July 4th in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico--go or no-go?
 

Has anyone traveled to Puerto Rico during the July 4th holiday? Having never been, I don't know how crowded/touristy it is on a regular basis. We're not the cruising/all-inclusive-style travelers and are instead looking for an authentic experience in Old San Juan--interested in history, culture, architecture, great food/wine, beautiful views. Always up for an adventure--hiking, exploring the rain forest, kayaking. Beach time is lower on the list but will want some [especially a sunrise/set]. Would love feedback on whether or not the island will be overcrowded given the holiday and/or favorite experiences. Traveling as two couples, mid- to late-30s.

San Juan is a big busy city, so it's crowded even when there is not a holiday. It gets more cruise ships than almost any other place in the Caribbean, and it's a magnet for everyone, bith locals and visitors, on weekends. On July 4 I think more locals will head to the beach since it will be so hot. But Old San Juan is not a destination for a quiet weekend. But Puerto Rico has a lot to offer. Just be aware that this is the heart of hurricane season.

I've been there over the 4th. It wasn't any more crowded than other times I've been there (not as crowded as Easter time, for instance). I'd agree with Doug that the beaches will be more crowded - the one mistake I made when I was there on the 4th was to be driving from Fajardo to Condado on the actual 4th at around noon. Major traffic jam. Doug says that Old San Juan is not a destination for a quiet weekend but I didn't read anything in your post that indicates you want a "quiet" weekend. In fact, Old San Juan and Puerto Rico in general fits your description of what you are looking for perfectly. The island is pretty big and as a whole it won't be "overcrowded." Also, I wouldn't describe the beginning of July as the heart of hurricane season, although anytime you visit the Caribbean in the summer there is a small chance of a hurricane.

The heart of hurricane season is mid-September. ;-)

Many thanks to you all for the feedback!