The best time for a vacation in Puerto Rico has been named
Puerto Rico is a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and groups of friends seeking a tropical beach getaway. It boasts some of the most stunning stretches of white and golden sand, lush rainforests, mountains, and perfect weather for most of the year.
Certainly, there are times in the sunny U.S. that are more favorable for vacationing, especially considering your own preferences, as stated by Travel + Leisure.
Tourist seasons in Puerto Rico:
- High season: from December to April.
- Shoulder season: from May to June.
- Low season: from July to November.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico without crowds
Puerto Rico welcomes about five million tourists annually, with nearly half arriving from early December to late April. During winter, travelers from the coldest parts of the United States migrate south to escape the cold temperatures at home.
Puerto Rico sees around 130,000 tourists in May, compared to 180,000 in the busiest month, March. During the hurricane season, from June to November, tourist numbers sharply decline, with September attracting only about 80,000 visitors. It's worth noting that this is also a time when locals tend to vacation off the island.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico for good weather
While the northern United States grapples with snow and arctic blasts, Puerto Rico enjoys swimsuit weather. Even in the heart of winter, daytime highs on the island hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Since this period is also the driest, it's ideal for beach outings. January and February are the coolest months.
Best time to visit Puerto Rico for lower prices
From August to November, prices for airfare, accommodations, food, and activities are generally at their lowest, coinciding with the hurricane season. However, traveling during this period of unpredictable weather may result in losses if your vacation is disrupted or canceled due to a storm.
Best time for a beach vacation in Puerto Rico
Many locals (and travelers) prefer beach days when temperatures peak in June and July, but summer in Puerto Rico may not be as dry or sunny as expected.
For a beach getaway on a Caribbean island, consider visiting Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island, Tortuga Beach on Culebrita Island, or Ocean Park Beach in San Juan.
Best time to surf in Puerto Rico
The northwest coast—from Isabela to Rincon—features some of the island's most beautiful beaches and best surf spots. The ideal time to grab a board and catch waves is in winter when low-pressure systems off the East Coast create perfect surfing conditions in this part of Puerto Rico. The epic waves during this season have earned Puerto Rico the nickname "North Shore of the Atlantic".
