According to forum posts, many travelers recommend renting a car for flexibility and ease of travel around Puerto Rico, especially when exploring areas outside of San Juan. Vehicles can be rented from various agencies located at the airport, with on-premises agencies being recommended over off-premises ones due to reliability.

Some travelers said public transportation is limited and unreliable outside of San Juan. Uber is available in San Juan and may be cheaper than taxis, but its availability diminishes outside the city. Taxis are reliable but can be expensive, and they often need to be booked a day in advance in less urban areas.

For those not interested in driving, hiring private drivers has been mentioned as a viable option. Travelers have successfully used Uber drivers for private trips, and local recommendations can often be sought from accommodation hosts or Uber drivers themselves for personal transport services.

Some travelers have recommended the Aquatika in Loiza for families, highlighting its amenities such as pools, playgrounds, green spaces, and a private beach, which are ideal for children. This accommodation requires a rental car due to its location between San Juan and Fajardo.

According to forum posts, the Wyndham Rio Mar is a favorite for families, offering a large kids pool with a splash area, a nice beach, and proximity to El Yunque rainforest. The El Conquistador hotel is also favored for its large water park and private beach access via a water taxi.

Travelers have also pointed out that Isla Verde is suitable for families, with options like the Marriott Courtyard featuring a splash pad and Sonesta boasting very nice pools. These are closer to Old San Juan, providing a balance of beach access and cultural experiences.

According to forum posts, Old San Juan is celebrated for its rich history, showcased in its impressive forts like El Morro and historic sites such as the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, where Ponce de León is buried. The area's Spanish colonial architecture and historic charm are major draws for visitors.

Travelers have called out the vibrant cultural scene in Old San Juan, which includes a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for leisurely exploring the narrow, picturesque streets and enjoying local street food and crafts.

For those with limited time, such as cruise ship passengers, forum users suggest a self-guided walking tour to efficiently experience the area's main attractions. Key recommendations include visiting the massive fort of El Morro and enjoying local cuisine at places like Café Manolín or grabbing a quick snack at Señor Paleta for gelato or sorbet pops.

According to forum posts, Café Manolin and La Bombonera in Old San Juan are popular for breakfast, offering local cuisine. Pinky’s and Bistro Cafe also come highly recommended for breakfast options.

Travelers have called out Café Manolin and La Casita Blanca for lunch and dinner, highlighting their authentic local dishes. Mi Casita is another favorite, mentioned for both breakfast and dinner options.

Some travelers said that Marmalade on Fortaleza Street is one of the best restaurants in Puerto Rico, famous for its white bean truffle soup. For those interested in French cuisine, Tres Cent Onze offers a traditional French menu and is praised for its quality and pricing.

For seafood and chicken lovers, travelers recommend Oroscos and Bebos Café in Condado and Santurce respectively, noting their quality and minimal wait times.

Some travelers have recommended Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours for their services in Laguna Grande, Fajardo. Users noted excellent visibility and professional handling of the tours, especially during times with no moonlight for enhanced bioluminescence viewing.

According to forum posts, for those looking for electric boat tours in Fajardo, Bioislandpr is the only company mentioned. Despite some challenges in communication, persistence in calling at different hours or texting is advised to secure a booking.

Travelers have called out the bioluminescent bay in Vieques as one of the brightest. Although kayak tours are popular, electric boat tours are also available, providing an alternative for those unable or unwilling to kayak.

According to forum posts, Vieques and Culebra are repeatedly highlighted for having the best beaches in Puerto Rico, with white sands and a more isolated, tranquil environment. Cabo Rojo is also frequently mentioned for its beautiful beaches on the main island, particularly Combate Beach, which is noted for its calm waters.

For those staying on the main island, Luquillo Beach is recommended for its calm waters and scenic setting, protected by a reef. Isla Verde in San Juan is suggested for those who prefer a combination of beach relaxation and nightlife, although the water can be rougher compared to other regions.

Travelers have called out specific areas like Condado for its vibrant nightlife and beach scene, although it has stronger currents. For a quieter option, Mar Chiquita in Manatí offers a picturesque beach experience, albeit with limited swimming options due to rougher waters.

Some travelers have mentioned that car rental options are available at the airport and at a Hertz location in the Sheraton in Old San Juan. Avis also offers a rate of approximately $1,100 per month.

According to forum posts, Charlies, Avis, and Enterprise are recommended car rental companies. Travelers have advised reading reviews before booking and have reported positive experiences with Avis and Enterprise.

Many users noted that in areas like Old San Juan, a car may not be necessary due to the compact nature of the city. However, for exploring outside of San Juan or for day trips, having a rental car is beneficial.

According to forum posts, the ferry services for Vieques and Culebra have been relocated from Fajardo to Ceiba. This update was provided in response to a traveler's query about the current departure location for the ferry going to Vieques.

Travelers have noted that there is no direct ferry service between Culebra and Vieques; passengers must travel back to Ceiba to switch ferries. Forum contributors have warned about the unreliability of the ferry service, mentioning frequent delays, cancellations, and a policy that prioritizes locals over tourists. This has led to recommendations to opt for flights instead of depending on the ferry service.

Some travelers mentioned that ferry tickets can no longer be purchased online via previous websites and are now only available through a specific mobile app. This has caused some confusion and inconvenience as users have reported issues with accessing the app or booking tickets through it.