Best time to visit san juan: The Best Time to Visit San Juan in 2023
The Best Time to Visit San Juan in 2023
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San Juan is an exciting, lively city located in Puerto Rico. With incredible beaches, unique architecture, and rich history, this destination should be on everyone’s bucket list. But when is the best time to visit San Juan?
Knowing when to go in accordance with your preferences will help you get the most out of your trip. The city is a great place to visit year-round, but certain times may be better than others.
We’ll uncover options for the best, cheapest, least busy, and worst times to go depending on your budget, desired temperature, activities, and other factors.
Additionally, we’ll provide additional consideration to help when planning your excursion to San Juan and top recommendations for things to do and see while you’re there. By the end, you’ll feel well-equipped to start planning your dream trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico!
Why You Should Visit San Juan
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San Juan is a vibrant city filled with unique culture, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of activities.
Here are the four reasons you should visit San Juan
History
From quaint Old San Juan to amazing historical sites, San Juan has plenty of history to explore. Whether you’re interested in Spanish colonial buildings and forts or exploring 19th-century museums, San Juan is the perfect place for history lovers.
Beaches
San Juan is home to some of Puerto Rico’s most beautiful beaches. From popular surf spots to secluded coves, you’ll find a beach for every type of traveler. Soak up some rays, take a dip in warm waters, or even take a sailing lesson – whatever you’re into, San Juan has it all.
Cuisine
Puerto Rican cuisine is something to be celebrated. You’ll find seafood dishes, traditional mofongo and alcapurrias, and even some international flavors. No matter what your tastes are, you’ll find something delicious to eat each day you’re in San Juan.
Festivals and Events
Finally, San Juan is known for its lively festivals and events. Whether you’re looking for outdoor concerts, cultural celebrations, or art exhibitions, there’s something happening in San Juan year-round.
Overall Best Time to Visit San Juan
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The best time to visit San Juan is from April to June. During the springtime, temperatures are comfortable, and rain showers tend to be brief.
This is also outside peak season for tourists, which is December to March, so you won’t have to deal with as many crowds and lines. April and June are ideal months for outdoor activities like beach trips or exploring the city’s amazing historical sites.
It’s also great for those looking to save money on their vacation, as prices tend to be lower during this time due to fewer tourists. That said, you’ll be able to get better deals on lodging, food, and activities.
December to March is another excellent time to visit San Juan. It’s peak tourist season not only because it’s the period of time with the least rain and hottest, driest weather but also because of the Holiday season.
If you go in December, you should expect crowds, which can be bothersome for some people but is ideal for those looking to party or attend events with plenty of people around.
Cheapest Time to Visit San Juan
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January, September, and October tend to be the cheapest months to visit San Juan. In January, you’ll be able to score post-holiday deals and discounts once massive amounts of tourists leave the island after Christmas and New Year.
This month is also during the dry season, so you won’t need to worry about rain too much, and you can enjoy the mid-80s temperatures while adventuring outdoors. January is also a great time for whale watching, which is a popular activity in San Juan.
September and October are also great times to visit, as the temperatures hover in the mid-80s and hurricane season is winding down. As a result, you’ll be able to find plenty of discounts on flights and hotels as the city is looking to fill up its spaces before peak season.
Overall, January, September, and October are great times to visit San Juan if you’re looking for discounts and want to explore the outdoors.
Least Busy Time to Visit San Juan
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The least busy time to visit San Juan is between June and November, which is during the hurricane season. The hurricane season prevents visitors from coming to San Juan because of the risks associated with hurricanes.
Temperatures during this time are hot and humid, making it less ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is a fantastic time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter San Juan.
Prices tend to be lower, and there are fewer crowds, so travelers who don’t mind the humidity and risk of a hurricane can find some great deals.
There are also plenty of indoor opportunities to take advantage of, like museums and restaurants, so travelers can still get a well-rounded San Juan experience without having to worry about the weather.
Worst Time to Visit San Juan
We’ve already shared why people tend to avoid visiting San Juan between June and November, and August is arguably the worst month of this hurricane season due to the heavy rain.
The average rainfall in August in San Juan is 7 inches of rain, which can surely put a damper on outdoor activities such as beach lounging, swimming, trekking, and sightseeing.
Not only is August a wet month, but the temperatures tend to be very hot and humid, making it difficult for most people to take full advantage of their vacation.
However, this month may be an acceptable fit for some people, as prices tend to be lower due to fewer tourists, and those who don’t mind rain can still find plenty of exciting, educational, or entertaining indoor activities.
Things to Consider
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Now that you have a better idea of when to visit San Juan, here’s a brief list of things to consider when planning your trip:
- Transportation. The best way to get to San Juan is by flying, and the best way to get around San Juan is by renting a car. Try to book your flights and car rentals in advance to save money.
- Accommodation. Book your hotel or lodging early regardless of what time of year you’re going, as San Juan is a popular tourist destination year-round, and prices tend to increase the closer it gets to your desired dates.
- Culture & Customs. Puerto Ricans are known for their hospitality, so make sure to be respectful of the local customs and culture. Read up on the etiquette before you go so you can blend in with the locals.
- Weather. Be sure to check the forecast before you plan any outdoor activities, as San Juan’s weather can be unpredictable at times, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season between April and November.
- Local Food & Drink. Try local and traditional Puerto Rican foods while you’re in San Juan, such as alcapurrias, rellenos de papa, mofongo, pernil, empanadas, and arroz con habichuelas.
- Natural Disasters. Puerto Rico is susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Be sure to monitor the weather before and during your trip so you can be prepared in case of an emergency.
- Safety. In addition to natural disasters, there are other safety concerns in San Juan, such as the possibility of pickpocketing, scamming, and other petty crimes. San Juan is a safe city overall and one of the safest in Puerto Rico, but always be alert regarding your surroundings and take common precautions.
Be sure to monitor the weather before and during your trip so you can be prepared in case of an emergency.Activities to Consider
San Juan offers a wide range of activities to participate in, including but not limited to the following:
- Beach hopping
- Swimming
- Museum tours
- Dining
- Whale watching
- Nightlife
- Shopping
- Bird watching
- Golfing
- Sightseeing
- Forts, cathedrals, and citadels
- Performances
Specific Attractions to Consider
Now that you know what types of activities you can do, here are specific attractions you won’t want to miss in San Juan:
- Castillo San Felipe del Morro – Spanish citadel built in the 16th century
- Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico – Puerto Rican art in a neoclassical museum
- Parque de las Palomas – excellent, scenic park perfect for bird watching
- El Yunque National Forest – Lush rainforest located east of San Juan and home to many exotic species
- Barrio de Santurce – vibrant neighborhood full of street art, galleries, and restaurants
- Viejo San Juan – historic district filled with
- Condado Beach – a bustling beach filled with plenty of hotels, eateries, and bars
- Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré – popular performing arts center
- Jardín Botánico de la UPR – 30,000 plants in a manicured, expansive garden
- Isla Verde Beach – hotels, jet ski rentals, and more on this lively beach
Ferré – popular performing arts centerThese are just a few attractions you can discover while exploring San Juan.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What else do you want to know about San Juan? Here are our answers to related questions about when to go to this city.
What is the best month to visit San Juan?
March is the ultimate best month to visit San Juan for optimal weather, fewer crowds, and moderate pricing.
What are the rainy months in Puerto Rico?
April through November are the rainy months in Puerto Rico. The weather gets particularly rainy between June and November, which is also considered the hurricane season. During this time, you should be extra vigilant and prepared for bad weather.
What is hurricane season in Puerto Rico?
Hurricane season is from June through November.
It’s one of the riskiest times to visit but also the cheapest and least crowded. If you go during this time, pay close attention to weather alerts.
How many days is enough in San Juan?
Although it’s relatively compact, we recommend 4-5 full days in San Juan, which will give you enough time to explore and around the city.
What is the cheapest month to go to Puerto Rico?
January is the cheapest month to go to Puerto Rico because it’s the low season, and you can secure post-holiday deals on flights, hotels, excursions, and more. So, if you’re trying to save money, this is the best time to visit San Juan.
So, What’s the Best Time to Visit San Juan?
San Juan is an unforgettable place to visit any time of the year, but understanding the best time to visit San Juan for your particular needs and preferences will ensure you have an amazing experience.
While the best time overall is between April and June, other times of the year may be cheaper, warmer, livelier, or less crowded, so it’s best to choose which factors you wish to prioritize and which ones you’re okay compromising on.
Have a great trip!
Best time to visit San Juan
Lonely Planet has partnered with San Juan-based travel community Platea to provide comprehensive guides, curated lists and insider tips for your next trip to Puerto Rico.
A visit to San Juan is an excellent idea any time of the year. The vibrant capital city of Puerto Rico possesses a litany of lures. Year-round balmy weather, a thriving culinary and bar culture, varied accommodations and abundant historical opportunities make for an excellent destination for all types of travelers.
Opportunities to explore history present themselves all over the island. This year, Puerto Rico celebrates the 500th anniversary of the founding of Old San Juan, the oldest city in the U.S.
Part of the celebrations (which are a year late due to COVID-19) includes two special exhibits at the Museo de San Juan that trace Puerto Rico’s history and art, as well as a two-hour walking tour of Old San Juan. Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro), Castillo de San Cristóbal, La Fortaleza and other historic sites await visitors to Old San Juan.
The island also ranks as one of the most affordable Caribbean islands to visit. You can save even more money, depending on what time of the year you visit. San Juan plays host to several festivals and events throughout the year, but there’s always something happening.
Here’s our guide to exploring San Juan’s most popular hot spots any time of the year.
December to March provides some of the best weather in San Juan © Dennis van de Water / Shutterstock
Enjoy beautiful weather during high season: December to March
Avoid a lot of the rain and humidity from December to March. The average temperatures are in the low 80s. Winter months bring North Americans to the island to escape cold weather, driving higher prices for flights and hotel stays in the Metro area.
Additionally, San Juan is one of the Caribbean’s busiest cruise ports, receiving throngs of cruise ship visitors regularly. Sunny days and milder temperatures make relaxing beach days and outdoor excursions even more enjoyable.
If you’re planning a Christmas visit, book well in advance. Hotels fill up quickly months in advance.
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Save a few dollars during shoulder season: mid-April to June
Perhaps the optimal time for visiting Puerto Rico is the shoulder season. Winter crowds have left, cooler, dry temperatures remain, and discounted hotel rooms and cheaper flights are in relatively good supply. Tours and restaurants are typically easier to secure during shoulder season, which can make for a more relaxing experience.
A foodies guide to San Juan
Less crowds during the offseason: July to November
June and July are high-season months for Puerto Ricans, but generally offseason for international travelers. Fewer crowds provide a better opportunity to experience the island’s food, culture and local customs at a more relaxed pace.
Because it’s the preferred beach season by Puerto Ricans, you’ll likely share the sand with more locals. It’s a perfect chance to meet new people and create meaningful connections. Your new friends can share off-the-grid places to eat and explore that you might not have learned about otherwise.
When is hurricane season in Puerto Rico?
Although hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, hurricanes rarely disrupt travel plans and reliable forecasts allow for effective planning. Historically, the most damaging storms have occurred during the months of August and December.
San Juan’s hottest bars for cool cocktails and tropical nights
San Juan’s San Sebastián Street Festival is the unofficial closing of the world’s longest holiday season © J Erick Brazzan/Shutterstock
January is for closing out the holiday season
January is one of Puerto Rico’s coldest months. In San Juan, average daytime temperatures hover around 84 degrees Fahrenheit and night-time temperatures can dip to the low 60s.
Key events: Three Kings Day occurs on January 6 to commemorate the Wise Men; San Sebastián Street Festival is the unofficial closing of the world’s longest holiday season.
February draws the crowds
This is one of the busiest months for tourism in Puerto Rico. The weather during February is almost ideal, but prices tend to be higher. Restaurants and hotels offer special deals near Valentine’s Day, so be on the lookout for discounted packages when you’re booking your accommodations.
In March, San Juan celebrates the Taste of Rum Festival © Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
March is when the American spring breakers descend
March is popular for American spring breakers and travelers escaping colder climates. It will also be more crowded at major tourist attractions in San Juan, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
Key event: Taste of Rum Festival
April is the perfect time to hit the beach
April is prime beach time thanks to warmer daytime temperatures.
Key events: Good Friday and Easter Sunday celebrations occur islandwide
May is ideal for families
Enjoy a slower pace and sunny weather during the month of May.
Key events: Saborea Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican Danza Week
June is best for outdoor activities
Make the most of your time in San Juan in June. During this month, the days are usually the longest between dawn and sunset.
Key event: Noche de San Juan
July is for budget travelers
A visit during July awards travelers with offseason hotel rates and fewer crowds around the pool.
August is rainy season
This month brings the island’s hottest and wettest weather of the year.
Key events: San Juan International Billfish Tournament and SOFO Culinary Fest
September activities in San Juan include a Coffee and Chocolate Expo © Anders Blomqvist / Lonely Planet
September offers beachy solitude
You’ll likely have the beach all to yourself after Labor Day.
Generally, Puerto Ricans don’t go to the beach after that because it’s too cold for them.
Key event: Coffee and Chocolate Expo
October is crowd free
Fall is an ideal time to visit San Juan. Typically crowded Metro area beaches like Atlantic, Condado and Isla Verde see fewer visitors.
November is filling your belly
Thanksgiving isn’t a recognized holiday on the island. However, many restaurants – especially those located within resorts – offer a special Thanksgiving menu. We recommend you book ahead to secure your special dining experience.
December is filled with holiday celebrations
Christmastime is an exciting time to visit Puerto Rico. Locals here celebrate one of the world’s longest holiday seasons. Festivities begin the day after Thanksgiving and generally end three weeks after New Year’s Day.
Key events: Old San Juan’s White Christmas Festival and Lighting of the Town of Bethlehem
You might also like:
Best classes and workshops in San Juan
Top 5 day trips from San Juan
Best hikes in El Yunque National Forest
Things to do while visiting the Basque Country
Off the coast of Bilbao is a small island called San Juan de Gaztelugatxe ( Gaztelugatxe), where the famous Dragonstone from the infamous series Game of Thrones is located .
You don’t have to be a GoT fan to visit this attraction because it’s in a great location and you can learn more about the Basque Country.
This article will tell you exactly how to plan a trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe so read on and get ready for adventure!
Island: how to get there
Small rocky island Gaztelugatxe was formed by a volcanic eruption and is located off the Costa Basca. The island itself is located 20 km off the coast of Bilbao, and you can actually get there on your own. The best way to get there is to drive to Bikio which is right on the coast and then continue towards the car park. Don’t worry, if you don’t have a car, you can take the public bus from Bilbao city center! nine0011
Upon arrival in Bakio, you will have to make a long descent from the cliff, which is tiring, but worth it! Then, the last part is to climb 240 steps after you have crossed the bridge to the island so that you reach the chapel where the stone is.
It’s a long journey, but it turns the adventure into a day trip so you can see the many Basque landscapes and surroundings.
Photo via lonelyplanet.com
Game of Thrones, Dragonstone
In the Basque language, the name of the island means “Rock Castle”. The boiling waves of the Atlantic break on the rocky shores. As we mentioned, you don’t have to see “ Game of Thrones, to appreciate this impressive place. Surrounded by forest green colors of the Basque landscape, it is a place where you can escape the city and breathe in the fresh air of the countryside. When you reach the chapel, don’t forget to ring the church bell three times as it will bring you good luck! Near the chapel built a small shelter of three walls under the roof, where you can stop for a picnic or just take a break.
Journey to Dragonstone: is it difficult? nine0019
Yes, to get to Dragonstone, you have to walk a bit, but it’s not as hard as it looks.
In some places the slope can be a bit steep and many trails are wheelchair/buggy inaccessible, but overall it is suitable for most people.
An important tip – be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, because on rainy days it can be slippery and you won’t want to fall off the steep cliffs. You don’t have to go out and buy the most expensive shoes for this hike, but try to wear good running shoes or boots that provide good traction and support. It would be nice if you take a bottle of water with you. There are benches along the trail where you can take a break, and on one of the turns there is a viewing terrace from which amazing views of the bay open up and from where you can take impressive photos. nine0011 Photo via CNN
How to buy tickets
Game of Thrones gave San Juan de Gaztelugatche much more recognition, so the number of visitors has increased dramatically over the past few years. Even though it’s free to visit, is a must-book if you’re going during the peak times of the year as they limit the number of pedestrians so there won’t be too many people.
The best time to visit the island is spring and autumn, in summer it is quite crowded. nine0011
Where to eat
You will definitely need a warm drink and a hearty meal after your hike, and there are plenty of places to eat nearby. One of the restaurants, Eneperi , is located very close to the car park, where they sell delicious food and have a great courtyard , where you can sit outside in sunny weather.
Photo via hertz.com
Accommodation near the island
You can stay at Bakio or Bermeo, if you want to get to Dragonstone more easily, and there are many small hotels that provide a luxurious stay, such as Manuko Benta.
Bakio is a small coastal town in Spain that was built in the Middle Ages. There are incredibly beautiful landscapes here, as the city is located in a picturesque valley, it is surrounded by hills overgrown with greenery, and the houses of the inhabitants come almost to the very edge of the water.
Picturesque landscapes, ancient monuments, cozy family wineries and a beautiful beach will surely impress travelers who come to this amazing little town of the Basque Country. nine0011
Bermeo is a neat, clean, Atlantic-washed town in the Basque Country. Bermeo annually hosts the famous fish fair – ARRAIN AZOKA. Up to 100,000 guests come here and they are all given a warm welcome: there are excursions to the enterprises of the fishing industry, tastings of various fish dishes.
If you’re not such a die-hard moviegoer, you can stay in Bilbao and San Sebastian , where there are hundreds of fine hotels where you can have a good rest. For example, Silken Amara Plaza, is about an hour and a half from the island by car, and it’s really an amazing hotel that you will definitely enjoy your stay.
Bilbaodragon stonegame of thronesGame of Thrones Dragonstonepais vascoSan Juan de GaztelugatxeBilbaoSan Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Best Hotels in San Juan de Plan, Spain (from € 65)
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Excellent: 9+
Very good: 8+
Good: 7+
Fairly good: 6+
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Apartamentos Casa Cecilia
org/PostalAddress”>San Juan de Plan
The family-run Casa Cecilia is located in the village of Plan, in the Chisto Valley of the Aragonese Pyrenees.
The living room is very clean and spacious, the bathrooms average sized for Spain, the kitchen well equipped.
The owner let us use their garage for our bicycles which was much appreciated.
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8.9
Fabulous
102 reviews
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€100
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Casa Campole
San Juan de Plan
Located in the Chistau Valley, in the Aragonese Pyrenees, Casa Campolé is located in San Juan de Plan. It offers houses, apartments and studios with mountain views.
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8.8
Fantastic
131 reviews
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€ 80
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Pirineos Nature Apartments San Juan de Plan
org/PostalAddress”>San Juan de Plan
PirineOsnature San Juan de Plan offers accommodation in San Juan de Plan, 28 km from Boltania. It features a garden and free Wi-Fi.
– Beautiful nature with a lot of tracks and trails
– Calm and clean
– Remote place, out of its all
– Small shop and bar nearby
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9.4
Excellent
54 reviews
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€115
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Apartamento Millas
San Juan de Plan
Millas is located in San Juan de Plan. Saint-Lary-Soulan is 39 km from the property.
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9
Excellent
24 reviews
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Casa La Bordeta Remondillo
San Juan de Plan
Situated in San Juan de Plan in the Aragon region, Casa La Bordeta Remondillo has a balcony and garden views.
A patio is available.
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8.9
Fantastic
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Apartamentos Casa Ferrer
San Juan de Plan
Providing a terrace, Apartamentos Casa Ferrer provides accommodation in San Juan de Plan.
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7
Good
1 reviews
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La Casita de Cloe
San Juan de Plan
La Casita de Cloe is set in San Juan de Plan. It has garden views and free WiFi throughout the property.
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9.5
Excellent
2 reviews
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Casa Romero
Plan (Near San Juan de Plan)
Located in Plan in the Aragon region, Casa Romero features a garden. The apartment has a terrace, 1 bedroom, a living room and a well-equipped kitchen. A flat-screen TV is offered.
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7.3
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Mirador de Chisten
Histain (Near San Juan de Plan)
With mountain views, Mirador de Chisten is located in Gistaín and has free WiFi.
The views are awesome! I truly enjoyed the stay there. The apartment was really cozy and the bed was very comfy!
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9.2
Excellent
100 reviews
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Casa Rural Fontamil
Histain (Near San Juan de Plan)
Offering a garden, Casa Rural Fontamil is located in Gistaín.