Tourism has become an increasingly important industry for Puerto Rico’s economy in recent decades. According to available data, the sector contributes over $5 billion annually and employs over 70,000 people across the island. This represents a significant source of jobs and business activity.
Puerto Rico has many natural attributes that draw visitors. Warm weather year-round, hundreds of miles of coastline dotted with beaches, and lush rainforests and mountains that cover over half the land area. The territory promotes itself as a top destination for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural heritage tourism. Visitors can experience everything from hiking and zip lining in El Yunque National Forest to exploring old Spanish colonial forts and taking in Puerto Rican art and music.
San Juan, the capital city, sees the bulk of tourist arrivals. Old San Juan’s well-preserved historic district filled with colorful Spanish colonial architecture is a major attraction. However, efforts are being made to expand tourism development beyond the metro area to less visited regions like Rincon, Arecibo, and the western coasts to stimulate more balanced economic growth. Investments are increasing in attractions, hotels, and infrastructure projects in these secondary markets.
Cruise ship visits and medical tourism are also growing segments. Puerto Rico saw over 1 million cruise passengers stop at its ports in 2019, providing a boost to duty-free shopping and local tours. Meanwhile, new hospitals and clinics are establishing Puerto Rico as a lower-cost alternative for services like elective surgeries, helping diversify the tourism product offering.
While the 2017 hurricanes dealt a major blow to visitor numbers and infrastructure, tourism has rebounded strongly in recent years. If this momentum continues with support through marketing, developing new attractions, and improving air/sea access, tourism is poised to become an even more important economic driver that can help offset challenges in other industries and support job creation across the island. Its unique blend of culture, nature, and strategic location give Puerto Rico solid prospects to further develop as a premier Caribbean destination.
