Puerto Rico’s urban centres offer an abundance of activities for tourists, from historical buildings, excellent surf and golden beaches to nature reserves, adventure sports and manmade water parks. While San Juan is the epicenter of tourism on the island, offering the charming Old San Juan, where colonial influence is still evident, the smaller metropolis’ along the east and west coasts offer a more subdued experience that is minus the glitzy shopping boutiques and top-notch hotels that are present in the capital.
 Aguadilla
The name Aguadilla derives from the Indian word for ‘garden’, and while it is not the greenest spot on the island there are some worthy nature-based attractions here. The incredible beaches attract visitors with their crystal clear waters and huge waves, ideal for surfing, while the wilderness inland is suitable for those wanting to relax. Parque Acuático Las Cascadas Water Park offers a distraction for children with its slides, pools and aquatic activities. The town’s most significant landmark is the Punta Borinquen Lighthouse; dating from 1889, this structure is now registered on the National Register of Historic Places.
 Arecibo
Arecibo attracts tourist with its intriguing system of caves, which ranks as the third-largest cave system in the world. The Camuy Caves, just near he town on the north coast of the island, make a great daytrip. Visitors can take an electric train to the caves and facilities here include a reception centre.
 Fajardo
Also known as ‘the city that guards the sun of the Caribbean’ (La Metrópolis del Sol Naciente), this Puerto Rican centre lies on the east coast of the island. The two major attractions here are nature-based, making it an ideal destination for those who are looking to escape urbanisation for quiet treks and rainforest walks. The Faro de Fajardo hosts a nature centre and a 19th century lighthouse that is still in working order, while Las Cabezas de San Juan State Park has a number of boardwalks and trails that allow walkers to explore the Puerto Rican rainforest. For those who prefer manmade entertainment, the city has a golf course and a casino as well as a host of restaurants offering everything from Japanese to Mexican cuisine as well as tasty seafood delights.
 Mayaguez
This city is a major port for ferry arrivals from the Dominican Republic, while also being the largest metropolis on the west coast of the island. Shopping opportunities are standard and you will find malls hosting all the usual American chain stores.
 Rincon
Located on the west coast, Rincon attracts a reasonable crowd of tourist each year with its beaches, tourist facilities and excellent surfing. The town is known as a top surfing hotspot, having hosted some world-class surfing competitions including the World Surfing Championships in 1968. Rincon is best accessed by car and attractions and amenities are spread apart, making exploration on foot tricky. The beach is the centre of the action here, with all manner of surf shops, restaurants and bars to keep you occupied, and there are plenty of accommodation options lining the beach. While those into water sports will have a field day riding the waves here, those with more cultured interests may only want to make a short stop in the town.
 San Juan
The largest city in Puerto Rico and the capital, this city has one of the most impressive natural harbours in the Caribbean. Situated in the northeast of the island, the city takes its name from Saint John the Baptist. With the settlement dating back to 1521, when Spanish colonists first arrived on the island, the capital offers many historical treats and sightseeing opportunities, and is the tourist epicenter of Puerto Rico. Old San Juan is one of the most fascinating parts of the city for visitors to explore, with its colonial buildings, some dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and maze of narrow cobblestone streets.
Top Things to Do
 Explore a Working Lighthouse
Take a trip to Punta Tuna, located near Maunabo. This 19th century lighthouse, constructed by the Spanish, is one of only a few on the island that is manned by US Coast Guard personnel. The area around the lighthouse offers picturesque views of the bay.
 Check-Out the Capital’s Art Galleries
There are dozens of artistic offerings available for viewing in Puerto Rico. Among those worthy of visiting are Galleria Botello, which offers unique pieces by local sculptors and painters, and Butterfly Art Gallery, where real butterflies are framed in creative ways. Art lovers should also not miss the Museum of Art and History, which contains some of the commonwealth’s most prized artworks.
 San Juan Cathedral
The cathedral is an exquisite example of Spanish era architecture on the island and has been declared by the Vatican in Rome as a ‘Minor Basilica’. Built is 1540, visitors can tour the cathedral and see the tomb of Juan Ponce de León, the first Governor of Puerto Rico. The church is located on Calle Cristo on San Juan.
 Step Back in Time with a Visit to El Morro
This 500-year-old fortification once protected San Juan from English and Dutch attacks. Listed on the National Historic Register, the fortification is six storeys high and contains a maze of barracks, prison cells, rooms and hallways that are open to the public.
 Take the Bacardi Tour
Take a tour and see how the famous rum is made. At the Bacardi Rum Distillery visitors can see how the spirit is fermented as well as witness the bottling process and of course sampling the end product. Guided tours of the distillery, which is situated within easy driving distance of San Juan, are free.
 Visit the Mysterious Stone Carvings at Caguana Ceremonial Park
Taino Indians inhabited the island long before the arrival of the Spanish, and these natives were fanatical about their ceremonial ballgames, of which little is known. The remains of over 30 courts where these games were held have now been excavated for viewing.
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