Calle del Cristo
#8 in Best Things To Do in Puerto Rico

Key Info
Price & Hours
Details
scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 4.0Food Scene
- 4.5Atmosphere
Outlet shoppers should come to Old San Juan prepared to let go of a few dollars. The city's Calle del Cristo is a haven of restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. In addition to popular stores, those walking the street can discover local crafts and artisan shops.
If you're looking to skip shopping altogether, Calle del Cristo is still a worthwhile spot to get a feel for the beauty of Old San Juan. Past travelers routinely praised the old churches and unique architecture that line the cobblestone streets.
Calle del Cristo is also a great photo-taking opportunity. Snap a few of the street's two famous chapels: the San Juan Bautista Cathedral (open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. most days) and the Capilla de Cristo (only open select days). Or swing by Pigeons Park (Parque de las Palomas) to see the scores of birds waiting to be fed. The street itself is free to visit and is accessible at any time, but store and restaurant hours vary, so be sure to check with a particular shop for any additional information. You'll find El Morro fort near the north end of the street.
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#1 Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay (Vieques)
This south Vieques beach might not sound like much, but it's one of travelers' favorite experiences in Puerto Rico. During the day, Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay is your stereotypical Caribbean hideout, but at night, the waters emit a blue glow from the organisms, called dinoflagellates, that live there. More than 600,000 bioluminescent dinoflagellates live in each gallon of bay water, and recent travelers have been amazed by just how much visibility these tiny creatures provide.
Avoid visiting the bay during a full moon; the microorganisms aren't as visible then. Also aim for a quiet approach. Recent travelers recommended going out in a kayak to get the full effect of the glow and to prevent disturbing the dinoflagellates.
This south Vieques beach might not sound like much, but it's one of travelers' favorite experiences in Puerto Rico. During the day, Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay is your stereotypical Caribbean hideout, but at night, the waters emit a blue glow from the organisms, called dinoflagellates, that live there. More than 600,000 bioluminescent dinoflagellates live in each gallon of bay water, and recent travelers have been amazed by just how much visibility these tiny creatures provide.
Avoid visiting the bay during a full moon; the microorganisms aren't as visible then. Also aim for a quiet approach. Recent travelers recommended going out in a kayak to get the full effect of the glow and to prevent disturbing the dinoflagellates.
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