Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico (KAH-bo, ro-ho) (Red Cape) - located on the Western Costal Valley of Puerto Rico. Bordering the Caribbean Sea; and the Mona Passage, south of Mayagüez and east of San Germán and Lajas.

It is said that Cabo Rojo obtained its name from the considerable amount of minerals found in its coasts that made the waters look reddish.

Cabo is the Spanish word for tip and analogous to the English word Cape in this context. The word rojo, translates to red. According to legend, the name was given by Christopher Columbus himself, although this is highly unlikely.

A popular vacation spot among local families, it is one of the less crowded tourist destinations on the island. To get there drive on Route 2 (main highway) and exit Route 100 toward Cabo Rojo, Puerto rico.

Places of interest:

The Cabo Rojo Lighthouse and Nature Reserve are located beyond the salt flats at the extreme south western tip of Puerto Rico.

It is located on the cliffs above the sea and is one of the best scenic lighthouses in the Caribbean. Spectacular views early in the morning and late afternoon.

The Refugio Nacional (National Refuge) Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico contains displays on local wildlife. It is a major winter ground for migratory ducks, herons and songbirds, and more than 130 bird species have been sighted here.

The salt flats were added to the Cabo Rojo Refuge in 1999 becoming a part of the National Wildlife system. This addition will allow the Service  to conserve and protect the single most important point of convergence for migratory shorebirds in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Cabo Rojo Salt Flats are considered unique and irreplaceable. The coastline, mangroves, seagrass beds, and offshore coral reefs next to the area, are prime fish habitat, and are considered special aquatic sites.

The salt flats are positioned in the Atlantic flyway and are a vital nesting ground and feeding area for the snowy plover, least tern, Wilson's plover, peregrine falcon, yellow shouldered blackbird, brown pelican, and several species of sea turtles. Indeed, no fewer than 118 bird species have been recorded for the area.

Beaches in the area include Playa Buyé, Bahía Boquerón, Playa El Combate and Playa Joyuda. The nearby fishing villages of El Combate and Boqueron have two of the area's most popular beaches. Combate is perfect for family swimming, boating and kayaking trips.

The Poblado at Boqueron is a nice, relaxing spot. You can step off the beach in your shorts and sandals to visit nearby crafts shops, eat local seafood or drink a cold beer.

Boqueron is an interesting nearby town and beach, there are many places to stay and eat here. It can become very crowded, especially on weekends and summer weekends are impossible.

This beach is not just quiet, it is one of the most unique stretches of sand in Puerto Rico. While Boqueron Beach may be a little more difficult to reach, it provides travelers with some very special relaxation opportunities.

 Many people find that the best beach for them in Puerto Rico is one that can be found without being too crowded, though it still offers opportunities for social interaction; Boqueron Beach is just waiting to be discovered.

Boqueron Beach may be one of the only beaches in Puerto Rico that attracts many kinds of visitors, from social to active beachgoers. The atmosphere and views help make it a great choice that everyone in your group can enjoy.

Vacationers who are hoping for a taste of seclusion in Puerto Rico can find their perfect beach vacation at Boqueron Beach.

Not too far from any cities, but you won't be too far from the beaten path, you may find it's the perfect middle ground.  For those looking to avoid car rentals or traveling far from the action, it might be agreed that Boqueron Beach is a great spot in Puerto Rico.

Bahia Sucia beach or la Playuela Beach is within hiking distance from the lighthouse is a small stunning crescent with turquoise water and white sand as fine as sugar. The name Bahia Sucia translates as "dirty bay". 

Far from being dirty, this beach has a spectacular view of the cliffs in the distance from the sandy shore. The waters have a gorgeous blue color and are very gentle.

Joyuda's beaches are great for snorkeling and kayaking since there are many areas with shallow waters so they are also very child friendly.

This area is known as the Milla de Oro del Buen Comer (The Gourmet Golden Mile) because of the strip of seafood restaurants along the waterfront road.

Whatever you do, don't leave Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico without tasting the empanadillas (meat- or seafood-filled turnovers) sold at various kiosks and restaurants.

There is a tiny island offshore, Isla Ratones, which is reached from a small dock on Rt. 102. Also on Rt. 102, north of the marina and to the east of the road, is the Laguna Joyuda (Rt. 102 to Rt. 3311), a 2.4 km long by 1.0 km wide mangrove bird sanctuary. For bird-watchers and naturalists this is a highly recommended stop.

Where to Stay:

Boqueron Beach Hotel
Cofresi Beach Hotel
Combate Beach Hotel
Hotel Bahia del Sol
Hotel Joyuda Plaza 
Lighthouse Hotel 
Parador Bahia Salinas
Parador Boquemar
Parador Joyuda Beach
Parador Perichis

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