Tourist Attractions & Monuments Puerto Rico

This is probably the beach that looks the least like its sisters on the island. With its pebbles and small rocky cliffs, it offers a much less hospitable setting than the other beaches in the area. Even cacti grow there! The place is nonetheless beautiful. The area is particularly pleasant for snorkeling, especially for beginners. For that you have to go to the left side of Punta Soldado. The beach is accessible on foot by a path from the parking lot (about 20 minutes on foot).

For 2 years, the lighthouse is impeccable from the outside… A little patience and it will be that. From the foot of the lighthouse, the sight on the coast is breathtaking. A small path starts from the lighthouse to reach the very beautiful beach below.

Lined with coconut trees, this beach is one of the most pleasant in the area, even if it is not breathtakingly beautiful. Little frequented, it is a guarantee of tranquility, especially during the week. However, it is not a beach where you can swim easily, be careful, the swell is often very strong. We prefer without any hesitation the beach of Guayanés, a little more to the north-east of Yabucoa. It is a large beach, more isolated, clean and often deserted. The waters are also calmer for swimming.

The most famous beach in Fajardo is called Seven Seas. There is a balneario (beach resort) along it, on Route 195, at km 4. Less than a kilometer from Seven Seas Beach, heading north, you will find Playa Escondida ("hidden beach"), but beware that the waves are often violent there. The destination is favored by surfers. It is part of the territory of the National Reserve of Las Cabezas de San Juan. Finally, Playa Colorá, less known and less frequented, is a 15-20 minute walk from Seven Seas.

The bioluminescent bay of Fajardo is the one that attracts the most people in Puerto Rico. Its proximity to San Juan alone explains its great popularity. The phenomenon of bioluminescent bays is not very common: there are 5 in the world, including 3 in Puerto Rico. At night, a luminosity is perceived in the water as soon as a body is in motion. It is caused by micro-organisms called dinoflagellates that react with a small neon light as soon as the water is agitated. There is no point in simply looking at the water from the shore. No agitation, no reaction. In terms of dinoflagellate concentration, Vieques Bay is now far superior. Pollution and climate change have affected the biological environment of these very fragile microorganisms. Many conditions are necessary to ensure their survival, such as the presence of mangroves that allow them to feed on dead leaves. The water temperature must be maintained around a stable value. The human pollution around, such as artificial lights or the discharge of products, should not change the quality of the water. Anyone who cares about the survival of this biological treasure will be content to visit it by canoe. Swimming causes pollution of the water by perfume, sun protection creams or mosquito repellent, which visitors often carry with them when entering the water.

This small museum in the heart of the forest allows you to deepen your knowledge not only of El Yunque, but also of the tropical forests of the world, their particularities and their lifestyles. A documentary on El Yunque is distributed to the public.

Every day at 18 a. m., the group meets near Trade winds on Flamboyán street for a departure to Mosquito Beach and its famous Bioluminescent bay. 

It is therefore necessary to come on foot for free. And the second is the constant noise of the nearby airport that is not the most pleasant to relax.

East of Old San Juan, this urban park borders the ocean and is the largest green space in the area. Luis Muñoz Rivera Park is located just steps away from Escambrón Beach. The park is filled with beautiful trees, playgrounds and picnic areas, benches for lovers, sculptures and murals. It is also home to various species of migratory and endemic birds of Puerto Rico. The park is a place for families to stroll and meet, and is also popular with photography enthusiasts and... selfies.

As its name indicates, the establishment's collections are devoted to the first indigenous people of Puerto Rico and their lives under the Spanish regime. The museum is housed inside the Casa de los Dos Zaguanes. Artisanal objects and plans are presented. In all, 6 rooms on very varied themes: Indians, expos, African roots, Spanish periods.

It is simply the most beautiful beach in San Juan and its surroundings. No one will dispute that, although it is not as breathtaking as the beaches of Culebra for example. A real lifestyle has developed around this beach. Many hotels have direct access and the beach itself is the main source of income for the area. It is very easy to find deckchairs to rent, or sports equipment to spend a good time. However, to park, you will certainly have to turn around to find a place. The best is to take a parking place in a hotel). Isla Verde is home to the small beach of Pine Grove, unofficially elected by its inhabitants as the best surf spot in the capital in winter. Count 5 US$ for a deckchair and 10 US$ for an umbrella.

This is the first beautiful beach in San Juan. To get there, you just have to go to McLeary Avenue in the Ocean Park neighborhood and take the first street that goes towards the sea. The site is about 1.5 km long. The shallow depth of the water and the lack of current create an ideal setting for swimming. The beach is not supervised. It is also a favorite playground for windsurfers and kitesurfers. For a sundowner and Sunday brunch with your feet in the sand, go to Numero Uno Beach House, the place to be.

As its name suggests, this is the beach of El Condado. It is located at the entrance of the neighborhood, on its western side. This is not the place to find a fine sandy beach with a clear horizon, but it is not unpleasant to take a dip near Old San Juan. As an extension, we recommend you to push to the beach of Ocean Park, more spacious and more pleasant. The multi-storey buildings, which border the beach of El Condado, are no longer legion when leaving the neighborhood. A little further on, the atmosphere changes.

Also called "Red Beach", it is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island (yet another one!), accessible from the interior. Since it is located 7 km east of Esperanza, you have to enter the National Wild Refuge to find the way. Relatively small compared to Esperanza Beach, it is lined with wooden cabins set up for easy picnicking. It remains very busy throughout the year, especially on weekends. On weekends, you can go to La Chiva beach (Blue Beach).

It is one of the most accessible beaches on the island, and also one of the most beautiful. In Vieques, the perfect rounding of this bay extends for almost 1 km. From Esperanza, you can reach it by going along the coast and cutting off a little. From Flamboyan Street, it takes about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can reach it by car through the entrance along Highway 997. The beach is managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources, so it has a few extras: bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, barbecues, kiosks, etc.

This is undoubtedly a splendid beach. The mixture of vegetation, fine sand, turquoise and transparent water is superb. Aesthetically, it is difficult to do better. And as the beach is less accessible than the magnificent "Red Beach", you will probably often find yourself alone or almost, in low season. Surrounded by small cliffs, the beach gives the impression of having arrived on a deserted island, so much the feeling of being cut off from the world seizes you. On the other hand, be careful, the waves are sometimes quite violent.

If you like long walks on the beach, snorkeling or hiking in crystal clear water, if you want to see a lot, you should visit the beautiful bay of La Chiva. Once called "Blue Beach" by the U.S. Navy, the name is no longer used and the locals prefer its official name of La Chiva. It is also in winter the best spot on the island for surfers. Some areas are closed to visitors and are marked with signs; for your safety, please respect them.

This beach will quickly become a paradise for those who want to be alone on a fine sandy beach, one of the most secluded on the island. The access by land is not the easiest, but your efforts will be rewarded. If you want to observe the corals and fish with a mask, snorkel and fins, this is one of the most extensive places on Vieques. The beach is also known as "Green Beach". It is part of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. It is best to go in the morning to avoid the sand flies that arrive in the afternoon.

This beach is the children's paradise. And also adults who can relax monitoring, the water being so calm. Fine sand and steep coast in perspective. The location is ideal for a few starfish, hence the name of the beach. It is located along the coast, at Laguna Kiani, in the west of the island.

As paradoxical as it may seem, it's night to visit it. Here is the famous Bioluminescent bay. There are only 5 in the world. To get there, you must go through an agency that organizes the excursions (see the "Sports and Leisure" section of Esperanza).

And come on, another postcard beach! Shades of blue like in a dream, a peaceful and warm sea, a fine and soft white sand, a relaxed and family atmosphere.... Cabo Rojo is definitely the place to be in Puerto Rico to relax by the water. Just magical. The beach is accessible from the PR-307 road, taking the Camino Buye, a small road that runs along the ocean to Punta Guaniquilla. Again, if you want to be quiet, choose the early morning hours on weekends (before 11am) or during the week.

This is the perfect Cabo Rojo public beach. Everything is, cafeteria, parking, picnic areas and games, showers and toilets, monitors… The charm is also on this beach, which is beautifully occupied by tropical trees. Its calm, shallow waters will delight enchanting bathing lovers and families looking for relaxation in paradise. On the other hand, this corner of Cabo Rojo attracts the crowds, it will be better to avoid weekends and school holidays if you want to be really quiet. 

This very small island is accessible by small boat from the Joyuda dock (RR-102, Km 13.8) or by kayak. Travelers usually spend one day there. It has a very nice little beach (unfortunately reduced by erosion), often very busy on weekends, when regulars come to visit with their personal boats. The water is clear and shallow, ideal for children's swimming and snorkeling.

Located in the northwest of Puerto Rico, in the town of Añasco, the beach is quite beautiful, lined with coconut palms and green vegetation, large and ideal for swimming. The beach area, devastated by Hurricane Maria in 2017, was reopened to visitors in 2020, it was recently improved by the municipality. It is also a vacation resort managed by the Puerto Rico National Parks Corporation, which is still in the process of rehabilitation. A large parking lot, public restrooms and showers are available.

To reach it from Arecibo, take the PR-10, then the road 621. It takes about fifteen kilometers. Officially called the Río Abajo Forest, this park is a real wonder for all nature lovers. Opened in 1943 after a massive reforestation of the region, it is located halfway between Arecibo and Utuado, and from west to east, between the Tanamá River and the Dos Bocas Lake. Visitors go there mainly to admire the geological formations of karst. According to park employees, it is located right in the middle of the region that Puerto Ricans call karst country. But the mogotes, bamboo forests and tropical plants contribute greatly to the unusual landscape. The highest point in the park rises to 424 meters, promising sometimes strenuous hiking. However, many of the 24 trails are often closed to the public due to rain or strong winds. But here, the efforts made will often be rewarded by the beauty of an originally well preserved nature.

WARNING: the forest suffered significant damage during the passage of Hurricane Maria, in 2017. It took nearly five years for nature to come back to life. At the time of writing this new edition of the guide, the site is still partially closed. So take the necessary information by calling the numbers above or at the San Juan tourist office before you travel.

This is one of the high places of Puerto Rican tourism: the caves of the Camuy River. You get there early in the morning as a good idea because the visit is made in small groups, formed as visitors arrive. If all the conditions are met for the site to offer all its attractions, then take 3 hours to turn it around. The visit begins with the screening of a small film documenting the history of the reserve. It was in the 1960 s that speleologists had established the caves map for the first time. Then a small bus leads to the cave named Clara de Graneros. In addition to the numerous stalagmites there, the caves have a large population of bats. You may be surprised by the Camuy underground river if you haven't seen it yet. Next, you can take the Tres Pueblos trail to the Cueva Catedral. According to the guides, it houses 42 petroglyphs, these Aboriginal drawings engraved in the rock. A geological marvel that you will not miss if you stay in the region. A small board, caves are necessarily wet and a little slippery, wearing a imperméable and adapted footwear will probably be more comfortable for the visit. Finally, we strongly advise you to call the park offices before you go, the caves are not always open. The site is easily accessible by Highway 129, approximately kilometres south-west of Arecibo.

Located near the port of Arecibo, the "Faro de los Morillos", built in 1898 by the Spaniards, in the style of the time, has been completely restored in the past. The park houses a museum of its history as well as replicas of important themes in Puerto Rico's history: Indian village, Christopher Columbus' ship, slave quarters, ship and pirate's lair... as well as a saltwater aquarium. Good for kids, plus great ocean views.

Ten kilometers west of Dorado is one of the most beautiful beaches of the North Coast, almost wild in some places. The Javier Calderón Balneario , better known as "Cerro Gordo" in Vega Alta, is managed by the Puerto Rico National Parks Program. Be very careful if you swim, the currents are extremely strong, except at the balneario, which unfortunately requires a fee (US$ 3). The site has an equipped camping area (95 sites) with showers, toilets, food stands. Prior reservation is required.

Coming from San Juan, this is the first forest that you will encounter when you leave towards the west. Here you will find a particularly rich fauna and flora of humid subtropical type. Accompanied by a guide, you can explore small natural caves. There are also many mogotes, the typical geomorphic structures of northern Puerto Rico, small rounded towers covered with vegetation. Hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers will appreciate this.

It is on the side of the "Bahía del Ojo del Buey" that you must go. This small bay with crystalline waters, surrounded by sand, rocks, grass and coconut trees, has its own charm. A pedestrian path allows you to walk around it and to go to the point, whipped by the sea spray, much wilder: "El Ojo del Buey Stone". We also go along the Plata River which, where it flows into the ocean, attracts a few solitary kitesurfers. There is a parking lot at the end of Calle 13, before taking the path.

It is undoubtedly one of the most pleasant beaches of the North, because really charming and favourable to the bathe thanks to calm water not very deep. A small corner of dream. Prefer the eastern part of the beach, as many seaweeds cover the western part. The beach is supervised (from 9am to 6pm every day in high season), it has a parking lot, toilets (open until 5pm), public showers, a rental stand, beach chairs and umbrellas, and even a wheelchair service adapted to swimming for the disabled.

The site, from the road, sadly attracts the attention by its huge concrete parking, its games for children and its fences... In short, nothing exciting, except that it hides one of the most beautiful beaches of the area, located below the parking. This long and pretty beach is frequented by surfers. For the others, you will have to be satisfied with the pleasure of the eyes, because the currents are very strong and the swimming is not supervised. The main attraction of Los Tubos lies in its easy access and its coastline worthy of an Instagram shot.

The tourist office is housed in the former feminist house of Trina Padilla.

The Guanica State Forest, which became a nature reserve in 1985, is known throughout the world for the specificity of its biosphere. For many scientists, it is one of the best illustrations in the world of what is a dry forest in a subtropical zone. For this reason, in 1981, the United Nations recognized the park as the second international biosphere reserve in Puerto Rico, the other being the Yunque Reserve, further east in the country. The reserve covers 9,900 hectares. The most surprising thing for the visitor is probably to discover it when arriving from the tropical forest that covers the heart of the island. The contrast is striking. The cactus have replaced the royal palms, in the space of only a few kilometers. The vegetation then corresponds to the surrounding climatic conditions, with very low rainfall - around 750 mm per year. The thorny shrubs are legion, and scientists have been able to report no less than 700 species of plants, 16 of which are endemic. The land has also changed. It is no longer red as in the heart of the island, but much more white and stony.

The park is also famous for its endemic frog species, called peltophryne lemur. It is in this unique place that it reproduces. The adults live in the stone and regularly lay their eggs whenever it rains, which is quite rarely in the area. Once hatched, the newborns go to bury themselves in the crevices to come out only with the next rain and reproduce in their turn. Scientists also report that of the 111 species of birds that inhabit Puerto Rico, at least 40 live in the Guanica region, which is home to the largest number. A paradise for birders! There are also 48 endangered animal species in the forest.
To enjoy this unique fauna and flora, many trails have been built in the reserve. There are a dozen of them, with different degrees of difficulty. If you are in a hurry, you can take three of them in particular, which will give you an overview of the phenomenon of the dry forest in the subtropical zone in less than an hour. Thanks to the forest guardians, you can arrange much longer routes to access century-old trees.

At the moment, you will not find any accommodation in the park, where camping is prohibited. To sleep, fall back on Guanica.

This small island, which is part of the La Parguera nature reserve, is the only one among four others to have a beach, which is probably why it is called "La Parguera Beach". All shades of blue and green are represented, the waters are an invitation to observe the underwater life... On the beach, picnic areas are arranged, as well as a path through the mangrove. Given the size of this small piece of land, it is better to avoid weekends and vacation periods to go there.

Commonly called Bio bay, the bioluminescent bay of La Parguera attracts thousands of tourists every year. It must be said that the phenomenon is rare. There are five bays on the planet, including three in Puerto Rico. At nightfall, glows are perceptible once you enter the water. They are emitted by dinoflagellates, micro-organisms that react by signaling themselves with a small neon light when the water is agitated around them. It is therefore useless to observe the water from the shore, because nothing will happen.

La Parguera is not the most bioluminescent in Puerto Rico, but it is the least crowded, to ensure your peace and quiet. The concentration of dinoflagellates in the waters of Fajardo and especially in Vieques is much higher. Pollution and climate change have greatly affected the biological environment of these fragile microorganisms.

To ensure their survival, many factors are essential: the presence of mangroves that contribute to their feeding, a low variability of water temperature and the absence of pollution by artificial lights or chemicals. If you want to contribute to the preservation of this biological treasure, choose to visit it by kayak. Swimming causes water pollution from perfume, sunscreen or mosquito repellent that visitors often carry with them as they enter the water.

With its red and black striped façade, the building, built in 1882, is a must-see. To tell the truth, there is not much to see, but over the years it has become a symbol of the city because of its unusual appearance. The structure was built for an agricultural fair, before being preserved and becoming the headquarters of the city's fire department. The firehouse remained active until 1990. Since then, it has been transformed into a museum where old firefighting vehicles are displayed. Volunteer guides are available.

If you are really disappointed by the lack of beaches in Ponce, you should go to the Caja de Muertos island, a small piece of land of 1.45 km², bordered by beautiful beaches and turquoise water. It is officially a nature reserve; turtles come here to breed. History lovers will certainly find the visit of the lighthouse interesting. Still in use, it dates from 1887 and dominates the island from its highest hill. East Island Excursions (www.eastislandpr.com) can arrange a snorkeling trip on the island.

This small park bordered by a river east of the city centre is worth a visit to the Ceiba, a tree of at least 600 years old, also known as kapokier or cotton. For specialists, it is a tree species of the family Bombacaceae. Popular stories tell us that this is the tree around which the first families of Spanish settlers have settled.

This small, little-known beach, though easily accessible, is located just in front of the offices of the municipal police (Cuartel Municipal). Its 50 shades of turquoise, calm (especially in summer) and shallow waters, and its fine sand make it a very attractive beach. On weekdays it is not very busy, but on weekends it attracts families who come to picnic under the shade of the coconut trees near the pier. Swimming is possible with young children, but it is not supervised. A nice surprise in Aguadilla!

It is one of the most famous beaches in Rincón. Despite its popularity, it is still quite small and confidential, except in the winter when surfers from all over the world ride its waves and remain its main occupants. Bathers should be careful. In summer, when the sea is calmer, the place is ideal for a snorkeling or stand-up paddle session. It is possible to rent boards on site during the season. For those who love wild oysters, don't miss the small oyster bar improvised on the beach.

How beautiful are the beaches of my country! One more to add to the list. In winter, this beach which is revealed at the end of the road 107, is taken by storm by the amateurs of surfing. It is very appreciated by travelers for its wild side, and the population of trees that borders it. When it comes to beaches suitable for surfing, Aguadilla is not badly served. Surfers can also go to Surfer's Beach, near the Ramey base. You will have to go to the northeast part of the beach to find the best spot.

This beautiful beach, the largest and most popular in town, is located at the end of Highway 458, after leaving Highway 107. To find fine sand and almost turquoise water in some places, you don't need to go any further. Unfortunately, it is crowded every weekend! A long pontoon divides the beach in two, from which you can jump. The place is specially designed for the public, and very clean. As dusk falls, you will appreciate to stand a bit aside near the rocks, to admire the sunset.

For once a train line is in circulation in Puerto Rico, it is better to take advantage of it. Especially when it is playful. This train allows you to explore the landscapes of the south, in the heart of the old sugar cane plantations. The schedules indicated are here as an indication. We advise to call before to ensure that the service works well on the desired day.

These hot springs, discovered in 1847, are Coamo's main attraction. A relaxing bubble, nestled in the mountains of Puerto Rico. The hottest bath is at the very top. The water is kept at around 44°C all year round. When the mornings get cool, the contrast with the outside is striking. Rich in minerals, these waters would have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy one of the two thermal pools, a spa and a café. An unpretentious, peaceful and green place.

A former property of the Ministry of Agriculture and Trade, which built it in 1937, it now houses a tourist information centre. Ideal for retrieving cards and keeping track of current cultural animations. Located near Pier 1, it is easily spotted with its yellow colour and classic style.

To get to the Escambron Spa, you have to cross the Tercer Milenio park, at the beginning of the Old San Juan peninsula, at Puerta de Tierra. This is the closest beach to the old town, and not the least beautiful. Right next to it is a famous surf spot in winter: La Concha. The beach has been designed for swimming and is supervised. It can be reached on foot from Plaza Colón via a nice half-hour walk along the sea. A bicycle path has been laid out all along the beach for bicycle lovers.

This address in French offers the recipes of four specific dishes in Puerto Rico, in addition to its marti kitchen catalogue. They include corn and cheese chunks, stir-fried kidneys, stuffed banana bags stuffed with meat and green Angole peas.

French-speaking site with very numerous recipes in the Caribbean.

An amateur site in Spanish, which offers many recipes of typical Puerto Ricans, or Puerto Rican sauce.