Puerto Rico is often seen as a tropical playground—lush jungles, historic towns, and postcard-worthy beaches—all within easy reach for American travelers. But while its U.S. territory status may suggest otherwise, Puerto Rico has a deeply unique culture with unspoken rules, traditions, and local expectations. Tourists who come without doing a bit of homework often stumble into awkward or even disrespectful situations without realizing it.
From assuming everyone speaks English fluently to treating the island like a budget-friendly party zone, there are certain behaviors that immediately mark you as an outsider—and not in a good way. Respect is everything here. Understanding local customs and avoiding these common faux pas can mean the difference between being welcomed with open arms or getting cold stares from shopkeepers and taxi drivers.
Whether it’s navigating tipping norms, dressing appropriately at the beach, or avoiding culturally tone-deaf comments, this list of what not to do in Puerto Rico is your essential traveler’s cheat sheet. Before you pack your bags, read this guide to avoid making mistakes that could cost you more than just your dignity.
Read here for more Puerto Rico guides: Best eSIMs for Puerto Rico, Drinks In Puerto Rico, 4 Day Puerto Rico itinerary and Puerto Rico vs Aruba
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Quick Easy Tips
Learn a few Spanish phrases. While many speak English, greeting locals in Spanish earns instant respect.
Don’t treat it like Cancun. Puerto Rico is not a spring break destination. Avoid loud, obnoxious behavior—especially in residential or sacred areas.
Be mindful of politics. Asking if Puerto Rico “wants to be a state or not” can be more divisive than you think—avoid the topic unless invited.
Avoid assumptions. Don’t act surprised about how modern, educated, or developed Puerto Rico is; it comes off as patronizing.
Respect beach etiquette. Leave no trash, avoid blasting music near families, and always check for local customs before wearing swimwear away from the beach.
Many Americans arrive in Puerto Rico under the assumption that, because it’s a U.S. territory, it functions just like any mainland city. But this view can be unintentionally disrespectful. Puerto Ricans have their own language dialects, cultural identity, and even different laws in some areas. To treat the island like an “American backyard” is to ignore a long history of colonial tension and cultural resilience.
Another often-ignored tension lies in the economic divide between tourists and locals. While visitors spend lavishly in resorts and tourist zones, many Puerto Ricans are still recovering from hurricanes and ongoing economic hardship. Flaunting wealth or ignoring local businesses in favor of chain brands creates a visible divide that deepens resentment.
Lastly, the question of independence versus statehood isn’t just political—it’s personal. Many travelers unknowingly wade into these waters without understanding the emotional and historical weight the topic carries. To locals, tourists commenting casually about Puerto Rico’s status often come across as arrogant or misinformed, reinforcing outsider stereotypes.
Things Not to Do in Puerto Rico
1. Don’t Forget That It’s a US Territory
While Puerto Rico is culturally distinct, it’s a US territory. The US dollar is the official currency, and US citizens don’t need a passport to visit.
2. Don’t Assume Everyone Speaks English
While many Puerto Ricans are bilingual, Spanish is the primary language. Learn a few Spanish phrases like “Hola” (hello) and “Gracias” (thank you) to show respect.
3. Don’t Underestimate the Weather
Puerto Rico has a tropical climate, meaning it can be hot and humid. Wear light clothing, stay hydrated, and always use sunscreen to protect yourself.
4. Don’t Skip Tipping
Tipping is customary in Puerto Rico. A tip of 15-20% is standard in restaurants, and small tips are appreciated for taxi drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides.
5. Don’t Ignore Traffic Rules
Driving in Puerto Rico can be chaotic, and traffic signs are in Spanish. Be cautious, follow speed limits, and watch out for aggressive drivers.
6. Don’t Rely Solely on Credit Cards
While credit cards are widely accepted in most places, smaller businesses and rural areas may prefer cash. Always carry some US dollars for small transactions.
7. Don’t Miss Exploring Beyond San Juan
While San Juan is vibrant and historic, Puerto Rico has much more to offer. Visit El Yunque Rainforest, Vieques, Culebra, or the bioluminescent bays for a complete experience.
8. Don’t Forget to Respect Nature
Puerto Rico is home to fragile ecosystems, like coral reefs and rainforests. Use reef-safe sunscreen, don’t litter, and stick to designated trails in protected areas.
9. Don’t Swim in Unsafe Areas
While Puerto Rico has beautiful beaches, some areas have strong currents or rough waters. Stick to designated swimming spots and pay attention to warning flags.
10. Don’t Assume All Food Is Spicy
Puerto Rican cuisine, like mofongo, lechón, and tostones, is flavorful but not necessarily spicy. Don’t miss out on trying the local dishes!
11. Don’t Rush Meals
Meals in Puerto Rico are a social affair. Take your time to enjoy the food, ambiance, and conversation rather than rushing through dining experiences.
12. Don’t Forget About Hurricane Season
Hurricane season runs from June to November. If traveling during this time, stay updated on weather forecasts and have a contingency plan.
13. Don’t Ignore Local Customs
Puerto Ricans are warm and friendly. Greet people with a “Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon) and be polite in interactions.
14. Don’t Rely Solely on GPS
While GPS is useful, some rural areas may not have clear signage or accurate maps. Always carry a physical map or ask locals for directions if needed.
15. Don’t Disrespect the Flag
The Puerto Rican flag is a significant symbol of pride. Treat it with respect and avoid using it inappropriately.
16. Don’t Overlook Smaller Islands
Vieques and Culebra are two stunning islands off Puerto Rico’s coast. Don’t miss these gems for their pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
17. Don’t Assume Public Transport Is Reliable
Public transportation in Puerto Rico is limited. Renting a car is often the best way to explore the island, especially for visiting rural or remote areas.
18. Don’t Forget to Try Local Rum
Puerto Rico is famous for its rum. Don’t leave without sampling brands like Bacardi or Don Q, or enjoying a classic piña colada.
19. Don’t Be Afraid to Dance
Puerto Rico is the birthplace of salsa music. Don’t hesitate to join locals on the dance floor—even if you’re a beginner, they’ll appreciate your effort!
20. Don’t Leave Trash on Beaches
Keep Puerto Rico’s beaches pristine by cleaning up after yourself. Many locals take pride in their island’s beauty, and littering is seen as disrespectful.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Puerto Rico offers an incredible opportunity to experience rich culture, warm hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes—all without a passport. But like any destination, your experience depends largely on how you show up. The more you understand and respect local customs, the more meaningful your interactions will be.
Instead of treating Puerto Rico like just another beach destination, approach it with curiosity and humility. Say hello to street vendors, tip your waitstaff fairly, and leave every place cleaner than you found it. You’ll not only avoid the common tourist missteps but also make connections that go far beyond the souvenir shop.
In the end, the best kind of travel changes both the traveler and the place—but only if you take the time to listen and learn. So don’t just visit Puerto Rico. Honor it. That’s how you leave a footprint worth remembering.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.