Ponce, Puerto Rico: Must-Do Experiences in the Island’s Second Largest City
I recently got married in Ponce, Puerto Rico, the island’s second largest city, and it only felt right to create a Ponce Puerto Rico travel guide filled with the best things to do, eat, and experience. At this end of this blog is where I mention all the vendors we used for our Big Day!
Before we dive in quick disclaimer: some of the links shared in this post may be affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you choose to book through them. Thank you for supporting This Latina Travels!
🎭 Did You Know Ponce Has a Carnival?!
We didn’t! We had no clue it would fall under our wedding weekend either, so what a treat for our guests! One of the most iconic cultural events in Puerto Rico is Carnaval Ponceño, typically held in February or early March.
This historic celebration dates back to the 1800s and features vejigante masks, parades, and live music, making it one of the best times to visit Ponce Puerto Rico!
*Stay updated on events in Ponce: here!
*Book the best walking tour in Ponce with Isla Caribe: here!
If you’re planning your trip and wondering what to do in Ponce Puerto Rico, this is a great place to start.
A must-see in any Ponce Puerto Rico itinerary is Parque de Bombas (like this picture above).
This historic promenade represents the legacy of the city’s firefighters and connects you to the iconic plaza area. It’s colorful, cultural, and perfect for photos. I mean look at our picture we took for our LOVE session prior to our big day that we used for our website. And if you go to the plaza during the right time, they even have vendors, music, etc. Truly the place to visit if you are in Ponce! For the kiddos they even have a little trolley train!
🍦 Eat at King’s Cream (Trust Me)
No Ponce travel guide is complete without King’s Cream. My favorite flavor? Maní (peanut) – We even had King’s Cream at our wedding, and it was a HUGE hit!!! Below is the google map link of the location in the plaza of Ponce, but it is literally infront of the Estacion de Bomberos!
Location + hours: Here!
🏰 Tour Castillo Serrallés + Taste Don Q Rum
One of the best things to do in Ponce Puerto Rico is visiting Castillo Serrallés.
This historic mansion is tied to Don Q, and the tour includes rum tastings + incredible views of the city. Fun fact: this is where we got married!
*Book your Castillo Serrallés + Don Q tour: HERE!
If you love history, views, and authentic Puerto Rican experiences… this is a MUST. If you do go, let me know and TAG me @ThisLatinaTravels
🍽️ Eat at Panorama 180 + Visit the Cross
Right above the castle is Panorama 180, one of the most scenic restaurants in Ponce. Please note they have very unique hours so make sure to give them a call before you go and I would make a reservation just to be safe!
Nearby, you’ll find a giant cross monument you can go up (for FREE!) via elevator… offering panoramic views of the entire city. Like the picture above!
Restaurant info / reservations: HERE!
Now let’s move on to something ELSE that is found in Ponce…..
🏝️ Visit Caja de los Muertos Island
Looking for unique things to do in Ponce Puerto Rico? Add Caja de los Muertos to your list. This island is known for its crystal-clear water and untouched beauty. Truly an excursion you want to plan out. You can only get there via a charter boat, please see link below. The tour roughly is from 8am-3pm so yes make sure you take a day for this and space is limited!
Read my full Caja de Muertos blog post: HERE!
Book direct ticket: HERE!
☕ Where to Eat, Stay & Grab Coffee
To round out your Ponce Puerto Rico itinerary, here are a few of my personal favorites:
- ☕ Coffee shop: Coffee House
- 🍽️ Restaurant: Costa Bella Restaurant
🏨 Stay at Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort
Check availability / book your stay: HERE!
A Note on Strays in Puerto Rico
While exploring Ponce, you may notice stray animals—it’s something we’re actively working to improve across the island.
You can help by supporting local shelters, donating, or volunteering.
During our wedding, we raised $1,000 to support TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts!
✈️ Final Thoughts: Why Visit Ponce Puerto Rico
If you’re planning a trip and searching for the best things to do in Ponce Puerto Rico, I hope this guide helps you experience the city beyond the surface.
From historic landmarks and cultural events to hidden gems and local eats, Ponce is truly special. It’s a place full of culture, heart, and stories—and now it holds such a special place in mine after celebrating one of the most important days of my life here 🤍
If you’re here because you’re planning a wedding in Puerto Rico—first of all, DO IT. And as promised, I’m sharing the incredible vendors who brought our vision to life. This day would not have been what it was without them.
If you have any further questions, recommendations, or just want to chat through your own Puerto Rico itinerary or wedding planning, feel free to DM me or send me an email at info@thislatinatravels.com I’m always happy to help!
💍 Vendors We 1000% Recommend
Every single one of these vendors made our day unforgettable:
-
Planner: @Kariangely.leweddingplanner
-
Officiant: @ParadiseVowsPR
-
Venue: Castillo Serrallés
-
Photographer: @Idoelphotography
-
Videographer: @Jaydwinfilms
-
Content Creation: @Asocialloveletter
-
Florals & Decor: @Ocassions5
-
Guest Seating Chart & Acrylic Prints: @mila.printstudio
-
Catering: @BanquetesMaraim
-
Bartending Service: @Pink.Mixology.PR
-
Coffee Bar: @Wem.PR
-
Cake: @Sweetbynegri1
-
Ice Cream: King’s Cream
-
Strings: @Cuerdasn
-
Salsa Musician: @JoeyMedinaPR
-
Batucada Band: @Yuviplena
-
Live Painter: @CuleWeddingLivePainting
-
Photo Booth, Audio Book & Shot Cart: @allpartyrentalpr
-
Hair & Makeup: @HairMakeupVanessa
-
Dress: @BlancheBridal @KleinfeldBridal
-
Groom’s Attire: @SuitSupply
-
Dress Hanger: @onehappystop
-
Lunch (day-of wedding): @bugascocina
