Vacay AlchemistThe best time to visit Puerto Rico is mid-December through April, when the weather is warm and relatively dry, followed by May and late November to early December for lower prices. Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk from August to October.
What is the weather like year-round?
Puerto Rico stays warm all year, with daytime highs typically in the 80s Fahrenheit. The drier season runs roughly from December through April. The wetter season begins in May and lasts through November, with afternoon showers common and a higher chance of tropical storms from August through October.
Month-by-month guide
- December to April: peak season with the driest weather, festivals and the highest prices. Whale watching is possible in winter, mainly in the west.
- May: shoulder season with lower prices, warm water and fewer crowds. Rain becomes more frequent.
- June to July: hot and more humid, good deals, and beaches with less crowding. Hurricane season begins.
- August to October: the peak of hurricane season and the lowest prices. If you go, buy travel insurance and stay flexible.
- November: rain tapers off and prices are still moderate, especially before the holiday period.
Which events and festivals are worth planning around?
- Three Kings Day (January 6) and the San Sebastián Street Festival in Old San Juan in mid-January.
- Carnival celebrations in several towns before Lent.
- Local patron saint festivals and music events throughout the year.
Check official tourism sources for exact dates, since events shift each year.
What should you see, and when?
- Old San Juan and El Yunque: comfortable in the dry season. Some areas of El Yunque require advance reservations, so check the U.S. Forest Service before going.
- Bioluminescent bays in Vieques, Fajardo and La Parguera: available year-round, but darker nights (around the new moon) are best.
- Beaches: Culebra, Vieques, Luquillo and the west coast are excellent, with calmer seas in summer and bigger surf in winter on the north and west.
- Surfing: winter swells are best for the northwest coast.
What do U.S. travelers need to know?
Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so U.S. citizens do not need a passport, though you will need acceptable ID for flights. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, rent a car if you want to explore beyond San Juan and be ready for occasional power or water interruptions in some areas.
Frequently asked
When is hurricane season in Puerto Rico?
June 1 through November 30, with the highest risk from August to October.
What is the cheapest time to visit Puerto Rico?
August through October has the lowest prices, but it is also the peak of hurricane season. Consider May, June and November for a balance.
Do I need a passport for Puerto Rico?
Not if you are a U.S. citizen, but you need acceptable ID for the flight.
Plan a Puerto Rico trip around the weather
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