South Puerto Rico

History, culture, and a bounty of seafood: Experience Puerto Rico’s South side.

Venture to the Heart of Boricua’s Southern Soul

Escape the urban confines of Puerto Rico and venture south to Ponce and the breathtaking southwest region for an unforgettable experience. Discover a perfect haven for relaxation while indulging in a variety of island activities, including golfing, hiking, and snorkeling.

Any trip south should start in the Island’s second-largest city of Ponce. Praised as the “City of Museums,” Ponce boasts an extensive collection of museums that provide visitors with a diverse range of options to explore. With so much to see, museum enthusiasts can easily spend an entire day museum-hopping. Be sure to stop by the Museo de Arte de Ponce, which houses a highly acclaimed collection featuring more than 4,500 works of art from numerous cultures worldwide.

South Puerto Rico is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. Adventure seekers can explore Caja de Muertos. Off the coast of Ponce, Caja de Muertos is a vibrant nature reserve with stunning beaches, hiking trails, a lighthouse, and a cave. If you’re looking to soak in the local culture and history, stop at the Plaza Las Delicias in Ponce’s town square. This area features the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the beautiful Fuente de los Leones, which is a one-of-a-kind water fountain surrounded by lion statues, which are the main symbol of the city of Ponce.

All the cultural and outdoor activities are sure to work up an appetite. The Island’s southern region is renowned for its delectable seafood restaurants such as El Roble in Salinas, Restaurante Hacienda Don Juan in Coamo, and Lola Eclectic Cuisine in Ponce. Visitors can enjoy savory dishes like mofongo made from mashed plantains, a hearty gumbo dish called asopao, and an abundance of fresh seafood and tropical fruits.

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Beneath the Southern Sun: Puerto Rico’s Lesser-Known Gems

Experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the south through Puerto Rico’s most interesting towns.

Ponce: the “Pearl of the South”

Puerto Rico’s second-largest city is affectionately called “Pearl of the South,” as it elegantly combines its rich history with a vibrant contemporary culture. Start any trip to Ponce with a walking tour of the city to soak up its splendid Spanish colonial architecture. The vividly painted Parque de Bombas, the grandiose Ponce Cathedral in the heart of Plaza Las Delicias, and the Museo de Arte de Ponce, with its world-class collection of European and Puerto Rican art, are three attractions not to be missed. History lovers will also enjoy a tour of the Hacienda Buena Vista coffee plantation. End your day with a stroll along La Guancha Boardwalk.

Coamo: the “City of Thermal Waters”

Coamo is the third-oldest town in Puerto Rico. Start your day in Coamo with a leisurely stroll through a town plaza full of historic Spanish Colonial-style buildings. Coamo has earned the nickname “City of Thermal Waters” thanks to its famous Coamo Hot Springs, the only thermal pools on the Island. Today, visitors can experience ultimate relaxation by soaking in these natural wonders amidst the breathtaking mountain views for less than $5 at the Baños de Coamo.

Salinas: The Town of the “Mojo Isleño”

Named after a local fish marinade, the tiny coastal town of Salinas is the birthplace of el mojo isleño, a special savory creole sauce made with tomatoes, onions, bay leaves, olive oil, and other seasonings. From lobster to crab-stuffed mofongo to conch salad to seafood paellas, you are sure to get your fill of local dishes, all made with the freshest catch. When not indulging in delicious cuisine, Salinas offers a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking and rock climbing at the nearby Piedras del Collado mountains. Additionally, Salinas boasts the Island’s largest sports center, the Albergue Olímpico, which features 40 different facilities catering to a wide range of disciplines, from soccer to weightlifting to martial arts.

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Things to do in South Puerto Rico

Discover the Cultural Mosaic of Ponce

Ponce is a vibrant city known for its diverse range of museums to explore. The aptly named “Museum City” offers visitors a plethora of curated collections and exhibits to visit, making it the ideal destination for art and history lovers. Some of the must-visit museums include the Museo de Arte de Ponce, which houses an impressive collection of European and Latin American art, and the Museo Castillo Serrallés, a beautiful Spanish Revival-style mansion with exhibits on Puerto Rican history and culture.

Soak in the Coamo Thermal Baths

Are you intrigued by the legend of the Fountain of Youth? If so, the Coamo Thermal Baths in Puerto Rico may be just the place for you. Tucked away in the lush hills of Coamo, these famous hot springs offer visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Those who visit the springs regularly swear by the mineral waters as a source of pain relief. While the healing properties of the thermal springs remain a topic of debate, one thing is certain: you will undoubtedly leave feeling more relaxed than when you arrived.

Taste a Symphony of Seafood

The south region of Puerto Rico serves some of the best seafood on the Island. From grilled fish to seafood stews, visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes that highlight the region’s bountiful coastal resources. Head to El Dorado in Salinas for seafood straight off the boat or visit La Casa del Chef in Ponce for delectable surf and turf. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Medalla beer or piña colada for the ultimate culinary experience.

Sightseeing Recommendations

Discover the Passion of Puerto Rico’s Olympians

Albergue Olímpico, the largest sports center in Puerto Rico, boasts an impressive 40 facilities catering to a diverse range of disciplines like soccer, weightlifting, baseball, tennis, and martial arts. This Olympic training facility offers Olympic museums, athletic displays, swimming pools, a gym, and a health spa. During summer, it transforms into a refreshing water park called Olimpia, complete with fun-filled family attractions like wave pools, swimming pools, and waterslides. Children will love the mini water park, while adrenaline seekers can try the zipline course. Boasting an onsite hotel and restaurant, Albergue Olímpico is a unique sport-themed getaway that offers fun and excitement for all ages, making it more than just a day trip.

Explore Puerto Rico’s Rum and Coffee

Museo Castillo Serrallés is a must-visit attraction in Ponce. The stunning Spanish Revival mansion-turned-museum tells the story of Puerto Rico’s sugarcane and rum industries. Once home to the Serrallés family, who produced the famous Don Q rum, the beautifully restored castle transports visitors to a bygone era, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of one of the Island’s wealthiest families. The museum offers guided tours detailing Puerto Rico’s rum history and the lifestyle of the Island’s rum-producing aristocracy. From the mansion’s hilltop location, visitors can explore its elegant interiors, lush gardens, and panoramic views. After, take an afternoon dip in the serene beauty of Salto de Collores waterfall. The picturesque waterfall and a serene swimming hole are located in the quaint town of Juana Díaz, just a short 30-minute drive from Ponce. This idyllic retreat was named after the renowned Puerto Rican poet Luis Lloréns Torres.

Journey back to the 1800s when coffee was Puerto Rico’s primary crop with a tour of Buena Vista coffee hacienda. Once a fully operating coffee farm, Buena Vista now functions as a museum managed by the conservation nonprofit Para la Naturaleza and Puerto Rico’s Conservation Trust. On your tour, you will discover the Island’s rich coffee heritage by touring the fields, learning about processing and roasting, and sampling the finest Puerto Rican gourmet coffee. This adventure is perfect for coffee lovers who are interested in getting a glimpse of the glory days of Puerto Rican coffee.

How to Get There

Getting to South Puerto Rico by Plane

The largest and most accessible airport on the Island is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, commonly known as the San Juan Airport (SJU). It has more than 120 nonstop flights from major cities in the United States everyday. If you plan on spending most of your time in the southern region

of Puerto Rico, the Mercedita International Airport (PSE) in Ponce is a great option. Although smaller than SJU, it receives several commercial flights from cities like Orlando and New York City. This airport is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed and convenient travel experience. Mercedita is the only airport in Puerto Rico’s southern region.The Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) is in the northwest region of Puerto Rico in the town of Aguadilla. While it is significantly smaller than the Island’s main airport in San Juan (Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport – SJU), the hangar receives commercial flights from four airlines and five destinations. The most frequent route is arrival from Orlando (MCO) with an average of 31 flights per week. Jet Blue, United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines offer direct flights to Rafael Hernández Airport in Aguadilla from Newark (EWR), Ft. Lauderdale (FLL), New York (JFK), and Orlando.

Airlines:

Airlines such as Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines operate out of PSE.

Arrivals:

From John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) and Orlando Airport (MCO) you can fly to Mercedita International Airport (AIM).

Getting to South Puerto Rico by Car

Because the majority of flights to Puerto Rico arrive in the capital city of San Juan, renting a car and driving south is a convenient option. All major car rental companies operate locally. Generally, drivers must be at least 25

years old and possess a valid driver’s license. If you arrive at Mercedita International Airport (AIM) you can rent a car from that airport as well. If you’re planning a road trip to South Puerto Rico, the journey is relatively straightforward from San Juan. Start on the PR-18 S from San Juan. This short highway will take you to the PR-52 S. Continue onto PR-52 S, also known as Autopista Luis A. Ferré. This highway is a toll road, but it offers the quickest route to the southern part of the Island. PR-52 S will take you straight into Ponce, the largest city in south Puerto Rico. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. While it is an easy route, it is always helpful to have a GPS or map on hand to navigate the roads just in case.

Featured Stays

From luxury rental properties to relaxed beachfront guest houses to family-owned paradores, western Puerto Rico offers a wide variety of accommodations catering to different preferences and budgets.

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Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort

8.7 Great

The Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort is a perfect tropical getaway situated on the Island’s south shore. This 80-acre oceanfront resort has everything needed for an unforgettable experience, including 27 holes of golf, one of the largest casinos in Puerto Rico, a stunning beach, outdoor pools, and a tennis court. In addition to 255 oceanfront guest rooms and suites, the resort has more than 60,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space that can accommodate up to 1,400 people, making it a perfect location for corporate events, meetings, and conventions. You’ll find a wide range of attractions to explore in Ponce, including museums, art galleries, theaters, castles, cathedrals, and even a coffee plantation.

$212/night

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Boutique Hotel Bélgica

8.7 Great

Boutique Hotel Bélgica is a laid-back retreat located just a five-minute stroll from the heart of Ponce’s city center. Its colonial-style architecture and vintage decor offer a historic feel, while modern amenities ensure maximum comfort. Each room boasts a cozy, homely ambiance with local art and antiques. The hotel’s rooftop terrace promises breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Ocean. The friendly and knowledgeable staff provides excellent recommendations for local activities and dining. Extra bonus: Boutique Hotel Bélgica is a pet-friendly hotel, making it the perfect choice for those who want to experience Puerto Rico’s southern charm while traveling with their fur babies.

$151/night

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Caribe Hotel Ponce

8.0 Great

The Caribe Hotel Ponce is a great option for travelers looking for a comfortable stay in the historic city of Ponce. Located in the heart of the city, the hotel provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the Island’s southern region. Set in a beautifully restored building, the hotel is a charming blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort. The rooms are spacious with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing excellent service and recommendations for local activities. Overall, Caribe Hotel Ponce is a great value for a quality stay in Ponce.

$147/night

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Explore Puerto Rico’s Western Shores

For beach enthusiasts, there’s no better vacation destination than western Puerto Rico. With its pristine beaches, radiant sunsets, and laid-back beach towns, this side of the Island is a beach lover’s haven. You can simply lounge in a hammock reading your favorite book or you can go for a swim in the ocean. If you’re feeling more adventurous, the world-class surf breaks are sure to excite you. The western region is home to not only the best surfing beaches on the Island, but some of the best surfing beaches in the entire Caribbean.

West Puerto Rico offers more than just a relaxing beach paradise. It is also full of natural wonders. Travelers can spend days snorkeling above breathtaking coral sanctuaries and kayaking through serene mangroves on secluded islands. After the sun goes down, witness the enchanting bioluminescent bays that sparkle like the night sky.

The allure of the west doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Venture inland to discover vibrant towns rich in culture and history. Savor the local cuisine in Aguadilla, explore the lighthouse in Rincón, or hike in the Guánica State Forest. Delve into vibrant nightlife and get a taste of the local music and dance scene.

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