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Where Is Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is a Caribbean island located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about 1,000 miles (1,600 km) southeast of Miami, Florida. It lies approximately 50 miles (80 km) east of the Dominican Republic, 40 miles (65 km) west of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its geographical coordinates are 18.2208° N latitude and 66.5901° W longitude (Longitude -66.10572000, Latitude 18.46633000).


Where is Puerto Rico? illustration

Where Is Puerto Rico in the Caribbean?

Puerto Rico is the easternmost of the Greater Antilles, the Caribbean island group that also includes Cuba, Hispaniola—home to the Dominican Republic and Haiti—and Jamaica. The U.S. Virgin Islands lie just east of Puerto Rico, while the Dominican Republic is across the Mona Passage to the west.


Puerto Rico at a Glance

Region Caribbean
Location Greater Antilles
Nearest Neighbor Dominican Republic to the west
Capital San Juan
Coordinates Approx. 18.2° N, 66.5° W
Political Status U.S. territory

Puerto Rico Is More Than One Island

Puerto Rico is an archipelago, not just one island. The main island is surrounded by smaller islands and cays. Among the most notable are Vieques and Culebra, both popular for their beautiful beaches and natural reserves, as well as Mona Island, an ecological sanctuary often referred to as the "Galápagos of the Caribbean." Other lesser-known islands like Monito, Caja de Muertos, and Icacos add to Puerto Rico's rich and diverse geographical landscape.


How Far Is Puerto Rico from the U.S.?

Puerto Rico is part of the Caribbean and is an unincorporated territory of the United States. People born in Puerto Rico are U.S. citizens, and travelers arriving from the U.S. mainland are traveling within the United States.

Puerto Rico's unique location makes it a cultural crossroads between the Americas and a key gateway to the Caribbean. Whether you're looking to explore its vibrant cities, historical landmarks, or natural wonders, the island's position offers both accessibility and adventure.

Explore Puerto Rico's Geography.


Continue Exploring Puerto Rico

Geography


Discover Puerto Rico's mountains, rivers, forests, coastlines, islands, and natural regions.

Regions


Explore the Metro, North, East, Central, South, and West regions of Puerto Rico.

Cities & Towns


Discover Puerto Rico's 78 municipalities and what makes each one unique.



Did You Know?

The Taíno invented the hammock! Spanish sailors adopted them for ships and spread them worldwide.