Puerto Rico is a North American territory known for its travel and laid-back drinking culture. You might be shocked to learn that the legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is only 18 years old, rather than 21. Nonetheless, 18-year-olds are regarded as adults. Although certain clubs do not allow people under the age of 21 to enter, you can legally drink alcohol in this country if you are 18 years old.
Many individuals believe that because the legal drinking age in Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands is only 18, the area is unsafe for tourism. Although your anxiety is well-founded and quite sensible, Puerto Rico has created an enjoyable and safe tourism destination. Of course, you’ll need to exercise caution and refrain from consuming all alcoholic beverages in one sitting.
1. Minimum Legal Drinking Age in Puerto Rico
So, what’s the minimum drinking age in Puerto Rico? Read the following facts to find all your answers.
1.1. Legal Drinking Age
In Puerto Rico, the legal drinking age is 18. Other Eastern Standard Time zones have a distinct drinking culture than this one. Puerto Ricans have a more relaxed drinking culture than their counterparts in other countries.
1.2. National Drink in Puerto Rico
The national drink of Puerto Rico is one of the most fascinating facts about the island. People who believe that nothing could surprise them other than the drinking age of 18 are mistaken. This is why.
This Caribbean island is a major producer of rum in the United States. Puerto Rico’s national drink is rum. This Caribbean island produces about 70% of the rum consumed in the United States, making it the world’s biggest rum producer.
1.3. Pina Colada
San Juan, Puerto Rico, gave birth to the world-famous pina colada. Although it is unclear whether the pina colada originated in the Caribe Hilton or at the Barrachina restaurant, it is evident that it was born in the heart of Puerto Rico, namely San Juan.
1.4. The Famous Drink: Pitorro
You may have heard a lot about Pitorro, a well-known rum. Pitorro, a type of uncured rum made in Puerto Rico, is known as their version of Moonshine. Fruits have been infusing the drink for months. Tourists flock to it in droves, especially around the holidays.
1.5. Area Codes In Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has two area codes: 787, which is the most frequent, and 939, which is the newest. The codes aren’t exclusive to any one location. The area code must be used for all calls made on the island.
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2. Best Time to Visit San Juan
The Isla Verde resort strip, which is famed for its bars, nightclubs, and casinos, has the broadest beach fronts. Colorful Spanish colonial houses and 16th-century attractions, such as El Morro, may be seen in cobblestoned Old San Juan.
The best time to visit Puerto Rico is entirely dependent on your preferences and the types of experiences you want to have. If you want to get away from the cold of winter, come to this Caribbean island in January. When you visit Puerto Rico in the first few weeks of the year, you’ll be able to take part in fantastic holiday activities like the San Sebastián Street Festival in Old San Juan, which takes place during the third week of January.
If you’re a surfer, the finest months for waves are usually December and January. Summer temperatures are slightly higher, but not by much. It rains more from May through October than it does in the winter.
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3. Things To Know About Puerto Rico
Natural resources abound in this liquor-producing country. Puerto Ricans buy booze, wine, and beer with ease and enjoy their vacation weekends. Although there is always a risk of binge drinking and alcoholism, few people seem to be concerned. The official languages spoken here are English and Spanish. Puerto Rico’s food and beverage requirements are comparable to those of the mainland United States. Since it is filtered and treated at the source, tap water is safe to drink.
4. Hurricane Season
Liquor establishments are not required to operate during certain hours, however, sales are forbidden during hurricanes and on election days.
Every year, hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with September being the height of the season and the month with the most cyclone activity. Although the season occurs every year, Puerto Rico does not always experience direct cyclone damage.
5. Business Hours in Puerto Rico
From Monday to Friday, offices in Puerto Rico typically open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Most institutions are open for at least a half-day on Saturday. The shops are usually open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m Most malls and big-box stores are open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Most banks have some branches open late on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as well as evening hours until 6 p.m.
6. Laws In Puerto Rico
- In Puerto Rico, the legal drinking age is 18. At pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants, however, you must remember to bring your ID documents with you.
- Carry no open containers of alcohol in your automobile or in any public place where alcohol is not permitted.
- Puerto Rico takes drunk driving as seriously as most other states in the United States. You will be apprehended by the cops on the spot. Do not even consider driving while inebriated or without a valid driver’s license.
- In Puerto Rico, where illegal drugs and narcotics are an issue, a branch of the Federal Narcotics Strike Force is permanently stationed. Convictions for marijuana possession can result in harsh punishments, ranging from two to ten years in prison for a first conviction. Hard drug possession, such as cocaine or heroin, can result in a sentence of 15 years or more in jail.
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7. Frequently Asked Questions
According to New York Times, Puerto Rico is one of the top tourism destinations as of 2019. The island is one of the most accessible destinations in the Caribbean, especially for Americans.
7.1. Where is Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is situated between the Dominican Republic and the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea. The smallest and easternmost of the Greater Antilles is Puerto Rico.
7.2. Is Puerto Rico part of the United States?
Yes. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. Puerto Ricans are citizens of the United States; federal and local laws apply, and services such as the United States Postal Service are available.
7.3. Do I need a passport to visit Puerto Rico?
Citizens and permanent residents of the United States do not require a passport to visit Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands. However, the Real ID Act will take effect in May 2023, so check to see if your state complies, since if it isn’t, you’ll need a passport to travel. Travellers from foreign nations who visit Puerto Rico must meet the same visa and passport requirements as those who visit the United States mainland.
7.4. What language is spoken in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico’s official languages are Spanish and English. Only around 20% of Puerto Ricans are fluent in English, even though many persons working in the service and tourism industries, notably in San Juan, are bilingual.
7.5. What time zone is Puerto Rico in?
Puerto Rico is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the Atlantic Standard Time Zone. Since Puerto Rico does not observe Daylight Savings Time, the time on the island is the same as Eastern Standard Time from March through September.
7.6. What is the population of Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has a population of 2,719,857 people as of 2022.
7.7. What is the capital of Puerto Rico?
San Juan, the island’s capital, is located on the island’s northeastern coast. San Juan has a population of 2,443,000 people as of 2022. Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra, Condado, Ocean Park, Punta Las Maras, Miramar, Santurce, Hato Rey, and Ro Piedras are the main neighborhoods in San Juan. While Isla Verde is close to San Juan, it is part of Carolina.
7.8. What Is the Drinking Age in Puerto Rico?
The legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18, however certain bars and clubs require that you be 21 or older to enter.
7.9. Is Puerto Rico safe?
Puerto Rico is a relatively safe tourist destination. Use common sense: lock your rental car, leave valuables in the hotel safe, avoid isolated streets or walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
7.10. When Is the Hurricane Season in Puerto Rico?
From June 1 to November 30, the hurricane season is in full swing.
7.11. Should You Rent a Car in Puerto Rico?
In Puerto Rico, an automobile is not required. If you rent a car, though, you can do some exploring outside of the San Juan metro system.
All major rental businesses in the United States are readily available, as are local taxis and Uber services. Most tour operators provide transportation to major sights such as El Yunque or Fajardo’s harbor for catamaran excursions if you don’t want to rent a car. If your visit is brief or you plan to stay in San Juan for the majority of it, taxis and Uber are your best options for getting about. If you rent a jeep or a car, visiting Culebra or Vieques will be more convenient.
7.12. How to Stay Connected in Puerto Rico?
Individuals using 4G LTE networks, particularly in the United States, do not have to be concerned about networks. Most mainland service providers in Puerto Rico offer 4G LTE networks, so you won’t need an international or special phone. Wi-Fi is also readily available at most hotels on the Caribbean island.
8. Things to Do in Puerto Rico
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8.1. El Yunque National Forest
El Yunque is the United States’ sole tropical rainforest, and its name is a reference to Yuke, which the original Taino people defined as “white fields.” If you wish to be immersed in nature, this natural treasure is a great place to visit. You can go for a trek on one of the many trails, take a dip in one of the natural pools beneath waterfalls, or simply relax and take in the landscape.
8.2. Castillo San Felipe Del Morro in Old San Juan
Castillo San Felipe del Morro is one of the few landmarks that represent Puerto Rico’s past throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. As cruise ships slowly glide in and out of the harbor, this stronghold on the corner of the islet of Old San Juan now greets them. It was a key military stronghold for Spain and later the United States throughout the majority of its roughly 500-year history.
8.3. Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park
An eco-adventure park featuring unforgettably thrilling zip-lining adventures. The Monster, a modern marvel of adrenaline-pumping adventure located in the mountains at the island’s centre, is a modern marvel of adrenaline-pumping adventure. It’s a 2.5-kilometre zip line that’s one of the world’s longest.
8.4. Beaches in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has a coastline of over 270 miles. There are over 300 beaches to select from in all. Regardless of what you do during your visit, sandy walkways lead to breathtaking natural pools of crystalline waters that will leave you speechless.
8.5. Puerto Rico Tarpon & Peacock Bass Fishing
They provide customized fishing trips to Puerto Rico, including a fishing license, all bait and tackle, water and sodas, and a departure time of 6 a.m. or as requested. The fish in waters are very peaceful and well-protected. In Puerto Rico, they specialize in tarpon and peacock bass fishing.
Peacock bass was introduced to Lake Carraizo in 1960 and has flourished to the point where it’s not uncommon to catch 60 or more on a good day when fishing in Puerto Rico. For the greatest Puerto Rico Tarpon Fishing Charters, head to the backcountry waters of San Jose and Torrecillas. In the Caribbean, they have the best fishing in Puerto Rico. From a 19-foot Key West stealth flats boat in Puerto Rico, they’ll be fishing for Tarpon, Snook, Jack Crevalle, Permit, Barracudas, and Sharks.
They are the only custom-tailored Puerto Rico fishing guide service, offering the best peacock bass and other exotic species fishing expeditions in the Caribbean. Every day, they follow their passion for fishing, and their major goal is to provide us and our family with a pleasant day of Puerto Rico charter fishing and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Captains who speak English and are fully licensed by the US Coast Guard.
8.5.1. Tarpon Fishing
The hot tarpon fishing action in Puerto Rico is legendary. Their Puerto Rico fishing tour service will transport you to the San Juan area’s peaceful and protected backcountry waterways. Tarpons can be seen in large numbers in the backcountry waters around San Juan. Don’t waste your time trying to catch Tarpon in the bay.
Their charter fishing company in Puerto Rico provides a safe fishing atmosphere for youngsters, and they love teaching them how to catch enormous tarpon. The San Juan Back Country waters are among the best areas in the world to catch Tarpon, Snook, Jacks, Barracudas, and Mangrove Snapper. There will be no pressure fishing.
8.5.2. Peacock Bass Fishing
Anglers do not need to travel to the Amazon Jungle to catch Peacock Bass. Peacock Bass Fishing in Puerto Rico is fantastic, near to home, and reasonably priced. Peacock Bass were first brought to Puerto Rico in 1960. On a good day, many anglers catch 50 or more Peacock Bass, ranging in size from six to fifteen pounds. Since the climate in the Caribbean is identical to that of the Amazon basin, peacock bass thrives on the island of Puerto Rico.
8.6. San Juan Guided Snorkel Tour
On a guided snorkeling tour, discover Puerto Rico’s underwater wonderland. Enjoy a hassle-free expedition with all the necessary equipment after receiving a lesson from an experienced diver. Then go swimming in the tropical waters near Guaynabo, where you’ll encounter brightly colored tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life.
After that, watch a GoPro film of your snorkeling expedition, which is included in the tour ticket. Go snorkeling in Puerto Rico’s lovely Guaynabo. Explore with a professional diver and take a GoPro video of your adventure home with you. Keep an eye out for marine turtles, tropical fish, and other amazing aquatic life. All required equipment is provided, as well as teaching.
8.7. ATV Single Adventure Hacienda Campo Rico
A thrilling ATV tour west of San Juan allows you to navigate rough terrain while taking in the scenery of Puerto Rico. To begin your experience, go to the Hacienda Campo Rico in Carolina and rent a single-rider ATV. Join a small group and walk along rocky paths with your guide, taking in views of mountains, mangroves, lagoons, and more. While riding, take in the local fauna and flowers. All necessary safety gear and instructions are given. With a small group, your guide can devote more time to you. Choose from a variety of tour times to suit your needs.
8.8. LED Night Kayak Excursion In Condado Lagoon
Their award-winning LED Night Kayak adventure is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced. Arrive, put on your glow paint, and take some awesome shots. Paddle around the lagoon, taking in both the LED glow of your kayak and the city lights that encircle the Condado Lagoon. These views are incredible. This is a fantastic opportunity to observe the city from a fresh perspective while also having a great time. Like a glass-bottom boat, their kayaks feature clear bottoms. When visiting San Juan, this guided Urban Adventure is a must-do.
Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled departure time. There are free storage lockers available. Damaged, lost, or stolen items are not their responsibility.
- 5 pm tour (Glow unavailable)
- 6 pm tour (Glow unavailable)
- 7 pm tour (Glow available)
8.9. Jet Ski Tour from Isla Verde
On the Isla Verde shore and the mangrove canals of the San Jose Lagoon area, they are the only Jet Ski tour. Jump in the sea to rest for a brief time on Piones’ crystal-clean beach during your 90-minute Jet Ski ride. The cost is $195.12 per jet ski. Each jet ski may carry up to two people, subject to a 350lb weight limit per jet ski. No prior jet ski experience is required. For first-time tourists, a stress-free package is excellent.
Final Note
The United States asks for a legal drinking age of 21 because if they don’t, they won’t get federal transportation funding. This is not a problem in Puerto Rico. As a result, the legal drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18.
By now, you must’ve come across everything you wanted to know about Puerto Rico. Stay safe, Stay healthy.
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