La Coca Falls and Yokahú Tower
A roadside waterfall and a stone lookout from the 1960s, both easy stops.
El Yunque National Forest
The only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System, an hour from San Juan, with waterfalls and tree frogs.
The road climbs from the coast into wet, green mountains, home to giant ferns and the tiny coquí frog, whose two-note call is the sound of Puerto Rico. Hurricane Maria stripped the forest in 2017, and it has grown back fast.
Stop at the Yokahú Tower and the La Coca Falls right by the road, and hike to La Mina Falls for a swim.
- Best Time
- December–May, though it's wet all year
- Time Needed
- 1 day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Most days; some roads and trails close for repairs or storms
- Getting There
- About an hour by car east of San Juan.
What to See
4 of 5 are freeLa Mina Falls
The forest's classic hike down to a waterfall you can swim under. It can close after storms, so check.
El Yunque Peak Trail
A steep climb to the cloud forest, and views when the mist lifts.
Luquillo Beach and Kiosks
A curving palm-lined beach and dozens of food stalls, just 20 minutes away.
Laguna Grande, Fajardo
A kayak tour through mangroves to a glowing bioluminescent lagoon. Book for a dark night.
Know Before You Go
- Rules on entry and reservations have changed since Maria. Check the Forest Service's El Yunque page before you drive out.
- Bring rain gear. It rains almost every day here, and trails can flood quickly.
Where to Stay
A day trip from San Juan, or stay in Fajardo or Río Grande.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the US Territories list.