While working in New York had its allure, my friends and I craved a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and the icy grip of its winter. So, on Presidents’ Day weekend, we seized the opportunity to flee to warmer shores, landing just three and a half hours away on the stunning island of Puerto Rico.
Touching down late at Aguadilla, Puerto Rico‘s secondary airport, we grabbed a jeep and took an hour-long drive to Cabo Rojo, nestled in the southwestern part of the island. Our homefor the stay was a colorful and charming Puerto Rican home. Despite two of us having work commitments the first day, we enjoyed a breathtaking sunset at Combates Beach, a mere four minutes from our doorstep. Coming from Europe, where the Atlantic waves crash relentlessly, the Caribbean waters felt like a serene pond. With fresh piña coladas in hand and great company, our escape had already begun its magic.
Here’s a glimpse into our Puerto Rican escapade and a handful of recommendations for fellow adventurers.
Our first evening, after soaking in the beauty of Combates Beach, led us to Roberto Gastroteca in Barquillo, a small town just 15 minutes away. The night unfolded with delicious cuisine and impromptu karaoke sessions among the welcoming Puerto Rican locals.
Saturday saw us packing a picnic lunch and setting off for Playa Sucia, a beach nestled within a natural reservoir. With its bay-like shoreline and picturesque landscape, it’s a haven for adventurers where you can enjoy walks over the cliffs, to the lightohouse and the famouse stone bridge.
Venturing onward, we made our way to La Parguera for a thrilling reef snorkeling experience in the bioluminescent bay. Did you know there are only five such places worldwide? Guided by the experts at Paradise Scuba and Snorkeling, we witnessed nature’s own light show, a mesmerizing spectacle of luminescent microorganisms shimmering in the water.
After this great experience we enjoyed a nice dinner at Brujula, capping off another unforgettable day.
Sunday ushered in a quest for hidden treasures as we revisited the Playa Sucia reservoir area, stumbling upon a secluded gem hidden amongst the bushes. Later, we journeyed northward to Playa Ostiones for yet another awe-inspiring sunset.
For dinner we went to Anita’s in Combate, where we tried some authentic Puerto Rican dishes such as the Mofongo, local fresh fish and their rice.
As our final day loomed, we made every moment count. Heading to El Rincón, a surfer’s haven, we caught some waves at Playa Maria before enjoying a scenic horseback riding excursion with Pintos R Us Trail Rides. Traversing the interior and coastline, we even glimpsed distant whales.
Our farewell sunset at Playa Ensenada offered a breathtaking finale, followed by a memorable dinner at The Beach House in El Rincón, where ambiance and music intertwined perfectly.
Though our Puerto Rico escape was brief, we had enjoyed every second of it. The sun-kissed beaches, turquoise waters, and the company created memories to treasure. As we get back to the city, I eagerly anticipate our next escapade, wherever it may lead us.
