Fun Friday
Good Morning we have made it through another week and now it's time to go on our weekly Friday adventure.
This week we are going to go explore Puerto Rico
1.) Old San Juan This historic area in San Juan exudes old-world charm. Walk along the cobbled streets and past colorful buildings, historic fortresses, and old city walls, some of which date back to the 16th century. You might even chance upon local musicians playing some salsa or jazz tunes. There are also several museums where you can learn more about the history, art, and culture of the area, plus cool cocktail bars and restaurants for a quintessentially Puerto Rican meal. Don't miss all the best sights (and food!) on a walking tour of Old San Juan.
2.) El Yunque National Forest hours of operation are 7:30-6pm Plan a day trip to the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. With 29,000 acres of lush foliage and 25 miles of year-round trails, this is a nature enthusiast’s sanctuary. Attempt to spot elusive wildlife like the Puerto Rican parrot on a rejuvenating hike, soar through the canopies on a zipline, or go horseback riding at Carabalí Rainforest Park. If time permits, visit the Yokahú Observation Tower which has an elevation of 1,575 feet and provides expansive views of the mountains. Sporadic showers are common here—check their website for the latest information about trail statuses and park closures before setting out
3.) San Juan National Historic Site Constructed to defend the San Juan coastline during the 17th and 18th centuries, this dramatic fortress rises 140 feet above the sea on a rocky promontory, and is composed of six huge levels of ramps, barracks, dungeons, turrets, towers and tunnels.
4.) Castillo de San Cristóbal This massive, 27-acre historic fort protecting the eastern gate of old San Juan is considered the largest Spanish fort built in the Americas.
5.) Flamenco Beach This horseshoe-shaped bay is popular amongst travelers for its clear, calm and shallow waters, and flat white sand. There are food stalls that sell food and drinks, shower facilities, and umbrellas that you can rent. As you walk along the shores, spot Flamenco’s most iconic attraction: the abandoned World War tanks decked in graffiti—a reminder of the US Navy’s occupancy of Culebra. It's a popular day trip spot from San Juan, so expect it to be busier on the weekends. Have your day sorted with a tour of Culebra Island, which typically includes transfers to the island and activities like snorkeling
6.) Castillo San Felipe del Morro An esplanade greets you as you walk towards Fort San Felipe del Morro. Surrounded by grassy hills, the stone castle rises majestically from the headland. And while El Morro may be an impressive sight from land, it is a terrifying experience to encounter it head on by sea. And for many attackers, it was the very last thing they saw. This fortress has seen many battles over the centuries, from Sir Francis Drake's attack in 1595 to the 1898 Bombardment of San Juan by the US Navy. In 1539 King Charles I ordered the construction of San Felipe del Morro and other fortifications on the islet of San Juan. Over the years, Spanish, Italian, Irish and American engineers perfected San Juan's defense system, of which el Morro was an essential part. After crossing the stone bridge over the dry moat, you'll walk right into a spacious courtyard that leads you into the castle's more "domestic" areas, such as the kitchen and the chapel. Nevertheless, this is just one of the six levels that form el Morro. On the upper level, you'll find the lighthouse that was restored by the American Coast Guard in 1908. One of the greatest things about this vantage point is that you can see most of San Juan and the bay across from it. Park rangers will guide you throughout the massive fortification, which still houses original cannons, ammunition, and many other objects used by the Spanish militia in Puerto Rico. El Morro was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, and is currently under the administration of the National Park Service.
7.) Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay located in the Isla de Vieques Watch the world’s brightest bioluminescent bay glow as you paddle a glass-bottomed kayak. Catch a ferry at the port outside the town of Ceiba to reach the quiet island of Vieques off the east coast of Puerto Rico. Vieques’ secluded mangrove bay is beautiful during the day but simply astonishing after sunset. You’ll marvel at the neon blue trail left by microorganisms whenever they are disturbed—just dip your hands in the water and watch the effects. Visit on a dark night (e.g. during a new moon) to ensure peak visibility of the phenomenon.
8.) La Placita de Santurce La Placita de Santurce is one of Puerto Rico’s nightlife hotspots, attracting both locals and travelers. The placita was originally set up as a market square for local produce, and if you visit during the day, you’ll find a number of colorful stalls and restaurants. However, when the sun goes down, out comes the live music and partygoers. Head to one of the many bars for cocktails, and even join salsa dancing on the streets. When hungry, be sure to try out one of the placita’s delicious empanadillas. Don't miss all the best spots on a bar hopping tour of San Juan.
9.) Cueva del Indio located in Arecibo An important site within indigenous Taíno culture, Cueva del Indio is home to a beautiful selection of prehistoric cave art on Puerto Rico’s Atlantic coast. Admire over 80 pre-Columbian indigenous petroglyphs made on the cave’s limestone walls between 1200 and 1500 A.D., and learn more about the island’s indigenous cultures. The scenic hike to the cave also boasts pretty coastal views and impressive grassy cliffs. You might want to join a tour that departs from San Juan—it's a great way combine your visit to the cave with other attractions in the area, such as the Cueva Ventana and the Arecibo Observatory
10.) Playa Crashboat Jump off the pier into the turquoise waters at Playa Crashboat—the calm waters are home to an array of marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Hop on a banana boat for a thrilling ride around the beach, then hit the food trucks around the pier for a pina colada and casual Puerto Rican fare. Later in the day, walk to the lookout to watch the sunset. You'll find picnic tables but no showers or toilet facilities. Both paid and free parking is limited, so be sure to arrive early. Or consider visiting along a tour of west Puerto Rico.
11.) Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista Built in 1540 and the site where the body of Ponce de Leon is entombed, the Catedral de San Juan is an authentic and rare New World example of medieval architecture.
12.) Yokahú Observation Tower A tower in El Yunque offering a sweeping view of the rainforest.There is no hiking required to get to the tower as it is right off the road and has a large parking lot. The views are worth the climb, which is a fairly easy task.
13.) Calle de la Fortaleza The vibrant canopy of umbrellas characterizes this unique street of Old San Juan. Here, you can roam the cobblestoned pathways, admire the colonial-era buildings, and do a little bit of shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts. For a little more history, you can join a guided tour of La Fortaleza, the governor’s official mansion that's just around the corner. And don't leave without snapping a picture of the colorful canopy—it changes throughout the year so you can always look forward to something new. The alley can get busy so come early in the morning when it’s quieter. You can visit on a walking or segway tour of Old San Juan, which often makes a stop here
14.) Catarata Gozalandia Gozalandia waterfalls, also known as Charca de la Leche, are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With their milky appearance and lush green surroundings, the waterfalls are a picturesque sight. The natural pools formed by the waterfalls are perfect for taking a dip, swimming with small fishes, and enjoying the summer heat. Kids will love jumping off the boulders and trying out the rope swing, while younger children can safely play in the shallow areas of the pools. Don't forget to check out the small underwater cave too. You can visit the waterfalls on a full-day tour from San Juan.
15.) Isla de Caja de Muertos Isla de Caja de Muertos is an uninhabited island 8 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico, perfect for a day trip of swimming, relaxing and exploring the Caribbean setting. As part of the Caja de Muertos Nature Reserve, it's home to beautiful reefs, marine life and greenery. Here, you can set off on one of the impressive hiking trails through the undisturbed forest, which leads to an interesting old lighthouse and even a pirates’ cave. You can also book a local boat tour to go snorkeling. This island is a ferry ride away from La Guancha in Ponce
16.) La Puerta de San Juan One of the last standing gates of the walled 16th-century San Juan, this historic doorway in the 20-foot wall is a popular photo spot.
17.) Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico More than just an art museum, Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico hosts concerts and festivals as well. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR), a non-for-profit organization, was inaugurated on July 1, 2000, as a legacy for the Puerto Rican people. The mission of the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico is to enrich the lives of its diverse audiences by making accessible and promoting the knowledge, appreciation, and enjoyment of visual arts from Puerto Rico and the world. The MAPR engages diverse communities to facilitate learning experiences about the visual arts through: the growth of a well-researched permanent collection exemplifying significant and representative examples of Puerto Rican art from the sixteenth century to the present; a dynamic program of exhibitions supported by engaging and exciting educational and cultural programs that collectively deepen the understanding of the role of the visual arts in the human experience and contribute to the creation of a curatorial legacy; documentation, research, interpretation, preservation, and conservation of the collection and the visual arts patrimony of Puerto Rico; and alliances with local, regional, and international museums and institutions to advance the knowledge of, access to, and understanding of the visual arts of the world.
18.) Castillo Serralles hours of operation are 10-4pm Evoking the era of the sugar barons of Puerto Rico, this beautiful Spanish Revival mansion was built in 1930 for the Serrallés family, owners of the Don Q rum distillery.
19.) Museo de Las Américas In Cuartel de Ballaja's second floor one of the greatest museums in Puerto Rico holds a space for the diverse cultures of the Americas. Museo de las Americas--founded in 1992 by San Juan's famed and beloved archaeologist Ricardo Alegria--is keen on honoring the traditions, objects, and stories that make up the American continent. This museum boasts four permanent exhibits: a) the Natives in the Americas, b) the African Legacy, c) Conquest and Colonization, and d) the Popular Arts. These carefully curated exhibits put on display a magnificent collection that briefly summarizes the "American experiences" throughout the centuries. Moreover, This gem of curatorial design also hosts Domingos Familiares, which offers workshops and activities for the whole family every Sunday.
20.) Catarata La Mina The walk to the lower part of the falls was pretty easy going. Be careful climbing up to the higher falls since there can be mud and the rope is tricky for some of us less coordinated people. We got some beautiful photos standing under the main fall and of the stream going from the falls. About 45 minutes was a good amount of time to see the falls. Be sure to leap into the cool waters at the base of this 35-foot cascade.
21.) Faro Los Morrillos located in Cabo Rojo When you arrive at Cabo Rojo, park at the far end of the lot (nearest Playa Sucia). This will put you at the start of the hike to this lighthouse (not open to enter). The seaside cliff views and the views from the lighthouse area are excellent. Minimal shade cover though, so plan accordingly. The walk here from the lot is < 15 minutes
22.) Faro de Punta Higuera Find a maritime museum and dolphin-spotting platform at this lighthouse in Rincon. Surrounded by a lovely park, this lighthouse offers a setting where you can relax and have great views of Domes Beach (a popular surfer’s beach) , Desecheo Island, the sunset, and even whales ( between January and March). You should plan a visit to the Rincon lighthouse park just to enjoy the views. Free parking and no entrance fee.
23.) Parque de Bombas located in Ponce This loudly-colored building in black, red, green and yellow, was built for a volunteer fire-fighter's brigade. It is currently closed due to renovations
24.) La Parguera This fishing village is home to nature reserves, pristine cays, and one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays—the only one that you can swim in. Here, you can grab some food at the town's main square, enjoy views of the Caribbean Sea, kayak around Cayo Caracoles and Cayo Mata La Gata, go wildlife spotting, and snorkel and dive in the tropical waters rich with marine life. The main highlight here is the bioluminescent bay—join a boat tour to see the glowing waters and dive in for a swim. Visit during a new moon and the warmer months when the bay glows the brightest
25.) Parque Nacional de las Cavernas del Río Camuy Tour some of the caves and sinkholes within this 268-acre park as you spot bats flying by and spiders crawling up and down the walls. Over 10 miles of limestone caves and underground rivers have been mapped so far, but only a small fraction of the entire network is open to the public. Wear closed shoes and get there early to secure a spot in the tour, which lasts a little more than an hour. When you’re done touring the caves, you can get a few souvenirs at the gift shop and grab a snack from a street vendor right outside
26.) Gilligan's Island This small mangrove island off the coast of Puerto Rico is home to beautiful undisturbed nature and calm waters. Here, you can swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters where you'll be able to see schools of tropical fish swimming around. Rent a kayak to explore the intricate canals and surrounding islands while enjoying the tranquil ocean views which stretch for miles. There is also a picnic area on the north side of the island. You can join an all-inclusive boat tour and spend the day exploring both the land and sea with the experience of a trained guide.
27.) Reserva Natural Cabezas de San Juan A bioluminescent lagoon, mangroves, coral reefs, dry forests, sandy and rocky beaches set between headlands--visit all these ecosystems in one place, the Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve, in Fajardo. You'll find one of our most frequented visitor centers here, and it's only steps away from the best resorts in the area. You can take traditional, night and thematic tours from here--on bike, kayak or trolley--always in the company of a nature specialist who will show you everything about the ecosystems, landscapes and wildlife of the reserve, including the breathtaking view of the northeast tip of Puerto Rico from the top of the Fajardo Lighthouse. Multiple tours available by booking online. Spaces are limited, please reserve in advance online or by phone.
28.) Reserva Natural de Humacao hours of operation are 9-3pm Water Sports and Ecotours is located in the Humacao Nature Reserve which is on the southeast coast of Puerto Rico, Rio Abajo neighborhood, on highway PR-3, kilometer 75.7. It is a unique place to do ecotourism for its brackish lagoons. It also has beaches (not for bathing), swamps and mangroves. It is divided into three major segments: the Pterocarpus swamp and Mandri lagoons, both north of highway PR-3 and Santa Teresa and Palmas lagoons, south of highway PR-3. As you walk through the Reserve, you will observe different ecosystems and the different species that live in the habitat that they use as nesting and home such as the beach, the forest and mangroves. The reserve is home to Water Sports and Ecotours which offers services that range from walking tours, kayak, pedal, observation of flora and fauna for individuals, families, and groups. This way they can appreciate and at the same time learn about the wonders of Nature.
29.) Black Sand Beach Not to be missed!! This is NOT a beach where you'll want to spread out a towel and bask in the sunThis is a hike where you park your Jeep along a windy country road, and then hike for 10-15 minutes down through a tropical wonderland to a visually and textually amazing experience.The softest sand you’ll ever feel. It is a small beach but very beautiful. It is possible to get there by walking from Esperanza if you don’t mind climbing over some rocks and getting into the ocean.
30.) Casa Blanca Museum hours of operation are 8:30-4pm with a break for lunch from 12-1pm Built in 1521 as a home for Governor Juan Ponce de Leon, today this historic landmark contains two interesting museums of Indian and colonial artifacts.
With over 400 things to do and see here you really can find a hidden gem around every corner. I hope that you take the time to really deep dive and immerse yourself in the history of this country.
I hope that you have enjoyed this week's tour and come back next week for another amazing adventure. Remember to always be kind as it costs nothing and if you see someone without a smile stop and give them yours a smile is contagious.
Written by: BeautifulChaos318
