Luquillo Beach in Puerto Rico

As a tropical Caribbean travel destination, Puerto Rico has it all and then some. Beautiful palm-lined beaches, some with calm warm waters lapping the golden sand, and others with huge waves and famous breaks, draw all kinds of beach seekers, from couples and families to hard-core surfers. Home to the US Forest System's only tropical rainforest and the nighttime wonders of the Bioluminescent Bay, Puerto Rico also pleasantly surprises nature lovers. Add to this the culture and charm of historic San Juan, with its lovely colonial architecture and old forts, and the picture is almost complete.

Puerto Rico is a complex island with a Spanish Caribbean culture and an obvious American twist. This is particularly visible around San Juan, with some American chain restaurants and other comforts associated with mainland USA. Venturing further afield, visitors will find quaint towns, small villages, beautiful islands, caves, and a rugged mountainous interior

For an easy escape from the busy beaches of San Juan, Luquillo is a terrific option. Luquillo Beach, just a short drive from the city, is a palm-lined stretch of golden sand that offers a fair degree of tranquility, without surrounding high-rise buildings and development. The water is generally calm for swimming and the beach stretches on for almost a mile, making it ideal for walking. On the grounds, which are shaded with coconut palms, are modern restrooms, showers, and changing rooms with lockers, and just outside the entrance are food sellers. A stop at the beach can be combined with a day trip to El Yunque National Forest.

El Yunque National Forest