Destination Fly4free: Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, often referred to as “the island of a thousand blessings”, is the most diverse destination in the Caribbean. Surrounded by more than 270 miles of beautiful coastline, the enchanting island was blessed with great natural treasures and unique attractions.

Puerto Rico is the smallest island in the Greater Antilles. You could drive around the entire island in a day. Many of its wonderful attractions are free, allowing you to have a wonderful vacation without breaking the budget.

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Best Beaches in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico has an average of 10 Blue Flag awarded beaches every year. Choose from secluded and quiet, to world-class surfing spots. The coastline is dotted with over 300 beaches to enjoy year round! Playa Sucia (La Playuela) in Cabo Rojo is the most scenic location on the main island of Puerto Rico. In this white sand beach you can enjoy views of limestone cliffs or hike to a scenic walking trail along the nature reserve.

Puerto Rico possesses offshore islands, cays and islets with natural beaches. The islands of Vieques and Culebra are Caribbean’s best kept secrets, where you will find postcard perfect beaches without crowds. Flamenco Beach in Culebra Island has been consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world. The waves are very gentle there, the sand is light and pure white, and the water quality has won the Blue Flag award for many years. Playa La Chiva (Blue Beach) and Playa Caracas (Red Beach) are the best beaches in Isla de Vieques, with soft, golden sand and crystal clear turquoise waters.

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Start planning your next trip with Lonely Planet’s travel guide >>

How to get there:
With so many flights available from the USA and major cities around the globe, getting here is hassle free. Take a look at the flight deals to Puerto Rico:

• Last minute flights from Boston for $160 >>
• Flights from New York to San Juan for $183 >>
• Flights from New York to Aguadilla for $195 >>
• Flights from New York to Ponce for $201 >>
• Flights from Austin to Florida and Puerto Rico for $267 >>
• Flights from Albany for $238 >>
• Flights from Hartford for $187 >>
• Flights from Boston for $178 >>
• Flights from Florida for $143 >>
• Flights from Portland for $335 >>
• Flights from Stockholm for €237 >>
• Flights from London for £250 >>

Where to stay:
If you are looking for a nice place to stay, Hotel Colonial Mayaguez has has included breakfast and excellent reviews from just €61/$64 per night.

Flamenco Beach in Culebra island offers a great camping site with amazing views and beach access.

What to do:
Puerto Rico offers activities for just about every type of traveler, from nature lovers, adventure seekers, eco tourists and history lovers to golf enthusiasts. This destination has something for everyone, from relaxing on a secluded beach, exploring a five century old town, night kayaking on bioluminescent waters, to flying over the longest zip line in the world.

In the lush mountains, you’ll have unforgettable outdoor adventures, such as rappelling deep into a cave, horseback riding, trekking and swimming in the waterfalls. Hike the tropical rainforest of El Yunque, visit the impressive Rio Camuy Caves and the world-famous Arecibo Observatory.

If you like water sports, the island delivers excellent experiences, from riding waves on world class surfing beaches to paddle boarding on calm waters. Snorkel and scuba dive in coral reefs, go jet skiing, swim on the crystal clear waters or go whale-watching.

Take part in the 159th Ponce Carnaval, that will take place on February 22-28, 2017. You can also attend the Kite Festival in Aguadilla, held in April. Visit the Aguadilla Ice Skating Arena, the only ice skating facility in the Caribbean region!

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Puerto Rico 2013 from Jack Morley on Vimeo.