Puerto Rico has long been synonymous with an easy, no-passport-required dose of sun and sand. But the island is more than just pristine white sand and shimmering turquoise waters. Puerto Rico also has a rich imperial history, a vibrant culture and culinary scene, and verdant jungle-clad peaks that rise some 4,000 feet above sea level. Here, your 36-hour guide to hitting the island’s hot spots, historic sites, electrifying rainforests and, of course, tropical beaches.

Picture This: You’re driving down the interstate. The construction is never-ending and the traffic is forever-maddening. You’ve got 6-37 different obligations in your life that demand your attention every day and between the podcast you’re trying to focus on, the meals you’re preparing for your family in your head, and the story your daughter is telling you from the backseat — you’ve got a lot going on.