Excellent roads and highways ensure Puerto Rico is an ideal destination for those who are keen to get behind the wheel to explore. You drive on the right-hand side of the road in Puerto Rico with speed limits that vary from 25 mph (40 km/h) in towns to 65 mph (105 km/h) on highways. Renting a car allows you the freedom to discover Puerto Rico’s beaches, mountains, and towns without relying on public transport. Start your Puerto Rican adventure in the capital, San Juan, where history and modernity blend effortlessly. Drive through the colourful streets of Old San Juan, lined with cobblestone alleys, colonial buildings, and lively plazas. Park your rental car near the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro and explore the fortifications that date back to the 16th century. Afterward, stroll along the picturesque streets, where the architecture and local art reflect Puerto Rico’s Spanish, African, and Taino influences.

Puerto Rico’s natural beauty is second to none, and a car rental makes it easy to visit some of the island’s top attractions. From the capital, take a scenic drive to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System - and one of the most accessible in the whole of the Caribbean region. The drive to El Yunque offers lush landscapes, mountain views, and plenty of stops to hike trails leading to waterfalls and observation points. Another must-see natural attraction is Fajardo’s Bioluminescent Bay, where visitors can kayak through glowing waters. Drive from San Juan to Fajardo, a 45-minute journey, to experience one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world. For a more adventurous trip, head to Camuy River Cave Park, where you can explore an underground river and vast cave systems. Located in the northwest region, it’s about a two-hour drive from San Juan but is well worth the trip. Venture north and west of San Juan for a different side of Puerto Rico, where you’ll find secluded beaches, charming towns, and historical landmarks. Arecibo is home to the famous Arecibo Observatory, once the largest radio telescope in the world, though it is no longer operational. A short drive to Rincón will lead you to Puerto Rico’s surfing capital, known for its laid-back vibe and gorgeous sunsets. Rincón’s beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply unwinding. A visit to Cabo Rojo in the southwest is also highly recommended for stunning coastal views, along with the Playa Sucia Beach, which offers turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. It’s a peaceful escape where visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and hiking.

The southern part of the island offers more than just beautiful beaches. Head to Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second-largest city, where you’ll find museums, historical buildings, and a bustling town centre. Visit the Ponce Art Museum to see works by renowned Puerto Rican artists or the Parque de Bombas, an iconic firehouse turned museum. If you enjoy nature, La Parguera is a small fishing village known for its bioluminescent bay, as well as its proximity to Cabo Rojo’s salt flats and wildlife refuges. The southern region of Puerto Rico is known for its quiet towns, scenic roads, and welcoming locals.