The North region is just a one hour drive from San Juan’s airport. Known as the “northern karst” because of its large limestone hills, there is an abundance of natural beauty to explore. Here you’ll find impressive caves, scenic views, beautiful beaches, as well as idyllic resorts.

The town of Manatí is uniquely distinguished by large limestone hills and landscapes reminiscent of ruins of lost cities. A great area for surfing, Los Tubos is a favourite spot for local surfers, known for its tubular waves that can reach up to 12 feet high! Manatí is also an agricultural area that is the centre of Puerto Rico’s pineapple-growing industry, along with the production of sugarcane and coffee. The town is home to some nature reserves, including Hacienda La Esperanza, a former sugar plantation, featuring the only sugar mill steam engine of its kind in existence.

Arecibo - the third oldest city in Puerto Rico - is known for its incredibly diverse terrain, with beaches, lakes, hills and two of Puerto Rico’s most important rivers - Tanamá River and Río Grande de Arecibo. The Cambalache Forest Park has various hiking and mountain biking trails, and is home to more than 20 species of birds and more than a dozen caves.

Literally meaning “golden”, and with the reputation of the cleanest city on the Island, it's not hard to see why Dorado is such a sought-after destination in the North, and one of the most luxurious ones. There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself, from beaches and golf courses to upscale neighbourhoods and lavish accommodations. Other attractions in the area include an

aquatic waterland featuring 30 foot waterslides and a traditional Catholic church (one of the few remaining in Puerto Rico).

In the north you’ll find the scenic PR-681 Coastal Road - the perfect place to do a beachside bar hop (delicious chinchorros dot the route), enjoy sampling fritters and fresh juices with a stunning view of the north coast of Puerto Rico in each direction.

Top Attractions

● Rio Camuy Cave Park - the third largest cavern system in the world. With 10 miles of caverns, 220 caves, and an underground river that flows through it, this is a very popular site for visitors

● Barceloneta Puerto Rico Premium Outlet Mall - a colourful shopping centre where you’ll find top brand items at a fraction of the price

● Balneario Manuel Morales - one of the most popular beaches in the north

● Tanamá River - the ultimate adventure destination, try out tours that offer cave tubing, swimming, hiking, etc.

● Mar Chiquita - one of the most popular and beautiful natural pools in the north coast where the karst cliffs create a half-moon opening into turquoise waters

● Casa Ulanga – dates back to 1850, has served multiple functions throughout the years, from a hospital to a courthouse, and more. Now it operates as the cultural centre of Arecibo

● Vaca Negra - offers an agrotourism and gastronomic experience in Hatillo, perfect for cheese lovers. Specialises in crafting 100% aged cheeses - you can even make your own cheeses to take home.

Dining

The north coast offers an abundance of fresh local fish and seafood, and you'll find the whole spectrum of restaurant styles: Chinchorros (rustic, open-air restaurants), family restaurants, hidden gems, as well as upscale fine dining. A unique speciality in the region is the delicious ceti fish. The region is also known for dairy - in fact, in the town of Hatillo, cows outnumber people!

Dining recommendations:

● Salitre Méson Costero - serves local fresh seafood plus prime meats and a wide variety of small plates, with a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean

● La Buena Vida – lively trendy tapas restaurant, serving small plates, local craft beer and cocktails, and features live music

● La Terraza - a long-running Dorado restaurant that specialises in Puerto Rican staples. Enjoy a sea breeze on the open-air terrace with your piña colada shrimp

● Frutos del Guacabo - a family business and farm that looks after the sustainability of its products and processes, offering guests an authentic "Farm to Table" experience, and tours of the farm