Located on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, Guanica is the known to be the hottest and driest part of Puerto Rico. If you love to explore, then Guanica should be included on your itinerary when visiting Puerto Rico.
What to See & Do
Guánica State Forest
With an average yearly rainfall of only 30 inches, this 1000 acre United Nations World Biosphere Reserve is a must visit when visiting the southwest of the island.
There are around 12 walking trails in Guánica State Forest that will help you explore the vast array of plant life, including around 50 species that are classed as endangered and around 15 that are native to Puerto Rico.
The hiking trails have varying degrees of difficulty and will lead you to hidden beaches and spectacular views.
- Ballena Trail will take you to Ballena bay
- Lluberas Trail will take you to Tamarindo Beach
- Fuerte Trail will take you Fort Caprón and views of Guánica Bay
- Guánica State Forest is free and open daily from 8am to 5pm.
Gilligan’s Island
Gilligan’s Island is a mangrove key that is popular with locals and visitors thanks to its proximity to the mainland and its crystal clear shallow waters that make it a perfect spot for families.
The island is managed by Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural Resources and is part of the Biosphere Reserve of Guánica.
Covered with mangrove trees the island has a few small beaches (no lifeguards) where you can relax and explore the shallow waters and the mangrove channels. On the north side you will find several covered picnic areas, changing huts and bathroom.
The ferry to Gilligan’s Island runs hourly and takes about 10 minutes. You can also rent kayaks and paddle your way across.
Gilligan’s Island is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am – 5pm The island is closed on Mondays unless it is a holiday when it will be open.
Finca El Girasol – Sunflower Farm
A small family run farm that grows a variety of sunflowers. Visitors can walk through the sunflowers while snapping that perfect instagram worthy picture and also purchase flowers to take home.
The farm is typically open daily, but it is recommended to check their Facebook page or call 939-402-7967 for the latest information regarding opening times and condition of the flowers.
Finca El Girasol is located near Guanica just off Route 2 along PR-116.
Restaurants
When it’s time to eat, the following spots are worth checking out.
Accomodation
If you are planning on using Guanica as a base for a few days then you should check out the options available on VRBO and airbnb
For hotel options consider the Copamarina Beach Resort and Parador Guánica 1929
For those of you staying in the San Juan area the drive to Guanica will be a good 2 hour drive and from Rincon about 1 hour.
Photos: 1. Mor, 2. Marcel Holyoak, 3. Angel Xavier Viera-Vargas, 4. damian entwistle using creative commons license
