Puerto Rico offers fun activities and welcoming people, making it easy to build new friendships. From cultural festivals to outdoor adventures, here are 7 great ways to connect and find your community.

Moving to Puerto Rico is an exciting experience, and becoming part of a new community means immersing yourself in the culture, getting to know the locals, and forming new friendships. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to put yourself out there and build social connections. In this guide, we’ll share practical and realistic strategies for forming meaningful friendships in Puerto Rico.

1. Find Local Events

Puerto Rico’s vibrant arts and cultural scene offers plenty of opportunities to meet new people, connect with local artists, and engage with fellow newcomers.

Here are some great places to explore:

• Art Galleries and Museums: Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico to experience stunning exhibitions that attract both locals and expats, providing an excellent space for conversation and connection.
• Festivals: The San Sebastián Street Festival in Old San Juan is one of the island’s biggest celebrations, featuring live music, dances, and a festive atmosphere perfect for socializing.
• Live Music and Cultural Nights: Many cities host regular events like salsa dancing or poetry readings. Check out what’s happening in your area to meet like-minded people.

2. Join an Organization

Across Puerto Rico, various organizations bring together people with shared interests, whether personal, political, or professional. Getting involved in these groups can help you build connections and find a sense of belonging in your new community.

Consider these options:

• Professional Networking Groups: Organizations like the Puerto Rico Chamber of Commerce connect private businesses, offering valuable networking opportunities and the chance to form new friendships.
• Expat Communities: Many expat groups cater to newcomers in Puerto Rico. You can find them on platforms like Facebook, where members share advice and organize in-person meetups.
• Community Groups: Religious organizations, civic groups, and nonprofits provide ways to engage with locals while contributing to meaningful initiatives.

3. Initiate Conversations

One of the easiest ways to make friends in Puerto Rico is by starting conversations with the people you meet in everyday places. Whether you’re at a coffee shop, the gym, or the grocery store, take the opportunity to chat with locals. Ask for recommendations on places to visit, the best restaurants, or anything that sparks a friendly exchange. In addition, using Spanish, even at a basic level, can go a long way in building connections—locals appreciate the effort and are often more open to conversation.

4. Find a Hobby

What better way to make friends than by doing something you love and meeting others who share your interests? Engaging in a hobby creates natural opportunities for social connections. Here are some examples:

• Outdoor Activities: Join a local running club or explore Puerto Rico’s scenic landscapes by hiking in El Yunque National Forest.
• Dance Classes: Salsa and bachata are deeply rooted in Puerto Rican culture, making dance classes a great way to meet locals while learning traditional moves.
• Book Clubs and Literary Groups: Many libraries and independent bookstores host discussions where you can connect with fellow readers and writers in a relaxed setting.

5. Social Media Is Your Friend

Modern times call for modern ways to make connections. Take it online with platforms like Facebook or Instagram—search for local groups, shared interests, or favorite food spots, then start a conversation. Meetup is another great option, where event organizers post gatherings and activities designed for newcomers.

6. Join a Co-working Group

If you work remotely in Puerto Rico, joining a coworking space can be a wonderful way to meet entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and remote employees. Many of these spaces also host networking events and social hours, providing even more opportunities to connect.

7. Volunteer

Volunteering not only helps you meet new people but also allows you to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Here are a few organizations to get involved with:

• Environmental Groups: Scuba Dogs Society in San Juan organizes beach and coastal clean-ups, bringing together a community of like-minded volunteers.
• Animal Shelters: The Humane Society of Puerto Rico welcomes volunteers to care for animals while connecting with fellow animal lovers.
• Food Banks: Banco de Alimentos Puerto Rico offers opportunities to sort and pack food, distribute meals, and assist with donations—all while meeting others dedicated to helping the community.

Finding Your Place in Puerto Rico

Making friends in Puerto Rico takes effort, but opportunities are everywhere. Attending events and embracing local culture can lead to lasting relationships. Keep showing up, engaging, and staying open to new experiences. If you need help relocating, contact us to discuss the best ways to settle in and connect.