Puerto Rico : Safety by CityCradled between the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Puerto Rico, an associated state of the U.S., is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.
The world’s archipelago blends Spanish, Taíno, and African cultures, whose influence is everywhere, from the local architecture to the fabulous Puerto Rican cuisine.
Puerto Rico has pristine beaches and a 1,000-year-old rainforest home to hundreds of animals and plant species.
The island is famous for sharing amazing beaches, amiable people, flavorful food, a lovely environment, and many outdoor activities.
Warnings & Dangers in Rincon
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Rincón generally presents a safe environment. The town is known for its friendly locals, laid-back towns, and stunning natural beauty. Most crimes are petty ones, such as theft, especially in crowded areas and unattended beaches. Always remain aware of your surroundings, avoid deserted areas at night, and safely leave your important documents and extra money at your accommodation. While it’s true that Puerto Rico enjoys a lower crime rate than some parts of the U.S., this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use caution. The most common dangers are gangs and robbers. To be safe, avoid flashing your cash, jewelry, phones, and cameras. Puerto Rico also has problems with drug trafficking and gang-related activity, but it’s uncommon for tourists to run into any of these problems.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transportation in Rincón is generally safe, but like any other place, always remain aware of your surroundings. It’s mainly served by buses and taxis, and the drivers are typically friendly and professional. However, consistency and timeliness can sometimes be an issue. Once you’re in, check that there’s a meter. Or visitors can take an Uber. That’s a good option if your Spanish is better or you want to be able to track your travel on your phone. Plus, you can book a car in advance. Streets are busy in Puerto Rico, and traffic jams are unpredictable as the island is overcrowded with vehicular traffic.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Scams and honest mistakes happen in Puerto Rico, as in any location, so check your change, negotiate everything in advance, and don’t pay upfront. Be careful around ATMs and people trying to distract you, such as youths, trying to distract you, too - they can be skillful pickpockets.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Here, it blows. The hurricane season arrives at the beginning of June and departs at the end of November. Some say it’s the best time to go to the beach, thanks to warm temperatures and school/work vacations. Remember that a hurricane isn’t a yearly phenomenon; it doesn’t happen every year. Many people consider it a trade-off, even though there’s a chance of facing a storm. It’s also the most affordable time to visit.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Keep an eye on your belongings and keep to well-lit, populated areas while waiting and walking at night. Stay sane and sober, and use common sense, and you should be fine.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There has been no change to the status of Puerto Rico regarding terrorism. The world changes, and it’s best to keep up with local news and safety bulletins and to leave your contact info with family and friends.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Although tourists are generally safe from the most dangerous crimes, which are often gang or drug-related, they can fall prey to specific scams devised to trick tourists. Here are some common tourist scams: Taxi scams Some drivers try to inflate the cost of the trip for tourists. Getting an agreed-upon rate is suggested before beginning the journey and taking the route. When using a taxi, ensure it’s licensed and part of an established company. Scam guides Some locals might pretend to be tourist guides or simply helpful and then take tourists to specific areas or businesses where they get paid commissions. Or some might even snatch your bags if you’re inattentive. Rental car scams Common scams are asking for toll fees, keeping the change, or charging more for cleaning. Also, if you rent a car, remember to hit the locks on your car doors and keep valuables out of sight to keep them safe and reduce the chance of random theft and dangerous carjackings.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Especially in the area of San Juan; however, women may face some verbal street harassment, but it’s not likely to turn physical. However, as in every region, solo travelers (of all sexes) should avoid walking in isolated areas, especially at night. Be cautious and avoid sharing your lodging address; always watch your drink when out.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The tap water is fine: it’s treated and safe to drink. However, it’s always a good idea to check for any local updates or changes in water quality, as conditions can vary. Moreover, if you’ve specific concerns or stay in more remote areas, you may drink bottled water for added peace of mind.
Safest Places to Visit in Rincon
Here’s a list of what some consider to be the safest parts of Puerto Rico:
- San Juan, especially the neighborhoods of Old San Juan, Miramar, Condado, Isla Verde, Ocean Park and Hato Rey
- Rincon
- Cabo Rojo
- Rio Grande
- Ponce
- Fajardo
- Culebra
- Vieques
Places to Avoid in Rincon
This doesn’t mean that every area on this list is designated as intrinsically unsafe.
Tourists are encouraged to step out of Old San Juan to explore the island, although exercising caution in the daytime and avoiding certain areas after dark is recommended.
Areas to use caution
- Caserios public housing areas
- La Perla (especially at night)
- Puerta de Tierra
- Piñones
- El Parque de las Palomas
- Santurce
Safety Tips for Traveling to Rincon
Traveling to Rincón, Puerto Rico, can be a wonderful experience, but like any destination, it’s essential to prioritize safety.
Remember, enjoying your trip is important, but so is safety.
By staying informed, being mindful of your surroundings, and respecting local customs, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Rincón, Puerto Rico.
Here are 10 top safety tips for your trip to Rincón:
- Whether the Weather: Known for its beautiful beaches and surf, Rincón inspires, but staying informed about weather conditions is essential, especially during hurricane season (June 1 to November 30). Keep an eye on weather forecasts for potential warnings.
- Respect Local Wildlife: Rincón is known for its diverse wildlife. Be respectful and cautious around animals. Some creatures, like iguanas or certain insects, might be harmless, but observing them from a safe distance is best.
- Be Mindful of the Ocean and All Its Devices: Pay attention to ocean conditions, especially if you plan to swim or engage in water activities. Rincón is a popular surfing destination; some beaches may have strong currents. Follow any posted warnings and guidelines.
- Know Where You’re Sleeping: Choose reputable accommodations with good reviews. Research hotels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals thoroughly before booking. Look for places with positive feedback regarding safety and security.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure, especially on crowded beaches or in tourist areas. Use lockers when available, and avoid leaving valuables unattended. Be cautious with your belongings to minimize the risk of theft.
- Practice Responsible Tourism: Respect the local culture and community. Follow any guidelines or rules provided by local authorities. Be mindful of noise levels and environmental impact, and responsibly support local businesses.
- Use Reliable Transportation: Choose reputable services for renting or using public transportation. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and be cautious when driving, as road conditions may vary.
- Stay Hydrated and Be Cautious with Alcohol; if you’re careless, you might spill. (Kidding.) Puerto Rico’s climate can be hot and humid; stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. If you drink alcohol, no judgment, but do so responsibly and be aware of your surroundings. Excessive drinking can impair judgment and increase vulnerability.
- Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While many people in Rincón speak English, knowing some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful, especially in more local or less touristy areas.
- Practice Sun Safety: Rincón’s tropical climate means intense sun. Slather the sunscreen, slip on a hat, and stay hydrated. Heat-related illnesses can be a concern, so take breaks, take time out, get cool in the shade, and drink plenty of water.
So... How Safe Is Rincon Really?
One woman with ties to the community cited concern about the rising crime statistics, most of which are directly or indirectly related to the drug trade that has, as in other locations and nations, increased over the past several decades.
That said, crime’s not targeted explicitly toward tourists, despite some of the economic concerns regarding the island and the recession that’s plagued it for over a decade.
Puerto Rico’s violent crime rate is 39.5 percent lower than the national median, the property crime rate is 60.0 percent lower, and a lower portion of crime committed is classified as larceny-theft (54 percent) than nationally (63 percent).
How Does Rincon Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Rincon | 74 |
| San Juan | 30 |
| Ponce | 48 |
| Vienna (Austria) | 88 |
| Hong Kong (China) | 70 |
| Manama (Bahrain) | 54 |
| Tianjin (China) | 67 |
| Brussels (Belgium) | 60 |
| Shanghai (China) | 66 |
Useful Information
Visas
Puerto Rico is an unincorporated U.S. territory, so, just like if you were entering the U.S., you need a valid passport to enter Puerto Rico. Even if your country is enjoying visa-free travel to the U.S., you need a valid passport that meets specific criteria, including: • A machine-readable zone on the biographic page • Contain a digital chip with your biometric information U.S. citizens don’t need to apply for a visa or an ESTA before heading to their destination. However, U.S. citizens need their passports to board their flights.
Currency
Rincón, Puerto Rico’s official currency, is the U.S. dollar. Greenbacks. You can exchange currency at local banks, exchange offices, or ATMs, which are widely available. Credit cards are accepted/honored/obeyed widely, but carrying some cash for smaller establishments or areas with limited card acceptance is advisable. You never know when you’ll want to tip a waitperson, buy a balloon animal, or make a musician’s day. It’s best to be prepared. Be aware of exchange rates, and consider notifying your bank about your travel plans to avoid card usage problems.
Weather
Enjoys a tropical climate with warm temps year-round. During the dry season, which can last from December to April, the weather is sunny, with minimal rainfall. It’s ideal for outdoor activities, like surfing and exploring the beautiful beaches. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, consider early fall or late spring shoulder seasons. The trade-off is few tourists vs. a higher chance of rainfall. With a consistent tropical climate, visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, beachwear, fun nighttime togs, sun protection for all seasons, and a light jacket for occasional cooler evenings. Winter (December-February) temps range from 70-85 °F, spring (March-May) from 75-88 °F, summer (June-August) from 80-90 °F, and fall (September-November) from 75-88 °F.
Airports
The closest major airport to Rincón is Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) in Aguadilla, approximately 30 miles away. Visitors can also fly to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, about a 2-hour drive. Rental cars, shuttles, and taxis are available for transportation to Rincón from both airports. Plus, many accommodations offer airport transfers, providing convenient options for travelers.
Travel Insurance
Even though travel insurance isn’t compulsory for visiting Puerto Rico, buying travel documents is highly recommended. A great travel insurance cover will protect you if you lose your luggage, experience significant travel delays, suffer an unexpected injury, require medical attention, or need repatriation.
Rincon Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 30 | 30 | 30 | 31 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 |
| Low °C | 20 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 |
| High °F | 86 | 86 | 86 | 88 | 88 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 |
| Low °F | 68 | 68 | 68 | 70 | 72 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 72 | 70 | 70 |
Puerto Rico - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Ponce | 48 |
| Rincon | 74 |
| San Juan | 30 |
