Attractions in Puerto Rico are some of the most fascinating and beautiful in the world. From natural formations like the amazing bioluminescent bays to the impressive displays of arts and culture at the world class Museo de Arte de Ponce, there is bound to be something that will impress even the most discerning traveler.
Bioluminescent Bays
There are a few bioluminescent bays in the world and Puerto Rico is home to three of them. Located near Fajardo, Vieques and Lajas, microscopic organisms called phosphorescent dynoflagellates glow when they move so swimmers appear to be iridescent as the organisms around you duck for cover. The most popular bay by far is in Lajas with many boats taking travelers on tours of the area, as well. During high season visitors also allowed to kayak, which will also light up.
Address: Fajardo, Vieques and Lajas
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Castillo Serralles
Located just outside of Ponce, the Castillo Serralles is the former home of its namesake and rum tycoon Juan Eugeno Serralles. Famous for founding Destileria Serralles and the world renowned rum Don Q, Juan Serralles is somewhat of a Puerto Rican institution. The mansion that he lived in was built in the 1930’s and is open to the public for viewing. The building and the three acre property of perfectly manicured lawns have been turned into a museum where travelers can learn more about the rum and sugar cane industries.
Address: El Vigia 17, Ponce
Phone: +1-787-259-1774
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El Morro
El Morro, officially known as Castillo de San Felipe del Morro is the largest and most significant historical landmark in the capital. Serving as a protective apparatus for over 400 years, the structure played an important role in the Puerto Rico’s economic and political history. This dramatic, six tiered fortress stands at the edge of the island overlooking the rocky peninsula and, if nothing else, offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. Travelers have the opportunity to roam through the levels exploring everything from eerie dungeons and tunnels to the barracks of those who stood guard.
Address: Norzagaray St, Old San Juan, San Juan
Phone: +1-787-729-6777
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Museo de Arte de Ponce
The Museo de Arte de Ponce (MAP) is one of the best art museums in the Caribbean and is located in the cultural epicenter of Ponce. Home to a collection that rivals the best in the world, MAP contains 800 sculptures, 850 paintings and 500 prints spanning five centuries of Western fine design. Visitors will have the opportunity to take in everything from Pre-Raphaelite exhibits to more modern and contemporary pieces in both Spanish and English.
Address: 2325 Avenue Las Americas, Ponce
Phone: +1-787-848-0505
Website: www.museoarteponce.org
Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy
This incredible system of caves located between the towns of Hatillo, Camuy and Lares consists of some 200 underground dwellings. Some of the more popular caves include the Cueve Clara de Empalme, a 200 foot sinkhole and the Cueva Catedral, home to 42 petroglyphs. The Rio Camuy is the world's third longest underground river and flows through many of the tunnels and ceilings like the Clara de Empalme. For an otherworldly experience the Parque de las Cavernas are not to be missed.
Address: Route 129, Arecibo
Phone: +1-787-898-3100
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Museo de San Juan
Visitors interested in learning about the history of Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan, should head to the well put-together Museo de San Juan. Interestingly the building itself is an exhibit being a remnant of the old Spanish colonial era, which takes a close look at the city’s 500 year life span in the form of pictures, written testimonies and films. Visitors will learn about everything from the city’s ruins to the latest architectural developments.
Address: 150 Norzagaray, San Juan
Phone: +1-787-724-1875
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