful marine life and exotic coral reefs.
(4) Paddleboarding and Kayaking: These are not only fun activities, but they are also a good workout. Glide calmly along the shoreline, perfect for an early morning picturesque exploration.
(5) Banana Boat Rides: This fun activity is popular among tourists and is ideal for groups. This bouncing ride provides excitement as you are pulled across the water. You may also rent a boat for a relaxing cruise on the ocean.
Isla Verde’s bustling watersports culture caters to everyone, whether you are a thrill-seeker or looking for a more relaxed experience.
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Where Is san Juan?
San Juan is the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, a United States territory on the Caribbean Sea. It is located on the northeast shore of the island of Puerto Rico.
San Juan is a major cultural, political, and economic center renowned for its historic sites, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches.
The city is a popular tourist attraction, combining colonial heritage, modern conveniences, and natural beauty.
Fun Things to do in isla VerdE Beach
CAROLINA, PR.
I originally booked a beachfront stay in Fajardo, a small town in the eastern region of PR approximately an hour drive from the Airport. Farjardo reminds me of my vacation in Puerto Morelos, a small beach town in Mexico.
Isla Verde Beach vs. Fajardo
I decided to change to Isla Verde Beach for a more touristy experience. Did I make the right decision? Not sure. However, I still had a great time. Based on prior research, my perception of Isla Verde Beach was similar to the energetic vibes I got from my stay in South Beach and 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen Mexico.
Isla Verde Beach PR has a good night life, but is more reserved than what I expected.
There are so many things to see and see that one visit would not be enough. However, here are some suggestions for fun entertaining activities to do during your visit.
Distrito T-mobile is not a phone store, but what I describe as a food and entertainment hub. If you are in Puerto Rico, I recommend that you visit especially on the weekend.
Distrito T-Mobile, located in the heart of San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a top entertainment and lifestyle venue.
I learned that this hub was opened in 2020 and features a vibrant mix of restaurants, bars, shopping, zip lining, live music, and weekly events. There is something to do for everyone of any age.
Coca-Cola Music Hall
This entertaining hub houses the Coca-Cola Music Hall, Toro Verde Urban Park, and a large LED screen plaza. It has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The intended aim of Distrito T-Mobile is to highlight the island’s vibrant culture while also offering a world-class entertainment experience.
Visit their website HERE to learn about their entertainment events.
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El Yunque Rainforest, is located in the northeastern part of Puerto Rico. It is a must-see tourist activity for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Unfortunately, I could not visit because it rained all day on the day I was scheduled to go. However, I learned that it is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System.
It provides a one-of-a-kind experience complete with enjoying the lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls, and learning about the diverse species of plants and trees.
Purchase Your Tickets Tours Through Expedia
Hiking Tours are available for visitors. You can book this entire trip with Expedia in addition to purchasing tickets to top tourist attractions.
For affordable tickets, visit HERE. I looked forward to swimming in the cool river and admiring the stunning vistas from the forest’s highest peaks.
El Yunque seems to be a tropical paradise teeming with biodiversity. It is said to be the home to rare species such as the Puerto Rican parrot, and promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.
How Far is El Yunque Rain Forrest?
The forest is approximately 40 to 45 minutes from Isla Verde Beach. An Uber driver informed me that taxis are only permitted up to a specific point near the Forrest.
Tourists or visitors will need to walk roughly ten minutes into the forest. If a taxi driver crosses the cut-off point, they may face a fine of more than $1,000. Yikes!
Lesson learned: Weather is sometimes unpredictable; it “changes like a green lizard.” Always recheck the weather before planning any outdoor activities.
Old san juan
Puerto Rico
If you are into old historical buildings and stone-paved roads, then this area of Puerto Rico is recommended. One of the main reasons for visiting was to see what the hype was about Old San Juan.
Old San Juan was not on my agenda because It never appealed to me. However, the Food Explora in me could not give up visiting a highly recommended restaurant in Old San Juan. My review of the eatery will be showcased later on in this blog.
How Far Is El Verde Beach From Old San Juan?
For about $15, in less than 15 minutes, an Uber driver will drop you off in Old San Juan. The day was overcast but very humid. But the cool breeze from the ocean helped to soften the torture. However, I would rather have warm/hot weather over any cold/freezing weather.
Make sure you wear comfortable sneakers or shoes and apply sunscreen. To explore the island, you will be walking a lot.
Reasons To Visit Old San Juan, Puerto Rico?
Old San Juan is a must-see location for visitors looking for a combination of history, culture, and vibrant energy in Puerto Rico.
With its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial architecture, and centuries-old fortresses, travelers will be transported to another era.
I will encourage you to stroll through the different streets, visit and support local craft shops and street food vendors, or enjoy real Puerto Rican food at one of its cozy eateries.
Beyond its historical attraction, Old San Juan has breathtaking ocean views, greenery and a bustling arts culture, making it an ideal stop for visitors looking to discover what many describe as the “Soul of Puerto Rico.”
Nostalgic Feeling of Kite Flying In Old San Juan, PR.
Watching the children play in the grass overlooking the ocean and families fly kites reminded me of kite season in Jamaica when I was a child. The main difference was that it was very competitive.
We often add razor blades on the tail of the kite and try to cut the thread of the other Kiters that held the kite suspended in the air.
The Making Of the Kite
My brother and our friends made kites out of coconut branches, bamboo, plastic bags, and old sheets or clothes for the tail.
We couldn’t afford glue, so we came up with a creative solution: make glue from flour and water boiled together into a paste.
This was used to glue and secure the plastic components to the bamboo kite frame. This same glue method was used by promoters to hang poster onto street light post and walls in the community.
The Point 8 Pool Bar is a short 3 to 5-minute walk from my Isla Verde Beach condo. With Its lively music scene, it is an ideal spot to make new friends, play pool, listen to good music, and have a few drinks.
Restaurants in isla verde Beach, PR.
Puerto Rico is a dynamic destination for all the greedy foodies, particularly those who love Spanish and Mexican cuisines.
The culinary scene in PR is vibrant and reflects the cultural heritage and diverse flavors that are influenced by the Spanish, African and Taino people. To learn more about this food history, visit my blog HERE.
The Puerto Rican Food Culture
Puerto Rican food scene not only offers traditional dishes such as Mofongo (mashed green plantains), Arroz con Gandules. (rice and pigeon peas) and Cerdo Frito (fried pork), but also includes international cuisines making it a calling ground for for visitors from all over the world.
There are so many PR dishes and foods to try that a single visit to the island would not be enough.
Below are my honest reviews of the restaurants and the dishes I tried during my stay in Isla Verde Beach, Puerto Rico.
I believe this blog will give you some insight and guide into the PR food culture.
My first dinning experience in Isla Verde Beach, Puerto Rico was at Metropol Restaurant and Bar. It is within a 5-minute walk from where I stayed. The restaurant’s décor resembles an upscale version of a classic diner.
I couldn’t resist trying their mofongo. At the time of my visit, the only option was the Diced Beef Mofongo.
Unfortunately, this was possibly the worst mofongo I have ever had. My Shrimp Mofongo With Coconut Sauce recipe on my blog is ten times better.
The pork looked and tasted like it had been re-fried five times; it was dry and chewy. My dish had more onions than pork, and they were really oily.
Their mofongo was cooked with plantains, but the flavor and texture were not particularly appealing.
The Passion Fruit Margaritta and the Medella Beer were refreshingly good. I would recommend you visit this restaurant but order something different on the menu.
An acquaintance who had recently visited recommended Barrachina Restaurant in Old San Juan. She advised me to try the red snapper dish.
Barrachina has both indoor and outdoor dining areas, as well as a bar. The natural plants, lizards, and water fountains made the outside eating area feel like dining in a tropical paradise.
What Should I Order At Barrachina Restaurant?
The workers were polite and helpful. The Whole Red Snapper Fried Fish was served with white rice, vegetables, and plantains.
Puerto Rican cuisine is notable for its generous use of seasoning. From the first bite, I could tell the snapper fish was well-seasoned.
I could not resist ordering their Shrimp Mofongo in a tomato or creole-based sauce. This is the quality mofongo dish I expected from the Metropol Restaurant.
The Mofungo was soft, moist, and buttery. The fish was so big, I had to ask for a doggy bag to go. To go with these dishes, I ordered a refreshing Margarita.
Lupi’s Mexican Grill and Sports Cantina in Isla Verde Beach is just a short walk from the condo. The restaurant offers Mexican-inspired cuisine and delicious beverages in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
As soon as I walked into Lupi’s restaurant, the decor transported me into Mexico paying homage to the vibrant Mexican culture. In addition, it is unusual for me to see a Mexican Sports Bar.
What Is Lupi’s Restaurant Know For?
Lupi’s is well-known for its tacos, burritos, and margaritas, making it a great spot for a relaxed lunch after a day at the beach or an evening dinner.
With its multiple wall mounted and projection TVs, it’s a popular place to hang out with friends, eat delicious food, and watch different live sports on one of their televisions. Shout out to all the JETs fans!
Everyone who knows me will tell you that I love a good Quesadilla. I ordered their Beef Quesadilla and It was loaded with meat. I could hardly hold it together long enough to eat it. I had to resort to a knife and fork.
What is a quesadilla without French Fries and a Frozen Margarita? They made the meal complete, filling, and more enjoyable.
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Las Canaris Breakfast is a little breakfast nook in the heart of Isla Verde Beach. They are open from 6 am until 3 pm. Isn’t this a cool shift?
The bright yellow walls and seats reminded me of the canteen or cafeteria’s dining area in college.
Las Canarias serves a variety of breakfast sandwiches, wraps, burritos, pastries, coffee, eggs, waffles, among others.
While the prices were somewhat pricey, it was an interesting experience. I ordered their Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich with Coffee.
I had to try their Beef and Plantain Empanadas which were so good. The saltiness of the beef paired well with the sweet pieces of ripe plantains and the crispy fried dough had my tastebuds dancing the batacha.
The flavor profile of the empanada reminded me of my Vegan Shepherd’s Pie Recipe: sweet, cheesy and gooey.
Platos Restaurant Puerto Rican Cuisine and Bar is another restaurant that is also located in Isla Verde Beach area. the eatery is a neighbor to the Isla Verde Mall.
I stopped by for a quick evening bite. The staff were friendly and helpful. Their menu selection is diverse and I believe that there is a dish that everyone can enjoy.
What Should I Order At Platos Restaurant in Isla Verde Beach PR?
If you are planning on visiting Isla Verde Carolina Beach in Puerto Rico (PR), I recommend you try Platos Restaurant’s “Piononos de Camerones Salsa Cremosa de Ajo” (fried green plantain or tostones cups stuffed with ripe plantain, shrimp and topped with a delicious creamy garlic sauce). Every bite was bursting with flavor.
The waitress recommended that I try their “Arepas Boricuas Surtidas Con Pollo Cerde y Carne En Salsa Criolla” (a concoction of grounded beef and chicken pork topped with melted cheese). This was served with a crispy and sweet deep-fried type of biscuits. Their sweetness helped to balance out some of the salty cheesy meat dip.
Cassava Mofongo?
It was at this restaurant I learned that other than plantains, Mofongo can also made using cassava root tubers.
I did not order any drinks, but I asked for water. I was presented with a fancy 24-ounce bottle of water. However, when I received the bill I was charged US$5.
If you do not want to end up spending $5 for a bottle of water, ask for tap water or just get a beer.
Unlike other restaurants, where the waitress collects my payment at the table after dining, Platos Restaurant has a checkout station where all guests must wait in line to pay for their meal.
I would visit again just to sample their mofongo and other Puerto Rican dishes.
Lupe Reyes is one of the restaurants you can dine at in Distrito T-mobile in Puerto Rico. They offer both indoor and outdoor dining. the ambiance inside looks elegant and sophisticated creating an immersive dining experience.
The outdoor dining provides a more dynamic atmosphere. Enjoy music from the DJ while watching tourists zip-line above your head.
Lupe Reyes serves traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. However, I didn’t order any meal, but I did try their Frozen Passion Fruit Margarita. Touch down! This is perhaps the best-tasting margarita I have had. The fact that they use fresh passion fruit makes this a home run.
During my time in Puerto Rico, I did not come across many fast-food chain restaurants.
KFC was only seen once. However, Burger King, La Casa Del Whopper appears to be a very popular fast-food chain restaurant in PR with locations all across Isla Verde Beach.
I have not eaten at Burger King in many years. I tried their breakfast Croissan’wich (eggs, bacon, and cheese between a croissant) which came with Fried Potato Hashbrown Bits and Hot Coffee.
Iced Coffee was ordered on the go. The meal was nothing out of the ordinary.
This is the only Starbucks Coffee shop I came across in Isla Verde Beach. It is a few hops away from where I stayed. However, it is located inside the San Juan Hotel.
If you are a coffee lover, this location has you covered. The dining area is a small but cozy area ideal for grabbing a bite to eat with your coffee, reading a book, or working on your laptop.
From what I have seen inside, the San Juan Hotel appears to be a clean and comfortable place to stay in Puerto Rico. If you are seeking accommodation, visit their website HERE to learn more.
Chili's
elsa verde beach.
Chili’s Restaurant sits right across the street from where I stayed. I have visited a few of their restaurants here in the US, but did not visit while I was in Puerto Rico (PR). I decided to share with you one of the potential eateries in Isla Verde Beach.
If you have never been or heard of Chilis, here is some basic information about the restaurant.
What is Chili’s Restaurant?
Chili’s is a well-known American casual dining restaurant brand that serves Southwestern-inspired cuisine.
The restaurant chain has a wide range of menu items, including burgers, ribs, fajitas, tacos, and trademark specialties such as baby back ribs and molten chocolate cake.
This eatery is also recognized for its laid-back, family-friendly ambiance and a broad menu of appetizers, and cocktails.
Chili’s can be found in many countries and has become a go-to place for casual dining, offering a blend of American and Mexican cuisines that appeal to a diverse consumer base.
The beautiful views of the ocean from the balcony, as well as the fact that the beach is in the property’s backyard, were the main reasons I chose this ESJ condominium in Isla Verde Beach. In addition, the airport is just a 5- to 10-minute drive away.
It was not a five-star property, but it was adequate for the duration of the visit. However, the property is in a great location and has received several positive ratings.
With a full kitchen, guests can cook their meals and save money on food. Two significant events occurred during my stay.
The Property Manager’s responses, more than the incidents themselves, rubbed me the wrong way.
Locked Out Of The Condo In PR
When I first checked into the condo, I heard a beeping sound from the lock, indicating that the battery was running low. I didn’t pay it much attention.
On day 2, when I returned from the beach, I noticed that the smart door lock screen was not turned on. I went to the front desk reception area, but they did not have a key to the condominium.
I tried calling and texting the Property Manager but received no answer. Later, she replied that she was on a flight to California.
Within 30 minutes of being unable to enter the property, the lights went out across Puerto Rico. Fortunately, the facility had generators to power the corridors, elevators, and lobby. This is a common event in Puerto Rico, I was told.
Waited Over 2 Hours To Get In
After I told the Property Manager what had transpired, she attempted to accuse me of doing something improper with the lock.
She claimed that she replaced the batteries two weeks ago. I texted her a video of the door lock, which showed that the battery was running low.
Even if the batteries were fully charged, the door lock is connected to WiFi. Because the electricity was out, the WiFi would also be down, and would still not be able to code into the unit.
After waiting over 2 hours in the lobby for the cleaning attendant to drive to the condo with the only key, I was able to get inside, but the lights were still out and the condo was in darkness. Luckily, my phone had a flashlight.
I suggested to the Property Manager that the front desk personnel should have a spare key.
Black Ants Attack
Ants came into the condo through the side of the door leading to the balcony. The same door that does not lock.
They made their way under the bed and onto the bed. They had me for a snack as evident by the bite marks I woke up to see on my skin.
When I informed the property manager of the ants issue, she boldly stated that those ants are harmless and do not bite.
I had to let her know that I was born and raised in the Caribbean. She said that she hired an exterminator to spray the condo after I checked out.
Bring a Flashlight, A Portable Charger, and an Ants Repellant.
A few suggestions we made that i believe will help their future guests feel more comfortable. Hopefully she makes the necessary changes.
Despite the few major hiccups, I would recommend this condo for a short stay.
If you decide to book this or any other condo/hotel in PR, travel with a portable charger, a flashlight, and ants spray.
Sunscreen
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Water and Sand Proof Beach Blanket
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Sun Glasses
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A PUERTO RICO EXPERIENCE
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Share your thoughts in the COMMENT SECTION. Have you ever been to PUERTO RICO or would you consider visiting?
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I appreciate you taking the time to write and share this insightful piece. It was clear and concise, and I found the data to be really useful. Your time and energy spent on this article’s research and writing are much appreciated. Anyone interested in this topic would surely benefit from this resource.
Thank you BCF
Puerto Rico looks amazing. Here in EU, we know very little about this little country. I’m glad I could read your article.
Thank you for visiting Miss Simplicity
Awesome and detailed guide, makes me want to visit Puerto Rico.
Rain forest and beaches are absolutely stunning…
Thanks for dropping by Gabi. Hope you get to visit Puerto Rico.
I want to do each and every one of those “fun water activities”!!
Water activities are a lot of fun in Isla Verde Beach but budget about US $200 per activity.
Thanks for the tip! I definitely want to visit here one day!
Appreciate it Brandi. Hope I get to visit someday.
Thanks for visiting Brandi.
Thanks for sharing such an insightful guide! Isla Verde Beach sounds like the perfect mix of relaxation and fun.
Isla Verde Beach is a good vide, Jaishree. Thank for visiting.
Another place that you have me dreaming of experiencing!
All I can say is…WOW! This is such a descriptive and helpful summary of your trip to Isla Verde Beach. You always have great travel articles and I look forward to adding these places to my bucket list of destinations. I don’t know if I’m more enthralled with all of the fun activities to do there, or the delicious food. Even the Burger King looked way better than what we have here in Alaska. Great writing and thanks for sharing!
Thank you Desiree. I appreciate the comment. Hope you get to visit Isla Verde Beach Puerto Rico someday.
Puerto Rico sounds like a great place for outdoor adventure lovers like me. And let’s not forget the food scene, which already has me salivating. I hope to have the chance to visit one day. Thanks for sharing!
Puerto Rico is vibe. It a bit different from your Korean blogs, but you will have a lot of fun.
Puerto Rico sounds like an incredible place to visit! I love how much information you gave about the activities you can do, places you can visit, and restaurants to eat at. The Lupe Reyes restaurant with their Frozen Passion Fruit Margaritas might be calling my name. Thank you so much for sharing this information.
You are welcome, Kelly. Thanks for the visiting and reading my Puerto Rico travel blog.
This is a lovely guide, love the water activities when traveling there. Would love to go there soon again.
Thanks for dropping by Fransic verso.
I love Puerto Rico and can’t wait to go back. Thanks for all the suggestions… I haven’t been to a few of these places and can’t wait to go.
Thank you Elaine. I will be revisiting Puerto Rico. Hopefully next year. But will visit another region.
This looks incredible! so many fun things to do in Isla verde beach! I LOVED the water activities!
Thanks for visiting and reading my Puerto Rican Travel Blog Her Asian Adventure.
Lovely very thorough write-up of a beautiful place.- definitely a must read for anyone visiting Isla Verde PR!
Thank you for visiting, Carolyn.
This is the best Puerto Rico Travel Guide. These are so many Fun Things To Do In Isla Verde, and this walks your through them all! Thank you.
You are welcome Kristine. Thanks for visiting and we hope you visit Puerto Rico someday.
Puerto Rico looks like a great place to visit! This guide is thorough and will help to plan a trip there.
Thanks for visiting, Catherine.
I would really like to visit the rain forest by Isla Verde Beach in Puerto Rico! Thanks for the amazing travel guide.
Thank for visiting and reading by blog, Kristine
Fantastic guide to Puerto Rico’s Isla Verde Beach and beyond! Your writing has me craving the beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Looking forward to more travel guides from you!
Thank you, Miss Simplicity
Love that the condo has ocean views and conveniently near the airport. Also, the empanada made me crave for some. Lovely post. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Rosie.
I will admit going directly to the ‘where to dine section’ , forgive me and yes I made a note of two restaurants for the future.
Read about your ants attack, so sorry about that. Hope it didn’t put a damper on your holiday
Thanks for visiting GWT. Ants bites did not damper my flow. I still had a good time. Glad you found my blog valuable. I hope you will have a great culinary experience when you visit PR.
Your blog has quickly become one of my favorites. Your writing is both insightful and thought-provoking, and I always come away from your posts feeling inspired. Keep up the phenomenal work!
Thank you
This was a really pleasant read, very useful.
Thank you
Puerto Rico is definitely on my travel to do list. Having read your really comprehensive guide I am now even more excited to visit!
Thank you for sharing 😁
Thank you for visiting, SamH Travels
I so wish I lived close to these areas! I would visit them often! For the food and of course sites!
Same here Lauren, especially during this 32 degree weather here in NYC. Puerto Rico is calling my name.
Isla Verde Beach seems like a great spot for travelers who enjoy lively beachfront stays with plenty of nearby dining choices; before visiting a new place, I usually go through a dining insights page to better understand what kind of places and selections are available around.
Thanks for reading my Puerto Rico Blog
Isla Verde Beach seems like a great spot for travelers who enjoy lively beachfront stays with plenty of nearby dining choices; before visiting a new place, I usually go through a dining insights page to better understand what kind of places and selections are available around.
Thank for visiting and sharing the link for dining insighs. I most often do spontaneous dining when I go on vacation.