Puerto Rico is a Caribbean destination that offers something for every traveler, whether you’re looking for lush rain forests, pristine beaches or historic forts. Here are five great Puerto Rican destinations to consider.
Culebra Island
Don’t let the name of this island, which translates into “Snake Island,” mislead you – the island’s name descends from its shape, not its inhabitants. Rather, Culebra is home to beautiful nature reserves, wildlife refuges and beaches. While on the island, don’t miss Playa Flamenco, which earns consistently high marks as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
El Yunque
El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Bursting with green peaks, crisp waterfalls, rivers and cave systems, El Yunque is a must-visit to observe the island’s natural flora and fauna.
San Juan
When visiting Puerto Rico’s capital city of San Juan, you won’t want to miss the historic Old San Juan district. Once a fortified islet, visitors can still visit the old city wall, colonial forts like Castillo de San Cristobal and castles like El Morro at the San Juan National Historic Site. Also nearby is the Bacardi Rum Factory, which is open to visitors.
Vieques
Just east of Puerto Rico lies the island of Vieques, a largely undeveloped island that serves as a testament to Puerto Rico’s natural beauty. The island’s top sight? Bioluminescent Bay, also known as Mosquito Bay, glows in the dark as vast stretches of microorganisms called dinoflagellates shine blue-green with any water movement.
Ponce
A large city on the Caribbean Sea in southern Puerto Rico, Ponce is most revered for its painstakingly preserved and restored historical architecture. Throughout the city, you’ll find examples of Art Deco, neoclassical and Spanish colonial buildings. One shining example is the neoclassical Ponce Cathedral, which sits in the center of Plaza las Delicias, best known for its fountains and Parque de Bombas museum.
(Main image: tedmurphy)
