Northern Coast Travel Guide

Explore Northern Coast, Puerto Rico with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on top attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, accommodations, transportation, safety, and more.


Introduction to Northern Coast

Located in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean, the Northern Coast is a must-visit destination for travelers who are looking for unique experiences and beautiful landscapes. Known for its enchanting beaches, crystal clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, Northern Coast attracts thousands of visitors every year. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Northern Coast, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Northern Coast

If you’re visiting Northern Coast, here are some of the top must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Castillo San Felipe del Morro: Built in the 16th century, this fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous attractions in Puerto Rico.
  • Arecibo Observatory: This is the largest radio telescope in the world and is the home to a lot of astronomical research.
  • La Fortaleza: The official residence of the Governor of Puerto Rico with roots that go back to the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park: A park featuring the Taíno people archaeological findings.
  • Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico: A museum holding a collection of Puerto Rican art and craftsmanship.

Natural Attractions of Northern Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cueva del Indio: A unique cave with stunning views of the ocean.
  • El Yunque National Forest: A rainforest that is home to various flora and fauna species.
  • Culebra Island: Known as one of the most beautiful beaches worldwide, this island is a must-visit if you’re in the Northern Coast.
  • Bioluminescent Bay: A natural body of water with bioluminescent organisms that light up when you touch the water.
  • Isla Verde Beach: A beautiful beach that is close to the airport, hotels and restaurants, and ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Coast

If you love hiking or biking, Northern Coast is the right place for you to be. Some of the best routes for biking and hiking are:

  • La Ruta Panorámica: A scenic drive that stretches from the east to west coastline of Puerto Rico.
  • El Yunque Peak: A popular hiking trail that leads to the peak of the El Yunque rainforest.
  • Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve: A natural reserve where you can take a walk on a trail through mangroves and see different wildlife species.
  • Las Cabezas de San Juan Lighthouse: A beautiful lighthouse with a park and grounds to walk around and enjoy the views.

Best Things to Do in Northern Coast: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun activities and tours in Northern Coast, here are some of the best ones to choose from:

  • Horseback Riding on the Beach: A unique experience that allows you to explore the Northern Coast while riding a horse.
  • Zip line Adventure: An adventurous outdoor activity that takes you through the canopies of the rainforest.
  • Bacardi Distillery Tour: The Bacardi Distillery is located in Cataño, just outside San Juan and is one of the most famous rum producers in the world.
  • El Morro Fort and Old San Juan Tour: An educational and informative tour that shows you the best of Puerto Rican history and culture.
  • ATV Adventure: A thrilling adventure that lets you explore the Northern Coast’s forests and beaches in an all-terrain vehicle.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Coast

If you’re looking for a week-long itinerary for your Northern Coast trip, here’s one that covers the best attractions and activities:

  • Day 1: Explore Old San Juan and visit the El Morro fort.
  • Day 2: Go on a tour to one of the natural attractions like El Yunque rainforest or Bioluminescent Bay.
  • Day 3: Visit the Arecibo Observatory and the Camuy Caves Park.
  • Day 4: Visit the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico and the Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park.
  • Day 5: Go on a hiking or biking adventure and explore the Northern coast’s beautiful landscapes.
  • Day 6: Visit the Bacardi Distillery and relax on the beach.
  • Day 7: Visit other nearby destinations like the Vieques or Culebra islands, or take a walking tour in La Placita de Santurce.

Food and Drink Scene of Northern Coast

If you’re a food lover, you’re in for a treat in Northern Coast. The region has a rich culinary culture that blends Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and indigenous influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mofongo: A traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains, garlic, olive oil, and pork cracklings.
  • Arroz con Habichuelas: Rice and beans are the staple food of Puerto Rico.
  • Lechon Asado: A roasted whole pig that is seasoned with a mixture of herbs and spices.
  • Tostones: Fried plantains served with a variety of dipping sauces.
  • Empanadas: Baked or fried turnovers with meat, cheese, or vegetables filling.

Local Beverages

  • Piña colada: A classic Puerto Rican cocktail made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
  • Medalla: The most famous beer in Puerto Rico.
  • Coquito: A traditional Puerto Rican drink similar to eggnog, but with a Puerto Rican twist. Made with rum, coconut milk, sweet condensed milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Where to Stay in Northern Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxurious hotels or budget-friendly options, Northern Coast has plenty of accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Intercontinental San Juan: A luxury hotel located on Isla Verde Beach, offering a variety of amenities and great views.
  • Ritz-Carlton San Juan: Another luxury hotel located on Isla Verde Beach, famous for its elegant architecture and excellent service.
  • Mango Mansion: A budget-friendly option with a great location in Ocean Park.
  • The Dreamcatcher: A stylish guesthouse that has a beachy vibe and is located in Ocean Park.
  • San Juan International Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that is perfect for travelers on a tight budget.

What to Buy in Northern Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring some souvenirs and local products back home with you, here are some great options:

  • Puerto Rican Coffee: Puerto Rico has a long history of coffee production, so be sure to bring some home with you.
  • Handmade Jewelry: You’ll find plenty of artisan sellers in the markets with beautiful handmade jewelry.
  • Local Artwork: You can find plenty of artwork from local artists in San Juan’s art galleries and markets.
  • Salsa and Hot Sauce: Do you love spicy food? Bring back some local hot sauce or salsa to spice up your meals.
  • Puerto Rican Rum: Bacardi and Don Q are the two famous brands of rum produced in Puerto Rico.

Local Culture and Customs of Northern Coast

Puerto Rico has a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its vibrant music and dance scene. Salsa and reggaeton are the most popular music genres, so be sure to try them when you’re in the Northern Coast. The island also has plenty of traditions and customs, such as the celebration of Three Kings Day and the Bomba dance.

Best Time to Visit Northern Coast

The best time to visit the Northern Coast depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for a dry and sunny season, you should visit between mid-December and mid-April. If you’re looking for a more affordable time to visit, you should consider visiting between April to November, but be sure to check the weather forecast since there is a possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Coast

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Northern Coast:

Do:

  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases.
  • Be respectful of the culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute.
  • Touch animals (particularly the horses on Culebra Island).
  • Leave valuables unattended.
  • Get involved in illegal drugs or activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northern Coast

Overall, Northern Coast is a safe destination, but you should still take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and avoid traveling alone at night. Puerto Rico has a high rate of car theft, so be sure to lock your car and keep your valuables out of sight.

Health in Northern Coast

Puerto Rico has excellent medical facilities, but it’s still essential to have travel insurance in case of unexpected medical emergencies. Be sure to drink plenty of bottled water to avoid getting sick, and also be sure to bring insect repellent since there is a possibility of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika and Dengue fever.

Getting to Northern Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northern Coast

The main airport in the Northern Coast is the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), located in San Juan. If you’re flying domestically, you can also fly to the Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport (CPX) in Culebra.

Bus Stations Near Northern Coast

The main bus station in San Juan is called Río Piedras, and you can take buses from there to different destinations within the Northern Coast.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or use a taxi or ride-sharing service to get around the Northern Coast. There are also plenty of bike rental shops in the area for those who want to explore the city on two wheels.

How to Get Around in Northern Coast

The best ways to get around Northern coast are by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. There are also bike lanes in some parts of the city for cyclists, and you can rent bikes easily if you want to explore the area this way.

Where to Go Next from Northern Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to extend your trip and explore more of Puerto Rico, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can take:

  • Vieques Island: Known for its beautiful beaches and bioluminescent bay, Vieques Island is located a short ferry ride away from Fajardo.
  • Culebra Island: This small island is home to Flamenco Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico.
  • Ponce: A beautiful city located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, home to beautiful architecture and culture.
  • Rincon: A surf town located on the west coast of Puerto Rico that is the perfect place to relax and catch some waves.

Conclusion

There is plenty to see and do in Northern Coast, Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, adventure activities or cultural attractions, Northern Coast has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your stay in this beautiful part of the world.



    Corozal
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