Planning a trip to Puerto Rico? Whether you plan to lounge on Playa Flamenco, explore the vibrant streets of Old San Juan, dance the night away in La Placita, or commune with nature in Loíza, having the right outfits is essential!
This guide will give you Puerto Rico outfits inspiration and a detailed packing list, based on my travels to the island, to help you look chic and feel comfortable throughout your journey.
And if you enjoy this article, you'll love my Caribbean vacation outfits guide, too!
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What to Know Before You Pack
Puerto Rico's weather is warm with a tropical climate, and summer temperatures year-round. Expect highs in the 80s°F (27-32°C) and occasional rain showers. Being from Houston, Texas, this weather was just perfect for me--not too hot and the humidity was only noticeable when I was in a literal cave.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your best friends. Don't make the same mistake I did by packing polyester pieces for my Puerto Rico vacation in August or you will get hot and sticky!
Daytime looks can be casual but don't plan to just wear your beach outfits everywhere! Wondering what do locals wear? There's no official dress code but keep in mind that locals often dress stylishly, especially in urban areas like San Juan. So, while beachwear is perfect for the coast, you'll want to elevate your looks for city outings and dinners.
And Puerto Rican nightlife is vibrant, so don't be afraid to make a visual statement to match the energy. Just make sure you can dance in your clothes because the music will move you.
Your outfits need to be on point to experience all the best things to do in San Juan and beyond!
What to Pack for Your Puerto Rico Trip
What to pack for Puerto Rico for a week: I packed 15 outfits, including day clothes, nighttime outfits, and athleisure for exploring, plus seven swimsuits, excluding my travel outfits.
Beach bag that can double as your personal item on the plane. Be sure to read my beach bag packing guide!
Bug repellant, especially if you plan to venture beyond the mosquito-treated hotel areas. If you prefer a natural repellent, I love these citronella stickers.
Casual daytime outfits mixing and matching cute co-ords, rompers and dresses or tailored blouses and bottoms. Again, stick with cool, natural fabrics.
Hiking shoes for active excursions like touring El Yunque National Forest. I recommend Hoka hiking boots or Teva sandals because both have great grip.
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect you and the delicate ecosystem at the same time. I used sensitive mineral sunscreen, which didn't leave a white cast on my beautiful brown skin.
Sun hat or visor because the sun can be relentless, especially in the cities where there's less natural shade. I LOVE this giant floppy hat for the drama and this sporty visor that also shields my entire face, neck, and chest.
Sunglasses, of course.
Swimsuits and cover-ups for pool days at the resort, waterfall diving in the rainforest, and sunny beach days.
Water shoes for aquatic activities like kayaking the Bioluminscent Bay, aka, Bahía Bioluminiscente. Grab my very reliable water shoes for under $20!
What shoes to wear in Puerto Rico? Pack a variety of footwear based on your activities, including comfortable walking shoes, especially for those cobblestone streets in Viejo San Juan!
Essentials List
Credit or debit card for convenience with no foreign transaction fees since P.R. is a United States territory. I actually used my Chase Sapphire Reserve to book my San Juan flights and hotel stay with points! Here's my full review of the travel credit card for rewards.
Cross-body bag or bum bag to carry your cash and key belongings. Keep them as close as possible in touristy areas.
Jewelry of your choosing. I love packing statement earrings and necklaces because they don't take up much space in my luggage but can make a big impact on otherwise plain outfits.
Power Bank for excursions and tours where you'll be away from your room all day and snapping pictures. I used this power bank because it plugs directly into the wall to charge and again, this is a U.S. territory, so you won't need a plug converter.
Cosmetics, haircare, and toiletries you'd normally use--preferably in travel sizes if you're trying to travel on a budget and minimize baggage or visiting Puerto Rico on a cruise ship.
Of course, I packed light. Read how to pack everything into a carry-on bag!
Cute Outfits to Wear in Puerto Rico
If you need a visual on what to wear on vacation, let's get into outfit ideas to help you not look like a tourist in Puerto Rico!
For brunch in Condado
For Playa Escambron: oversized sun hat | similar bikini | beach skirt
Check out my guide to San Juan's top beaches!
Here's what you need to know before visiting Culebra and Playa Flamenco!
For Old San Juan: similar silk midi dress | dramatic hat
Pro Travel Tip
Wear shoes with grip to Old San Juan because those iconic cobblestone streets are slippery. Ask me how I know!
Read my guide to things to do while in Old San Juan!
Here's where to eat in San Juan, including my favorite five-star dinner spot for celebrations!
For beach day at the resort: similar bikini | kimono cover up | leather sandals
You should absolutely visit Loíza--just 30 minutes from San Juan. Read about how to plan a day trip to Loíza!
For hanging out in Santurce
More Favorite Moments from Puerto Rico
I hope this Puerto Rico vacation attire inspires you to dress to impress as you travel. And sharing is caring so be sure to pin these Puerto Rican vacation outfits for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Renia Butler says
The photo with the hat reminds me of the Black Lady Liberty Statute (St.Martin) that France gifted to the US. It's so stoic and powerful. It's as if you're saying "black women control all. From the air to the water." Stunning look book.
Jazz says
Thank you, Renia!
Angie says
Great style! Thanks for sharing!
Jazz says
You're welcome, Angie. Thanks for reading!