What to Do When It’s Raining in San Juan, Puerto Rico
If you’re heading to San Juan and see a little rain cloud on your weather app, don’t panic—this is the Caribbean after all. Rain showers in Puerto Rico are usually short-lived, lasting 20–30 minutes at most, and they often roll through in the afternoon like clockwork. That means you don’t have to scrap your beach day or rearrange your entire itinerary. In fact, some of the best adventures in San Juan get even better with a little rain. Here’s how to make the most of a rainy day in Puerto Rico’s capital.
1. Take a Puerto Rican Cooking Class
When the skies open up, head indoors and get hands-on with the island’s rich culinary heritage. Cooking classes in San Juan often focus on local favorites like mofongo, tostones, and arroz con gandules. Not only is it a delicious way to spend a few hours, but you’ll leave with recipes and skills to impress friends back home.
2. Explore the Local Museums
Rainy weather is perfect for a museum day. Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico for a beautiful collection of Caribbean and Latin American art, or check out the Casa Blanca Museum, the historic former home of Ponce de León’s family. Even the Museo de las Américas in Old San Juan, housed in a former military barracks, is worth a slow wander on a drizzly afternoon.
3. Go Shopping at Plaza Las Américas
Puerto Rico’s largest mall, Plaza Las Américas, is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. You’ll find a mix of American retailers and Puerto Rican brands, along with a movie theater and a variety of restaurants. It’s an easy way to stay dry while still enjoying a piece of the city’s lifestyle.
4. Make Your Own Souvenirs at Melt Studio
Located in the heart of San Juan, Melt Studio offers jewelry-making workshops where you can create custom pieces using recycled glass and metal. It’s creative, relaxing, and you walk away with a truly unique souvenir. Rainy day win.
5. Embrace the Rain and Ride ATVs Through the Jungle
Feeling a little wild? Don’t let the rain stop you. In fact, hop on an ATV and make it part of the fun. Many ATV tours in the lush countryside outside San Juan keep running when it rains—and honestly, tearing through muddy trails with rain on your helmet just adds to the thrill. It’s messy, exhilarating, and unforgettable.
Our top pick: El Yunque Rainforest Puerto Rico ATV Adventure
6. Book a Bio Bay Kayaking Tour (Yes, Even in the Rain!)
If you’ve never seen Puerto Rico’s famous bioluminescent bays, this is your chance. Some tour operators still run trips in the rain, and kayaking through the glowing waters while raindrops light up like tiny fireworks? That’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget. Just check the tour policies beforehand and dress for the wet conditions.
7. Chill Out at a Cozy Café or Rum Bar
Sometimes the best thing to do in the rain is nothing at all. Duck into a café in Old San Juan, order a café con leche or a piña colada (they were invented here, after all!), and watch the rain paint the city’s pastel buildings. Try places like Café Don Ruiz or La Factoria, the latter of which is consistently ranked among the world’s best bars.
8. Visit a Local Spa or Book a Wellness Experience
Let the rain be your excuse to unwind. San Juan is home to some incredible spas and wellness centers where you can enjoy massages, facials, or even yoga sessions. Rain outside, relaxation inside—sounds like paradise to us.
9. Take a Walk Between the Showers
Since most showers are brief and usually happen in the afternoons, it’s easy to time your outdoor explorations. Keep an umbrella in your bag and stroll through colorful Old San Juan between the raindrops. The cobblestone streets glisten beautifully after the rain, and you’ll often have the views (and photo ops) all to yourself.
Final Thoughts
Rain in San Juan isn’t something to fear—it’s part of the rhythm of island life. Whether you decide to head inside and dive into local culture, or lean into the adventure and get a little muddy, you’ll still come away with amazing memories. So don’t cancel your plans—just adjust them a little. After all, you’re in Puerto Rico. Even rainy days are full of sunshine.