Luquillo, Puerto Rico - Things to See and Do

What to see and do in Luquillo, Puerto Rico

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Luquillo is one of the most popular and iconic beaches in Puerto Rico

Luquillo is located on the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico about 30 miles east of San Juan. The name Luquillo originates from Yukiyu (white mountain) which was the Taino name for El Yunque as it is usually covered with clouds.   Luquillo Beach is officially known as La Monserrate Beach. This mile long public Caribbean beach is next to a plantation of coconut palms. 

We have been to the beaches here many times and last visited it on 7/11/2022. While visiting the beach, we swam, snorkeled, and had lunch at the kiosks,

 Luquillo is known for its beautiful beaches, which attract both tourists and locals alike. The most popular beach in the area is Luquillo Beach, which is often referred to as the "Sun Capital" of Puerto Rico. The beach is a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand and clear blue water that is sheltered by offshore coral reefs. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities such as surfing and windsurfing. 

In addition to its beaches, the Luquillo area is home to El Yunque National Forest, a lush rainforest that covers much of the eastern half of Puerto Rico's central mountain range. El Yunque is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the forest's unique flora and fauna.

Luquillo also has a number of cultural and historical landmarks, including Fortuna Playa, an abandoned sugar plantation that dates back to the 19th century, and the historic Cabo San Juan lighthouse which is located near Fajardo.

Overall, Luquillo is a popular destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Puerto Rico.

Looking for things to do?  Viator offers numerous tours in the Luquillo area.  Click here for details.

Luquillo beach

The Playa de Luquillo beach at Balneario La Monserrate is wide and reefs off shore shelter it from large waves. As a result the water is very clear.

Luquillo beach

Vendors often can be seen selling ice cream and shaved ice drinks on the beach. At the southeast end of the beach are  al large number of kiosks. Most of them are small bars and restaurants which serve traditional food. 

Luquillo beach

View of the beach from the northeast end of the beach.

El Yunque from Luquillo beach

View of El Yunque from the beach.

Luquillo beach

View towards the northeast end of the beach.

Bandstand and sign in town of Luquillo

Bandstand and sign in own of Luquillo 

Police Station in Luquillo

Police Station in Luquillo

Church in Luquillo at Plaza Cintron

Church in Luquillo at Plaza Cintron

Monument at Plaza Cintron in Luquillo

Monument at Plaza Cintron in Luquillo

Chair near La Pared beach

Chair near La Pared beach

La Pared beach in the town of Luquillo

La Pared beach in the town of Luquillo

View of Playa San Miguel from the lava rocks Punta Lare

View of Playa San Miguel from the lava rocks Punta Lare

Punta Lare is the remnant of an ancient lava flow

Punta Lare is the remnant of an ancient lava flow