A Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Guide to Plan Your Trip

A tropical girls' getaway—no passport required.
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allyson johnson the knot
by
Allyson Johnson
allyson johnson the knot
Allyson Johnson
Wedding Planning Contributor
  • Allyson writes articles for The Knot specializing in registries, wedding planning, and travel.
  • She’s written articles on such topics as best bachelorette and bachelor party destinations, top bridal shower games, and registry gifts.
  • Allyson has also written for WeddingWire, Brides.com, Brit + Co., and Bustle.
Updated Aug 31, 2023
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There's nothing quite like a Puerto Rico bachelorette party. Here, you'll find a lively nightlife that rivals Miami, sugar-sand beaches for sunbathing, aquamarine waters that you'd usually only find in the Caribbean, and resort-style luxury across hotel, dining, and spa options. We've rounded up everything you need to plan an incredible bachelorette party in San Juan and Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Planning in the Article:

Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Ideas and Themes

Puerto Rico has a little bit of everything when it comes to a beachy bachelorette weekend. You can spend your whole time exploring different sandy coasts, or explore its unique tropical rainforest. There's adventure (hiking and ziplining), dining (from rustic spots to fine-dining establishments), relaxation (spas and yoga), and so much more on your Puerto Rican getaway. Whatever you do: Don't forget to outfit your crew in swag from The Knot Shop. And capture your favorite memories with a girls' photo shoot by a photographer in San Juan.

For the Beach Lovers

You can choose from one of Puerto Rico's most popular beaches—Playa Flamenco (on Culebra Island), Sun Bay Beach (on Isla Vieques), Luquillo (a short drive from San Juan) or Playa Crash Boat (around Rincon)—to park for the weekend and sunbathe or take ocean dips.

For the Adventure Seekers

Puerto Rico is not wanting for thrills, there are so many to be had. In El Yunque Rainforest, you can hike or zipline through the tropical greenery. Come nighttime, you can kayak along a bioluminescent bay. Or, consider an ATV tour of Carabali Rainforest for adrenaline-pumping thrills or a horseback riding excursion for a mellower adventure.

For the Party Animals

There's a lot to be said about Puerto Rico's nightlife! You'll find everything on the island, from laidback bars to nightclubs to casinos. Pick your vibe, or try a bit of everything, and you won't be lacking for options.

Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Itinerary and Activities

El Yunque National Rain Forest in tropical Puerto Rico
El Yunque National Rain Forest; Emily Kent Photography | Getty Images

Our itinerary offers the ultimate experience for a three-day Puerto Rico bachelorette party. You'll get in a little sand and surf, a lot of adventure, and plenty of opportunity to dance the night away.

Day 1

Morning: Start your weekend with an early-morning exploration of historic Old San Juan, where you can explore the colorful streets as well as the San Juan National Historic Site's old fort and city walls. This is also where you should grab breakfast at the day. Consider the Cafe Manolin, where you can find authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, along with numerous egg and sandwich options, plus coffee and fresh-squeezed juices.

Afternoon: Today, it's all about relaxation. Make your way to Culebra Island via the ferry, which leaves at 11 a.m. on Fridays. You'll head to the small, sparsely populated isle for a day spent on Flamenco Beach. This beloved spot includes a postcard-perfect white sand beach and turquoise waters, with jungle for background. Spend the day here and hop the ferry back to San Juan at either 2 or 5:30 p.m. Pack snacks and drinks, or rely on the nearby beach kiosks which sell Puerto Rican food and beverages.

Evening: Tonight, have dinner Serafina San Juan, where you'll find Italian-style fare ranging from calamari and burrata to homemade pastas and truffle risotto. Then it's off to take in Puerto Rico from a new lens: The water. Join a La Rumba Party Cruise which sets sale in San Juan Bay. The boat includes a bar, live DJ, and dance floor, which you'll enjoy while sailing around the city at night.

Day 2

Morning: Gear up for your day ahead at La Coffeetera. They have everything from paninis and breakfast parfaits to avocado toast and pancakes on the menu.

Afternoon: Today, you're off to explore El Yunque, Puerto Rico's beloved and famous rainforest. To get the most of your experience, take a guided tour. A scenic three-hour excursion includes a walk along the Angelito Trail into the interior of the forest, which includes rivers, waterfalls, cloud forests, and flowers. A guide points out the must-see flora and fauna, and escorts you to the Las Damas natural pool, where you can take a dip.

Evening: Grab an early dinner or late lunch before your adventure-filled night ahead. La Marqueta is a great spot in the heart of the Condado beach area. The open-air food market offers a variety of selections from different vendors, including sushi, tacos, Puerto Rican, Mediterranean, and seafood dishes so each of your gals can find the best dish to satisfy their tastebuds.

The exploring isn't over. Tonight, you'll conquer one of Puerto Rico's most famous experiences and an absolute must-do: A kayak and/or snorkel in a bioluminescent Bay. The tour leaves when the sun goes down, where you'll take a boat ride through mangrove forests before getting into your own kayak to explore the glowing bay. The tour lasts two hours and snacks and water are provided.

Day 3

Morning: Start with breakfast today at Cana by Juliana Gonzalez in the Fairmont El San Juan Hotel. The one-of-a-kind spot, open air with waterfront views, offers farm-to-table dishes that celebrate San Juan's traditions while infusing international flavors. Breakfast items range from acai smoothie bowls and coconut oatmeal to a Mallorca egg sandwich and chilaquiles boricuas. Plus, you'll find a cocktail menu, fresh-squeezed juices, and coffee and tea.

Afternoon: Park yourself by the pool today. VIVO Beach Club, where you can get a day pass, offers a fantastic oceanfront pool party just steps away from both the Ocean Lab Brewery and some of Puerto Rico's best beaches. If you'd rather spend the day being pampered, book a day at the Spa at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. You'll find all the typical spa service options, as well as the chance to experience the Hammam Ritual, a spa experience that helps purify and cleanse.

If you'd rather stay dry today—at least in terms of getting the water—consider a rum tour, one of Puerto Rico's classic experiences. The Bacardi Tour includes a cocktail, trolley ride around the property, museum experience, and of course a rum tasting. Oh, and don't forget the chocolate tasting at the end of your experience, too.

Evening: Start tonight with dinner and drinks at Numero Uno Beach Hotel & Restaurant for fresh, local dishes, drinks, and plenty of water rentals to keep your group entertained. Snack on Nachos Boriqua, Tuna Wontons, and Ceviche while enjoying a cocktail like their Watermelon Margarita with fresh watermelon juice, their Spicy Margarita with jalapeño, or a Lychee Martini.

For your last night, get a taste of Puerto Rico's rockin' nightlife at Fifty Eight at La Concha Resort, just steps away from the restaurant. The oceanfront venue offers a lounge vibe, as well as a throbbing dance floor with live DJs. It's the perfect end to celebrating your bride-to-be!

Places to Stay in Puerto Rico for a Bachelorette Party

Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Hotel - San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino; Photo courtesy of Marriott

Center your trip to Puerto Rico in the San Juan area, which offers the quickest in and out from the airport as well as easy access to plenty of resorts, beaches, and restaurants. While you can park yourself along the resort strip along the waterfront of San Juan, most of your day excursions will require transportation of some kind.

Best Puerto Rico Bachelorette Hotels

San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino: The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers modern luxuries with beach access, a pool (open at night with an onsite bar) and a short drive to downtown Old San Juan.

La Concha Resort: This resort has serious Miami vibes, and luxury amenities, including an infinity pool, rooms with waterfront views, and on-site bars and restaurants.

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel: This has a megaresort vibe which may be perfect for your group if you're interested in having everything at your fingertips, including a fantastic pool, modern rooms, a spa and fitness center, and numerous bars and restaurants.

Pro tip: The Knot has partnered with Hotel Planner to help you secure the best group hotel rate and get free hotel advice from an expert travel planner.

Best Puerto Rico Bachelorette Home Rentals

There are plenty of housing options for a Puerto Rico bachelorette party, so check out TripAdvisor, VRBO, Airbnb, Expedia, and Hopper Homes. If you're looking to supplement your vacation rental stay with some resort amenities such as a swimming pool or food and drinks, you can secure San Juan resort day passes on ResortPass.

Casa Almendora is a great option for groups of 8 or less. Just a five-minute walk from Punta Las Marias (one of the best beaches around), and a short drive to some of the best restaurants and bars, you'll have an affordable option with plenty of access.

For groups of 10, consider a Modern House just steps away from Isla Verde Beach and a short walk to the nightlife scene. The bright space includes modern touches and an outdoor area for late-night hangs.

Large groups looking for luxury and privacy should consider an Urban Beach Hideaway, which sleeps up to 14 guests across the compound's property. On offer are multiple apartments, that can all be rented for your stay, as well as a private swimming pool and rooftop terrace. Plus, you're just steps away from the beach and downtown action.

Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Nightlife

When visiting Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan, there's plenty to do in the country's biggest city, especially when it comes to eating and drinking. Here are some of our favorite spots to visit while in Puerto Rico.

Best Puerto Rico Bachelorette Restaurants

Barrachina: If you're looking for a good place to grab some filling bites, get a table at Barrachina. They're known for having some traditional Puerto Rican dishes, in addition to other tasty options like crispy, fried plantains and tender grouper fritters that are perfect for sharing!

Casita Miramar: For a great atmosphere and options to dine outside, featuring local dishes and signature cocktails, visit Casita Miramar. They have plenty of fresh, healthy options like Tuna Carpaccio and Octopus to fill you up before heading out to explore for the evening.

La Casita Blanca: La Casita Blanca is a fantastic spot to try some appetizing local food in Puerto Rico. One of the appetizers they are best known for is their Bacalaitos, which is essentially a savory, seafood pancake. Try some new foods with your bachelorette party while exploring a new city.

Best Puerto Rico Bachelorette Party Bars

La Factoría: La Factoria is a local bar with a bit of a rustic atmosphere. It's a bit on the casual side, but a good option if you're looking to have some innovative craft cocktails filled with fresh produce and ingredients in a laid-back environment.

Taberna Los Vazquez: For a fun night out and oftentimes live music, visit Taberna Los Vazquez. In addition to plenty of drinks on the menu, Taberna Los Vazquez has some small bites like empanadas and yucas fritas if you and your group need a snack while you're out drinking.

El Batey Bar: If you're looking for that small, neighborhood bar atmosphere with good drinks, start the night at El Batey Bar in the Old San Juan area. The drinks are delicious and affordable in this relaxed atmosphere.

Expert Puerto Rico Travel Tips

For nonstop 4-hour flights from NYC to Puerto Rico, there are options with airlines like United, Spirit, Delta, and JetBlue. For flights from LA to Puerto Rico, there are options with airlines like United, American, Spirit, Delta, and JetBlue. For a chance of good weather in Puerto Rico, plan for July and August in the summer, the spring, or the winter. Renting a car is a great way to see Puerto Rico, but Uber is also available if you'd rather walk and use ride-share programs.

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