While Old San Juan is a destination unavoidable, small Puerto Rico towns outside the metropolitan area offer bountiful fun places to survey and uncover.
As a Puerto Rico native, I enjoy exploring and coming across special sites throughout the 78 municipalities. Actually, I`ve even composed an entire Puerto Rico e-book!
So, I can tell you firsthand that exploring small towns in Puerto Rico will enrich your time on the island. Not to mention, they’re some of the best places to visit in Puerto Rico!
Whether on the coast, in the mountainous center, or outside the main island, the following are my choices of the finest small Puerto Rico towns worth exploring during your next trip.
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21 Best Small Towns in Puerto Rico
Maunabo
A coastal municipality with attractive beaches and an historical lighthouse.
Located at: View on Google Maps | For accommodations see: Hotels in Maunabo
While numerous of the best cities in Puerto Rico are on the west side, the east side of the island boasts hidden gems like Maunabo.
Maunabo is a seaside community with a small village feel that provides a relaxed atmosphere for overworked individuals.
Situated on the coast, the Punta Tuna Wetlands Nature Reserve is one of the top sites to trek in Puerto Rico and offers a tranquil escape from the city.
There is also a popular location for fishing in the Emajagua neighborhood known as Villa Pesquera where you can enjoy the sunset scenery.
Maunabo is one of the best areas to lodge in Puerto Rico if you’re planning on exploring Puerto Rico’s East Region, and it’s also less crowded than Fajardo or Humacao.
Ponce
A San Juan twin city without the large crowds and inflated prices.
📍 Google Maps | Website | Locations to Lodge in Ponce | 👉 Browse Accommodations in Ponce on Booking
Ponce is one of the most popular Puerto Rico cities for its numerous attractions, convenient location, and overall affordable lodging options.
In addition to being a popular tourist location, Ponce is also home to a large population of expatriates.
Among all the entertaining pursuits in Ponce, you’ll discover nice beaches and landmarks like Parque de Bombas, one of the top attractions in Puerto Rico for history devotees.
To the north of Santa Monica, you’ll also find Malibu, Topanga, and Calabasas – a favorite LA area among entertainment industry giants.
Isabela
A seaside town with a Caribbean vibe and top-tier beaches for surfing.
📍 Google Maps web address | 👉 Browse lodging in Isabela via this hyperlink
Isabela has a relaxed atmosphere and a scenic coastline home to some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches for surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and diving.
There are numerous activities available in Isabela for outdoor enthusiasts and it’s also one of the most affordable cities in Puerto Rico.
If you have a fear of staying directly next to the ocean, then you`ll be pleased to hear that Isabela is a city with coastal cliffs protecting it from the sea.
This allows for ocean views while limiting direct hearing of the waves every night.
San Germán
The second oldest town in Puerto Rico renowned for its unique architecture and history..
(1030)”” “
There is nothing better than an happy hour with views of the African savanna.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Explore Accommodations in San Germán via Booking
The second oldest city in Puerto Rico, San Germán is undoubtedly one of the most charming cities on the island.
The city is home to a historic district containing over a hundred structures displaying colonial-era architecture.
While comparable to Old San Juan with cobblestone roads and colorful buildings, San Germán is more relaxed and less crowded, creating a paradise for history enthusiasts.
Hotel Website • Check prices on Booking.com
Cabo Rojo
Puerto Rico’s prime destination to see stunning sunsets.
📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Accommodations in Cabo Rojo on Booking
Situated three hours from San Juan, Cabo Rojo is the perfect destination for nature lovers.
With everything from breathtaking coastlines to a distinctive nature reserve, the renowned things to do in Cabo Rojo entice thousands of visitors annually.
Boquerón is one of the neighborhoods where you can lodge to savor a beachside experience with plenty of food and colorful sunsets.
For more, check out my guide to the premier beaches near Cabo Rojo.
Aguadilla
Home to some of the finest beaches on the island, Aguadilla is the perfect town for anyone who enjoys spending time at the shore.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Reference Accommodations in Aguadilla through Booking
Aguadilla is located in Puerto Rico’s northwest and is one of the best places to live and visit in Puerto Rico.
While somewhat touristy, particularly because of its famous Crash Boat Beach, one of Puerto Rico’s top beaches, Aguadilla still maintains a tranquil tropical island way of life that beach lovers will enjoy.
Although rentals are high-priced, economical meals can be found and many free things to do in Aguadilla.
Toa Alta
A mountainous municipality with abundant outdoor options to explore.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Accommodations in Toa Alta on Booking
Toa Alta is one of those cities in Puerto Rico that visitors tend to bypass during their trip, but if you’re seeking to escape the chaos of the metropolitan area just a short drive from San Juan, then Toa Alta is a great option.
The city is home to La Plata Lake, one of the best lakes in Puerto Rico to go fishing, kayaking, or having a picnic with your family
While in town, don’t miss Hacienda Ayala, a hacienda filled with vintage objects and decor that give visitors a glimpse of Puerto Rico’s past.
Traveling between Toa Alta and municipalities like Dorado, Bayamón, Corozal, and Naranjito is straightforward from Toa Alta.
Aguada
One of the best municipalities for stunning beaches and majestic mountains.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Explore Accommodations in Aguada on Booking
📍 Google Maps | Phone: (503) 319-0999 | Washington Park Website | Hours: 5 am-10 pm daily | Entrance: Free
Located among the most visited cities in the western portion of the country, Aguada offers travelers a combination of coastlines and cascades.
In its historical downtown region, you can enjoy Puerto Rican festivals, concerts, and exhibitions if you have an interest in culture.
Guánica
A municipality home to the largest tropical dry coastal forest in Puerto Rico.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Explore Lodging in Guánica on Reservation Site
With many beaches, a tropical dry coastal forest, and farms, Guánica is one of Puerto Rico’s premier municipalities for outdoor recreation.
Adventurers can kayak to Gilligan’s Island, one of the tiny Puerto Rico islands located just offshore from Puerto Rico and one of the top attractions in Guánica.
Guánica is renowned as the “friendly town”, honoring the warm and welcoming nature of the municipality`s people.
Vieques
One of the best island municipalities for beaches and pristine natural areas.
📍 The online mapping service | Website | 👉 Browse Hotels in Vieques on Reservation Site
Vieques is one of Puerto Rico’s most well-liked municipalities because of its pristine beaches and Mosquito Bioluminescent Bay, one of Puerto Rico’s bio bays.
A large portion of this municipality is a nature reserve, offering relaxation for eco-travelers who enjoy escaping to natural surroundings.
If you’re a connoisseur, you’ll admire visiting Crab Island Rum Distillery and undertaking one of the premier Puerto Rico rum excursions.
Compared to other destinations on the island of Puerto Rico, the location receives large volumes of visitors and consequently can be expensive, however there are many complimentary attractions in Vieques.
Cayey
Of all the municipalities in Puerto Rico, Cayey has arguably the best food options.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 View Hotels in Cayey on Booking
While the mountainous side of Puerto Rico might not be for everyone, foodies can’t skip a visit to Cayey.
Cayey is one of the municipalities in the center of Puerto Rico, home to the famous renowned Pork Road in Guavate, with traditional eateries aligned side by side.
Cayey also has rivers, natural ponds, woodlands, and walking paths where outdoors enthusiasts can unwind and breathe fresh mountain air.
For additional outdoor enjoyment, camp at Las Tetas de Cayey, one of Puerto Rico’s top camping sites.
Should you visit during the wintertime, be certain that your Puerto Rico packing list includes a light covering, as it becomes rather chill in Cayey.
San Sebastián
Rich in culture and nature, this town in Puerto Rico’s western region has the best of both worlds.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Hotels in San Sebastián on Booking
San Sebastián is a township situated in the northwest part of Puerto Rico next to Isabela. The local inhabitants identify themselves as Pepinianos, named after the town`s full name, San Sebastián de las Vegas del Pepino
The downtown area contains numerous historic landmarks and some of the top museums in Puerto Rico, such as a museum devoted to the town’s hammock developing custom. Enjoy the finest cultural experience with the Festival de la Novilla in January, a unique Puerto Rico event.
👉 Pro Tip: Spring presents a wonderful timeframe to explore the desert areas and attractions of eastern San Diego, such as the wine region located in Temecula.
Hormigueros
This pleasant and understated town is a good choice for reasonably priced stays on the island.
📍 Google Maps | Website
Small and not crowded, Hormigueros is located in Puerto Rico’s western region. Although much less popular than other Puerto Rico towns, Hormigueros is ideal for a tranquil, budget-friendly stay. Rentals can be found in the area for under $80 per night.
Interested in exploring farther along the coast? Check out McKenna’s piece on additional California beach towns next.
The town itself holds multiple historic sites to explore, including Basílica Menor Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate and Casa del Peregrino. Explore the town’s historical bridges and plantations if you enjoy abandoned ruins.
As you tour Hormigueros, you’ll find unique and charming stops such as El Book Stop, where you can obtain a second-hand book advised by a local inhabitant.
Adjuntas
Coffee farms, cool weather, and mountain views combine in this Puerto Rico town.
Adjuntas is one of Puerto Rico’s best small towns to visit if you’re into eco-tourism.
Situated in the mountainous region, Adjuntas is renowned for possessing some of the chilliest temperatures in the archipelago, particularly during wintertime.
The cold temperatures experienced in this town are so unusual that the community celebrates a winter-themed festival in February.
Adjuntas also houses multiple farms including excellent Puerto Rico coffee farms. You can expend the day exploring its outdoor attractions such as lakes, woods, and waterfalls without expending a single coin.
Guayama
Explore historical sites and museums in this town along the southern coast.
📍 Google Maps location finder | Destination homepage | 👉 Browse lodging in Guayama on Booking
Guayama is a town filled with history and unique curious sites you cannot miss as a history fan.
The town houses some of the best-preserved colonial structures as well as multiple museums where you can learn about local history and art.
Casa Cautiño, Antiguo Teatro Campoamor, and Teatro Guayama all appear as though they belong in a postcard. But, even if you’re visiting for the history, don’t miss out on Guayama’s natural sites.
El Bosque Estatal de Aguirre and Jobos Bay are ideal for a familiar outing where you can choose between kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and swimming.
Lares
This mountainous town contains museums, plazas, and murals dedicated to a historic Puerto Rican uprising.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Explore Hotels in Lares on Booking
The cradle of Puerto Rican identity, Lares is one of the top towns to visit to learn about notable Puerto Ricans and Puerto Rico’s history.
Lares is situated in the mountainous region, adjacent to Adjuntas and Utuado. Standing at the Plaza de la Revolución introduces the site where the revolt to achieve independence from Spain known as Grito de Lares occurred.
As you explore the plaza and downtown areas, notice the Lares flag featured everywhere. This was also the flag of the Grito de Lares rebellion and is considered the first flag of Puerto Rico.
After exploring Lares’s historic sites, tour the multiple estates in the area and the underground cave system.
Yabucoa
Camp on the beaches and hike in the nature reserves of this coastal town.
📍 Google Maps location finder | 👉 Browse Hotels in Yabucoa on hotel reservation website
Yabucoa is a Puerto Rico town situated in the southeast and is a must-visit for outdoor and camping enthusiasts.
Despite its modest size, Yabucoa is home to multiple nature reserves, beaches, and rivers that could occupy days to explore.
The town also features unique rock formations like Piedra de las Guaretas and Piedra Blanca.
If you’re searching for camping locations in Puerto Rico, you’ll find that Playa Lucía and Playa Guayanés in Yabucoa are popular sites frequented by local campers for overnight excursions.
After exploring Yabucoa’s natural landscape, head downtown and walk the colorfully decorated streets of Yabucoa Pueblo, where you’ll find street art, a distinctive church, and great restaurants.
Coamo
Embark on a healing trip to this nostalgic town in the mountains.
Coamo is known for housing one of the few thermal springs in Puerto Rico. But the town has numerous additional attractions to enjoy a leisurely-paced and uncrowded vacation.
Explore the downtown area and discover museums, landmarks, monuments, and small shops offering exceptional cuisine. See street art and unique sights as you tour Paseo de las Banderas.
There is something nostalgic and healing about this small town in the mountains, whether you decide to spend the day in the downtown area or retire to its farms and thermal waters.
Ceiba
Camp on the beaches and hike in the nature reserves of this coastal town.
📍 Google Maps | 👉 Browse Ceiba Apartment Rentals on Booking
Ceiba is a municipality located on the east coast of Puerto Rico. Even though it receives many visitors, they generally visit the town to take the ferry to Vieques or Culebra, missing out on the wonders of Ceiba.
The Medio Mundo y Daguao Nature Reserve houses many ecosystems, like the second-largest mangrove forest in Puerto Rico, beaches, reefs, and cays. For these reasons, it’s one of the top destinations for kayaking in Puerto Rico.
If wanting to slow down and appreciate mountain scenery before visiting surrounding islands, you`ll find plenty of hacienda-style rentals in Ceiba.
Barceloneta
Explore the colorful downtown or pick any of the family-friendly parks to enjoy a fun day in Barceloneta.
🥾 Easy | 3 miles | Google Maps | Park Website | 35-minute drive from Denver | Cost: free
Barceloneta is a coastal town situated between Manatí and Arecibo that makes a great family-friendly place to visit and stay.
Barceloneta’s Barrio Pueblo is filled with colorful murals and outdoor parks such as La Boca that kids will enjoy.
The city also houses Semilla PR, where visitors can learn about cocoa production and create their own chocolate bar with young children. You can also head to the mall for shopping or visit the beaches along the coast.
Las Marías
Explore the agriculture, waterways, and uplands found in Las Marias.
🥾 Easy | 3 miles | Google Maps | Park Website | 35-minute drive from Denver | Cost: free
Las Marías is a gem in the mountainous region that invites all travelers to slow down.
Situated between Mayaguez and Añasco, Las Marías is a town with narrow and winding roads that leads you to farms and waterfalls where you can connect with nature.
Las Marias is renowned for its agriculture, and enjoying a cup of coffee or indulging in one of the locally grown oranges is a simple yet lovely pleasure that makes the town memorable.
FAQs about Towns in Puerto Rico
What are the towns called in Puerto Rico?
Towns in Puerto Rico are known as municipalities (municipio). Based on the population of the municipality, it’s thought to be either a city or a town. Each municipio has a neighborhood that`s referred to as “el pueblo” or shares the same name as the municipio.
How many towns are in the island of Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico has 78 towns called municipios or municipalities. Puerto Rico lacks any primary counties.
What is the nicest town in Puerto Rico?
There are numerous pleasant towns around Puerto Rico to explore and live in, such as San Juan, Ponce, Lajas, Cabo Rojo,Maunabo,Isabela,Aguadilla, and Aguada.
What is the best area to live in Puerto Rico?
The optimal areas in Puerto Rico to live include the west region known as Porta del Sol, and the south region termed Porta Caribe. These locations incorporate cities with a substantial population of former residents. Cities outside the major metropolitan area are less crowded and have generally a more affordable cost of living.
👉 Read Next: 14 Best Towns in New York
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Thanks for reviewing my guide to the best towns in Puerto Rico! If you’re looking for more experience, check out our guide to famous Puerto Rico sites. Have fun in Puerto Rico!
