Puerto Rico is an island paradise in the Caribbean with many beautiful places to explore.
The south side of the island is a lesser-known region that boasts stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine.
In this post, we will take you on a journey through the south side of Puerto Rico and show you some of the best things to see and do.
- Explore the Beaches of Ponce
- Visit the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve
- Explore the Architecture of Ponce
- Experience the Cuisine of Salinas
- Hike in the Carite Forest Reserve
- Visit the Caja de Muertos Island
- Experience the Festivals of Guayama
- Visit the Maunabo Lighthouse
- Explore the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve
- Visit the Ponce Museum of Art
- Relax on the Beaches of Guánica
- Experience the Culture of Yauco
- Visit the La Guancha Boardwalk in Ponce
- Go Scuba Diving in La Parguera
- Hike to the Top of Cerro de Punta
- Explore the Caja de Muertos Island
- More exploring in the South Side of Puerto Rico
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some popular beaches on the south side of Puerto Rico?
- Are there any historical landmarks worth visiting on the south side of Puerto Rico?
- What types of outdoor activities are available on the south side of Puerto Rico?
- Before you go…
- Another post on this topic you might find useful is,
- Getting to Know the West Side of Puerto Rico: A Guide to the Best Places to Visit
- Update 2024:
Explore the Beaches of Ponce
Ponce, located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, is known for its beautiful beaches.
The most popular beach in the area is Playa de Ponce, which features white sand and crystal-clear waters.
This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Another popular beach in the area is Playa Santa, which is known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere.
Visit the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve
The Guánica Dry Forest Reserve is a unique ecosystem located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico.
This reserve is home to a variety of rare and endangered plant and animal species, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve or explore on their own.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be rugged.
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Download the Free Guide TodayExplore the Architecture of Ponce
Ponce is known for its beautiful architecture, which reflects a mix of Spanish, Caribbean, and American styles.
One of the most famous landmarks in the area is the Ponce Cathedral, which features stunning stained-glass windows and intricate carvings.
Other notable buildings in the area include the Casa Wiechers-Villaronga, which is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture, and the Casa Armstrong-Poventud, which is a stunning example of Puerto Rican Creole architecture.
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Experience the Cuisine of Salinas
Salinas is a small town located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, known for its delicious cuisine.
One of the most popular dishes in the area is the lechón, or roasted pig.
The lechón is slow-roasted on a spit over an open flame, giving it a crispy skin and tender meat. O
ther popular dishes in the area include arroz con gandules, which is a rice and pigeon pea dish, and mofongo, which is a mashed plantain dish filled with meat or seafood.
Hike in the Carite Forest Reserve
The Carite Forest Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve located in the mountains of the south side of Puerto Rico.
This reserve features hiking trails that wind through lush forests and past sparkling streams.
The most popular trail in the reserve is the Charco Azul Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall and swimming hole.
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Visit the Caja de Muertos Island
The Caja de Muertos Island, also known as Coffin Island, is a small uninhabited island located off the southern coast of Puerto Rico.
This island is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.
Visitors can take a ferry from the town of Ponce to reach the island.
Experience the Festivals of Guayama
Guayama is a town located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, known for its vibrant festivals.
One of the most famous festivals in the area is the Three Kings Day festival, which is held in January and features parades, music, and traditional food.
Other popular festivals in the area include the Guayama Patron Saint Festival, which is held in August, and the Guayama International Festival, which is held in October.
Visit the Maunabo Lighthouse
The Maunabo Lighthouse is a historic landmark located on the southeastern coast of Puerto Rico.
This lighthouse, which dates back to the 19th century, was originally built to guide ships safely into the harbor, but today it serves as a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.
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Explore the Guánica Dry Forest Reserve
The Guánica Dry Forest Reserve is a must-see destination for nature lovers.
This unique ecosystem is one of the few remaining dry forests in the Caribbean, and it is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors can hike through the reserve’s trails, take a guided tour, or simply relax and soak up the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Visit the Ponce Museum of Art
The Ponce Museum of Art is one of the most important cultural institutions in Puerto Rico, and it is located on the southern coast of the island in the city of Ponce.
The museum’s collection includes more than 4,500 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to prints and drawings.
Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend special exhibitions, and participate in educational programs.
Relax on the Beaches of Guánica
The town of Guánica is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico.
Playa Santa is one of the most popular, with its white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the nearby mountains.
Other beaches in the area include Manglillo Beach, Tamarindo Beach, and Caña Gorda Beach.
Visitors can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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Experience the Culture of Yauco
Yauco is a historic town located in the southern part of Puerto Rico.
The town is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its music, dance, and art.
Visitors can explore the town’s museums and art galleries, attend live music and dance performances, and participate in cultural festivals and events.
Visit the La Guancha Boardwalk in Ponce
The La Guancha Boardwalk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
This waterfront boardwalk is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, and it offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Visitors can enjoy a meal, take a leisurely stroll, or simply soak up the beauty of the surroundings.
Go Scuba Diving in La Parguera
The town of La Parguera is one of the best places in Puerto Rico for scuba diving.
The town is home to a large coral reef system, as well as a number of shipwrecks and other underwater attractions.
Visitors can explore the underwater world with a guided tour or on their own.
Hike to the Top of Cerro de Punta
Cerro de Punta is the highest peak in Puerto Rico, with an elevation of 1,338 meters (4,390 feet).
The mountain is located in the Cordillera Central mountain range, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain, which takes about 2-3 hours round trip, and enjoy the panoramic views from the summit.
Explore the Caja de Muertos Island
The Caja de Muertos Island is a small island located off the southern coast of Puerto Rico.
The island is a protected nature reserve, and it is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as some of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico.
Visitors can take a ferry from Ponce to the island and spend a day exploring its pristine beaches and hiking trails.
More exploring in the South Side of Puerto Rico
One of the most popular beaches on the island is Playa Pelicano, which is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand.
The beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and it is also a great spot for birdwatching.
Another must-visit attraction on the island is the Caja de Muertos Lighthouse.
This historic lighthouse dates back to the 19th century and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for even better views.
For those who love hiking, the island has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s rugged terrain and coastline.
The Sendero Los Abuelos trail is a popular option, as it takes hikers through a forested area and offers views of the lighthouse and the sea.
Overall, a visit to Caja de Muertos Island is a must for anyone traveling to Puerto Rico.
It offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the mainland and provides visitors with a chance to experience the natural beauty of Puerto Rico in all its glory.
Final Thoughts
The south side of Puerto Rico offers an incredible variety of experiences for visitors to enjoy.
From its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks to its lively festivals and delicious cuisine, this region is sure to delight anyone who visits.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or explore the island’s rich culture and history, the south side of Puerto Rico has something for everyone.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful corner of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular beaches on the south side of Puerto Rico?
Some popular beaches on the south side of Puerto Rico include Parguera Beach, Boquerón Beach, and Playa Santa.
Are there any historical landmarks worth visiting on the south side of Puerto Rico?
Yes, there are several historical landmarks on the south side of Puerto Rico, including the Maunabo Lighthouse and the Porta Coeli Church.
What types of outdoor activities are available on the south side of Puerto Rico?
The south side of Puerto Rico offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore nature reserves and take scenic drives along the coast.
Before you go…
Now you know Discovering the South Side of Puerto Rico, but that’s only the beginning of your journey here at we like PR. If you found this post useful there’s more to learn to get you to the next step of your Puerto Rico journey. If you read our next articles you’ll be a step further than most people.
Another post on this topic you might find useful is,
Update 2024:
The Caribbean Sea is the body of water located south of Puerto Rico. As an enclosed sea in the Atlantic Ocean, it is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and popular tourist destinations such as the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.
South Side Beach is a popular tourist destination located on the southern coast of a picturesque island. Situated amidst breathtaking natural beauty, the beach offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands, South Side Beach is often regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in the region. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can engage in various water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking under the warm sun. South Side Beach is also home to diverse marine life, making it a favorite spot among diving enthusiasts. In addition to its natural beauty, the beach boasts a range of amenities, including beachside cafes, picnic areas, and well-maintained facilities. Whether one seeks solitude or adventure, South Side Beach has something to offer everyone, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Puerto Rico is an island located in the Caribbean, specifically on the south side of the archipelago.
Steve Dez
Also known as Richport, is a Puerto Rican creator and writer. He grew up in the island and always had a passion for writing, he wrote his first play at the age of 12 and has been creating content ever since. He's now a well-known blogger and creative who writes posts, songs and poetry that showcase his love for his roots, blending traditional stories with modern themes always with some adobo and boricua flavors in the mix.
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