View of Plaza Las Delicias from the Ponce Plaza Hotel & Casino.
South
Immerse yourself in the colorful architecture, historic art, and stunning natural beauty of this hub of culture and history.
Puerto Rico's southern region is comprised of 11 towns that offer visitors remote beaches nestled up to the calm waters of the Caribbean and marinas for boating excursions. This area is a natural destination for outdoor recreation such as water excursions and sightseeing.
REGION FACTS:
Driving distance from San Juan’s airport: 1.5–2 hours
Driving distance from Aguadilla’s airport: 2.5–3 hours
Explore the South Region
The colorful architecture of Ponce, located on the south side of the island.
Nicknamed the “Pearl of the South,” Ponce is known for its historical and cultural riches.
Explore Ponce
Colonial buildings in Coamo.
Puerto Rico’s third-oldest town, Coamo is known as the "City of Thermal Waters."
Explore Coamo
Puerto Rico is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
Salinas is home to outdoor adventures and a celebrated local sauce.
Explore SalinasNo passport needed for U.S. travelers
Since Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States, American citizens and permanent residents don't need a passport to travel to the Island. However, they must always travel with a valid ID, such as driver license or a state ID card.
Things to Do
The South region offers notable historical and cultural riches. In Ponce, you can visit museums like Museo de Arte de Ponce and Castillo Serrallés, and see colorful landmarks of colonial and European architecture, including el Parque de Bombas and la Cruceta del Vigía.
To cool off from the southern heat, visit Ponce’s famous Pelícano Beach, located on the small island of Caja de Muertos, which is a beautiful nature reserve a short boat trip from the city. Another point of interest in the southern region is the Hot Springs of Coamo. Legend has it that the hot springs are the fountain of youth that Juan Ponce de León, the first governor of the island, searched for during his exploration of the New World. Experience its rejuvenating powers for yourself!
Lola Eclectic Cuisine offers excellent service and a menu that will suit everyone from carnivores to vegans.
Where to Eat
The southern region is well distinguished by its fresh seafood restaurants and mesones gastronómicos like El Roble in Salinas. The mesones are iconic restaurants outside the metropolitan area that offer specialties of local cuisine as well as other Caribbean and international dishes. These gastronomic destinations can be found around piers and fishing villages in the towns of Ponce, Arroyo, and Salinas.
More Places to Explore
· More Places to Explore · More Places to Explore ·
Guayama
An intricate mix of culture, nature, and gastronomy.
Ruta de la Empanadilla in Guayanilla
Guayanilla
Guayanilla is a piece of paradise adorned with beautiful coasts and luscious mountains.
A statue commemorating the Three Kings in Juana Diaz.
Juana Díaz
Juana Díaz is the town of the Three Kings.
The journey to Charco Azul is as stunning as the destination.
Patillas
Patillas is where the mountains and the coast meet.
Peñuelas
Waterfalls, history, and more in “The Valley of the Flamboyant Trees.”
Stroll along El Malecón and enjoy excellent seafood restaurants, bars and photo opps.
Santa Isabel
“The Land of Champions” offers an abundance of natural beauty and baseball.
A feast at El Balcón del Capitán in Salinas.
Where to Eat in Salinas
In the coastal paradise of Salinas, it’s all about local seafood and special sauce.
Piedras del Collado, a striking rock formation in Salinas.
Things to Do in Salinas
Discover this southern paradise for foodies who love sports and the outdoors.
Steaks, seafood, and creole food can be found at Hacienda Don Juan.
Where to Eat in Coamo
Pamper your taste buds with savory mofongo, local meat cuts, and more.
Lola Eclectic Cuisine offers excellent service and a menu that will suit everyone from carnivores to vegans.
Where to Eat in Ponce
From haute cuisine to pizza, dining in this Southern city is delicioso.
Viewing art at the Museo de Arte de Ponce.
Things to Do in Ponce
The Pearl of the South’s attractions are as extraordinary as they are diverse.
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.
Mofongo is a staple Puerto Rican dish that pairs well with everything!
Guayama and the Ruta Gastronómica de la Costa
Plan a trip to this seaside foodie paradise
The historic Hollywood Theater in Coamo.
Things to Do in Coamo
Immerse yourself in hot springs, history, and more.
6 Days in the South of Puerto Rico
Experience Puerto Rico’s take on southern charm and hospitality.
Paradise for Your Inbox
Get travel inspiration, news, tips and more delivered monthly.