What to see and do in Ponce, Puerto Rico

Ponce is a city located in the southern coast of Puerto Rico, and it is the second-largest city on the island

Ponce is renowned for its cultural richness, historical heritage, and natural beauty. The city was founded in 1692 by Loíza Ponce de León and it has a long and fascinating history that can be traced back to the Taíno Indians who lived in the area before the arrival of the Spanish. The city has preserved much of its colonial architecture and traditions, making it a popular tourist destination for those interested in Puerto Rico's cultural heritage.

We have visited Ponce multiple times. The most recent was on 7/24/2021.  We stayed downtown at the Hotel Belica which first opened in 1872.  It has 21 rooms and is conveniently located next to the central square.

  Ponce is home to a number of landmarks and attractions that are worth exploring, including the historic Ponce Cathedral, the Ponce Museum of Art, and the Serrallés Castle, which is an iconic symbol of Ponce's sugar cane industry. The city is also famous for its carnival celebrations, which are some of the largest and most colorful in the Caribbean.

Ponce sits between the Caribbean Sea and the Cordillera Central mountain range, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as hiking in the nearby Toro Negro forest, visiting the Caja de Muertos Island Reserve, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches.

Whether you are interested in exploring the city's architecture, learning about its history, or simply enjoying its beaches and natural scenery, Ponce is a must-visit destination in Puerto Rico.

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

View of Serrallés Castle from downtown.

Downtown Ponce

A few of the buildings are still damaged from the 2020 earthquake. 

Large Ceiba trees can be found in the city.

Catedral Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe was built in the 1800s.

The fountain in the park in central Ponce is lighted at night.

Ponce is famous for its 1883 Parque de Bombas red and black striped fire station which is made of wood.

Cruceta del Vigía is a 100 feet tall cross located atop Cerro del Vigía.  The cross has an observation deck in it that overlooks the town and the seacoast.

Across  the street from the cross is the Museo Castillo Serrallés (Don Q rum). 

View of Ponce from Cerro del Vigía. 

The harbor at Ponce.

In 1985, floods produced the deadliest single landslide on record in North America, killing at least 130 people in the Mameyes neighborhood of Ponce.