The 5 Most Popular Cities Travelers Plan To Visit Labor Day Weekend (2022)
Labor Day signals the unofficial end of summer. For many, the 3-day weekend offers one more opportunity to squeeze in a last-minute summer getaway.
Here are the top 5 trending cities where Airbnb is seeing the most bookings for Labor Day weekend 2022. Read about fun things to do in each place. If you decide to go, you can book your airfare with CodeshAIR and save up to 30%.
Columbus, Ohio
Ohio’s capital doesn’t get much attention, but it actually makes for an excellent weekend getaway. Smack dab in the middle of the state, Columbus is a hub for culture, cuisine, and creativity. Filled with charming neighborhoods, cool shops, and fascinating museums, “Cap City” offers tons of fantastic things to do.
Columbus truly has something for everyone, including world-class museums, hip boutique hotels, food halls, and plenty of parks, trails, and outdoor activities. It is home to one of Ohio’s beautiful state parks, Alum Creek State Park. It is also home to the country’s largest college campus, Ohio State. This Labor Day, you can catch the Buckeyes’ big football game against Notre Dame.
Raleigh, North Carolina
Another capital city that’s known for its universities, Raleigh makes for a great Labor Day getaway. Attractions include the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina State Capitol building. For outdoor fun, hike and bike at Umstead Park near the airport, or ride a pedal boat at Pullen Park just west of downtown. Chapel Hill and Durham are both about 25 miles away for those who want to explore more.
Tampa, Florida
Less than 2 hours from the Orlando theme parks, Tampa’s largest theme park is Busch Gardens. It is also home to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Florida Aquarium, and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Other fun things to do in Tampa on Labor Day weekend include meandering along the Tampa Riverwalk, eating a Cubano at Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City, or going on a hike.
North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Rhode Island also boasts some scenic hikes. We’re not sure exactly why North Kingstown made Airbnb’s list of most-booked cities, but perhaps it’s because it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump from Jamestown, one of the best small towns to visit in Rhode Island. It is also near Newport, the jewel of Rhode Island’s coastline, where you can find rich history, amazing cuisine, and charming views.
Jacksonville, Florida
On the Atlantic Coast of Florida, Jacksonville can be found in the state’s northeast corner. This Labor Day weekend, escape will appease everyone from foodies to outdoor lovers. Dozens of local breweries make up the Jax Ale Trail and the food scene is nothing to sneeze at.
Jacksonville boasts 22 miles of white sand beaches. The closest, most popular beaches are Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and Ponte Vedra Beach. Surrounded by awesome national parks and preserves, Jacksonville is home to the largest urban park system in the country. Explore hidden gems like Big Talbot Island State Park, which is north of the city.
No matter where you choose to travel this coming Labor Day weekend make sure that you find the absolute best deals with CodeshAIR!
Top 5 Las Vegas Hotels For Travelers With Kids
The family-friendly Las Vegas attractions are sure to make the whole family happy. The glamorous casinos, shopping and entertainment are fun for all ages, so bring your family to see what all the excitement is about.
Many of the best hotels for kids are located on Las Vegas Boulevard, the Strip, the bustling main street with bright lights, fun attractions, and endless entertainment.
We've taken the time to put together the top 5 family friendly hotels in Las Vegas for you.
1Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
With luxurious rooms and suites, the hotel is an excellent choice for families.
This non-gaming hotel features an Italian restaurant with a large children's menu, an outdoor pool, a gym, and spa.
You’ll find out what your concierge will do to help you make restaurant reservations, plan activities and even arrange for a babysitter if you don't want to be home with your little one.
2Skylofts at MGM Grand
Located on the top of the Grand Tower at the MGM Grand Resort, Skylofts offers a different way to experience Vegas. Featuring a private elevator these stunning two-level accommodations with modern furnishings provide awesome views of the Strip from floor-to-ceiling windows while you are pampered by an attentive butler. Lofts are available in one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, and range from 1,400 to 6,000 square feet.
You can enjoy the views and amenities and your family can enjoy one of four swimming pools, three whirlpools, palm trees, waterfalls and a 1,000 ft lazy river.
3Wynn Las Vegas
The hotel that’s on everyone’s bucket list, the Wynn Las Vegas is another great option for families. It offers spacious suites and rooms with double beds.
The guestrooms are elegantly decorated in cream and gold-colored tones, and some of them feature Jacuzzi tubs and separate massage rooms.
What really makes this property stand out is its spa, pools, gym, and hot tubs, which are all designed by the celebrity tennis instructor Tom Fazio.
Complimentary parking is available for guests.
4The Palazzo at The Venetian
You don't have to fly to Italy to experience the tranquil beauty of Venice.
Walking into the Venetian, with its canals, ceiling murals, marble art pieces, and a scene straight out of the City of Water, you'll be instantly transported.
The theme park also has plenty of attractions, from 10 swimming pools to various shops and dining options, at the Grand Canal Shoppes. It's not just for kids though; adults also enjoy it.
5Bellagio Las Vegas
This famous hotel is also known for its Conservatory and Botanical gardens, a family-friendly attraction with beautiful seasonal scenes that draw visitors 24/7. The hotel has standard rooms, some that come with two queen-sized beds; you can upgrade to a suite for more space.
Upon stepping inside, you'll be awed by the colorful, delicate glass flowers adorning the ceiling, the centerpiece that's impossible to miss. This hotel also features an extensive buffet (a big hit for people of all ages) and five swimming pools. Take the kids to the breathtaking underwater story of O by Cirque du Soleil for an experience they will not forget anytime soon.
No matter where you choose to stay in Las Vegas for your next vacation, let CodeshAIR get you there for up to 30% less.
Top 5 Things to do in Cancún, Mexico
Looking for a luxury getaway that won't break the bank? Cancún, Mexico is a destination paradise that you can enjoy on a budget. Spirit Air and Frontier both currently offer discount flights Cancún, and using the CodeshAIR browser extension can save you even more!
Cancún was built specifically with luxury travel in mind. This large vacation destination was built from jungle and pristine beach in just a little over a decade. Today it is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with more than four million tourists annually. What's the big draw? Virtually endless attractions and activities to do. From white, sandy beaches to impressive large coral reefs to explore and near-perfect weather, you'll never run out of adventure.
let's take a look at the top 5 attractions for you to enjoy this summer in Cancún, Mexico.
1 Visit Cancún's Beautiful Beaches
Most of Cancún's luxury resorts are built with direct access to the beaches. You'll enjoy breath-taking views of sparkling, crystal-clear waters that make this destination so popular with tourists seeking an amazing Mexico vacation. Cancún, consists of a number of long stretches of beach, and while frequent visitors may have their preferences, it's certainly hard to go wrong with whatever you choose. They're all nice and have something great to offer.
Among the most popular beaches are de las Perlas, Juventud, Linda, Langosta, Tortugas, Caracol, and Chac-mool, some of them lying alongside the Boulevard Cancún and the Paseo Kukulkán all the way from the city boundary.
2 Explore The Mayan Ruins of Chichén Itzá
You won't want to miss the chance to spend at least a little of your vacation time sightseeing at one or more of the larger Mayan ruins within reach of Cancún. One of the most popular day trips is to Chichén Itzá, three hours west of the beaches and one of Mexico's largest and best-maintained archaeological sites. Settled by the Mayans over 1,000 years ago, this UNESCO World Heritage Site includes many famous Chac-mool statues, along with several important buildings such as the 30-meter-tall El Castillo, one of the country's most famous pyramids..
3Visit The Maya Museum
Located in the center of Cancún, the city's large convention complex, the Maya Museum (Museo Maya de Cancún) is a top attraction that's certainly worth a visit to learn more about the region's rich history. This is the largest museum project since the opening of the Templo Mayor Museum in Mexico City in 1987, this wonderful attraction does an amazing job of displaying the ancient roots of the region's Mayan culture, from its founding centuries ago right up to the modern day.
4Climb the Scenic Tower & Xcaret
A must-catch activity while in Cancún is to make a trip up the Scenic Tower (Torre Escenica). A well known landmark in the hotel district due its height -at 110 meters tall - as well as its pencil thin base, the tower is a fun diversion for those wanting a bird's-eye view of the city, as well as its many beaches and the surrounding coastline.
The tower itself ispart of Xcaret, a unique mix of theme park and natural attractions. Given its 50 or so cultural and natural attractions, you can expect to easily spend a full day here exploring the many things this attraction has to offer. Highlights include water-based activities including a beach and lagoon, plus the chance to explore underground rivers, a coral reef aquarium, a folk museum, and performances of music and dance, an equestrian show, boat tours, and plenty of dining options.
5Cruising to Isla Mujeres
Another great destination that is closely associated with Cancún is the beautiful Isla Mujeres (the Island of Women). Located only 13 kilometers from the mainland and just a short hydrofoil ride from the pier at the convention center (Cancún Center), this long, skinny island is just seven kilometers long and 650 meters wide and is particularly popular among surfers for the larger waves that can be found on its east coast, while divers love the abundant marine life surrounding the large amount of coral reefs of Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
With so many wonderful things to do, it is easy to see what makes Cancún a top destination for travelers. Ready to make that leap? CodeshAIR.com can help you get there. Download the CodeshAIR browser extension for all major browsers today.
Top 5 US destinations this summer
Summer is almost here and travel season is heating up. We've put together our list of the top 5 travel spots in the US this summer (hint - 4 out of 5 are in Florida)!
1. Walton County, Florida
Located in Northwest Florida, South Walton is 26 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise water and 16 acclaimed beach neighborhoods, each with its own personality and style.
2. Cape San Blas, Florida
Connected to the Florida peninsula by a sliver of land, Cape San Blas is home to St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, named the best beach in America (2002) by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (a.k.a. Dr. Beach).
3. Mexico Beach, Florida
A well-guarded “secret” vacation spot of families for generations, Mexico Beach, FL is a time capsule of living memories that hark back to the way it used to be. Long, relaxing days on our uncrowded white-sand beaches, genuine mom-and-pop restaurants and shops, and some of the best sport-fishing in the world are waiting for you in Mexico Beach.
4. Fort Myers, Florida
Experience some of the best beaches in Florida and then explore more throughout Fort Myers’ islands, beaches and neighborhoods. With secluded Florida beaches, family-friendly resorts and romantic getaways, you’ll discover endless ways to enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
5. Stonington, Connecticut
Settled in 1649, Stonington Borough is a quaint, historic village located midway between New York and Boston just miles from downtown Mystic. Nestled on a mile-long peninsula that projects into Fisher’s Island Sound and Little Narragansett Bay affording stunning views, Stonington Borough was voted one of the Top 10 prettiest coastal towns in New England by Yankee Magazine.
If your looking for the best destinations in the US this summer CodeshAIR.com can help you get there. Download the CodeshAIR browser extension for all major browsers today.
Top tropical destinations this summer that don't require a passport
Looking to travel this summer but not sure where to go? Here are some suggestions for great summer destinations that provide that "tropical vibe" but that don't require a passport to get there.
1. St. Thomas US Virgin Islands
Located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. Thomas is an exhilarating destination that is perfect for travelers who love the sun and sand. The island is home to luxury resorts, crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
2. San Juan Puerto Rico
Located on the north coast of the island, San Juan is a popular vacation spot with an array of beaches, beautiful natural landscapes and great food.
3. Culebra, Puerto Rico
Located off the eastern coast of Puerto Rico's main island, Culebra is a tiny island that is surrounded by beautiful cays. Flamenco Beach, known for its white sandy beaches and clear, blue water, offers a unique beach experience.
4. South Padre Island, Texas
Whether you live in Texas or are visiting here on vacation, you’ll want to know about Padre Island—the world’s longest barrier island—which extends 115 miles down the coast and ends just shy of the Rio Grande. The main part of Padre is relatively unexplored, but some undemanding and unassuming B&Bs can be found in quiet little pockets along the island.
5. Oahu, Hawaii
While ranking as the third largest island of Hawaii, Oahu is widely known for having the best nightlife in all of Hawaii. Home to Hawaii's capital city of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the world-famous Waikiki Beach, you won't want to miss all of the attractions that Oahu has to offer.
If your looking for a tropical vacation or just a quick getaway CodeshAIR.com can help you get there. Download the CodeshAIR browser extension for all major browsers today.
Travel wallets have come a long way from their humble beginnings. A few decades ago, travelers had to carry everything they needed in a single item, which could be bulky and inconvenient. Today's travel wallet is compact and has plenty of room to fit most essentials, including cards, cash, and passports.
If you are thinking of buying a travel wallet, then you may also have an idea of the features it offers as well as your budget. Depending on these needs, there are several different designs that you can consider. Another aspect to think about is whether you want your wallet to provide RFID protection.
With all of that in mind, here is our top pick for travel wallets:
Made from Fjallraven’s own blend of incredibly durable G-1000 fabric, this travel wallet is no exception to their commitment to producing quality outdoor and travel gear; and the reviewers certainly agree, with many of them commenting on the toughness of the fabric.
Inside the nifty travel wallet, passports, boarding passes, cash, cards and even a pen can all be safely tucked away. The only negative is the price - but let’s not forget you get what you pay for.
If you’re looking for a travel wallet that blends style with substance, we think we’ve found the one. Yes, it’s PU leather not real leather and that slight disappointment is reflected in the reviews, but if you take a look at its neat envelope design and its variety of pockets, you’ll find that there isn’t too much to complain about.
Your passport, boarding passes, money, phone and even your foreign sim card will be kept safe in its pockets, which, although for some, are on the tight side, will fit all your essentials for a compact travel companion.
3 ASPINAL OF LONDON CLASSIC TRAVEL WALLET
This luxury leather travel document holder with its soft-touch suede blue interior is the perfect corporate traveller companion. With 4 tabs to neatly arrange your tickets, passport, documents and other necessary travel items, such as expenses receipts, making sure everything is organised is super-easy.
There’s a zipped pocket for currency, so you don’t have to worry about loose change escaping, and boarding passes are kept separately at the front of the travel wallet for easy access. Thanks to its envelope style close, this travel wallet is neat, compact and smart, making it the perfect buy for frequent business travelers.
Losing your valuables is one of the biggest fears while travelling. Can technology help? Ekster makes a line of voice-activated wallets, including this relatively traditional-looking credit card holder. However, beneath the handcrafted leather look is some serious tech; as well as space for nine cards, six of which can be protected by a layer of RFID-block, but the wallet is also compatible with Alexa and Google Home, which using a Chipolo tag can make your wallet emit a ring when you ‘say “where’s my wallet?”
Funded within three hours on Kickstarter, this Ekster wallet also offers worldwide traceability via a smart card so you can tell you where it was last seen on a map. That’s the same technology used by FedEx to track its containers. What’s more, it’s all solar-powered and doesn’t run out of charge for two months.
This clever bi-fold wallet is crafted in Germany, and it shows. It’s organized so well; there are seven card slots – six on the inside and one on the outside – but despite that it’s a mere 11.9x8.3x1.6 cm. Unlike most modern travel wallets, it’s designed to carry cash, with a stainless steel money clip integrated into the interior that securely grasps bank notes. The Travando is also constructed to protect against data theft by RFiD scanners.
Top 10 Travel Accessories for Kids
Traveling with children can be a daunting task, especially if that trip includes a long flight or several flights with lay overs.
There are many factors to consider including: The age and needs of your child. How many kids you have. Whether you are flying to see family or friends or just traveling on vacation. What kind of travel plans you have in mind.
With those questions in mind, here is our top 10 list of travel accessories for your kids.
1 Go Vinci Hard-Shell Luggage
If you have quite the little Da Vinci on your hands, let them show off their artwork to the entire world. With the Go Vinci hard-shell luggage your child can put pictures in the translucent slot on the front of the bag—and they’ll be extra excited when they spot their own masterpiece on the luggage carousel. Your child will love how customizable their suitcase is and you’ll love how everything on your packing list fits easily inside.
2 Travel Friends Dog Travel Pillow
This travel pillow is not only a functional travel accessory, but is also doubles as a fun toy to keep kids company while traveling. The neck pillow provides support for small necks to keep them comfortable on long car rides or while riding in the stroller. Double-sided fabric (warm fleece on one side and cool summer material on the other) provides comfort for your child year-round.
3 Panda Headphones
Siblings seem to find a way to fight about anything. Keep arguments at bay while traveling by providing children with different ways to entertain themselves. If one wants to watch a movie or play a game on the tablet, they can plug into their show or app with these super-cute headphones without disturbing others in close proximity. Trust us—you’ll be thankful for this when your kids aren’t asking “are we there yet” the entire trip.
4 Kid-Tough Digital Camera
The Kid-Tough Digital Camera was made specially for your little photographer who isn’t quite ready to graduate to the family camera. This camera is built to withstand those too-familiar “oops” moments kids have so you don’t have to worry about accidental drops. Not just a toy, this device is a real digital camera that comes with built-in storage, enough for 2,000 pictures!
5 Doodle Sketch
This pocket-size Doodle Sketch is perfect for any cool kid with places to be. A mini version of the classic toy, the Doodle Sketch is easy to clip on to a backpack or suitcase so they’re never without a place to draw. Even better— you don’t have to worry about them making a mess in the car.
6 Travel Blanket and Pillow
A travel blanket and pillow are a must-have for red-eye flights and long car rides with your little one. The blanket’s super-soft fleece material keeps them cozy, and when it’s folded it can be used as a travel pillow. Pack it in your child’s carry-on so it’s always within easy reach.
7 Travel Tots Luggage Set
This hard-side luggage is not only cute, but it’s also practical. The suitcase and matching backpack are made from polycarbonate, which is lightweight enough for your child to carry without help, and when they inevitably drag their suitcase through a muddy puddle it’s easy to wipe down. Bonus: The fun owl shape will never have you standing at baggage claim asking, “Who’s luggage is this?”
8 Go Happy Travel Tray
If you've ever watched your little jet-setter try to play with her toys on an airplane, you know all too well the pain of collecting LEGO or crayons from a dirty plane floor. Enter the Go Happy Kids Tray, a strap-on tray that keeps tray tables covered and toys (hopefully) off the ground. The tray has a raised border on all sides to keep sippy cups, LEGO, crayons, etc., from rolling right off mid-flight, and the grippy tray bottom keeps the whole thing from sliding. The Go Happy tray also solves the problem of your child eating snacks straight from the dirty tray table. It can also be used on laps, which means it's just as useful at your final destination as it is on the journey.
9 Zinc Flyte
Is it a suitcase or a scooter? It’s both! For any parent who has ever had to lug their own child’s suitcase because he is just “too tired,” and for any parent who has felt that fear of missing the flight because of the snail’s pace of airport walking: the Zinc Flyte is your new favorite thing. It comes in three sizes: the mini for ages two to four, the midi for ages four to eight and the soon-to-be-released maxi for ages eight and up. The best part? It actually makes travel even more fun for kids! We can actually see this becoming a thing for kids who walk to school each day.
10 SterilStay In-Flight Essentials Kit
You probably know all about all those microscopic yuckies flying alongside you in an airplane, and all we can say is—Ew. You can make things a little less icky by keeping the surfaces around you clean. These handy little kits include three antibacterial wipes for hands and surfaces (armrests, tray tables, air vents, etc.), a seat pocket/tray table protection bag (to cover the seat-back tray before you eat on it!), and a headrest cover. Toss a few of them in your carry-on bag and hope that all you'll catch is your flight.
Top 5 Hotels in Daytona Beach, FL
Beach days will be filling your schedule when you go on vacation to Daytona Beach.
This coastal city in Florida is well-known for its sandy beaches, boardwalk attractions, and water park. Besides that, fans of race car driving will have a great time near the city’s speedway and designated beach driving areas.
The many activities to do here make it vital for you to get the most appropriate accommodations in the city. It’ll help you maximize your time, for sure. That’s why you should take a look at this list of the best hotels in Daytona Beach.
1. The Shores Resort & Spa (Daytona Beach Shores)
Experience Daytona Beach in casual, coastal-chic luxury at The Shores Resort & Spa on the oceanfront of Daytona Beach Shores. Relax, play, and explore on one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in Florida at our boutique resort. Enjoy ocean views, beachfront dining, and warm hospitality on the sun-kissed sand and surf. Escape to the perfect vacation destination on the Central Florida coast and find your oasis at The Shores Resort & Spa.
2. Hilton Daytona Beach Resort/Ocean Walk Village
At the edge of the most famous beach in the world, in the center of Ocean Walk Village, Hilton Daytona Beach Resort surrounds you with new discoveries. Casually elegant, oceanside rooms welcome you, along with spacious suites and cabanas that put you right on the beach. Dine on Florida's freshest coastal cuisine, play a game of volleyball with the family, or let loose at Daytona Lagoon Waterpark. Our warm, friendly staff treats you like family from the moment you arrive. Lounge poolside while sipping your favorite drink, or indulge in a spa day and find balance.
3. Catalina Beach Club
Catalina Beach Club Resort is located in Daytona Beach on the "World's Most Famous Beach." All one, two and three bedroom suites are decorated in a nautical theme and offer an oceanfront view with a Jacuzzi tub. Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from your balcony. Our resort is located in the heart of the city, just minutes away from the Boardwalk & Pier, Daytona International Speedway, and the Volusia Mall.
An abundance of activities and amenities are all at your disposal to ensure you will have the best beach vacation ever! Take a dip in the oceanfront pool or dine outside after grilling at our oceanfront grilling station. Enjoy a game of ping-pong, billiards, shuffleboard and more or hang out with family and friends in our huge game/social room. Also located in the game/social room is our internet café where you may attend to your social or business needs. Other amenities include a laundry room, workout room and a dry sauna.
4. Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach
Panoramic ocean views, legendary amenities, and modern luxury await at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach. Live large in the front row of one of America’s most famous beaches. Bask in the Florida sun at our oceanfront pool or grab a bite at our world-famous restaurant. When you stay here, you can do it all while rocking out in true Hard Rock fashion. From family vacations to business trips and destination weddings, Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach is an experience you won’t soon forget.
5. Delta Hotels by Marriott Daytona Beach (Daytona Beach Shores)
Delta Hotels by Marriott Daytona Beach
Boasting panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the new Delta Hotels Daytona Beach Oceanfront is your oasis just minutes from the heart of Daytona. Located in Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, we’re a short drive from some of the area’s most popular attractions, including the Daytona International Speedway, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and the Main Street Pier. Guests enjoy free on-site parking, a state-of-the-art, 24-hour fitness facility, an oceanfront pool, a hot tub and a business kiosk. Find fine Florida dining at OceanView Terrace Bar & Grill, a casual dining experience with fresh and healthy options.
From breakfast to dinner, enjoy stunning ocean views or have your meal delivered to your hotel room for a more private dining experience. In the evening, settle into a well-appointed guest room with complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, luxurious bedding and breathtaking views of the ocean from your private balcony. This is luxury. This is Delta Hotels Daytona Beach Oceanfront. Simple Made Perfect®.
Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a tropical Caribbean island destination that has it all and then some. It has beautiful palm-lined beaches, some with calm warm waters lapping the golden sand and others with huge waves and famous surf breaks, drawing all kinds of beach seekers, from couples and families to hard-core surfers.
Puerto Rico is home to the US Forest System's only tropical rainforest as well as the nighttime wonders of the Bioluminescent Bay. The culture and charm of historic San Juan, with its colonial architecture and old forts, is enough to make the picture of paradise complete.
The island of Puerto Rico has a Spanish Caribbean culture with an American twist. This is visible around San Juan, with its American chain restaurants and other comforts associated with mainland USA. You will find quaint towns, small villages, beautiful islands, caves and a rugged mountainous interior further away.
1. Old San Juan (San Juan Viejo)
Walking the streets of Old San Juan, with its lovely colonial architecture and imposing forts, is like stepping back in time. This is one of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico, so make sure you allow some time on your itinerary for this city.
Old San Juan, the second oldest city in the Americas, is a mix of Spanish colonial history and current day Puerto Rican life. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and contains hundreds of restored Spanish colonial buildings. You can eat, shop, or stay in some of the beautiful old structures.
The main attraction is El Morro Fort, located on a peninsula high above the ocean and a short walk from the city center. El Morro's history, setting, and preservation makes it one of the top tourist attractions in the country.
2. El Yunque National Forest
You can see some of Puerto Rico's beautiful inland beauty at the El Yunque National Forest, home to the only tropical rainforest in the National US Forest System.
Walking trails through the forest allow hikers to get a closer look at some of the hundreds of species of trees and plants, as well as an abundance of smaller animals. The forest covers 43 square miles, including three-quarters of the island's remaining virgin forest, and the peak is 3,500 feet above sea level.
One of the most popular natural attractions in Puerto Rico is the El Yunque National Forest, which can be visited on a tour from San Juan. La Coca Falls, Yokah Tower, Bao Grande, Bao de Oro, and La Mina Falls are some of the main attractions in El Yunque National Forest.
Located beside the highway, La Coca Falls features an 85-foot cascade onto boulder formations and is the first major attraction visitors will come to in El Yunque.
El Portal Tropical Forest Center is a visitors' center for those seeking information about the area. Nearby is Yokahú Tower, a tower built in the 1930's that is open to the public to climb, offering good views out over the rainforest.
The climate here is noticeably cooler than along the coast and at lower elevations, and it is considerably wetter.
NOTE: El Yunque National Forest was severely damaged by the back-to-back hurricanes in 2017. Repair and recovery has been slow, but the park is starting to recover.
3. Culebra Island (Isla Culebra)
Although often mentioned in the same breath as Vieques, the smaller island of Culebra is has beautiful beaches and lush hills with its own unique character. The pace here is slower and the atmosphere more relaxed.
Only 17 miles east of Puerto Rico and 12 miles west of the Caribbean island of Saint Thomas, Culebra is a small island only seven miles long and three miles wide, with 23 offshore islands of its own. This area's coral reefs are considered some of the best in all the Caribbean.
Playa Flamenco is a horseshoe-shaped beach and is the most popular beach on the island and as close to perfect as possible. The water is crystal clear with no surf, making it a good place for swimming or diving, and the amazingly white sand is lined with beautiful palms.
Isla de Culebra National Wildlife Refuge is a well-preserved piece of nature that includes the entire coastline of Culebra and more than 20 of it's offshore cays. More than one third of Culebra is designated as the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which includes Cayo Luis Peña, a tiny island just west of Culebra. Here, coves and rugged terrain make for some interesting but challenging hiking.
4. Vieques and Bioluminescent Bay
Vieques
Vieques, which is only eight miles from mainland Puerto Rico, has become a very popular beach resort with several small, upper-end hotels, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. With the departure of the United States Army from the island in 2003, Vieques turned its focus to tourism.
Pristine beaches attract both mainland Puerto Ricans and foreign travelers alike, who take the time to make their way over to the island. There are no large chain hotels or high-rise condos to distract from the beauty of this island. At 21 miles long and five miles wide, Vieques is the largest of the Spanish Virgin Islands but still offers a small-island feel.
The island is also known for the unique phenomenon found at Mosquito Bay (also known as Bioluminescent Bay), where a large concentration of phosphorescent dinoflagellates light up with movement in the water at night.
Tours are available by boat, canoe, or kayak after dark to experience this natural wonder. While this phenomenon occurs in other areas of Puerto Rico, this is by far the best place to experience it. Vieques can be reached by air or ferry, with ferries departing throughout the day from Fajardo.
5. Whale Watching and Surfing at Rincon
Famously called "Pueblo del Surfing" (Surfing Town) and "Little Malibu," Rincón is known to native Puerto Ricans as "Gringo Paradise." The main language spoken in this area is English, with many foreign surfers and other expats making this town their permanent home.
Rincon became the surfing mecca it is today after the World Surfing Championships in 1968, when images of Rincón and its frequent 15-foot-high waves were broadcast worldwide. Surfing not your thing? Amazing beaches that are perfect for swimming are mostly to the south of town.
Rincón is also one of Puerto Rico's main areas for whale watching excursions. The prime whale watching season is mid-January through to March, when humpback whales are in the area. Tours are easily arranged in town and can be an amazing time for couples and families alike.
Top 5 Family Resorts in Puerto Rico
Beautiful Puerto Rico is a wonderful island destination for families with numerous lodging options for all budgets and styles of traveler-from family beach resorts to all-inclusive vacation packages. When it comes to where to stay in Puerto Rico, the capital city of San Juan is the number one area, home to many of the top hotels with kid-focused amenities.
There are a few different areas to look for accommodation in the Greater San Juan area, including Old San Juan if you're looking for a historically rich holiday and don't mind not being directly on the beach. For a great vacation on the beach, check out Condado Beach and Isla Verde. Just outside San Juan, you will find three of Puerto Rico's best beaches, as well as some of its top resorts.
If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path vacation, Puerto Rico's southwest coast is a great option. It is home to a number of resorts, as well as smaller guesthouses and country inns. It is also where you'll find top attractions like the world-famous Bioluminescent Bay and the Guanica Dry Forest. Puerto Rico's west coast also has lodging options, especially around Rincon Beach.
1 San Juan Marriott Resort
Puerto Rico is a beautiful island that has it all. With a wide variety of activities at San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, you’ll find incredible experiences to make memories to last a lifetime. Enjoy one of Puerto Rico's favorite casino, our 24/7 fitness center with yoga & spa treatments, Condado Beach, and our outdoor pool with waterslide & whirlpool, all onsite. Extend your adventure on this unique Caribbean island with luxury shopping, postcard-perfect beaches, adventure-filled tours, and a tropical culture you'll never forget. Check out local recommendations and explore like never before.
2 Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort
Escape to a picturesque island locale unlike any other. At Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Puerto Rico Golf & Beach Resort, the placid charm of golden beachfront and sapphire seas meets the natural beauty of El Yunque rainforest. A destination in its own right, this spellbinding retreat gives guests all they need for an unforgettable Caribbean getaway.
3 Villa Cofresi Hotel
The longest running vacation experience in Rincón awaits you. A true getaway to share with the ones you love.
Lively, yet laid back. Casual, yet upscale. Ideal for your romantic getaway or family vacation.
Located right on the gorgeous Rincón Beach. Experience a vacation with exquisite restaurant, bar, beautiful rooms, breathtaking views and the most spectacular sunsets. Here at Villa Cofresi, the sunset is celebrated every day.
The caring staff will take care of all your needs. Villa Cofresi is a playful resort, ideal for anyone in search of a wonderful vacation where the beach rules and the fun never ends! Welcome to paradise in Rincón, Puerto Rico.
4 Doubletree by Hilton San Juan
The DoubleTree by Hilton™ San Juan is an intimate, genuine and personal hotel, with all the modern luxuries and comforts you expect from the Hilton Brand. We like to think of it as a hotel with a boutique personality. And we know you’ll agree.
On your next visit to Puerto Rico’s capital, the outstanding DoubleTree by Hilton™ San Juan looks forward to assisting you experience the San Juan you came to explore.
5 Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort
Newly renovated Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort is located on a powdery expanse of Isla Verde beach in Carolina, Puerto Rico, the perfect location for business or pleasure. The first hotel in San Juan to offer FREE Internet & wireless services it makes traveling for business or with families a breeze! For families, babysitting & play services, game room & the beautiful pool & beach make any holiday perfect. Enjoy our setting just a short distance from Old San Juan, El Yunque rainforest and more.
