The east coast of Puerto Rico, known as the Costa Este, is a region brimming with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant local life. From the lush rainforests of El Yunque to the pristine beaches of Vieques and Culebra, the Costa Este offers an array of attractions and activities for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, relaxation by the sea, or an immersion in local culture, the east coast of Puerto Rico promises an unforgettable experience.
Join us as we explore the top destinations and hidden gems of this captivating region.
The Same
Exploring the East Coast of Puerto Rico, or Costa Este, can lead to a variety of experiences, and our different trips are a testament to that. While we both ventured into this stunning region, our itineraries were quite different, reflecting our distinct travel styles.
The DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids) opted for an adventurous route, exploring the vibrant locales of Luquillo, Fajardo, and the idyllic Culebra Island. Meanwhile, the family sought a more laid-back and family-friendly experience, settling in the picturesque Palmas Del Mar.
Join us as we share our unique takes on this captivating part of Puerto Rico, showcasing how Costa Este offers something special for every type of traveler.
The DINKs
Luquillo
Luquillo, Puerto Rico, is a haven of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. During our week-long stay, we rented an affordable Airbnb with a balcony that overlooked the ocean, picked up local groceries, and enjoyed a wonderfully relaxing time.
- Luquillo Beach: Known as “La Capital del Sol” (The Sun Capital), Luquillo boasts one of the island’s most breathtaking beaches. Luquillo Beach, with its crescent-shaped shoreline and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and engaging in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.
- Kiosks at Luquillo Beach: A must-visit in Luquillo are the famous kiosks (kioskos) along the beachfront. These vibrant stalls serve an array of Puerto Rican dishes, including fresh seafood, mofongo, empanadas, and tropical drinks. This was our go-to spot for sampling the island’s culinary delights, especially since it was just a short walk from our secluded cove to the main Luquillo Beach, making it easy to pick up a delicious lunch from the kiosks.
Fajardo
Fajardo, on Puerto Rico’s east coast, is a vibrant destination known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Serving as a gateway to the nearby islands of Vieques and Culebra, Fajardo offers access to pristine beaches and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. One of its most mesmerizing attractions is the bioluminescent bay, where microorganisms emit a glowing light when the water is disturbed.
- Bioluminescent Bay: We opted for a nighttime kayak tour in Fajardo that took us through mangrove forests to witness this natural wonder. The tour of Laguna Grande allows you to experience the bioluminescence in its full glory. As you paddle through the “lake,” the lights on the kayaks are turned off, immersing you in the magical glow of the microorganisms. We were fortunate to visit close to a new moon, which made the experience even more spectacular. Unfortunately, we couldn’t capture any photos once on the water, as the tour guides asked us to avoid using flash to preserve the experience for everyone.
Culebra Island:
Escape to the pristine islands off Puerto Rico’s eastern coast, renowned for their secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. We enjoyed a day trip to Culebra, an island known for its untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere, accessed via a scenic ferry ride from Fajardo.
- Flamenco Beach: Upon arriving in Culebra, we headed straight to Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches. This idyllic spot boasts powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush palm trees, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and beach picnics. Flamenco Beach’s remote location and the absence of large hotels add to its charm and exclusivity.
- Navy Tanks: A unique aspect of Flamenco Beach is its history with the U.S. Navy, which used Culebra as a bombing range until 1975. While most of the equipment was removed, two tanks were left behind due to their size and weight. Over time, these tanks have rusted in the salty sea air, becoming popular attractions covered in colorful graffiti art by locals.
- Getting There: The ferry ride from Fajardo to Culebra takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions. The journey itself is a treat, offering stunning views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Departing from the town of Fajardo on Puerto Rico’s eastern coast, the ferry is an inexpensive option, though it can get quite busy and often sells out. We arrived early and found it less crowded, but we still recommend showing up ahead of time to ensure a smooth trip.
Airbnb with Ocean Views Near Luquillo
We stayed in a cozy Airbnb that featured a full kitchen, dining room, living room, and a single bedroom. (Disclaimer: We might have booked through another site, but I can’t remember for sure.) This setup was ideal for us, especially since working remotely from a traditional hotel room can be challenging with both my husband and I needing to take calls. The area felt more authentic and less commercialized compared to the resort areas around San Juan, making it perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, home-like stay with the flexibility to cook and entertain.
The Family
Before we had kids, we embarked on a memorable cruise from Puerto Rico, spending some time in San Juan before setting sail. Fast forward a few years, and we returned with our children for a relaxing long weekend at a beach resort. The resort was so packed with activities and amenities that we barely ventured outside its grounds.
Palmas Del Mar
Palmas Del Mar, a premier resort community on Puerto Rico’s southeastern coast near Humacao, offers stunning beaches and a wealth of recreational options. Its pristine sandy shores are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and family fun.
The Pterocarpus Forest: On one of our days, we explored the nearby Pterocarpus Forest within the Guánica State Forest. This unique natural area is renowned for its vibrant Pterocarpus officinalis trees, often called “Chicken Trees” due to their distinctive red flowers. We enjoyed a short, educational hike along a boardwalk that provided fascinating insights into the local flora. The park was accessible with free parking, adding to the ease of our visit.
Summary
In exploring eastern Puerto Rico, both the DINKs and family experiences showcase the region’s diverse offerings in unique ways. The DINKs embraced adventure and natural beauty, relishing the vibrant beach life of Luquillo, the bioluminescent wonders of Fajardo, and the pristine shores of Culebra Island. Meanwhile, the family opted for a more laid-back, all-inclusive experience at Palmas Del Mar, savoring the resort’s extensive amenities and nearby natural attractions. Whether seeking thrilling outdoor escapades or a serene resort retreat, eastern Puerto Rico provides a wealth of options tailored to every travel style.
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