Solo Female Travel in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory situated in the Caribbean Sea to the southeast of Florida, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. The island boasts breathtaking beaches, such as the shimmering sands of Flamenco Beach, and lush tropical rainforests like El Yunque National Forest that brim with diverse flora and fauna. This enchanting destination is known for its charming Old San Juan district, replete with cobblestone streets, colorful Spanish colonial buildings, and the historic El Morro and San Cristóbal fortresses. Puerto Rico also takes pride in its jubilant festivals, delicious cuisine including the famous dish Mofongo, and the popular local rum. Whether it's adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration you seek, Puerto Rico offers an unforgettable travel experience.

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Travel index

Safety:Safe

Puerto Rico is generally safe for solo female travelers. The island has a friendly culture, and the locals are usually very helpful and welcoming. The tourist areas, where many amenities and attractions are located, are especially secure. However, like any other destination, it's recommended to take standard safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and always keep your belongings secure.

Transport:Easy

Moving around Puerto Rico can be fairly easy, especially in popular areas such as San Juan where numerous attractions are within walking distance. Larger distances can be covered with readily available taxis, and bus services exist, though they can be less predictable. Rental cars are also an option for exploring further, but know that traffic can occasionally be heavy.

Things to do:Fascinating

Puerto Rico boasts of an abundant and diverse array of activities suited for any solo female traveler. Known for its stunning beaches, the island provides a perfect spot for relaxation, snorkeling, and surfing. Its lush rainforests, particularly El Yunque, offer breathtaking hiking trails, waterfalls, and a wide range of fauna and flora to explore. San Juan, the capital, is rich in history and culture - from Spanish colonial architecture to contemporary art museums, great food destinations, and vibrant local markets. Those who thrive on adrenaline can try ziplining over the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park. The bioluminescent bays offer a mesmerizing nocturnal adventure. However, while Puerto Rico offers so much, always remember your safety should be a priority, particularly when venturing out alone.

Food:Excellent

Puerto Rico offers an excellent variety of food that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Local cuisine largely consists of Spanish, African, and Taino influence, providing a tantalizing blend of flavors and ingredients. You can try many delightful dishes like 'mofongo' (mashed plantains with meat), 'lechon' (roasted pork), or the island staple of rice and beans. Seafood is abundant and fresh, often seasoned with unique local spices. Don't forget to try the popular street snacks and drinks such as 'alcapurrias' (stuffed fritters) and 'piña colada'. Each region has its specialties, allowing for plenty of diversity and gastronomic exploration. There's truly something for every palate in Puerto Rico, from hearty meals to sweet treats like 'flan de queso' (cheese flan). Therefore, food lovers will thoroughly enjoy their culinary journey through this island.

Budget:Moderate

Puerto Rico can be moderately budget-friendly depending on the choices one makes. Accommodations and food can range widely in price, with both budget and luxury options available. It is possible to find affordable local food options, and traveling around using public transport can also save cost. However, some activities and tourist attractions can be quite expensive. So overall, it's a place where you can control your expenses based on your choices.

Is Puerto Rico worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.3 /5

based on 14 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.9/5

Couple travel experience

I loved Puerto Rico and hope to return one day. I stayed on the Condado and found that lodging is very affordable in this area, however, food can be a little spendy in my opinion (especially for the quality). I never felt unsafe for my entire trip and even felt safe combing the little beach area at night. I absolutely loved sitting by the lagoon in the evening and by the ocean at sunrise. I really enjoyed taking a day trip to El Yunque and another day trip to Luquillo. The beach in Luquillo was beautiful and had plenty of amenities with a variety of food and beverages. Despite all the attractions, the beach was still absolutely serine and peaceful. I ate an empanada that I still think about almost a month later. The flakiness was to die for.

Posted: February 23, 2024
Things to do: 4/5Food: 2/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 4/5
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Zhou

Zhou

United States

Group travel experience

My trip to Puerto Rico last December was mostly fantastic, but I’ve got some tips to share. It’s generally safe for solo travelers, except for Old San Juan (OSJ) at night. I wouldn’t recommend women going out alone there after dark due to some incidents. The abundance of bars can make things a bit risky. Safety first! Now, let’s talk food. Prices in Puerto Rico, especially in OSJ, are more like New York – not the cheapest. The food? Well, it’s decent, not mind-blowing. However, don’t leave without trying the local gem – the pina colada. It’s a must! Venturing to Vieques Island is an awesome choice. Try horse riding and explore the Black Sand Beach – totally worth it. Quick tip: calling an Uber there is a challenge. Either drive yourself or rely on local drivers to explore the cool spots. Happy travels!

Posted: January 16, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Puerto Rico and it was wonderful. I did not rent a car. I stayed in a hostel and used Uber or walked everywhere. Uber was cheap. I went to El Yunque, which was a 45-minute journey organized by the hostel. I felt safe both during the day and at night.

Posted: October 3, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Old San Juan is amazing. It's a place you absolutely have to see. I stayed in Condado and went to incredible waterfalls and beaches. There is an amazing lighthouse, Arecibo, and a beautiful waterfall in Gozalandia. Crashboat Beach is wonderful. I loved the atmosphere, people, culture, and food.

Posted: August 9, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Puerto Rico for a month. I lived in Old San Juan. I always felt safe. I walked / rode a scooter / used Uber alone and it was always absolutely fine. Men were surprisingly respectful.

Posted: July 30, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I spent two weeks in Puerto Rico. For ten days I lived in San Juan on Calle Loiza, five minutes walk from Playa Ocean Park, and I spent four days in Rincon. I felt very safe in both places at any time, also after dark. My only regret is that I didn't spend more time on the west side of the island, because I got the impression that there are better beaches there, and I'm not a party type. Nonetheless, San Juan has great food, history, architecture, and beaches. I also kayaked in Condado Bay at night, which was an incredible fun.

Posted: July 19, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I traveled alone to Puerto Rico and it was great. I did not encounter any aggression from men there and had no problems. Uber worked perfectly and was my main means of transport. I stayed in a charming hotel in San Juan, which was not close to anything other than the beach, but that was okay. It would be nice to stay in Old San Juan, but I did not want to pay extra for that convenience.

Posted: June 25, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Couple travel experience

It was good for a beach vacation, but it is pretty loud with unpredictable power for working remotely. The rainforest hike and bio bay were the best experiences on the island. I didn't participate in night life.

Posted: May 28, 2023Experienced: April, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I loved Puerto Rico. I spent a few days in Fajardo and a few days in San Juan (the Parque district near the beach). I spent one day in Old San Juan, visited one of the forts and ate some good food. I hiked through the El Yunque rainforest, went to Cueva Ventana and snorkeled, which was beautiful, but there weren't many fish. The highlight was a night kayak trip through a bay full of bioluminescent microorganisms on Vieques. It was so magical. The food was great, and the trip was generally affordable.

Posted: April 10, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Puerto Rico and it was wonderful. The El Yunque National Park was beautiful for hiking and sightseeing. The forts in Old San Juan were also great for exploring. The nightlife and shops in San Juan were also fun.

Posted: April 1, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Puerto Rico

Meet local women in Puerto Rico who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Lucia

Lucia

About Me

Hi, My name is Lucia and I'm interested in culture, events & social and sightseeing

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Ester

Ester

About Me

Hi! I'm Ester from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

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Stay with locals in Puerto Rico

Stay with local women in Puerto Rico who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Ester

Ester

San Juan

Can host for:

3 days

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Hi! I'm Ester from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

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Lucia

Lucia

Luquillo

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Hi, My name is Lucia and I'm interested in culture, events & social and sightseeing

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Upcoming visitors to Puerto Rico

Connect with upcoming visitors to Puerto Rico who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Victoria

Victoria

About Me

Hi I’m Victoria! I do social media and work with kids. I love traveling as well, I traveled through much of Europe by myself last year since I don’t have many friends, the friends I do have all have kids or are married and busy with life so I always travel solo. I love meeting new people, trying new foods, seeing and exploring new places.

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Explore Puerto Rico