El Morro, San Juan: Ticket prices, hours & visitor guide (2026)

Stand watch over the Caribbean at the Castillo San Felipe del Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This 2026 guide covers cashless entry, tunnels, and avoiding the midday heat.

When I first walked toward El Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the wind hit me before the fortress did. The massive green lawn leading up to the entrance was alive with hundreds of kites dancing in the trade winds. It is a disarming introduction to what is actually a formidable machine of war. Standing on the sixth level, looking down at the crashing Atlantic waves 140 feet below, you realize just how impossible this place would have been to conquer.

Quick overview

El Morro is cashless and costs $10.00 to enter. This ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes entry to Castillo San Cristóbal nearby. The fortress is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

How much does the Castillo San Felipe del Morro cost?

The National Park Service (NPS) operates a strict cashless policy at this site. You must pay by credit or debit card at the entrance. The ticket is excellent value as it covers two major fortresses.

Note: Your receipt is your ticket for re-entry and for visiting Castillo San Cristóbal. Do not lose it; the wind will try to snatch it from you.

Is the Castillo San Felipe del Morro free to enter?

Standard entry is paid, but the NPS offers several free access tiers.

• Children: Free for everyone aged 15 and under.
• Veterans & Gold Star Families: Free with valid ID.
• Access Pass: Free for US citizens with permanent disabilities.
• The Lawn: The massive green field outside the fortress walls is completely free to the public.

What time does the Castillo San Felipe del Morro open?

The fortress operates on a standard schedule year-round, with closures only on major holidays.

• Daily: 09:00 – 17:00
• Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day (25 Dec), and New Year’s Day (1 Jan).

Warning: The tropical sun is relentless at noon. I strongly suggest arriving at 9:00 AM sharp to explore the upper levels before the heat builds.

Do I need to book El Morro tickets in advance?

No, reservations are not required or even available for general entry. You simply tap your card at the entrance station. Lines can move slowly on cruise ship days, but they are generally manageable.

History of the fortress

Construction began in 1539 to guard San Juan Bay from enemies of the Spanish Empire. For over 400 years, it repelled attacks from Sir Francis Drake (1595) and the Dutch (1625). It even fired shots during World War II at a German submarine. It is a masterpiece of military engineering, evolving from a simple tower into a six-level behemoth.

Inside: What to see

• The Main Plaza: The heart of the fortress. It was used for troop formations and daily life.
• The Garitas: These iconic domed sentry boxes are the symbol of Puerto Rico. The view from the “Devil’s Sentry Box” is particularly famous.
• The Lighthouse: Rebuilt several times, it still functions today. It sits jarringly atop the ancient stone walls.
• The Old Tower: You can still step inside the round tower from 1539 deep within the fortress structure.
• The Levels: Walk the ramp down to the lower batteries to see the cannon placements right at the water’s edge.

What’s included with your ticket?

A standard entry pass grants you:

• Access to all public levels of El Morro.
• Same-day (24-hour) entry to Castillo San Cristóbal.
• Access to the interpretive exhibits and short film.
• Ranger-led talks (check the schedule at the entrance).

Things to do near El Morro

Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery (200m, 5 min walk)

A stunning seaside cemetery with elaborate white marble tombs. It is the final resting place of many famous Puerto Ricans.

Castillo San Cristóbal (1.6km, 20 min walk)

The largest fortification built by the Spanish in the New World. It protected against land attacks, whereas El Morro protected the sea.

Cuartel de Ballajá (400m, 6 min walk)

A massive former military barracks now housing the Museum of the Americas. The courtyard is excellent for coffee.

La Perla (Adjacent)

The famous colourful shanty town located just outside the walls. Note: It is best viewed from the fortress walls above rather than entering as a tourist.

Cathedral of San Juan Bautista (800m, 12 min walk)

The second oldest cathedral in the Americas. It contains the tomb of Juan Ponce de León.

Elsewhere in Puerto Rico, you can go night kayaking on Bioluminescent Bay.

Practical tips

• Hydration: There are water bottle filling stations inside. Bring a refillable bottle; plastic waste is a huge issue on the island.
• Footwear: The ramps are steep and the cobblestones are slippery. Leave the high heels and flip-flops at the hotel.
• Kites: Flying a kite on the lawn is a local tradition. You can buy one from vendors outside the gates for a few dollars.
• Accessibility: The main plaza and upper levels have ramp access, but the lower levels involve steep slopes and stairs.

FAQs