North
Discover impressive caves, beautiful beaches, and fine resorts.
Nine towns comprise the north region of Puerto Rico, also known as the northern karst because of its large limestone hills (you’ll often notice white stone peaks poking through the green blanket of forest). The diversity of the karst belt and the landscape it forms make this setting unique in the world, and many northern beaches are known for their impressive rock formations.
Region Facts
Driving distance from San Juan’s airport: 1 hour
Driving distance from Aguadilla’s airport: 1.5–2 hours
Search the North Region Directory
Explore the North Region
The famous Mar Chiquita beach in Manatí.
Only a 45-minute drive from SJU airport, the town of Manatí will captivate you with scenic views and natural pools.
Explore Manatí
Gorgeous aerial view of the Dorado Beach Resort & Club.
With a name that literally means “golden,” it’s easy to see why Dorado is such a highly sought-after destination.
Explore Dorado
The golden sands and clear waters of La Poza del Obispo beach are ideal for families with kids.
Discover limestone caves, iconic beaches, and more natural wonders in Puerto Rico's third-oldest city.
Explore Arecibo
Explore the caverns at Río Camuy Cave Park.
Things to Do
For stunning panoramic views and a fun beach day, get to know Mar Chiquita, a beautiful beach in Manatí just 45 minutes from San Juan that has been a recipient of the Travel Influencer Award. Shopping lovers should head to Barceloneta for a visit to the Puerto Rico Premium Outlets, where you’ll find an impressive collection of designer and name-brand outlet stores offering great deals.
In addition to the scenic views, the north region also has attractions such as the Río Camuy Cave Park, which is one of the largest underground cave systems in the world.
Being the largest cave network in the Western Hemisphere with over 200 caves and caverns, the Río Camuy Cave Park is one of Puerto Rico’s most famous natural attractions.
Relax by the pool at the Ritz Carlton Reserve.
Where to Stay
The north region is home to the amazing Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, recognized by Forbes and AAA as a Five Diamond property, and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dorado del Mar Beach Resort. For a stay with a local and cozy touch, choose the Parador El Buen Café or the Punta Maracayo Resort. The specialty of Puerto Rico's small inns is to offer unforgettable gastronomic and cultural experiences to their guests.
Always ask for the day’s catch or special!
Where to Eat
The north coast's abundance of fresh local fish and seafood finds its way to both fine dining and casual restaurants alike. Whether you're grabbing a casual bite to eat after a beach day or on a culinary adventure to discover the island's locally made cheeses, the north has plenty of tasty treats.
More Places to Explore
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Barceloneta
Head to the north side for the Island's best outlet shopping and more.
Explore the ecosystems of Río Camuy, the third largest underground river in the world.
Camuy
Explore Camuy and the valley of the caverns.
Florida is known as the “Land of the Enchanted River”, due to its striking beauty.
Florida
Florida is known as La Tierra del Río Encantado (or “Land of the Enchanted River”), and is full of striking natural beauty.
Hatillo is the hub of Puerto Rico's dairy industry.
Hatillo
Hatillo is an idyllic hamlet of rolling hills and sprawling farms.
Lago La Plata in Toa Alta
Toa Alta
Toa Alta is a tranquil spot to relax and unwind.
Vega Alta
Home to one of the Island's favorite beaches and more.
Vega Baja is known for its beautiful beaches.
Vega Baja
Vega Baja is known for its fertile plains, its rich history, beautiful beaches, and more.
Welcome to Manatí's first hotel: the Hyatt Place Hotel and Casino.
Where to Stay in Manatí
There’s only one hotel, but you’ll find plenty of options for a pleasant stay.
Balneario Manuel Morales is one of the most popular beaches in the North.
Things to Do in Dorado
Strike gold in this luxury-minded town on the northern coast.
Fried meat-and-potato turnovers called pastelillos are a specialty in Manatí.
Where to Eat in Manatí
Puerto Rican staples, local seafood, and traditional pastelillos in Manatí
A row of palm trees line the way to Hacienda La Esperanza.
Things to Do in Manatí
Majestic Manatí is worthy of its nickname “the Athens of Puerto Rico.”
Spa Botanico at the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
Where to Stay in Dorado
From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses in this golden city by the sea.
Salitre is the most popular restaurant in Arecibo.
Where to Eat in Arecibo
Fresh seafood platters and a special fish you’ll only find in Puerto Rico.
El Ladrillo is an iconic restaurant in Dorado that specializes in prime meats and seafood.
Where to Eat in Dorado
There you’ll find some of the freshest seafood on the island.
The famous Mar Chiquita beach in Manatí.
5 Days in the North Region of Puerto Rico
Soak up the sun while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Enjoy some refreshing, cold coconut water while in Piñones.
7 Days of Puerto Rico for First Time Visitors
Pack your first visit to the Island with adventure and fun.
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