Best times to visit Puerto Rico
Planning the perfect trip
Puerto Rico is a fantastic year-round destination with something to offer during both peak and off-peak seasons, making it hard to pinpoint the "perfect" time to visit. However, a few tips can help you choose the best time for your trip.
To start, the ideal travel season depends entirely on your preferences. Are you dreaming of a tropical escape from frigid winter weather, or would you rather soak up the summer sun? Are you hunting for the best travel deals, or is your focus on seasonal activities, like watching nesting sea turtles? Dive into this guide to the best (and not-so-great) times to visit Puerto Rico, and you’ll be planning your getaway in no time!
Photo courtesy of Caleb Oquendo @ Pexels
Dry Season (December through March)
Best for: People seeking the perfect Puerto Rico weather (and an escape from the cold)
Weather: Sunny, hot, minimal rain. Highs in the low 80s.
Events: Holiday festivals
Seasonal Favorite: Bioluminescent bay tours
December through March is the “dry season” meaning there is less rainfall during this time of year. While there will still be the occasional rainfall, this is one of the most popular times time to visit the island as far as the weather goes. This comfortable, mild weather offers up some great days to check out the eco-tours and hikes that are available in places like the El Yunque National Forest.
The temperatures during this time of year are generally between 70-80°F, making for some great beach weather.
This time of year also makes for a ideal conditions on in the bioluminescent bays found throughout the island. The water is more clear, the weather more agreeable, making for an overall better experience. If you want to learn more about Puerto Rico’s bio bays, check out our blog post about the three different bio bays the island has to offer.
April - June (Spring and Early Summer)
Best for: Those looking for warm weather without all the crowds
Weather: Sunny and occasionally gusty. June is the hottest month on the island (high 80s).
Events: Food, dance, and music festivals
Seasonal Favorite: Turtle nesting season
With the winter crowds gone, Puerto Rico remains as beautiful as ever, offering sunny days, great weather, and fewer tourists. Hotel rates tend to drop slightly compared to the peak winter season, and while the rainy season starts creeping in around May, it’s rare for the whole island to experience rain at the same time. If showers show up in one area, you can simply head to another part of the island and likely find clear skies. For those craving the heat, June is typically the hottest month—a perfect excuse to work on your tan.
Spring and Early Summer Events
Puerto Rico comes alive this time of year with vibrant festivals:
Saborea (April): A weekend dedicated to Puerto Rico’s incredible cuisine.
Danza Festival (May): Celebrating the traditional dance from Ponce with music, performances, and plenty of local pride.
Crash Boat Beach Summer Fair (June): A laid-back event to welcome summer, complete with local food and fun at one of the island’s most popular beaches.
Sea Turtle Nesting Season: A Must-See Experience
Spring and summer also bring one of Puerto Rico’s most remarkable natural events: sea turtle nesting season. Green sea turtles, leatherbacks, and hawksbills return to beaches like those in Culebra and Mona Island to lay their eggs. Watching these creatures nest, or witnessing baby turtles make their way to the ocean, is an unforgettable experience.
Many tour operators offer eco-friendly options to ensure the turtles’ nesting grounds are protected, so you can observe this incredible phenomenon responsibly. If you’re visiting during this time, consider booking a tour—you won’t regret it.
Whether you’re here for the festivals, the beaches, or the magic of sea turtles, Puerto Rico is a dream destination in spring and summer.
Rainy season (Late June through November)
Best for: Frugal travelers seeking cheaper flights and hotels
Weather: Rainy, drizzly, possible hurricanes
Events: Culinary fest, sportfishing tournaments, and fashion week
Seasonal Favorite: Secluded beaches
June through November marks the start of hurricane season in Puerto Rico, but that doesn’t mean you need to cancel your plans. While hurricanes are a part of life in the tropics, the chances of encountering one during your visit are slim. Before Hurricane Maria in 2017, the last major hurricane to hit the island was in 1931. Plus, hurricanes come with plenty of advance warning, so it’s rare to find yourself caught off guard.
Outside of the occasional storm, this time of year brings a mix of rain and sunshine—perfect for relaxing on the beach, hiking through El Yunque Rainforest, or exploring the underwater world on a snorkeling tour.
Why Visit Puerto Rico in Late Summer and Fall?
One of the biggest draws of traveling during this time is the significant drop in prices. Hotel rates, even for oceanfront rooms, can be nearly half of what they are in winter. Flights are also cheaper as airlines aim to fill seats. For budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a few rainy afternoons, this season offers incredible value.
Seasonal Events Worth Checking Out
Puerto Rico keeps the festivities going year-round, and late summer through fall is no exception:
SoFo Culinary Fest (July or August): One of the island’s top food festivals, showcasing local flavors and culinary talent. Dates can vary.
Big Game Fishing Tournament (August): At 70+ years the International Billfish Tournament the longest consecutively running big game fishing tournament in the world!
San Juan High Fashion Week (September): A celebration of style and design in the heart of Puerto Rico.
Thanksgiving (November): Puerto Rico goes all out for Thanksgiving, and by this time, many cities are already decked out in Christmas decorations, giving the season an extra festive vibe.
Enjoy Quiet Beaches and a Sleepier Island
One of the best perks of visiting during the fall is the tranquility. With fewer tourists, you’re more likely to find Puerto Rico’s stunning beaches—whether white sand, black sand, or rugged cliffs—all to yourself. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or cliff dive, there’s a beach for every vibe. Don’t miss out on the island’s hidden gems—check out a guide to Puerto Rico’s best beaches to find your favorite.
For budget travelers and those who enjoy peaceful getaways, late summer and fall in Puerto Rico offer a unique blend of affordability, beauty, and adventure.
