Looking for an adventure off the beaten path near San Juan? Charco Prieto Waterfall is a true hidden gem tucked in the hills of Bayamón, just 40 minutes from the city but a world away from the crowds. This short but rugged hike takes you through lush rainforest, over rocky creek crossings, and up muddy, steep trails—rewarding you at the end with a breathtaking 130-foot waterfall cascading into a peaceful jungle pool. If you want a slice of wild Puerto Rico beyond the beach resorts, bring your sturdy shoes and your sense of adventure—Charco Prieto is waiting!
How To See The “Ven A la Luz” Sculpture In Tulum
Ven a la Luz might be one of the most photographed spots in Tulum—but there’s more to this towering sculpture than meets the eye. In this post, I share what it’s really like to visit and what you should know before you go,
Xcaret: Is It Worth The Cost?
Is Xcaret worth the price? Here’s what you get, what to expect, and whether this popular Riviera Maya park is really worth the splurge.
Tulum Ruins
Planning a trip to the Tulum Ruins? This guide covers everything you need to know—from a quick history of the site to tips on entrance fees, avoiding hidden costs, and what to expect when visiting this stunning coastal Mayan site. I’ll help you prepare for a smooth, memorable experience without any surprises.
Canun Interactive Aquarium
Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity in Cancún that won’t break the budget? The Interactive Aquarium at La Isla Shopping Village is a perfect option—especially for a rainy day or a break from the beach. With touch tanks, marine life exhibits, dolphin shows, and affordable combo tickets, it’s an easy and entertaining way to spend a few hours with kids.
Casa Tortuga Cenotes
From swimming through eerie, echoing cave cenotes to relaxing in sunlit pools, Casa Tortuga gave us a full cenote experience for a fraction of the cost of other parks.
A Day at Chichén Itzá
We visited Chichén Itzá with a guided tour—but was it worth it? Here’s what we paid, what was included, and how it compares to going on your own.
Free Things to do in Puerto Rico
Narrow and Winding Roads on the Drive to Charco Prieto Waterfall Hike. 8 Free Things You Can Do In Puerto Rico Puerto Rico offers an ideal Caribbean vacation for US citizens since no passport is required, featuring beautiful beaches, the El Yunque rainforest, historic Old San Juan, and year-round tropical weather in the 70s-80s°F. The island combines US convenience (English widely spoken, US dollar used) with rich Latin culture, excellent local cuisine, and diverse activities from beach relaxation to adventure hiking. Best of all – You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy this amazing destination- here’s your guide to some of the island’s best free or affordable adventures. Charco Prieto 130′ Waterfall Hike to Charco Prieto Waterfall Tucked away in Bayamón, Charco Prieto is a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers. The drive there includes some narrow, winding roads—so take your time—but the lush scenery along the way is stunning. It is approximately 20 miles from San Juan (40 min drive.) The one-mile trail to the falls is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain and a few steep, muddy sections. Thankfully, previous hikers have tied ropes to nearby trees to help navigate the tougher spots. At the end, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking, multi-tiered waterfall hidden deep in the forest. You can find directions, trail reviews, and tips on the AllTrails app. This place is well worth the trip if you are up for adventure and a little challenge. 400 Year Old Ceiba Tree Located in Patillas, Puerto Rico Visit the Ceiba Atabey Tree in Patillas Estimated to be over 400 years old, the Ceiba Atabey tree in Patillas is one of Puerto Rico’s most sacred natural landmarks. Towering and awe-inspiring, this ancient ceiba tree holds deep spiritual significance and offers a serene stop for anyone looking to connect with the island’s rich natural and cultural history. Nestled in the quiet community of Muñoz Rivera in Patillas, the tree is located on the southeastern coast of the island. From San Juan, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive (roughly 60 miles), and just over an hour from Ponce. To reach it, take PR-3 toward Patillas, then turn onto Route 181 and follow it until you reach Road 7759. The tree is located just off the side of this small, paved road—shortly after crossing a small bridge. Be cautious, as there’s no formal parking area, and cars may need to park along the road. While the site isn’t heavily marked, it’s well known by locals, who are often happy to offer directions. Visiting is free, and the peaceful, almost mystical surroundings combined with the ceiba’s massive, gnarled roots and towering branches make this a hidden gem well worth the detour. Tribute to Bad Bunny Experience La Placita de Santurce By day, La Placita serves as a lively local market. By night, it comes alive with music, dancing, and vibrant energy. With open-air venues offering live salsa, reggaetón, and Afro-Caribbean beats, it’s a must-visit for nightlife lovers. And best of all, there’s no charge just to walk around and take it all in. Cueva Del Indio Explore Cueva del Indio Located in Arecibo, Cueva del Indio combines natural beauty with cultural heritage. Dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs, and ancient Taíno petroglyphs make it a fascinating stop. Parking along PR-681 allows for free access with a short walk, while the private lot closer to the entrance charges around $10 per person. View Along the Hike to Mount Britton Tower in El Yunque National Forest Wander El Yunque National Forest El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Most hiking trails are free to explore, while the El Portal Visitor Center costs $8 per adult (kids under 15 enter free). It’s a must-see for nature lovers visiting Puerto Rico. Located near the town of Río Grande, El Yunque is about a 45-minute drive (32 miles) from San Juan via PR-66 and PR-191. From Ponce, it takes roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes (about 94 miles), and from Mayagüez, it’s around 2 hours and 40 minutes (136 miles). Use GPS to navigate directly to the El Portal Visitor Center, but be aware that rideshare services like Uber do not operate within the forest—so renting a car or booking a guided tour is recommended. With frequent rainfall year-round, it’s wise to bring rain gear and wear sturdy footwear. The park also features restrooms, picnic areas, and educational exhibits at the visitor center, making it a well-rounded and enriching stop for all ages. Mural in La Placita de Santurce Discover Street Art in Santurce Santurce is a canvas of bold, expressive murals that tell stories of Puerto Rico’s identity, struggles, and pride. It’s completely free to explore on foot, making it a colorful and culturally rich activity for travelers interested in photography, art, or just soaking in the local flavor. Catedral de San Juan Bautista Visit the 500 year old Catedral de San Juan Bautista Located in the heart of Old San Juan, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, dating back to 1521. Its striking Gothic architecture and peaceful interior offer a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Entry is free, though small donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic landmark. Castillo San Felipe Del Morro Stroll Around Castillo San Felipe Del Morro While entry to this iconic 16th-century Spanish fortress requires a fee (approx $10 USD), walking the scenic grounds outside is free. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the green spaces surrounding El Morro are perfect for a relaxing picnic or kite flying with postcard-worthy views. Final Thoughts Puerto Rico truly has it all—lush landscapes, historic charm, soulful music, and a deep cultural heartbeat. Best of all, many of its most memorable experiences are completely free or very low-cost. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, admiring street murals, or standing beneath a centuries-old cathedral or tree, this island invites you to live in
400 Year Old Ceiba Tree
https://youtube.com/shorts/zGTxhpgWIHM A Hidden Gem in Southeastern Puerto Rico In the quiet town of Patillas, along the winding roads of Puerto Rico’s southeastern coast, stands something truly special- a Ceiba tree believed to be more than 400 years old. Towering over 100 feet high, with thick roots spreading in every direction, this giant tree is one of the oldest living landmarks on the island. Yet it remains one of Puerto Rico’s best-kept secrets. A Tree With Deep Roots in More Ways Than One The Ceiba pentandra is no ordinary tree. It’s the national tree of Puerto Rico and has long held spiritual meaning throughout the Caribbean. The Indigenous Taíno people considered the Ceiba sacred, believing it symbolized strength, protection, and life. The Ceiba Atabey in Patillas is a living piece of that history. It has survived hurricanes, storms, and centuries of change. When you stand beneath its wide canopy and massive roots, there’s a quiet feeling of awe. It’s peaceful and powerful all at once. How to Visit the Ceiba Tree in Patillas To get to the Ceiba Atabey, drive south on PR-181 from San Juan, passing through Trujillo Alto and San Lorenzo. Once you arrive in Patillas, cross a small bridge and take a left onto Road 7759. The tree is just a short way down the road on the left side. You can’t miss it. There’s no official parking lot, but you can safely pull over on the shoulder. Be careful, as the road is narrow and local traffic passes by. The drive takes about one hour from San Juan (46 miles) or one hour from Ponce (40 miles), making it a perfect stop on a southeastern road trip. Why It’s Worth the Stop In a world that moves fast and focuses on what’s new and flashy, this tree reminds us of something deeper. It shows us the beauty of stillness, strength, and lasting roots both in nature and in life. For me, visiting the Ceiba wasn’t just about seeing a cool tree. It was about pausing, grounding myself, and remembering what matters most. Travel isn’t always about chasing views. Sometimes it’s about quiet moments that reconnect you with the world and with yourself. Quick Tips: Bring water as it can get hot and humid in the area Wear sturdy shoes, especially if you want to walk around the tree There are no restrooms or signs, so plan ahead Be respectful- this is a natural and cultural landmark
Punta Sur Isla Mujeres
Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres, Mexico Updated 5/30/25 – By Roaming with Roxie One of the most unforgettable stops during our time on Isla Mujeres was Punta Sur. Perched on a cliffside where the Caribbean Sea crashes against rugged rocks, this breathtaking location is more than just a scenic viewpoint—it’s a place that feels sacred, peaceful, and powerful all at once. What Is Punta Sur? Punta Sur (which translates to South Point), is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, panoramic ocean views, and ancient ruins. It is located at the southern tip of a small island called Isla Mujeres, which sits about 8 miles off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. It’s home to the remains of a Mayan temple dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and the moon, making it a place of historical and spiritual significance. The area also features a sculpture garden showcasing striking works by international artists, including a well-known fertility statue at the entrance. How To Get To Isla Mujeres You’ll need to take a boat or ferry to get to the island. We chose the Xcaret Ferry service because their tickets also include admission to the Scenic Tower in Cancun’s Hotel Zone—a fun bonus. Alternatively, you can take the Ultramar Ferry or book a private or group excursion to reach the island. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes by ferry, offering stunning views along the way. How To Get To Punta Sur Once You’re On The Island Once we arrived on the island, we chose to skip the taxis and rent a golf cart like many people do—highly recommended. It gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace and made the day extra fun. Tip: If you walk a few blocks away from the ferry terminal, you’ll often find better deals on the rentals than those offered right at the dock. Don’t forget, in Mexico, it’s perfectly normal (and expected) to negotiate a little on prices.Also, you can reach Punta Sur by public bus. The local bus costs around $2 USD per person and drops you off just a short five-minute walk from the entrance. You can hop on the bus right next to the ferry terminal. If you choose to take a taxi, make sure you agree on the fare before you get in. How Much Does It Cost? Punta Sur does have a small entrance fee (about $5 USD) if you want to access the full trail that takes you down to the cliffside walk, sculptures, and Mayan ruins. However, you can also enjoy some nice views for free near the entrance. Trust me—it’s worth paying to walk the full path and go all the way to the end. Why You Should Visit Punta Sur There’s just something about Punta Sur that makes it feel different from other places. It’s not just the views—though those are incredible—but the overall atmosphere. It feels calm, untouched, and deeply meaningful, even if you can’t quite explain why. The sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs, the open sky, the ancient Mayan ruins, and the sculptures scattered along the trail all come together to create a space that feels both peaceful and powerful. It’s the kind of place where you automatically slow down, take a deep breath, and just take it all in. Whether you’re into nature, history, or just looking for a quiet spot to get away from it all, Punta Sur leaves a lasting impression. It’s not flashy or crowded—it just feels real.