3 Best Places to Shop in Isla Verde and Carolina, San Juan

Loiza Dark is a small shop by the airport featuring gourmet, single-origin chocolate from Puerto Rico. Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you, inside there are decadent treats. Make your own custom truffle box with flavor options like passionfruit, coffee, and guava. Select from a variety of flavored chocolate bars, like cinnamon or lavender, with varying cacao percentages. They have seasonal gift baskets available, call to preorder for a special occasion. There is no seating or on-site dining available.

This complex in Canóvanas, about 25 minutes east of San Juan, has more than 50 factory outlet stores, including Adidas, Nautica, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein. Those who aren't into shopping can head to the entertainment center, where offerings include go-kart racing, virtual reality experiences, bowling, and an arcade.

About 15 minutes east of San Juan, you'll find Plaza Carolina, with locals shops, as well as chain stores like Clarks, Forever 21, and T.J. Maxx. Get there via Route 26.