Puerto Rico Backpacking |

Why Visit in May

May is an excellent time for a Puerto Rico backpacking holiday. The island is warm, lively and generally less busy than during the peak winter months, so you can enjoy famous sights without feeling rushed. Average daytime temperatures sit around 29°C, while evenings are comfortable enough for exploring outdoor cafés and waterfront promenades.

This month also brings a good balance between sunshine and occasional tropical showers. Rain often arrives in short bursts, leaving the air fresh and the landscapes beautifully green. Pack light clothing, a waterproof jacket and sturdy sandals, and you will be ready for both city adventures and rainforest trails.

Caribbean Holidays, Puerto Rico Backpacking, Budget backpacker hostel, colourful local buses and street food stalls in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Starting in San Juan

Begin your Puerto Rico backpacking trip in San Juan, where historic streets, beaches and nightlife are easy to combine. Wander through the blue-and-pastel buildings of Old San Juan, visit the impressive forts of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, then settle down with a plate of mofongo or fresh seafood.

San Juan is also a practical base for budget travellers. Hostels, guesthouses and affordable local restaurants are widely available, while buses and shared taxis can help keep transport costs under control. Condado and Ocean Park are handy for beach time, whereas Santurce is a great choice for murals, music and a more local evening atmosphere.

Caribbean Holidays, Puerto Rico Backpacking, Backpacker hiking through lush El Yunque National Forest with waterfalls and tropical foliage

Rainforest Adventures

From San Juan, make time for El Yunque National Forest. The island’s famous rainforest offers marked walking trails, viewing towers and cool waterfalls where you can pause for a swim. May’s warmth and occasional rain help keep the forest vibrant, with tree frogs, parrots and colourful tropical plants adding to the experience.

Wear shoes with good grip and start early, particularly if you are travelling independently. Trails can become slippery after rain, and some routes may close temporarily for safety, so check conditions before setting out. A guided walk is worthwhile if you want to learn more about the forest’s wildlife and history.

Caribbean Holidays, Puerto Rico Backpacking, Ferry arriving at Vieques island with backpackers, sandy beach and turquoise Caribbean water

Island-Hopping on a Budget

Puerto Rico’s smaller islands are ideal for backpackers who want quieter beaches and a slower pace. Vieques has relaxed villages, wild horses and beautiful coves, while nearby Culebra is known for clear water and the superb sands of Flamenco Beach. Ferries from the main island make these destinations possible without paying for expensive flights.

Book ferry tickets and simple accommodation ahead if your May visit includes a weekend, as popular services can fill quickly. Once there, local buses, bicycles and shared rides are useful ways to explore. Bring reef-safe sun cream, a refillable water bottle and cash for smaller shops and food stalls.

Caribbean Holidays, Puerto Rico Backpacking, Backpackers watching a colourful sunset beside a Puerto Rico beach with palm trees

Practical Travel Tips

Puerto Rico uses the US dollar, and prices can vary considerably between resort areas and local neighbourhoods. Staying in hostels, eating at bakeries and kiosks, and travelling by public transport will help stretch your budget. English is commonly understood in tourist areas, although using a few Spanish phrases will make everyday encounters more enjoyable.

Plan a flexible route rather than trying to see the whole island at once. Spend a few days in San Juan, combine the rainforest with a coastal town, then finish on Vieques or Culebra. With warm weather, welcoming people and plenty of variety, Puerto Rico in May makes an exciting introduction to Caribbean backpacking.