Luquillo, Puerto Rico

(loo-KEE-yo)

Luquillo is known as "La Capital del Sol" (sun capital) and "La Riviera de Puerto Rico" (Puerto Rico's riviera). Luquillo was founded in 1797 by Cristóbal Guzmán. The town was named after the Indian cacique Loquillo, who died a few years after the last Indian rebellion in 1513.

El Yunque National Forest, formerly known as the Caribbean National Forest is located in the rugged Sierra de Luquillo, 40 km southeast of San Juan (latitude 18'19"N, longitude 65'45"W). The forest covers lands of the municipalities of Canovanas, Las Piedras, Luquillo, Fajardo, Ceiba, Naguabo, and Rio Grande. It is the only tropical forest in the United States National Forest System. The total area is 28,000 acres and has an estimated of 240 types of tree, and many other plants. Hiking trails and rest areas available. Located on Route 191 Km. 4.2.

At the foothills of the El Yunque rain forest, Hacienda Carabalí offers two-hour horse rides, the scenic trip includes a river swim. (787) 889-5820.

If you return to or stay on the coastal highway, you'll soon reach Luquillo Beach. This huge plantation of majestic coconut palms shades more than a mile of fine and shimmering sand. It is one of the most popular and nicest public beaches in the San Juan area. It offers cafeterias, public bathrooms with showers, access for disabled people, and an ample parking lot. Locted on Rte. 3, Km 35.4.

Nearby you will also find: La Bandera Beach, Mameyes Beach, La Pared Beach, Las Pailas Beach, and Monserrate Beach, one of the public beaches most frequented by the locals.

You can't leave Luquillo without stopping by the Luquillo Kiosks to sample the local cuisine and scenery. The kiosks are located parallel to the Luquillo Beach along PR-3 highway, just past the Route 191 entrance to El Yunque.