Puerto Rico's east region offers secluded beaches, a legendary rainforest, botanical gardens and roadside food kiosks.
LessEl Yunque is the only subtropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service, and one of the crown jewels of Puerto Rico. Its waterfalls, hiking trails and panoramic vistas are a nature lover’s wonderland. Visitors can explore by foot, ATV or zipline.
The Jardín Botánico y Cultural de Caguas William Miranda Marín is a living museum and garden that celebrates Puerto Rican culture and its relationship to both nature and agriculture.
Starting in the mountains of El Yunque National Forest, the Río Espíritu Santo is the only navigable river in Puerto Rico, ideal for a refreshing swim or leisurely boat ride.
Known as Puerto Rico's "hidden beach," Playa Escondida is accessed via a 25-minute hike through mangrove forest from Fajardo's popular Seven Seas Beach. It's known for its pristine turquoise waters, but swimming is discouraged due to the area's strong currents and rip tides.
La Parilla is one of 60 family-owned food kiosks in an area known as Los Kioskos de Luquillo, a beachside strip of open-air restaurants and shops. Specializing in traditional Latin American fare, La Parilla's menu boasts savory dishes such as paella and pineapple curry rice. Los Kioskos de Luquillo heats up into a party on weekends, when bars are open late.
Nestled between the foothills of El Yunque and the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park is an action-packed ranch and adventure destination in Puerto Rico.
Monserrate Beach is a quiet beach known for calm, beautiful water. Managed by the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources, the beach offers several amenities including bathrooms, showers and picnic areas.