The Sun Capital of Puerto Rico is a seaside destination perfect for beach hopping and exploring a mountainous tropical rainforest.
With a coastline decorated with serene bays and soft golden sand, Luquillo is one of Puerto Rico Island’s most popular beach towns. This family-friendly resort is called La Capital del Sol (Sun Capital) and La Riviera de Puerto Rico (Puerto Rico Riviera). Enjoy sunshine and participate in watersports amid gorgeous tropical landscapes. Luquillo is also a gateway to rainforests, waterfalls and mountains.
Appreciate the brilliant sun while lounging at beaches within walking distance of the town centre. La Pared Beach is a favourite among the surf crowd while Playa Costa Azul is good for swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. Luquillo Beach, also called Balneario La Monserrate, has Blue Flag status for its cleanliness and lifeguards. Punta Embarcadero evokes images of a remote desert island.
Experience the town’s inland lifestyle by visiting Luquillo Plaza. It hosts lively annual festivals including January’s Three Kings Day parades and autumn’s Coconut Festival. Study the religious artwork inside San José Parish Church. Find bars, restaurants, surf rental shops and tour operators on the streets leading from the square.
Travel inland via rented car or organised tour to El Yunque National Forest. Hiking trails lead through a flourishing rainforest to mountain peaks, waterfalls and scenic lookouts. Major highlights are Juan Diego Falls, La Mina Falls and Yokahú Tower lookout. Try speeding down natural waterslides at Las Paylas. Go biking and horseback riding in Carabalí Rainforest Adventure Park.
Stretching south from Luquillo to Fajardo is the Northeast Ecological Corridor. It incorporates an ecosystem of coral reefs, mangroves, wetlands and several beaches. Spend a day collecting seashells, sunbathing and snorkeling at Seven Seas Beach. Spot nesting leatherback turtles at La Selva Beach.
Luquillo is a 40-minute drive east of San Juan. Fly to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport and pick up a rental car. Boats depart from Fajardo to the Puerto Rican islands of Culebra and Vieques.
