Fun Facts About Puerto Rico | Things You Didn't Know!

As you prepare for your trip, let’s introduce you to some fun facts about Puerto Rico to make your stay even more special.

We’ve gathered all these facts during our own trip. Read them below!

Unincorporated Territory: Puerto Rico is a piece of American land that isn’t quite part of the United States. Not a state, but still sovereign.
Discovered by Columbus: In 1493, Christopher Columbus set foot here. He didn’t find gold or spices but discovered a vast paradise inhabited by the Taíno, the island’s original residents who had called it home for centuries.
Area: Puerto Rico covers 8,870 square kilometers, making it larger than Rhode Island and Delaware. Think lush forests, expansive beaches, and mountains that kiss the horizon.
Population: About 3.3 million people live in Puerto Rico. An island population that feels at home between its Spanish past and American present.
Power Outlets: The outlets are type A and B. You don’t need a travel adapter for Puerto Rico.
Languages: The official languages are Spanish and English, but you’ll mainly hear the melody of Spanish on the streets. English is a formality; Spanish is a way of life.
Currency: The US dollar is the currency here. A constant reminder of the connection to the mainland, despite the miles of ocean separating them.
Religion: The vast majority (89%) of Puerto Ricans are Christian. Churches and chapels form the backbone of the communities.

Political Status: Puerto Rico has its own governor and parliament, but no voting rights in Washington. It’s like being at the table but not having a say.
Highest Point: Cerro de Punta is the highest point on the island, at 1,340 meters. A spot where you can oversee the entire island.
Natural Resources: Puerto Rico has 50 rivers and 17 lakes. Water that gives life to the land, despite the threat of droughts and hurricanes.
Economy: The economy relies heavily on the pharmaceutical industry and tourism. Beautiful beaches and rainforests attract thousands of visitors each year.
Famous Puerto Ricans: Rita Moreno, Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, and Daddy Yankee are just a few of the many well-known names from this island.
Hurricanes: The island is regularly hit by hurricanes from the Atlantic Ocean. Each storm brings destruction but also a chance for rebuilding and resilience.
US Citizenship: Since 1917, Puerto Ricans are US citizens. A status that brings both rights and limitations.
Flag: The flag of Puerto Rico features a white star on a red background with two horizontal blue stripes. A symbol of their identity and struggle.
National Anthem: “La Borinqueña” is Puerto Rico’s national anthem.
National Holiday: The national holiday is on July 4th, just like in the US. A day of fireworks and celebration.
Population Composition: About 75% of Puerto Ricans have European roots, and 12% have Afro-Caribbean roots.
Migration: Puerto Rico’s population is shrinking as many move to the US, especially to Florida. A diaspora spreading across continents.
Dutch Invasion: In 1625, the Dutch tried to take Puerto Rico from the Spanish. Unsuccessful, but their attempt is a footnote in the island’s rich history.
Spanish-American War: In 1898, the US conquered Puerto Rico from Spain during the Spanish-American War. An event that forever changed the island’s future.
Distance to Florida: Only 1,600 kilometers separate Puerto Rico from Florida’s coast, but sometimes the distance feels like an ocean full of history and politics.
Natural Lakes: Puerto Rico has no natural lakes. The land looks for its water in rivers and the sea.
Beaches: Puerto Rico has nearly 300 breathtaking sandy beaches, including the famous Flamenco Beach. Each beach a piece of paradise on earth.
Piña Colada: The piña colada, Puerto Rico’s national drink, was invented on the island.

Piña colada in the kitchen in Puerto Rico

El Yunque National Park: El Yunque National Park is home to the only tropical rainforest in the United States forest system.
Diaspora: More than 5 million Puerto Ricans live around the world, with about 1 million in New York City alone. Their hearts always carry a piece of the island with them.
Name Meaning: The name “Puerto Rico” means “rich port” in Spanish. A name that evokes dreams of prosperity and opportunity.
National Symbols: The coquí frog and the Puerto Rican spindalis bird are national symbols.
Coquí Frogs: There are 16 different species of coquí frogs found in Puerto Rico.
Climate: Puerto Rico has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 29°C year-round. The sun is a constant companion.
Christmas Celebrations: Puerto Ricans celebrate Christmas from late October to late January.
Casa Bacardi: Casa Bacardi in Cataño is the largest rum distillery in the world. A place where the island’s golden elixir is born.
National Dish: Arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) is the national dish.