Discovery Puerto Rico
Your LGBTQ+ guide to the Caribbean island.
April 25 2023 10:36 AM EST
September 07 2023 3:33 PM EST
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Your LGBTQ+ guide to the Caribbean island.
Puerto Rico is America's little slice of Caribbean heaven. The LGBTQ-embracing U.S. territory is just a quick hop from the mainland and offers a vibrant queer community. While most travelers stay in San Juan, there's more to explore on the island, including the charming fishing village of La Parguera, two hours from the island's capital city. Here's some of our favorite places to stay, eat, and play in the region.
San Juan by Daniel Reynolds
You’ll likely be flying into San Juan. There are many LGBTQ+ nightlife spots in P.R.’s capital. Most were sleepy when I visited on a Thursday night, but I enjoyed a lively game of pool and cheap drinks at Tia Maria’s, which is popular with locals.
Courtesy Condado Ocean Club
I checked in at nighttime to the Condado Ocean Cluband my jaw dropped in the morning when I threw back the curtain and saw a window of beautiful blue ocean. The ahi tuna salad at the on-site restaurant Social was delicious.
Daniel Reynolds
Try the ahi tuna (above) and duck fried rice for dinner at the nearby Caribbean Asian fusion restaurant, RAYA, helmed by local celebrity chef Mario Pagan
By Daniel Reynolds
The sun sets over La Parguera.
By Daniel Reynolds
La Jamaca, a 16-bedroom property with a very Jimmy Buffett “island vibe,” was a fitting host for our maritime adventures. Literally translating to “the hammock,” it boasts live music on Saturdays, a restaurant that serves tasty breakfast and seafood bites.
Courtesy Daniel Reynolds
At La Jamaca I enjoyed the campy outdoor bath experience where I washed off the sea in a tub complete with rose petals and sparkling wine.
Courtesy Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa
For a more traditional beachside resort, try the Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa, which is tailor-made for events and weddings.
French Toast at Las Palmas Restaurant by Daniel Reynolds
Grab al fresco breakfast at Copamarina's Las Palmas Restaurant and then jump on a daytime boat to Cayo Aurora, dubbed Gilligan’s Island,” to check out mangrove trees and snorkel through a coral reef.
Courtesy Daniel Reynolds
Bounce on a sea trampoline just off the resort’s half-mile beach. And make sure to book a spa appointment afterward to unwind. To end the day, enjoy fine dining at Copamarina's Restaurante Alexandra.
photo by Daniel Reynolds
Hacienda Verde Tahití offers a more rustic escape on a 25-acre farm about 20 minutes from La Parguera where guests can disconnect from modern madness in cottages and glamping sites. Friendly hosts will prepare Puerto Rican home cooking and help plan adventures. Speaking of the joys of darkness, this Hacienda makes for some amazing nighttime stargazing.