Lajas Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat and stay in Lajas, Puerto Rico.


Introduction to Lajas

Lajas, a municipality located on the southwestern coast of Puerto Rico, is a beautiful and peaceful town that offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and outdoor adventures. With its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

List of Places to Visit in Lajas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Parguera Phosphorescent Bay: This bay is famous worldwide for its bioluminescent microorganisms, which light up the water at night. Visitors can take a kayak or boat tour of the bay to see this natural marvel up close and personal.

  • The Bioluminescent Lagoon: Also known as Bahía Fosforescente, is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Lajas. The lagoon lights up with the movement of the water, and its beauty is astounding. You can visit the lagoon through boat trips and kayaking tours.

  • La Parguera Natural Reserve: Located on the outskirts of the town, this reserve is home to a number of natural wonders, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and sea turtles.

  • Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria: A religious monument located in the heart of town, this cathedral is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history and culture of Lajas.

Natural Attractions of Lajas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Isla Mata la Gata: A small island located off the coast of Lajas, this place is ideal for snorkeling, diving and swimming in its clear waters. Visitors can hire a boat or take a guided tour to reach this island.

  • Playa Rosada: A beautiful pink sand beach located in the southwest of Lajas. This unspoiled beach offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and is perfect for picnics and water sports.

  • Lajas Salt Flats: It is an important natural area for its ecological, geological, and scenic beauty. The salt flats cover an area of approximately one thousand acres in the municipality of Lajas, southwest of Puerto Rico.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lajas

  • Bosque Estatal de Guánica: A forest area located just outside of Lajas, this place is ideal for hiking, camping and birdwatching. It’s home to over 760 species of flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

  • La Parguera: This town has several bike and walking trails that will lead you to its beaches, forests, and Phosphorescent Bay. These trails are ideal for people who want to enjoy nature while exercising.

Best Things to Do in Lajas: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking Tour of La Parguera: The bioluminescent waters of the La Parguera bay can be best experienced through a kayaking tour. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll be able to learn about the ecosystem, fauna and flora of this unique place.

  • Diving and Snorkeling in Isla Magueyes: This small island off the coast of Lajas is a perfect place for water sports. With clear waters and colorful marine life, diving and snorkeling in Isla Magueyes is an unforgettable experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lajas

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at a hotel in Lajas
Day 2 Explore Phosphorescent Bay, taking a kayak or boat tour
Day 3 Hike Bosque Estatal de Guánica and visit La Parguera Natural Reserve
Day 4 Take a diving tour of Isla Magueyes and visit La Parguera
Day 5 Go on a bike/walking tour of La Parguera and visit Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria
Day 6 Relax and enjoy a day at Playa Rosada
Day 7 Departure from Lajas

Food and Drink Scene of Lajas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Arroz con Gandules: A traditional Puerto Rican dish made with rice, pigeon peas, and pork. It’s a staple of almost all Puerto Rican cuisine.

  • Mamposteao Rice: Made with white rice, beans, and vegetables, this dish is packed with flavors.

  • Empanadillas: These stuffed pastries are a popular snack in Puerto Rico. They come with a variety of fillings, including beef, chicken, and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Café con leche: A coffee drink made by mixing strong coffee with hot milk. This rich and creamy drink is a great way to start your day.

  • Mojito de Coco: A refreshing cocktail made with coconut water, rum, and lime juice. It’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Lajas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • La Jamaca Guest House: A cozy guesthouse with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s located near the beach and has comfortable, spacious rooms.

  • Parador Boquemar: A beachfront hotel that offers great views of the ocean. It has a pool, a restaurant, and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Lajas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Coffee: Puerto Rico is known for its high-quality coffee, and you can buy a variety of blends and roasts in Lajas.

  • Handcrafted Souvenirs: You can find a variety of handcrafted souvenirs in Lajas, including jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Lajas

Lajas is a small, traditional town with a strong sense of community. Respect for elders, family values, and hospitality are highly valued in Lajas culture.

Best Time to Visit Lajas

The best time to visit Lajas is between December and April. The weather is mild, and there’s less chance of rain during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lajas

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Carry cash as some shops and restaurants don’t accept credit cards.
  • Watch your belongings when in crowded areas.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of people or their homes without permission.
  • Leave your valuables unattended.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lajas

Lajas is generally a safe place, though visitors should exercise caution, especially when traveling at night or visiting unpopulated areas. It’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid flashing expensive items or large amounts of cash.

Health in Lajas

Lajas has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics located in the area. Visitors should make sure they have comprehensive travel insurance before traveling to Lajas.

Getting to Lajas: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near Lajas: The nearest airport to Lajas is the Mercedita International Airport in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

  • Bus Stations Near Lajas: There are several bus stations in the town of Lajas, making it easy to get around without a car.

  • Other Options: Taxis, car rentals and private shuttles are also available as transportation options in Lajas.

How to Get Around in Lajas

The best way to get around Lajas is by car, bike, or walking. Visitors can rent cars from local agencies or use their own vehicles. Bicycles and walking are ideal for exploring the town of La Parguera and surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Lajas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cabo Rojo: Known for its beaches and salt flats, this town is just a short drive from Lajas.

  • San Juan: Puerto Rico’s vibrant capital city is about a two-hour drive from Lajas and is famous for its colonial architecture, historic forts, and museums.

Conclusion

Lajas, Puerto Rico, is a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and beach bums. With its scenic landscapes, diverse attractions, and rich cultural heritage, this small town has something for everyone. From kayaking tours of the bioluminescent waters of La Parguera to hiking through the Guánica State Forest, Lajas is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Puerto Rico.

Cayo Caracoles, cay near La Parguera Cayo Caracoles, cay near La Parguera