Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

(KAH-bo, ro-ho)

Cabo Rojo is known as "El Pueblo de Cofresí" (Cofresí's town). Cabo Rojo was founded in December 17, 1771 by Nicolás Ramírez Arellano and Miguel de Muesas.

It is said that Cabo Rojo obtained its name by the considerable amount of minerals in its coasts that made the waters look reddish. Cabo means headland and rojo, means the color red.

Located in the southwest corner of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is surrounded by miles and miles of beaches. It also stands at the mouth of the Boqueron bay, one of Puerto Rico's deepest and best protected harbors, extending some 3 1/2 miles inland, sheltering over a mile of white sand bordered by clear water is wonderful for swimming and lounging, it is the town's most popular beach destination with a good reason.

There are many places to visit in Cabo Rojo, including the Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge, a subtropical dry forest, has a visitors center and interpretive displays as well as bird-watching trails, 50 bird species, several endangered. No camping allowed. Open Mon-Fri from 7:00am to 4:00pm, (787) 851-7258.

Cabo Rojo is also home of the Punta Guaniquilla Reserve this 388-acre reserve protects a diverse landscape that includes an arid promontory, a dry forest, palm and mangrove fringes, unique limestone formations in two lagoons, a cave system, cacti, and swamp areas. The tract is notable as the habitat of the endangered West Indian Whistling Duck, the Ruddy Duck, and the Caribbean Coot. The site is also recognized as a migratory bird sanctuary and an important wintering ground for shore birds.

Esperanza Melancolica
Photo: Rosa A. Díaz

The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse, located on Route 303,stands as a historic gem. Built in 1881 over limestone cliffs that drop 200 feet into the sea, it is known as "Faro de Los Morillos". This old lighthouse transitioned to automation and electricity in 1967, it remains a beacon of both the past and present. Visitors to the Cabo Rojo Lighthouse are treated to more than a historical experience; the location promises spectacular views, the lighthouse offers a breathtaking panorama that captivates all who venture there. For inquiries or additional information, you can contact them at (787) 851-1025.

The Museo de Los Próceres is a cultual heaven, offering a diverse range of exhibits and activities for visitors. It includes sculpture exhibition of national leaders, an Indian Culture gallery, exhibits of Puerto Rican contemporary artists, a collection of paintings and a theater for plays and conferences. Free admission. Open Mon-Sat 8am - 4:30pm. For inquiries or additional details, you can reach the museum at (787) 255-1580.

The first city church, San José Church is an iconic historical and architectural landmark. This church was inaugurated in 1783 and it is recognized for its neoclassical design and cultural significance. If you plan to visit the San Jose Church, you may want to check for specific visiting hours or events taking place at the church, as it may also host cultural or religious activities throughout the year.

Additional Places and Sights

Other places worth exploring include:

Boqueron Beach
Buye Beach, just north of the village of Boquer—n, on route 307 at Km 4.8.
Combate Beach, Rt 3301
Joyuda Beach
Isla Ratones
Plaza de Recreo Ramon Emeterio Betances
Punta Arenas Beach
Punta Real Beach

Geography

Cabo Rojo territory is mostly flat because the city it is located on the Western Costal Valley. Bordering the Caribbean Sea, south of Mayagüez and Hormigueros; and west of Hormigueros, San Germán and Lajas. Its rivers are: Guanajibo, Cajul, Seco, Viejo and Caño Conde Avila.

Cabo Rojo is made up of 15 barrios (wards/districts):

Bajura
Betances
Boquerń
El Combate
Guanajibo

Joyuda
Llanos Costas
Llanos Tuna
Miradero
Monte Grande

Pedernales
Pole Ojea
Pueblo
Puerto Real

Climate

Cabo Rojo enjoys year-round summer temperatures, an average annual temperature of 79.3°F (26.3°C). On average, the warmest month is August, and the coolest month is February.

Cabo Rojo averages 21.9 inches (556 mm) of rain per year. September is the average wettest month.

CABO ROJO WEATHER

10 Day Forecast