Puerto Rico isn’t just about beaches and rum—it’s a place where you can dive into hands-on workshops that reveal the island’s rich culture, vibrant traditions, and delicious food. Whether you’re interested in learning to cook traditional Puerto Rican dishes in a historic home, trying your hand at Bomba dance on the beach, or catching your first wave, this island offers memorable experiences for every curiosity. We’re especially fond of the Modern Puerto Rican Cooking Class in San Germán for its authentic setting and the chance to cook with a local chef in a beautifully restored historic home. If dance is more your style, the Loiza “VIP” Bomba Dance Class with Live Drums on The Beach is a lively way to connect with Puerto Rico’s African roots. For those looking to relax and reconnect, the Sunset Yoga Beach Class offers a peaceful way to end your day with ocean views.
Puerto Rico’s workshops are perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to participate, learn, and enjoy local culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a dancer, or someone who simply loves trying new things, the island’s diverse options won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
This list of best workshops and classes in Puerto Rico includes a variety of activities: cooking classes, dance lessons, surfing, salsa and coquito, pole dancing, and yoga. Each offers a different glimpse into Puerto Rican life and traditions, with options suitable for various budgets and interests. For more details, check out these experiences: Modern Puerto Rican Cooking Class, Loiza Bomba Dance, or Sunset Yoga.
1. Modern Puerto Rican Cooking Class in a Historic San Germán Home
Topping our list is a hands-on cooking class in San Germán, hosted by Tony, a Johnson and Wales-trained chef and a proud local. This experience is about more than just recipes; it’s an immersion into Puerto Rican culture and history. Tony’s historic home isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it’s an architectural treasure that makes the whole experience special. You’ll start with a warm welcome, then get your hands dirty preparing traditional dishes, all while learning about local ingredients and cooking techniques.
What makes this class stand out is Tony’s friendly approach and personalized touch—he even calls ahead to ask about your menu preferences. Reviews highlight that it’s a delicious and educational experience that also offers a glimpse into Puerto Rican heritage. Many visitors find it well worth the 3-hour commitment, even if the trip to San Germán is a bit lengthy. The price of $99 per person provides a memorable, authentic meal, and the chance to cook in a historic setting.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for food lovers who want a deeper connection to Puerto Rican cuisine and culture, hosted by a local chef in a stunning, historic home.
2. Loiza “VIP” Bomba Dance Class with Live Drums on The Beach
If dancing is your idea of fun, the Loiza “VIP” Bomba Dance Class offers an engaging introduction to Puerto Rico’s African-rooted musical tradition. Bomba is a fast-paced, rhythmic dance created by enslaved Africans centuries ago, used as a form of communication and now as a celebration of culture. This class takes place right on the beach, making it not only educational but also wonderfully atmospheric.
Led by skilled instructors, you’ll learn basic Bomba steps and participate in lively drumming sessions that follow your movements. The highlight is the live drums, which add an authentic energy to the experience. It’s a short (about an hour) but intense dose of Puerto Rican musical heritage, suitable for beginners and those with some dance experience alike.
The review of one participant sums it up: “It was a different way to connect with the island’s history, and I loved the freedom of the dance.” It’s a great way to get moving and learn about the island’s African influences in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dance lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting to experience Puerto Rico’s lively musical traditions in a fun outdoor setting.
$55.00 per person
3. Ride the Waves in Puerto Rico — Surfing Lessons
For those seeking active fun, the Surfing Lessons in Puerto Rico offers a perfect introduction to catching the Caribbean’s famous waves. This 2-hour lesson is suitable for all skill levels, including absolute beginners. Led by local surf pros, the focus is on safety, technique, and having fun.
One of the best parts? The lesson takes place at Condado Beach, where the warm waters and gentle waves make it easier to stand up on your board. The small group size (a maximum of four) ensures personalized attention, whether you’re just trying to stand up for the first time or honing your skills. Reviewers mention just how much they loved it—“it was a fantastic way to turn a day at the beach into a true adventure.”
The lesson costs $125 per person, which is reasonable considering the professional instruction and equipment provided. Plus, being in San Juan means you’re close to other activities afterwards, making it easy to continue your beach day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers looking for a memorable and hands-on way to enjoy Puerto Rico’s surf.
4. Coquito Drink and Salsa Beach Class
While there are no reviews yet, the Salsa Beach Class and Coquito offers a lively taste of Puerto Rican culture. For just $40, you’ll learn basic Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata steps from skilled instructors, all set against the stunning seaside backdrop. The class is designed for all skill levels—beginners especially will enjoy swaying to the rhythms.
After the dance session, you’ll be treated to a refreshing 9 oz serving of Coquito Boricua, the island’s beloved holiday drink. Plus, you’ll take home a full bottle as a souvenir. The hour-long experience combines dance, culture, and deliciousness, with the ocean and sunset providing a perfect setting.
Ideal for travelers seeking a fun, social activity that’s easy to join, this class offers a memorable glimpse into Puerto Rico’s festive spirit. Since reviews are not yet available, it’s best for those wanting a casual, cheerful experience with a cultural twist.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or groups who want to mix dance with a refreshing local drink in a scenic beach setting.
$40.00 per person
5. Private Puerto Rican Cooking Class with Cocktails Near San Juan
For a truly personalized culinary experience, the Private Puerto Rican Cooking Class with Cocktails offers an intimate look at island flavors. Hosted by Johana, a local culinary interpreter from Comerio, this 2.5-hour session is perfect for anyone eager to learn family recipes and cooking techniques from someone who learned from her mother and aunts.
Johana’s warm personality and local insights make this class special. You’ll prepare traditional dishes, then enjoy your creations along with cocktails—adding a fun social element. The private setting means tailored attention and the chance to ask all your culinary questions. It’s especially suitable for couples or small groups wanting a customized experience.
The price is $129 per person, offering good value considering the personalized instruction and authentic recipes. It’s a great way to bring home not just new skills but also a deeper understanding of Puerto Rican food culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies seeking a personalized, culturally rich cooking class with local hosts.
$129.00 per person
6. Pole Dance Class and Picnic by the Sea in San Juan
If you’re after a playful, confidence-boosting activity, the Pole Dance Class and Picnic combines beginner-friendly pole moves with a charming outdoor picnic. Guided by a certified instructor, you’ll learn simple moves against a scenic ocean backdrop, making the experience both fun and empowering.
Following the dance session, unwind with a boho-style picnic featuring blankets, pillows, snacks, and chilled champagne—an ideal way to relax after the workout. The 3-hour experience makes it perfect for celebrations like bachelorette parties or birthdays, or anyone curious to try pole dancing in a casual setting.
At $225 per person, it’s a bit pricier but offers a unique combination of fitness and leisure. Be aware that this experience involves some physical activity, so a basic level of fitness helps.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking for a fun, social activity that combines movement, confidence, and relaxation in a beautiful seaside setting.
$225.00 per person
7. Sunset Yoga Beach Class
For a calming end to your day, the Sunset Yoga offers a peaceful hour of yoga at sunset on the beach. Led by an experienced instructor, the session is designed for all levels, making it accessible whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi.
The setting is as beautiful as it sounds—soft sand, ocean waves, and a vibrant sunset. The class emphasizes breathing, relaxation, and connecting with nature, providing a restorative experience. Parking is convenient, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.
Priced at just $35, this is an affordable way to unwind after a day of exploring. Many find that practicing yoga with the ocean as a backdrop enhances the sense of calm and mindfulness.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, scenic activity to de-stress and reconnect with the natural world.
$35.00 per person
How to Choose
When selecting your Puerto Rican workshop or class, consider your interests, budget, and fitness level. If you love cooking and local flavors, the Modern Puerto Rican Cooking Class offers a deep dive into island cuisine. For those curious about dance, the Bomba dance or the Salsa Beach Class provide lively, cultural experiences.
If you want to stay active, the surfing lessons or pole dance class could be perfect, while the Sunset Yoga suits travelers seeking relaxation. Budget-wise, yoga and dance classes tend to be more affordable, while private cooking sessions and pole dancing are a bit more costly but offer exclusivity and novelty.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Rico’s diverse workshops offer much more than typical sightseeing—they invite you to participate actively in local traditions. Whether you prefer cooking, dancing, surfing, or relaxing with yoga, there’s an experience suited to your interests and pace. The Modern Puerto Rican Cooking Class stands out for its cultural depth, while the Loiza Bomba Dance offers an energetic way to connect with Puerto Rico’s African roots. For pure relaxation, the Sunset Yoga provides a peaceful retreat.
We recommend booking early if you’re visiting during busy months, and matching your choice to your interests—whether that’s food, dance, adventure, or wellness. Dive into these authentic experiences, and you’ll leave Puerto Rico with more than just souvenirs—you’ll carry memories of participating in local culture firsthand.
Happy exploring!