Dominican Republic Major Sights & Activities

Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic

1. Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan): Stroll through the colorful streets of Old San Juan, with its Spanish colonial architecture, historic forts like El Morro and San Cristobal, and vibrant cultural scene.

2. El Yunque National Forest: The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and the chance to experience Puerto Rico's diverse flora and fauna.

3. Bioluminescent Bays: Puerto Rico is home to several bioluminescent bays, including Mosquito Bay in Vieques, known as the brightest in the world. Kayaking tours at night reveal the magical glow of microorganisms in the water.

4. Culebra and Flamenco Beach: Take a day trip to Culebra Island to visit Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the world's best beaches for its white sands and clear turquoise waters.

5. Camuy River Cave Park (Parque de las Cavernas del Río Camuy): Explore one of the largest cave systems in the world, featuring subterranean waterways, massive caverns, and unique rock formations.

6. Rincón Surfing: Known as the "Surfing Capital of the Caribbean," Rincón offers excellent waves for surfers of all levels, especially during the winter months.

7. Arecibo Observatory: Visit the iconic Arecibo Observatory, once the world's largest single-aperture telescope, nestled in the mountains of northern Puerto Rico (Note: Check the current status and visitor accessibility, as the observatory experienced structural damage in recent years).

8. Ponce's Historic Center: Explore Puerto Rico's second-largest city, known for its museums, including the Ponce Museum of Art with its pre-Raphaelite collection, and its neoclassical architecture.

9. Cabo Rojo's Salt Flats and Lighthouse: The salt flats offer a striking landscape of pink-tinted waters, and the nearby Los Morrillos Lighthouse sits atop dramatic limestone cliffs offering stunning views of the Caribbean.

10. Salsa Dancing in La Placita de Santurce: Experience Puerto Rico's vibrant nightlife and culture with an evening of salsa dancing in La Placita, a lively market square with bars, restaurants, and live music.