Diving & Snorkeling

The 100- by 35-mile isleand of Puerto Rico boasts diverse dive sites for all skill levels. Shallow-water dives, intermediate and advanced wall, wreck and cave diving are found around the island. A handful of offshore islets with world-class reefs are arguably the next best thing to slipping into an aquarium.

Best Dives

• Black Wall (Southwest Coast): a sheer wall draped in black coral trees begins at 60 feet and drops to 200
• The Pinnacle (Northeast, off Humacao): a coral chimney soars from 165 feet to just 20 feet below the surface and is sheathed in corals and sponges
• Witt Power (Culebra Island): an encrusted tugboat, sunk in 1984, 40 feet below
• Angel Reef (Vieques Island): a shallow reef teeming with marine life off the island of vieques

FISHING

Fishing in Puerto Rico takes many forms, the most dramatic of which is deep-sea fishing. In contrast to neighboring islands, deep water found just off the coast affords fishing enthusiasts the luxury of traveling a short distance from port to enjoy this activity. Charters are available from harbors in San Juan, Fajardo, Hamacao and Mayaguez. Shallow water light tackle fishing for tarpon and snook is popular in Perto Rico's bays and lagoons. Consult the Perto Rico Sports Fishing Association for more information.

NAUTICAL/WATERSPORTS

Whether windsurfing, sailing, sea kayaking or snorkling, travelers will find a little something for everyone while in Puerto Rico. Miles of coastline surrounding the island and 80-degree-plus temperatures provide year-round enjoyment of water-based activities.

GASTRONOMY (CULINARY TOURISM)

The local cuisine in Puerto Rico is known as comida criolla, or creole food. The island's cooking can be compared to both Mexican and Spanish foods and uses such indigenous seasonings as coriander, papaya and plantains.

GOLF

Known as the golf capital of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico sports 25 golf courses with more in development. The breathtaking views, architecture and variety of courses across the island include thos designed by golf luminaries Jack Nicklaus, Arthur Hills and Puerto Rico's own Chi Chi Rodriguez.

HISTORY

Four distinct cultures and thousands of years of history combine to create diversity throughout Puerto Rico. A sampling of Puert Rico's history includes investigating ancient Indian ceremonial parks, comparing two of the oldest and architecturally distinct Spanish Colonial churches, or seeing a 19th century coffee plantation in action.

NIGHTLIFE

Experiencing nightlife in the Caribbean means visiting Puerto Rico. Many island towns have their own special flavor of fun - La Guancha's boardwalk, a boat ride in bioluminescent bay at Parguera or live jazz and a midnight swim in the phosphorescent water of Vieques is a good way to start. In cities like San Juan, visitors will find theaters, dance clubs and hotel casinos.

NATURE/ADVENTURE

A tropical volcanic island, the geography of Puerto Rico is unusual. The island varies in elevation and topography, causing microclimates to occur. As a result, a diverse grouping of flora and fauna are found on the island. Discover such anomalies through leisurely drives and walks, hiking, rock climbing and even spelunking.

SURFING

World-class surfing can be enjoyed in nearly every part of the4 island, with waves reaching as much as 35 feet high. Rincon was the site of the 1968 and 1988 world surfing championships.

WEDDINGS + HONEYMOONS

Opulent hotel and delightful restaurant make for the perfect setting to host a wedding ceremony or enjoy a honeymoon. Most resorts on the island provide wedding planning services to assist in applying for a marriage certificate, though marriage license papers may be requested in writing from the Department of Health, Demographic Registry Office. Allow to months to process. In some cases, a blood test may be required.

SPA/WELLNESS

Puerto Rico is home to dozens of upscale spas and spa resorts, including the award-winning Golden Door® Spa at El Conquistador, the YHI Spa at the Gran Meliá and The Spa at the Ritz Carlton. Services offered include thalassotherapy, Swedish massage, shiatsu and individualized spa treatments.

SHOPPING

Puerto Rico has the largest shopping center in the Caribbean, "Plaza las Américas", in Hato Rey. This venue features more than 300 stores selling everything from pottery and fashion clothing to local cuisine. Check out premium stores such as Gucci, Dior and Salvatore Ferragamo in the el Condado area.