Puerto Rico Road Trip Ideas
Puerto Rico is full of mesmerizing sights. One of the best ways to explore the island is going on a road trip. Here is a list of six road trip ideas around the island: 1. Arecibo
In Arecibo you can't miss the Christopher Columbus Monument near the coast. This 360 foot bronze statue is called Birth of a New World and is the tallest statue in North America. The statue isn't open to the public yet and there is a parking fee of $3. The smart thing to do is take pictures from the side of the road. On your way to the monument make sure to stop at the Arecibo Lighthouse and Historical Park were you can enjoy a historical tour through the lighthouse for $15. You can also visit areas like the Indian Village, Spanish Conquest, Slavery Quarters, Pirate Ship and Cave, Mini Zoo, Playground, Salt Water Aquarium and Splash Zone included in the fee. After enjoying the Lighthouse stroll down to Obispo Beach for a dip. Finally take a walk through la Marginal near the town's square to take in the art scene. 2. Isabela
Have some fun exploring Guajataca Tunnel in Isabela. It was built to connect the cities of Quebradilla with Isabela. Now it is a Historic Monument open to all for free. The tunnel leads to the other side of the beach. Keep your eyes peeled for a mural of Puerto Rico’s flag painted on a rock wall.
The mural is part of an art movement that aims to have at least one flag mural in every city. Don't miss Cara del Indio the famous sculpted Indian face at the edge of the mountain. Nearby is the Guajataca Forest which is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9am to 5pm free of cost. 3. Aguadilla
Start the day off by visiting the Ruins of Punta Borinquen Lighthouse. Beside the Ruins you'll find a couple of other abandoned buildings where Aguadilla's Puerto Rican flag mural awaits ready to be photographed. Look for the Abandoned Plane behind the Puma Gas Station on Road 107. If you intend on going inside have caution as the only way in and out is by using a steel latter. Afterwards head to the beach. The most popular beaches in this city are Crash Boat (usually crowded) and Survival Beach (more private). 4. Guánica
This city is full of adventures around nature. Finca El Girasol is open to the public with a parking fee of $3. Once inside stroll through the sunflower crops a truly instagramable spot. There is also a store were you can purchase seeds, sunflowers, fruit and veggies. If you're up for a good workout hike the trail towards Fuerte Caprón in Guánica's Dry Forest. The hike lasts a total of three hours, one and a half up and down. Take plenty of water and use appropriate clothing. Another trail option is the Whale trail that is only 1 kilometer.
Get rid of the heat by going to Manglillo Beach a beautiful beach surrounded by mangroves and protected by the DRNA. There is a fee of $2 to enter. 5. Hatillo
Hatillo is known for being the city with almost the same amount of cows ad people so it is no surpise that they have a facility were visitors can make their own cheese. Take a gastronomic tour for $30 in Vaca Negra where after a cheese tasting pared with wine visitors are taught to make their own cheese. Learn more on vacanegra.com. Relax at Punta Maracayo Beach. Be sure to take a beach umbrella or plenty of sunscreen. There is free parking available. Bathrooms and showers can be used by paying $5. Enjoy some Puerto Rican cuisine at Don Kike's BBQ where you can eat fresh seafood and more. 6. Lares
On your way to Lares keep a look out for the Antique Car Show that takes place during some weekends on Road 129 in front of the Hatillo Cooperativa. If you strike gold and pass by when the show is taking place I recommend you to pick a parking spot and join the fun looking at the cars. Car owners are usually open to questions and conversation. In the town square of Lares you'll find the Cathedral and the famous Heladería Lares, home to unusual flavors of ice cream such as corn, arroz con dulce, guanabana, jobo, pineapple and much more. Take in the view at the Mirador Mariana Bracetti. This lookout point also houses many food kiosks. Plus, El Mirador Zip Lines just opened and have special offers. Kids can ride the kids line for $10 and adults can choose between the 1,000 feet zip line for $20 or the 1,100 feet line for $25 during a limited time. Check out their Facebook for more offers.
Hope you get inspired by these six road trip ideas. Read Five Epic Day Trips in Puerto Rico for more inspiration. Happy Travels!