West of San Juan

Because you might have covered much of the west while you were staying in Rincón and Ponce there are few places to visit while in San Juan, enabling you to concentrate more on las locuras of the east. However, if you didn't get to explore the west much, there is always a chance to do so while in San Juan. But most importantly, don't rush and make sure to remember EVERY moment!

Directions: Route 22 to Exit 46 to Route 686 N then Rt 685 W to Rt 648 N

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Morning

• Mar Chiquita Beach: On top of the list of the one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto Rico, Mar Chiquita, Spanish for "Little Sea," is oval-shaped with golden sand where the water comes in from a small opening in between a line of rocks. The scene is exceptionally mesmerizing, however, be careful with the rough tide. This beach is popular among the locals where they gather on the weekends and party all day and night.



Directions:

 

Afternoon

• Tortugero Lagoon Natural Reserve: The only freshwater lagoon in Puerto Rico and the largest body of water in the island, houses over 700 species of plants and containing about 708 million gallons of water.

 

There are several activities like mountain climbing, bicycle riding and hiking trails.​ Camping is no longer permitted because fresh water crocodiles were brought in but there is kayaking and/or you can organize a boat to sail on the water and see the many fauna and flora.

 

 

Directions: Take La Lancha from Old San Juan, only 50 cents and a 20 minute ride to Cataño. In front of the entrance, wait for the public bus that will take you to the factory for 75 cents, versus taking a publico for $2-$3

 

Early Afternoon

• Bacardi Rum Factory: This famous rum was founded by Don Bacardí in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba on February 4, 1862. Bacardi is intially from Cuba but moved their plants to Cataño when the Castro regime began to dominate Cuba in the 1960s. Practicing true communism, Castro seized all of Bacardi's assets. Making a wise business decision, Bacardí had already started foreign branches during the Batista government, saving their business when Castro took over. The factory in Cataño offers a free tour and two free drinks!



Lunch

• Prako Cafe & Grill: For only $5, you will get rice and beans, your choice of meat (that's on the menu), maduros (yellow plantains) or a side salad, soda and dessert! Not only is the food cheap but it's delicious and the staff are super friendly. 178 Avenida Barbosa​



Late Afternoon

• Coliseo Gallistico de Cataño: Cockfights are very much legal in Puerto Rico, treated as a sport where people bet big money. The locals take this sport very serious  and so its intriguing to watch how they interact during the fights, even though the fights themselves are really sad. There are about 128  active cockpits in Puerto Rico. A couple blocks down from Prako