This page provides quick, reliable facts about Puerto Rico for travelers who want essential information at a glance. These details help you understand the island’s geography, population, language, currency, time zone and basic travel context before diving into deeper planning pages. For a broader introduction and cultural background, see the About Puerto Rico page.
Basic facts about Puerto Rico
| Location | Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic |
| Region | Caribbean |
| Capital city | San Juan |
| Population | Approximately 3.2 million |
| Language | Spanish and English |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD) |
| Time zone | Atlantic Standard Time (AST) |
| Driving side | Right |
| Electricity | 110–120V, Type A & B plugs |
Geography and landscape
Puerto Rico is a relatively compact island, which makes it easy to combine different landscapes in a single trip. Coastal areas dominate much of the shoreline, while the interior rises into hills and greener regions. This geographic variety allows travelers to experience beaches, urban districts and nature-focused areas without long-distance travel. To visualize how regions connect and plan realistic travel times, use Puerto Rico Map.
Climate overview
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Weather conditions can vary slightly between coastal and inland areas, and rainfall patterns may influence outdoor plans. Travelers planning beach days, hiking or boat trips should review seasonal conditions before finalizing their itinerary. Detailed month-by-month guidance is available on the Puerto Rico Weather page.
Entry, travel basics and airports
Most visitors arrive by air, with San Juan serving as the main gateway to the island. Understanding arrival logistics, airport locations and onward transportation options helps reduce stress on travel days. For practical arrival planning, see Puerto Rico Airports.
Money, costs and payments
Puerto Rico uses the United States Dollar, which simplifies budgeting for many travelers. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, while cash can be useful in smaller shops and local markets. For details on ATMs, tipping culture and everyday payment expectations, visit Puerto Rico Money.
Transportation basics
Transportation options in Puerto Rico vary by region. Some areas are walkable, while others are easier to explore with a rental car or organized transport. Knowing which option suits your itinerary can save time and money. For a full breakdown of travel options and common mistakes to avoid, read Transportation in Puerto Rico.
Safety and health snapshot
Puerto Rico is generally easy to navigate for visitors, especially when basic safety habits are followed. Awareness of surroundings, planning transport in advance and understanding local conditions contribute to a smoother trip. For practical guidance covering health considerations and safety planning, see Puerto Rico Safety & Health.
Why fast facts matter when planning
Having accurate basics helps you make better decisions early—such as choosing accommodation areas, planning arrival logistics and estimating daily costs. Once these essentials are clear, you can focus on experiences and itinerary details. To move from facts to inspiration, explore Top Destinations in Puerto Rico and Things to Do in Puerto Rico.
