Traveling to San Juan is incredible, and no disrespect to Puerto Rico’s biggest city—but Ponce is simply fantastic.
Locals rave about Puerto Rico’s second-biggest city (called the “Jewel of the South”). Check out these 11 incredible things to do in Ponce, which locals say are a must while you're in town.
Looking for more insider info about Puerto Rico? Work with a local for on-the-ground access as you plan your trip. Learn more.
Though it literally translates to “box of the dead"—and more accurately as coffin or dead man's chest—there's nothing dark about Caja de Muertos.
In fact, locals tell us that this uninhabited island just off the coast of Ponce is one of the most beautiful places in the world and a prime spot to indulge in some of Puerto Rico's best outdoor activities.
They suggest enjoying the turquoise water, lounging on some of Puerto Rico's most lovely beaches, hiking up to the island's abandoned lighthouse, or spending your day birdwatching.
Fun fact: A group of turtles is referred to as a “bale.” And with its heavy sea turtle traffic, you might just come across a “bale of turtles” on Caja de Muertos.
If you’re looking for a Puerto Rico attraction that combines food with adventure, visit La Ruta de Lechon—literally “The Pork Highway”.
If this evokes images of petting zoos you may want to skip to the next recommendation. This highway close to Ponce is packed with outdoor restaurants specializing in
For a treat closer to town, locals recommend grabbing a piragua. These frozen treats (similar to snowcones) are local favorites.
Make a special stop at King’s Cream. This famous ice cream store offers a variety of local fruit flavors that will delight adults and kids alike.
One reason why Ponce is one of the best places to stay in Puerto Rico? It’s super easy to get to other parts of the island.
And while there are tons of things to do in San Juan, you'll also find lots of stuff to do in Puerto Rico outside the northern end of the island.
Ponce is an ideal jumping-off point! Locals in Puerto Rico recommend:
If you visit Guanica, be sure to bring lots of sunscreen and water.
Looking for a unique Puerto Rican vacation spot to spice up your Instagram?
Our local Puerto Rico trip planners suggest climbing Cruceta del Vigia (a ten-story concrete cross overlooking the city) and taking in the panoramic view of the Caribbean.
The cross was built in homage to the watchmen who used to scan the sea for ships (and pirates!).
Catch your breath in the Japanese garden adjacent to the Cruceta del Vigia. Relax to the sound of zen music, and take a short walk across bridges and koi ponds to enjoy the bonsai trees.
Founded in 1692, Ponce’s rich history is reflected in the stunning architecture of its historic zone.
Full of wide plazas, fountains, and old, gorgeous houses, this area alone puts Ponce among the most beautiful places to visit in Puerto Rico (seriously, Ponce is ranked in the European Union register of Art Nouveau destinations).
Some Old Town highlights include:
There is SO much to see in the Ponce historic zone. Check out Ponce's other great museums in the area, like the Museo de la Arquitectura and the Museo de la Historia.
If your Puerto Rico itinerary includes a trip to Ponce, locals say you need to visit the Seralles Castle.
Ok, so technically speaking, it’s not really a castle—more of an enormous mansion.
Either way, Seralles Castle was built by the famous Seralles family—who made their fortune in sugarcane and eventually created the largest rum distillery in Ponce (more on that soon).
You can spend hours upon hours exploring their old stomping grounds, though the castle was actually just their *summer home*.
Strolling along the vibrant La Guancha boardwalk is a thrilling thing to do in Puerto Rico.
This local treasure is a great spot to enjoy local food, drinks, music, and culture. Locals suggest:
Sure, Puerto Rico is known for rum. But it’s also a great place for those of us who need a cup of coffee before interacting with other humans.
Once you’ve had your first cup, head to Hacienda Buena Vista, Ponce’s coffee museum (it’s a functioning coffee plantation!).
Locals recommend taking the tour to learn about the history of Puerto Rico’s coffee production. You’ll get to see how coffee is grown and processed.
Puerto Rico’s coffee zone (we’re sold) is a region that includes nine other historic coffee plantations. For the caffeine-curious, this is a great thing to include in your tour of Puerto Rico. Plus, exploring Puerto Rico's coffee culture is a great way to support the island's economy.
But speaking of rum...Ponce is a great place to enjoy some Puerto Rican rum.
Remember the Seralles family and their castle? They made their fortune through sugarcane—which they used to produce their iconic Don Q rum.
While the Don Q distillery doesn’t offer tours, locals say that Ponce is really proud of Don Q—understandably so! You can taste it at Seralles Castle (samples are usually offered after the tour) or by ordering Ponce’s signature drink—the Don Q rum punch—at any bar in the city.
If you’re wondering what to do in Puerto Rico that doesn’t involve chilling the beach (no judgment either way) check out all the wonderful art activities that Ponce has to offer.
The Museo de Arte de Ponce escaped the worst effects of Hurricane Maria—and as one of the Caribbean’s best and largest museums, it definitely merits a visit.
Or, spend an afternoon in the Plaza de la Delicias exploring the colorfully painted lions. Lions are a strong motif in Ponce, which is also known by the name La Ciudad de los Leones (City of Lions) for its founder, conquistador Ponce de Leon.
Seeking out art in Puerto Rico is a fun and colorful way to liven up your trip AND it really helps the Puerto Rican art scene in its ongoing recovery from Hurricane Maria. Check out more info on hurricane recovery with our updates on Puerto Rico tourism and Puerto Rico safety.
If you came to Puerto Rico for the beaches, then Ponce is an excellent choice.
There are 28 beaches to visit in Ponce proper, and 12 more to explore if you take the ferry to Caja de Muertos.
We asked our local trip planners about their favorites—these were some of their top picks.
Looking for a beach that's good for kids? Maybe for couples? See what locals say about their favorites.
Don't miss out on what makes Ponce so great. Work with a local to build a custom guidebook that shows you a side of Ponce that most tourists miss! Learn more.