Southeast Overview

In southeast Puerto Rico, the mountains abruptly give way to miles of flat land that reach all the way to the ocean; this was once sugar country, and years of crops transformed the landscape from dry forest to empty plains. After sugar stopped being profitable, the region turned to manufacturing, building the horde of factories that lines Rte. 3. Though this is officially the Caribbean, beaches are generally better on the northern, Atlantic coast. West of Patillas, palm-tree-lined beaches with tiny waves make for postcard-perfect sunsets, but are not great for swimming or sunning—the exceptions are found along Rte. 901. For a really good beach, you’ll have to take a trip to Isla Caja de Muertos, off Ponce, or travel farther west. Ponce is the undisputed capital—and star—of southern Puerto Rico. Its 19th-century architecture, rich history, and myriad museums make a trip over the mountains worthwhile. However, apart from this “Pearl of the South,” southeast Puerto Rico does not have much to attract tourists looking for a prescribed Caribbean vacation. But, maybe that’s just the reason to come. On this coast, you can escape the congestion of San Juan in the tree-lined thoroughfares of Naguabo, soak in the hot springs of Coamo, and visit turn-of-the-century sugar mansions outside Ponce.