Last week was full of sunshine, fruity drinks, and sandy beaches with turquoise water. We stayed in Carolina, PR which is a small beach town a couple miles from San Juan. It was the perfect location that has all the necessities close by including a quick walk to the beach!
We did a lot of relaxing, even more eating, and a little exploring. Today I’m sharing five of my favorite PR finds…
1. Old San Jaun
This is a must! Old San Juan is full of colorful architecture that dates back to the 1500s. This is the first settlement in Puerto Rico by the Spanish. This beautiful little city within the metropolis of San Juan boasts delicious eateries, fabulous night life, romantic streets, and more! Just spend a day and get lost in this little old world…
2. Castillo San Cristóbal (AKA: Fort San Cristóbal)
This recommendation comes from my hubby Brian who spent the day exploring and photographing the fort. The fort is located right in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1783 by the Spanish. If you're a history buff or really enjoy photography, I highly suggest visiting. After seeing Brian's photos from his day trip, I was kind of jealous I spent the day at the beach...kind of!
This is an awesome bar or lunch place in Old San Juan that you have to check out. We stopped here for drinks and a quick snack. The drinks were cold, the food was great, and the staff was super friendly! I love this place mostly because the staff made us feel like old friends and they have a very LARGE Tequila selection just in case you're interested.
If you go to San Juan and only eat out once, you have to go here! Don't take it from me, but look at the thousands of positive reviews on numerous review sites. This place comes highly recommended and it won't fail to please. Their menu is somewhat seasonal, but if they have it I suggest you start with the ahi tuna tartar and the grilled pineapple salad followed by the scallops with sweet potato puree entree. YUM! It is a little pricy, but worth every penny.
5. Carlis Fine Bistro and Piano
This is a tiny little gem in Old San Juan. The food here was so beautiful and delicious, I have no photo proof. We just started eating and I totally forgot I needed to snap a couple pics...oops! The staff was super knowledgeable and friendly. Start with the crab cakes...to die for! For your entree I highly suggest their signature dish the rack of lamb or their blackened ahi tuna. Finish with their coconut crème brulee and a coffee. If you're feeling really sweet, order every dessert on the menu, you won't be upset. Did I mention they have live music? A perfect evening in an even more perfect little town.
BONUS: Cluebra Island
I didn't include this in my five because technically it’s not in San Juan. Cluebra Island is consistently rated among the top ten beaches in the world. After seeing this beautiful piece of paradise, I totally understand why. It is an hour drive from San Juan to the catamaran tour boat launch, but worth the trip (book in advance). The beach is endless and white. The water is crystal clear. This trip will have you contemplating selling all your positions and moving to live on this beach in a tent. It is a place everyone should see before they die. Absolutely stunning…
I hope you enjoyed my list and maybe you will find it helpful when planning your own tropical vacation. If you want to check out more scenes from Puerto Rico, check out @BaileyandJames on Instagram.
Thanks for stopping by. Join us Wednesday for the Lavish Lemon Link Up. We will be sharing some healthy recipes to keep you on track in the New Year.
Cheers to Monday!