EDSee Puerto Rico: The Headliner’s Travel Guide

Congratulations! You’ve made the fantastic decision to trek to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for EDC. Although you’ll be spending the majority of your time at the fest, there’s no doubt you will want to rest, recharge, and maybe even experience some Puerto Rican culture while you’re there. Considering San Juan is the capital city and hub of pretty much all things lively and historic in Puerto Rico, the idea of exploring might feel a little overwhelming; but don’t fret, Headliners. We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking to relax with a scenic stroll, need a cup of famed Puerto Rican coffee, or have an extra day to take an epic excursion, we’ve laid out the top spots for you below. Planning your trip couldn’t be easier: Purchase your EDC Puerto Rico single and two-day tickets, hotels and travel packages through the festival website, then check out some of the best San Juan offerings below.

Old San Juan

If you can make time to explore only one district, let this be it. Walk the narrow, blue cobblestone roads and feel the historic vibes as you pass brightly colored, centuries-old Spanish buildings. Grab a traditional Puerto Rican coffee (Yaucono, Alto Grande, El Lareño, Cafe Rico, the list goes on…) to charge up for the night! We suggest Caficultura, known for their Caribbean-inspired brunch selections (coconut French toast, anyone?) and café con leche. Eat out often without worrying about breaking the bank—food here is cheap and delicious. Take the free trolley around the district and know that wherever you get off, you’ll enjoy quaint shops and ocean views. This is the perfect place to grab cheap and unique souvenirs for pals back home who couldn’t be there with you!

The Nightlife

If you’re in San Juan the Thursday or Friday before EDC, bars and clubs are guaranteed to be poppin’ off. Old San Juan also happens to be the place to party at night. Beloved by locals and tourists alike, check out La Factoria on Calle San José. Order top-notch drinks from its knowledgeable bartenders and head to the salsa room at the back of the bar for an authentic experience. Or explore the extensive craft beer options and mingle with the young, hip crowd at La Taberna Lúpulo. Who knows, maybe you’ll meet a local festival buddy? Just stroll around, you can’t go wrong—unless you don’t order a mojito. Did we mention the legal drinking age is 18 and the local currency is the US dollar? You can even leave your passport at home; all you need is a valid US I.D.

The Markets

San Juan is known for its bustling markets offering authentic Puerto Rican food, produce, clothes, and handmade trinkets. Try to visit either Río Piedras or La Placita, both just a taxi or bus ride away from Old San Juan. Vibrant clothing and accessories are abundant, so why not add some Puerto Rican flair to your EDC outfit? Come hungry, because you’ll want to try a little bit of everything the many food vendors have to offer. Stock up on post-fest snacks, and be sure to grab a fresh fruit smoothie. Your body will thank you!

The Forts

For those of you looking for some historic fulfillment and breathtaking views during the day, check out Castillo San Felipe del Morro or Castillo San Cristóbal. Overlooking the ocean from atop the cliffs of Old San Juan, both forts were built centuries ago to protect the city from foreign attack. Though admission to the monuments is $5, it’s well worth it to see the landmarks featured on practically every San Juan postcard. Depending on how much time you have, you could spend a whole day exploring these rocky ruins of towers and tunnels.

The Beaches

It’s always perfect beach weather here—and EDC weekend will be no exception—so there’s no shame in spending the day lying out and relaxing on the sand. With 270 miles of coast to explore, you have a lot of options. We think you should walk over to El Escambrón from Old San Juan and post up in the shade under the towering palm trees. It’s not the most secluded beach, but you’ll enjoy a local atmosphere and it’s conveniently located. Fun fact: Puerto Rico is an archipelago, so it’s speckled with several pristine tropical islands. If you’re looking for that white sand, crystal clear water experience, don’t miss out on Flamenco Beach. This place looks like your old Windows desktop background. Though you have to take a short flight to the Caribbean island of Culebra or a ferry from Fajardo, once there you can pitch a tent at the campsites right near the beach for just $20.

Bioluminescent Bay

If you’re feeling especially ambitious, make your way to the nearby island of Vieques, where Mother Earth will blow your mind. Referred to as Bioluminescent Bay because of the ocean plankton that glow underwater at night, Mosquito Bay shines the brightest of the three “bio bays” in Puerto Rico. Best experienced from a kayak at night, these tiny organisms light up for a few seconds every time they’re touched! Run your hand through the water to “paint” a sparkling streak, and leave a glittering path with your kayak paddle. The luminescence is guaranteed to dazzle anyone, especially our Headliners! Some say it’s science, but we think these creatures are just raving underwater.

Nature Excursions

Escape the sun by visiting some of the damp, mysterious caves at Rio Camuy Cave Park in northwest Puerto Rico. Among the region’s most popular natural attractions, these natural limestone caverns were carved out by the underground Camuy River. The indigenous Taino people explored the underground waterways several hundred years ago, yet experts believe only a quarter of the whole system has been discovered. For a dose of good ol’ rainforest, you absolutely must head to El Yunque. Marvel at its rare, subtropical ecosystem, cascading waterfalls, and lush green all around you. Just bring gear to stay dry; like any rainforest, this place gets year-round precipitation.